WASHINGTON, DC - Building relationships is one of the most critical aspects of our business. Without relationships, there is no trust, and without trust, there is no sale. Ensuring that top buyers and suppliers are able to connect and build networking connections is the main goal of the International Fresh Produce Association’s Retail Conference. Held May 1–2, in Phoenix, Arizona, The Retail Conference features the latest consumer insights, table-top exhibits, and a golf tournament.
“You can’t make the best decisions without the latest information, and you can’t strengthen sales without the right connections,” said IFPA Vice President Joe Watson. “That’s why The Retail Conference exists—to bring the right intel to our industry as well as the best buyer-seller networking. And we have some fun at the golf tournament.”
According to a press release, the annual retail event features essential information for the year ahead, thought-provoking speakers, and networking that unites retailers with the full supply chain.
Buyers in attendance will come from dozens of banners, including Costco Wholesale, Hannaford, Spartan Nash, Sam’s Club, Dollar General, Jewel Osco, Longo’s, Grocery Outlet, and more.
Some of these attending retailers had several thoughts to share on the upcoming conference:
Davis Mochizuki, Director of Produce, Albertsons/Safeway
“IFPA’s Retail Conference is the best event for strategic relationship building and relaxed networking in an intimate setting. We’ve made invaluable strategic connections at this event over the years.”
Mike Roberts, Vice President of Produce Operations, Harps Food Stores
“We gain key business connections and profound consumer insights each year that we attend the Retail Conference. I highly encourage fellow buyers, suppliers, and the rest of the supply chain to register for the event before it sells out again.”
Bill Pollard, Senior Director of Produce and Meat, Dollar General
“Golf, networking, and practical ideas to take home and implement—IFPA's Retail Conference has got it all. You don’t want to miss out on this event—these are two of the most impactful days of the year for our business.”
Sessions include the latest on:
- New organics rules
- Artificial intelligence
- The evolution of supplier relationships in today’s marketplace
- IFPA’s global perspective and the state of retail in 2024
- Measuring produce sales by Congressional district
“This is an intimate event where buyers and sellers can easily connect and do business,” Watson said. “FOMO alert: The conference and the golf tournament do sell out, so I encourage anyone who wants to be a part of this conference to register right away.”
As Mike mentioned above, last year’s event sold out, so you might want to register ASAP.
