IFPA hosts executive summit on eve of Fruit Logistica

BERLIN — International Fresh Produce Association brought together executives from around the world to network and gain insights at its Executive Leadership Summit Feb. 7, held in conjunction with global fresh produce show Fruit Logistica, Feb. 8-10.  

“Fruit Logistica is an excellent time for the industry to come together, and we are thrilled to hold the Executive Leadership Summit in conjunction with this global event,” said Doug Bohr, IFPA chief education and programs officer. “The challenges and opportunities that we face in 2023 have global and universal implications; this event is just one way to come together to learn, prepare and position ourselves to drive our industry forward.”  

The event gathered industry executives from more than 30 countries along with European retailers.

Cindy van Rijswick, a Rabobank economist, reviewed economic trends and the long-term impact on the industry in the year ahead. The Rabobank data was complemented by Stephen Dutton, client insights research manager with Euromonitor, who presented Euromonitor’s top 10 consumer behavior and buying trends, exploring how today’s economic factors may influence consumer behavior.  

Tamara Muruetagoiena, director of sustainability at IFPA, discussed how trends in sustainability are playing out across the supply chain, driving home the message that sustainability is a journey, not a destination.

A lively panel discussion moderated by Elena Ozeritskaya, founder of Fresh Insight, brought together different fresh perspectives. Panelists included Isaac Arevalo of meal kit company Marley Spoon; Maria Wieloch of Swedish grocer ICA Gruppen; Muruetagoiena; van Rijswick; and Dutton.

“We’re happy to bring together this international group of executives and retailers in Berlin this year,” said IFPA Chief Membership Officer Miriam Wolk. “While it is invaluable to have the time to share insights and experience across the industry, our industry will benefit that much more because of the opportunity to do so with context from experts from Euromonitor and Rabobank.”