Now in its 22nd year, The Packer 25 honors a new cohort of industry leaders whose forward-thinking strategies, operational excellence and commitment to growth are accelerating progress across every corner of fresh produce. As the global produce landscape evolves, these 25 standout individuals are driving meaningful change — steering key organizations, modernizing supply chains and establishing new benchmarks for innovation and consumer engagement.
Rather than highlighting these changemakers in isolation, this year’s Packer 25 weaves their stories together into thematic deep dives that reflect the interconnected fresh produce supply chain. In the coming days, join us as we explore how these 25 leaders drive tangible progress — from navigating federal policy, expanding category demand and modernizing logistics to elevating specialty brands, advancing CEA technology, maximizing retail velocity, and embedding sustainability into every link of the ecosystem.
The 2026 Packer 25 Honorees:
Scott Bauwens, GreenFruit Avocado
David Baxter, Bard Valley Natural Delights
Blake Branen, J.C. Watson
Erik Brown, JOH
Bobby Chacko, Bonduelle Americas
Adam Cooper, Oasis Dates
Gail Delihant, Western Growers
Emiliano Escobedo, Hass Avocado Board
Dez Forsythe, FoodBuy
Hector Garza, Texas International Produce Association
John Hollay, National Council of Agricultural Employers
Hiroki Koga, Oishii
Kristina Lorusso, Giumarra
Taylor Meadows, Happy Dirt
Manuel Michel, Colombia Avocado Board
Tony Mitchell, FreshEdge
Monique Mueller, Bee Sweet Citrus
Gordon Robertson, Fresh Inset
Amanda Sains, Joolies
Ralph Salinas, Sysco
Robert Schueller, Melissa’s
Ashley Sempowski, International Fresh Produce Association
Kim St George, Bolthouse
Robert Veilleux, Heritage Grocers
Julia Weber, Pure Flavor
