FPAA invites industry membership from three states as its preps for new expo

The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas has expanded into California, Texas and New Mexico — and recently shared more details on its November expo.

While FPAA has been associated with the Nogales, Ariz., industry, the new strategy includes stakeholders who operate anywhere along the Southwest border, with a national approach to advocacy, and a mission to maintain smooth border crossings for fresh fruits and vegetables from Mexico, according to a news release.

With a strengthened footprint across these states, the FPAA is inviting importers who operate in Texas, California and New Mexico to participate in the first-ever Southwest International Produce Expo (SWIPE), set for Nov. 2-4, 2023, at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Ariz., according to the release.

“This expo really is a great way to unite the whole industry,” FPAA Chairman Rod Sbragia, vice president of sales at Crown Jewels Produce, said in the release. “No matter which port of entry, we have so many shared issues that need to be addressed.”

The Southwest International Produce Expo will provide a remarkable platform for networking, collaboration, and industry insights, Sbragia said in the release.

"We are delighted to expand our reach and present the SWIPE, Southwest International Produce Expo to the industry,” FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer said in the release. “This event will foster valuable connections between sellers and buyers and create a unique space for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the produce industry with the experts."

Panelists in the event will include leaders from companies such as Walmart, Sprouts, Markon, Save-On Foods, Ahold, Charlie's Produce, Associated Wholesale Grocers, and the International Fresh Produce Association, among others, the release said.

Sessions titled "Diversify to Deal with Disruptions" and "Delivering Value Across Customer Tiers" promise to shed light on key challenges and strategies within the industry, the release said.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a culinary showcase featuring the finest produce offerings, and the expo will also host a golf tournament and tennis tournament, the release said.

In addition, the FPAA has organized an exclusive retail tour, allowing participants to experience firsthand the latest trends and innovations in the industry, according to the release.

For more SWIPE 2023 information and registration details, visit swipeexpo.com.