This year, we're especially excited to greet you at the new GOPEX venue — the beautiful JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort in Aventura, Fla. The Packer's eighth annual GOPEX event promises to be our most compelling yet, featuring dynamic speakers, exciting networking opportunities, and a focus on the freshest innovations in produce and conscious consumerism.
Knowing that shoppers increasingly make purchasing decisions with an aim to improve their health and the health of the planet — while also having a positive social, environmental and economic impact — GOPEX 2025 looks forward to gathering leaders from across the fresh produce supply chain to explore the challenges and opportunities in meeting this important demographic where they are.
In addition to a full schedule of fun, sun, networking opportunities and an innovation-filled expo floor, GOPEX offers education sessions that explore what drives conscious consumer brand loyalty and purchase in the produce market.
GOPEX is set to kick off Monday, Jan. 13 with a shotgun scramble golf tournament at 8:30 a.m., followed by a poolside gathering. Please join us for food, cocktails, games and fun at the Tidal Cove pool area Monday afternoon. Meet new people and enjoy the stunning resort waterpark.
Then it's back to business with BizMatch, pre-scheduled meetings between buyers and sellers from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
“We're excited about the opportunity to connect with potential new partners during the Biz Match sessions,” said Andrew George, vice president of sales for EarthFresh Farms.
“We're also looking forward to the outdoor activities and networking events that GOPEX has to offer,” added George, who said the company will discuss its recent acquisition of MountainKing Potatoes and introduce a new 2-pound organic red and gold potato line at booth No. 301.
Fun, run and Top Gun
Feel the need for speed? Jet to the Top Gun-themed opening reception from 7-9 p.m. at the Cascata Pool, and enjoy delicious food and beverages, networking and a casual chic pool party vibe, where bomber jackets, aviator sunglasses and dog tags are encouraged.
On Jan. 14, join us at 6:45 a.m. for the Sunrise 5K Walk/Run, where The Packer's produce editor and resident marathon runner Christina Herrick will be racing to the finish line in produce attire.
Education and insights
Education sessions kick off at 9 a.m. on Jan. 14, with a look at today's sustainability-minded produce shopper and the secret to driving their loyalty, featuring Circana's Darren Seifer, industry adviser for consumer goods and foodservice.
Everyone wants to hear from retailers, and at 9:45 a.m. Jan. 14 attendees will have the opportunity to hear from three produce pros. Join us for a grocer panel that explores how retailers are driving organic produce sales in-store, online and beyond with Matt Fowler of Natural Grocers; Allan O'Donoghue of Sprouts Farmers Market; and Chris Miller of Mom's Organic Market.
How can fresh produce engage the conscious consumer? Don't miss closing keynote speaker Steve Lerch, who will dive into the world of understanding, connecting and influencing this important demographic in the modern digital world at 10:30 a.m.
Showtime
At noon, the energy-filled expo floor opens through 4 p.m., followed by an al fresco dinner farewell on the Magnolia Courtyard patio at 6:30 p.m.
What is Steven Beltram, co-owner of TendWell Farm, looking forward to most at this year's GOPEX? “Meeting and networking with customers and colleagues in the organic industry,” said Beltram, who added GOPEX is “our favorite show.”
TendWell plans to highlight its expansion into South Florida and year-round production at booth No. 201.
“With production and shipping in western North Carolina and South Florida, TendWell Farm features a vertically integrated year-round program to support our customers every day of the year,” Beltram added.
Located on the East Coast in sunny South Florida, GOPEX attracts suppliers and buyers looking to expand their reach in the region.
“GOPEX offers a premier platform for organic produce and sustainability, aligning perfectly with our identity as a 100% organic and fair trade-certified grower,” said Joanna Jaramillo, marketing manager for Wholesum. “We look forward to strengthening our connections with existing East Coast partners while also creating new opportunities for collaboration through Bizmatch.
“[GOPEX] provides an excellent environment for sharing insights, networking and showcasing the latest innovations from our company — with no shortage of fun and engaging moments,” Jaramillo added.
Wholesum plans to introduce its “Grown for Good” campaign at booth No. 413.
“This concept highlights the three pillars of our company tagline and overall mission: Good Health, Good Flavor, and Good Livelihood,” Jaramillo said. “We believe our products truly embody these values and invite all to find out how.
“In addition to our product catalog, we'll be spotlighting our organic, Arizona-grown heirloom tomatoes, which are emerging as a standout in the organic tomato market,” Jaramillo continued. “We'll also showcase our flavorful snacking options, including tomatoes and cucumbers.”
Jeff Richardson, vice president of sales for Great Lakes Greenhouses, says the Ontario-based greenhouse grower attends GOPEX for the “fantastic networking opportunities,” advocacy and industry engagement, industry insights, business solutions and more.
“As a family-owned and -operated organic grower, GOPEX is always a key event for Great Lakes Greenhouses,” Richardson said. “It offers numerous opportunities to network, connect with current partners, explore new partnerships and gain valuable industry insights, all while addressing the most pressing issues facing our industry today.
“Whether you're looking to stay ahead of industry trends, enhance your supply chain solutions, or form lasting business partnerships, this trade show is a must-attend event for anyone in the produce sector,” Richardson added.
At this year's GOPEX, Great Lakes Greenhouses, at booth No. 306, will spotlight its 28 acres of organic peppers it is set to harvest this year.
“This is a difficult crop to grow, so many farms are getting away from organic peppers,” Richardson said. “Our growers love the challenge and have done an amazing job ensuring we provide a flavorful pepper all season.
“We will be showcasing some new packs to help our partners increase basket size and support the growing demand for organic peppers with consumers,” Richardson added. P
(The Packer's Jill Dutton contributed to this story.)
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