GRAPEVINE, Texas — In addition to boasting record attendance, this year’s Viva Fresh conference and trade show drew a diverse range of exhibitors to its 200 booths. From Southwest-grown winter vegetables to imported tropical fruit and logistics service providers, there was something for everyone in the fresh produce industry on the trade show floor at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Conference Center on April 1.
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“Viva Fresh is one of our main shows,” said John Benedyk of the Tom Lange Co. “It makes sense for us to connect with regional customers to ensure the freshest product.”
With operations in all corners of Texas, the Tom Lange Co. produce team sees regional shows as a great place to learn and innovate.
“We’re building a facility nearby in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. [Viva Fresh] is a great opportunity to speak with our customers, as we’ll have a high-quality product available close to consumption, right in their backyard,” Local Bounti’s Brian Cook told The Packer.
“At the end of the day, there’s a lot of volume that’s required and we want to bring our product as close to home as possible,” Cook added.
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NatureSweet’s Steve Bindas said he looks forwards to regional shows like Viva Fresh.
“It’s great to be able to get together in person and not only talk about business, but talk about life as well,” Bindas told The Packer. “It’s good to catch up with people.”
Distributor Robinson Fresh was excited to showcase its local and regional growers at this year’s show.
“Eden Green from Cleburne, Texas, is a regional grower we think is cool and innovative,” said Robinson Fresh’s Molly Tabron. Grown indoors, the lettuce from Eden Greens sports lush, full heads.
The best thing about Eden Green’s lettuce is that its priced so that the average consumer can afford it, Tabron said.
Related news: Photos from Viva Fresh 2023
The Marathon Mangos booth attracted a crowd with its juicy mango margaritas, inviting attendees to start happy hour a little early.
“I’ve been going to this show since 2015,” Regan Duleba told The Packer. “I’m just excited to see everyone in person.”
Traveling from McAllen, Texas, leafy greens and winter vegetable grower Val Verde was looking for inspiration at this year’s show.
“We’re looking new ideas,” said Jeff Holton. “We just started organic celery and broccoli and are looking to increase acreage.”
The team at Johanson Transportation Service was just excited to spend time with their customers in the Lone Star State.
“It’s about building relationships. For us at JTS, that’s what matters and what we pride ourselves on,” JTS’ Alicia Bly told The Packer.
