Fresh Express Prepares for Southern Exposure 2026; Fabian Pereira Discusses New Innovations

SALINAS, CA - At Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Exposure 2026, Fresh Express will be showcasing its latest innovation designed to drive category growth and re-energize the salad experience. Attendees will get a first look at new salad kit flavors launching later this spring, inspired by global cuisines and restaurant-quality flavor profiles, bringing bold, craveable tastes to the fresh aisle.

“These new offerings reflect our continued focus on consumer-driven innovation, premium ingredients, and making it easier for shoppers to enjoy exciting, chef-inspired salads at home,” Fabian Pereira, Vice President of Marketing and Innovation, International, began telling me. “Attendees will be able to sample what’s next and experience firsthand how Fresh Express is continuing to evolve the category to meet today’s flavor-seeking, time-pressed consumer.”

Fabian pointed out that there is no substitute for in-person connection, and SEPC offers a unique space to build relationships and have meaningful conversations that help shape what’s next for the salad kit category.

“We’re looking forward to meaningful conversations with our retail partners and industry peers, to not only share what’s new from Fresh Express, but also to listen and understand how we can continue to deliver value at shelf and beyond,” Fabian expressed.

When attendees walk away from the Fresh Express booth, the team hopes they understand that Fresh Express isn’t just keeping up—it is a category leader. The company’s focus is on delivering bold, relevant innovation that reflects how consumers eat today, from globally inspired flavors to restaurant-driven concepts that elevate everyday salads.

“We want visitors to walk away confident in our ability to help drive growth through compelling product innovation, strong consumer and category insights, and activation that resonates with today’s shoppers. Whether it’s our chopped salad kits or the thinking behind what’s coming next, the takeaway should be clear: Fresh Express is shaping where the category is headed,” Fabian stated.

He explained that Fresh Express is heading into 2026 with strong momentum, fueled by consumer-led innovation, loyal shoppers, and a renewed focus on brand building. At SEPC, Fresh Express is not just showcasing products but sharing a vision for how salads can continue to stay relevant, exciting, and inspiring.

“One element we’re continuing to build is our Fresh Expressionist influencer program, which brings together a diverse group of culinary creators who help bring our salads to life through creativity, global inspiration, and personal expression,” Fabian continued. “We’re expanding the program this year to further celebrate flavor exploration and the many ways consumers enjoy Fresh Express. We can’t wait for attendees to stop by, engage with our team, taste what’s new, and see how Fresh Express is shaping the future of fresh.”

As we look toward the rest of 2026, Fresh Express is certainly a partner the buy-side will want to include in their produce programs. We hope to see you at the booth!