BLANDON, PA - The key to innovation lies in uniting creativity with strategic execution and a passion for the process—elements that streamline product development and define dedicated companies like Giorgio. With the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations event quickly approaching September 10–13 in Charlotte, North Carolina, I asked Bryan Shelton about the company’s vision for the show.

“Our theme this year is all about making mushrooms easy and accessible. We’re showing buyers how Giorgio can help them bring fresh ideas to their shelves that align with where consumers are going—more convenience, without compromising on freshness,” Bryan, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, shares. “We’re excited to roll out new, ready-to-use mushroom blends, including our new Grill Packs and Savory Sauté Kits, that make it super easy to add flavor and nutrition without extra prep. These products directly respond to consumer demand for convenience without compromising on quality.”

Giorgio’s goal is to make it simple for retailers to excite shoppers with products that move. The company’s recent acquisition of L.F. Lambert Spawn Co., a company with a century-long legacy of mushroom innovation, has strengthened the very foundation of Giorgio’s supply chain.

“This acquisition gives us the ability to not only deliver fresh, easy solutions today, but also to keep fueling the next wave of innovation in mushrooms for tomorrow,” Bryan details. “By joining forces with Lambert, we’re now even more vertically integrated, which means we can deliver consistency, freshness, and peace of mind at every stage of the process. That behind-the-scenes strength reinforces the simple, clear message buyers will see at the show.”

Mushrooms are one category changing the way that consumers experience produce. Giorgio continues to make a name for itself with differentiation in thought and strategy.

“What sets us apart is that we’re not just selling mushrooms—we’re re-thinking how mushrooms fit into people’s lives. We’ve got a long history and trust in the category, but we’re pushing it forward with innovative formats. That mix of fresh thinking, plus the reliability we’re known for, really helps Giorgio stand out on a crowded shelf,” Bryan says.

Giorgio’s new products align perfectly with what SEPC Southern Innovations is all about, which is sustainability, new technology, and meeting buyers where their challenges lie. Visit booth #417 at the upcoming show to see how the mushroom category is evolving the consumer basket.