The Southeast Produce Council is transforming its Southern Innovations conference in September with the COVID-19 pandemic in mind, practicing safety measures for attendees, and focusing presentations on the change caused by the virus.
The event is still scheduled for Sept. 17-19 in Savannah, Ga., with the theme of Fresh on My Mind, an especially important message during the crisis, according to a message to SEPC members from the association’s board of directors.
“The impact this pandemic has impressed upon our economy and industry has been tremendous,” according to the notice. “We are only beginning to realize the repercussions, and already our communities and family businesses are facing unprecedented uncertainties.”
Safety measures during the conference include:
- Controlled attendance and booth space;
- Added distance between booths;
- Modified show floor traffic;
- Face masks/shields provided to attendees/exhibitors; and
- Collaborative virtual education sessions.
The COVID-19 crisis will be addressed through panels with “best practice applications of new knowledge,” and even products on the expo floor will demonstrate how the pandemic is transforming the industry, according to the SEPC notice.
As the event nears, the SEPC will be monitoring recommendations of health and government officials. Although the event is still planned in Savannah, there is the possibility it could be rescheduled or cancelled.
“The Southeast Produce Council has built its reputation on faith, family, and fellowship,” according to the SEPC board of directors. “We strongly believe that our industry will be forged through the fire, and we will all be made stronger from this event. As we learn, adapt, and collaborate, we will not just recover but thrive in the years ahead.”
To learn about other ways produce associations are providing COVID-19 information to the industry, see The Packer’s coverage on the pandemic.
