Fresh-Cut Expo: New Ideas, New Technology to Take Center Stage

Here’s a dose of optimism for the dreary winter months: the fresh-cut produce industry is better positioned than ever for growth and prosperity. Why? While we are a more mature industry, with a steady presence in the supermarket and in consumers’ kitchens, we are hardly slowing down. Packaged salads are now the second-fastest selling item in U.S. grocery stores, with close to $3 billion in annual retail sales, followed closely by fresh-cut vegetables. The still-young fresh-cut fruit category is likely to surpass the $1 billion mark over the next three to four years.

Beyond the statistics, consumer trends continue to support the growth potential for our products. Salad has stepped up in status to become a main entrée, no longer relegated to a side order that accompanies our lunch or dinner. Our industry continues to take exciting trends seen in restaurants around the world and translate them into fresh, convenient and flavorful meals that consumers can eat in the comfort of their homes. Health and nutrition have never been more prominent on the public and federal government’s radar screen, with the new U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommending Americans eat nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Our industry is uniquely positioned to make it easier than ever for consumers to eat more fruits and vegetables, combat obesity and live healthier lives.

As we mature as an industry, it is critical that we don’t “grow old.” That means continuing to innovate, think creatively and anticipate trends before they take hold. All the markers are there for an unprecedented time of growth for our industry, and I can think of no better way for the industry to ramp up for the future than by participating in next month’s all-new Fresh-Cut Expo 2005. As producers behind one of the fastest growing categories in the food sector, the fresh-cut industry has given new meaning to the words “technology” and “innovation.” Now, our industry trade association, IFPA, is showcasing the technology and innovation behind our businesses with an event unlike any other we’ve seen.

IFPA’s upcoming Fresh-Cut Expo will be the only show dedicated to the excitement, profitability and future growth of the fresh-cut produce business – where you’ll find solutions to nagging problems, new products and services to meet your business needs and connections to your fresh-cut community under one roof. If the promise behind Fresh-Cut Expo sounds too good to be true, I urge you come see for yourself why this event is truly a different type of trade show. With a renewed focus on making its annual conference and exhibition a place where business gets done, IFPA has put together a show where new ideas, new technology and problem solving takes center stage. In my mind, this is the place to be if you’re involved in fresh-cut. I hope to see you in Phoenix next month.



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