SALINAS, CA - Excitement fills the air like electricity as our industry prepares for the fresh-filled event at Texas International Produce Association’s (TIPA) Viva Fresh Expo. One supplier I’m most curious to hear from is Ippolito International, as the company’s team will be making its trek to the Lone Star State for a show that can’t be beaten. Lara Grossman, Director of Marketing, gives me the inside scoop on what attendees should expect.
“The Ippolito team will be featuring our entire product line, including our fresh, field-packed Western vegetables; along with value-added chopped greens; cut vegetables; and some of our newer Iceberg- and Romaine-based salad blends,” she tells me, as I mentally make notes to add salad to my shopping list. “We will also be showcasing our category-leading Brussels sprouts family of products, a favorite in the produce aisles.”
With spring in full bloom, the California-based grower is getting back to its roots after its winter season. Right now, Lara tells me, Ippolito is just transitioning into the Salinas Valley, and it’s focusing on consistent supply, both for its carton business to retail and foodservice partners. This includes, Lara teases, a category expansion for the grower.
“Growth has been strong during the past few years,” Lara lets me in. “We want to continue providing exceptional quality for our value-added operations. One way is by continuing to expand our value-added category.”
More details are to be exposed, I’m sure, at booth #121. The company is eager to experience all that Viva Fresh has to offer, from attendees to programming to locale.
“The Viva Fresh show has a special place in Ippolito’s view. First, its location can’t be beaten—Texas in the springtime is perfect! Second, the shipping community at this show is a little more regionally defined, and that makes it fun,” concludes Lara. “TIPA has created a very functional event. Customers attend knowing they will get a more low-key, intimate setting that also delivers top-notch programming and ambiance.”
Will we see you in Texas? Stay clued-in as ANUK reports in the lead-up to the event.
