We asked West Coast Produce Expo attendees if they were headlining a festival, what their “must-have” fresh snack would be on the backstage rider. Here’s a few of the responses:
“Citrus is an easy choice — refreshing, hydrating, and versatile. Cara Cara oranges for snacking, plus lemons and grapefruit for infused water or a quick cocktail — something bright and energizing to keep you going between sets.” — Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing at Sunkist Growers, Inc.
“Honeybear fresh pressed cider margarita.” — Kristi Harris, brand manager for Honeybear Brands
“Easy peel mandarins — refreshing, convenient, and always a crowd favorite.” — Angela Hernandez, vice president of marketing for Trinity Fruit
“Fresh dark-sweet cherries, or guacamole and chips.” — Sarah Burns, Stemilt Growers’ merchandising manager for the West Coast
“Our stuffed mushrooms – they are easy to make, satisfying, and available in a variety of flavors to match every craving.” — Bryan Shelton, vice president of sales and marketing with Giorgio Fresh and Foods
“Chilled cherries and crisp apple slices, of course! Simple, refreshing, and actually energizing.” — Rochelle Bohm, vice president of marketing for CMI Orchards
“ Idaho potato skins; crispy, loaded, and substantial enough to keep up with a full set. We’ll be ready to go with our favorite potato chips and we will be introducing our newest flavor of chips this year, truffle.” — Patrick Mills, promotion director for the Idaho Potato Commission
“Steak bites. Simple, high-quality, and satisfying. Just like great produce, it’s all about sourcing the best and letting the quality speak for itself.” — Diego Morales, sales manager of D Produce
Best Live Performance
As the West Coast Produce Expo brings the festival spirit to Palm Desert, The Packer asked attendees to swap the trade show floor for the main stage and share the one live show they’ll never forget.
“Taylor Swift puts on a good show, but I’ve also enjoyed Wicked and Six on Broadway.” — Sarah Burns, Stemilt’s merchandising manager for the West Coast
“The best live performance we have seen was Coldplay!” — Bryan Shelton, vice president of sales and marketing for Giorgio Fresh and Foods
“Most recently, Benson Boone — watching him back flip, front flip, jam on the piano, scream vocals with a range like Freddie Mercury, while rocking a bedazzled Abba-esque one-piece....hard to top those kinds of theatrics. “ — Rochelle Bohm, vice president of marketing for CMI Orchards
“Slightly Stoopid at KettleHouse Amphitheatre in Montana,” — Kristi Harris, brand manager with Honeybear Marketing
“Luke Combs at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nev. — My Kinda Saturday Night Tour.” — Angela Hernandez, vice president of marketing for Trinity Fruit
“Without a doubt, Luis Miguel. His stage presence, consistency, and ability to connect with the audience are unmatched. It’s a great reminder of how delivering excellence every time builds lasting loyalty.” — Diego Morales, sales manager for D Produce
