CHARLOTTE, NC - The Southeast Produce Council’s 2025 Southern Innovations has come to a close. With a large number of attendees and buyers strolling the show floor, the atmosphere was rife with connection.
“When Southern Innovations first began, it was just a handful of members who believed that together, we could do more to prepare our industry for the innovations and products that would change the way we do business. After experiencing Southern Innovations 2025, we didn’t just succeed in that mission—we surpassed our own expectations. From powerful networking events to cutting-edge educational sessions, this year’s conference delivered connection, collaboration, and inspiration at every turn," shared David Sherrod, President and Chief Executive Officer, Southeast Produce Council. "The What’s New? report findings, the expert Sustainability panel, and the Southern Roots and Good Seeds sessions all received incredible feedback, and Eric Qualman’s keynote on leaving your digital STAMP was a highlight. The expo, with new features like early buyer entry, each who received an AI-powered Plaud Note, was our most successful yet. Southern Innovations 2025 was our best to date, and we can’t wait to bring even more dynamic opportunities to Nashville next year.”
SEPC prides itself on the value of its education sessions, and this year’s focus centered on sustainability and marketplace dynamics. The council’s fifth annual What’s New? research offered insights regarding how Millennials approach food and grocery formats.
“Southern Innovations is one of my favorite events each year because it truly celebrates innovation in our industry,” commented Mike Roberts, Vice President of Produce Operations, Harps Food Stores. “It’s exciting to see fresh ideas, creative solutions, and cutting-edge products that can shape the future of produce retail. The education sessions spark new ways of thinking, and this year’s keynote with Erik Qualman was especially inspiring. SEPC has a unique ability to bring people together in a laid-back yet highly productive setting, making it the perfect place to discover what’s next for our industry.”
On Thursday, September 11, women of the industry gathered for an important session of connection in the Southern Roots Women’s Luncheon.
On Friday, September 12, the exposition kicked off. As everyone knows, the show floor is a critical space for connections between buy and supply to flourish.
“We value SEPC Southern Innovations for the way it creates connections, cultivates innovation, and strengthens the retail partnerships that inspire new ways to bring value to customers,” commented Brian Klekner, Vice President of Retail Sales - East, F&S Fresh Foods.
Not only does the show bring new ideas together, but it also creates an environment for those ideas to become the next big product to take the industry by storm.
“For me, SEPC Southern Innovations has always been about collaboration. We come here to listen—to understand what retailers are looking for and to learn from our peers across the industry,” shared Sloan Lott, Director of Sales, Bland Farms. “It’s also a great place to share what’s next: new offerings, fresh promotions, and the innovative ideas we’re cultivating in the South. Those insights push us all ahead and remind us why we do what we do—to make sure families everywhere can count on fresh, flavorful produce when they gather around the table.”
To celebrate the industry further, the Southeast Produce Council issued awards that reached across buy and supply, as well as announced that Sloan Lott will continue directing the association as Incoming Chair of the Board.
The Unseen Hero Award Recipients
- Grower/Shipper/Packer: Karla Antunez – Bland Farms
- Foodservice: Chris Ryba – Brothers Produce (on phone)
- Retail: Terry Smith – MDI
SEPC Board Service Awards
- Kim Andreason - Jason's Deli
- Jeff Cady - Tops Markets
- David Wilson - DW Consultants
- Kristin Yerecic Scott - Yerecic Label
"Regional events like this are crucial in strengthening local connections within the produce industry,” added Ken Paglione. “They spark innovation, encourage collaboration, and provide a platform for growers, suppliers, and customers to share insights and best practices. It’s exciting to see how these gatherings continue to shape the future of fresh produce."
We look forward to covering the next show in fresh produce, so stay tuned to us here at ANUK!
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Southeast Produce Council
The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is a member-driven, non-profit association of more than 2,500 leaders from all…
