Sarah Lucas of Superfresh Growers® Discusses OPS 2026 Showcase

YAKIMA, WA - At this year's Organic Produce Summit, Superfresh Growers® will be highlighting three key areas of focus: an expanding organic blueberry program, Orchard Buddies™, and a continued commitment to responsible farming practices through initiatives like the Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) and Ethical Charter Implementation Program (ECIP). I got in touch with Sarah Lucas, Director of Retail Strategy, to discuss.

“The 2026 blueberry season is shaping up exceptionally well. Overall, blueberry volume is projected to increase 26 percent compared to last season, with organic blueberries leading that growth at an anticipated 65 percent increase,” Sarah told me. “That expanded supply creates new opportunities for retailers to build stronger organic berry programs and meet growing consumer demand throughout the season.”

Superfresh will also be showcasing Orchard Buddies™, an innovative organic produce platform designed to engage the next generation of produce shoppers.

“What started as a way to make organic apples more appealing to children has grown into a complete organic apple and pear bag program featuring unique orchard-themed characters, educational storytelling, and recyclable packaging. Orchard Buddies helps retailers create a stronger connection between healthy snacking, sustainability, and family engagement,” Sarah said.

Behind both programs is a commitment to responsible growing practices.

“Through EFI and ECIP, we're investing in our people, strengthening communication across our operations, and creating a culture where employees are empowered to contribute ideas and drive continuous improvement,” Sarah explained. “Those investments help create stronger teams, stronger farms, and ultimately a stronger supply chain for our customers.”

Sarah pointed out that OPS provides a unique opportunity to have meaningful conversations about what's driving consumer purchasing decisions, where the organic category is growing, and how the industry can work together to create stronger produce programs.

“I'm especially looking forward to hearing directly from retail partners about the opportunities and challenges they're seeing in their stores and discussing ways we can support their goals through innovation, category insights, and reliable supply,” Sarah relayed. “We want attendees to leave our booth with a clear understanding that Superfresh Growers is committed to helping retailers grow the organic category through high-quality products, strategic partnerships, and consumer-focused solutions.”

The company’s expanding organic blueberry program demonstrates how Superfresh is investing in supply and category growth to support retailer needs, while Orchard Buddies shows how branding, storytelling, and sustainability can help make produce more approachable for families and encourage healthy habits with younger consumers.

“Organic produce continues to present exciting opportunities for growth, but today's consumers are looking for more than great-tasting fruit. They want products that align with their values, meaningful stories they can connect with, and brands they can trust,” Sarah continued. “From engaging families through Orchard Buddies, to investing in our workforce through EFI and ECIP initiatives, to creating stronger connections between consumers and the people who grow their food, we're building programs that support category growth, shopper trust, and long-term engagement with fresh produce.”

Sarah concluded, “We believe the future of organic produce depends on balancing exceptional eating experiences with responsible production practices and authentic connections with shoppers. We're excited to share that story at OPS and discuss how these investments can help retailers meet the evolving expectations of today's consumers while building produce purchasers for the future.”

With suppliers like Superfresh leading the charge, the produce industry is well-poised for long-term organic growth. Be sure to stop by the Superfresh booth #403 if you will be walking the OPS floor!