ORLANDO, FL - The warmth and sense of community that sweep up to meet you when you walk into a Southeast Produce Council tradeshow or event are hard to replicate. Our lives are not inherently tied together simply because we work in this industry; for many—especially within the SEPC community—it is a choice they make with intention and dedication. The family we choose.
As we close in on Southern Exposure, slated for February 26–March 1, in Orlando, Florida. I spoke with the council’s Executive Board and Board of Directors about the unique force that is SEPC, and how its microcosm speaks to the broader gravity and meaning of fresh produce.
Please join us for this story series, beginning with David Sherrod, Sloat Lott, Gary Baker, and Jose M. Roggiero.
David Sherrod, President and Chief Executive Officer, Southeast Produce Council
"We are so excited about our SE2026 theme, From Fields to Families. We feel this captures the full journey of fresh produce—from the families who grow it to the families who depend on it every day. Everything starts in the field (or greenhouse) with farmers who work year-round to produce safe, nutritious food. We are celebrating these generational farm families this year and the impact they have on our local communities and our world.
The SEPC has always been about more than what we grow and sell to make a good living; it is more about how living good helps us grow into the people we want to be around. Our mission is to cultivate the future of produce through the service and hearts of our members.”
Sloan Lott, Chairman of the Board, SEPC and Director of Sales, Bland Farms®
“The Southeast Produce Council exists to do more than just represent the produce industry—it elevates it. Through Southern Exposure and the work that continues long after the event ends, the Council creates space for meaningful relationships to form, where trust, collaboration, and shared purpose take root. These connections strengthen not just individual businesses, but the entire produce community. Right now, as our industry celebrates hard-earned victories while navigating real and evolving challenges, the Council’s role feels especially vital. By bringing people together, amplifying voices, and championing progress, the Southeast Produce Council provides both steadiness and momentum—reminding us that when we grow together, we are better equipped to face what’s ahead.”
Gary Baker, Vice Chairman, SEPC and Senior Director of Fresh, Merchants Distributors (MDI)
“I believe the SEPC plays a critical role in elevating the produce industry by bringing together buyers, growers, shippers, and other leaders in our industry who are willing to collaborate, innovate, and hopefully invest in one another’s future. The meaningful relationships built at SE allow shared challenges to produce solutions and shared successes to be celebrated. SEPC fosters servant leaders who, in turn, empower others to do the same. These connections create strength and guide our industry, and the support given feels like family. In times like these, that sense of community and family is invaluable.”
Jose M. Roggiero, Board of Directors, SEPC and President and Chief Executive Officer, Freshway Produce Inc.
“The Southeast Produce Council plays a vital role in strengthening and elevating our industry by creating a space where relationships come first. Southern Exposure is more than an event; it’s where growers, retailers, and partners build trust, exchange ideas, and develop long-term collaborations that move our business forward. What makes SEPC especially meaningful to me is its heart for service. Through initiatives like SoSA and events such as Crop Drop, the Council reminds us that our work extends beyond commerce, and we are feeding communities and making a tangible difference. At a time when our industry faces both significant challenges and exciting opportunities, that sense of unity, purpose, and shared responsibility feels more important than ever.”
Thank you, David, Sloan, Gary, and Jose, for kicking off these stories. We are grateful for your words. See you in Orlando!
