The New York Produce Show and Conference — a premier event for the fresh produce industry in the U.S. — celebrated its 15th anniversary in New York City from Dec. 10–12. Hosted by the Eastern Produce Council and Produce Business magazine, this year’s show continued to showcase innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
Held at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel and the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan, this year marked the 15th anniversary of the event, organized around the theme “When Passion Becomes Action.”
Event highlights
The show featured a packed agenda, including:
- Global Trade Symposium: Insights into international trade.
- Foundational Excellence: Educational sessions for professionals.
- Trade Show: Over 400 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees at the Jacob Javits Center.
- Chef Demonstrations: Live cooking and industry discussions.
- IDEATION FRESH Foodservice Forum: Post-show innovations in foodservice.
- New additions, like the Mexico Pavilion, spotlighted quality Mexican produce. With robust networking and educational opportunities, the event reinforced its role as a cornerstone for the industry.
Featured exhibitors
Giorgio Mushroom Company
Pennsylvania-based Giorgio, one of the world’s largest mushroom growers, produces 180 million pounds annually. Their operations span six farms with organic certifications, offering products from fresh mushrooms to mushroom-based snacks like Savory Wild Jerky. Sustainability and innovation are at the heart of Giorgio’s indoor, climate-controlled farming.
Russo Farms
This New Jersey family farm, established in 1920, cultivates diverse vegetables across 350 acres. Known for its iceless packaging and recyclable boxes, Russo Farms balances tradition and modernity. Leadership transitioned to Tom Russo Jr. in 2024, following the passing of Damian Russo, who championed food safety and efficiency.
Oishii
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Vertical farming pioneer Oishii, famed for its premium “Omakase” strawberries, uses AI-powered technology and natural bee pollination. Their expansion includes a 240,000-square-foot farm in New Jersey, enabling lower prices and broader availability. Oishii also introduced the Koyo Berry and Rubī Tomato, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.
Joolies
California-based Joolies grows organic Medjool dates, offering whole and pitted varieties alongside eco-friendly snack innovations like Date Pops. Their sustainable farming practices and focus on health make Joolies a favorite among retailers like Amazon and Whole Foods.
Naked Juice
Founded in 1983, Naked Juice is known for nutrient-rich smoothies like Green Machine and Mighty Mango. Despite challenges over marketing claims, the brand remains a leader in the health beverage space, with widespread U.S. distribution.
HyFood
Specializing in hydroponic peppers, Mexico’s HyFood produces pesticide-free varieties like habaneros and ghost peppers. Their sustainable practices conserve 90 percent more water than traditional methods, meeting growing demand for specialty ingredients.
Ocean Mist Farms
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024, California’s Ocean Mist Farms is North America’s largest artichoke producer. Beyond artichokes, they offer over 30 vegetables, emphasizing sustainable farming and community engagement, like the annual Castroville Artichoke Festival.
Melissa’s Produce
Melissa’s, the U.S.’s largest specialty produce distributor, offers over 1,000 items, including exotic fruits and value-added products. Recent highlights include the exclusive Rubyglow® pineapple, underscoring their dedication to innovation.
Bolthouse Farms
With a century of farming expertise, Bolthouse Farms produces carrots, beverages, and dressings. Recent developments include acquiring Evolution Fresh and introducing plant-based innovations like Carrot Dogs.
Suja Life
This San Diego-based company leads in cold-pressed, organic functional beverages. With sustainability-focused production and acquisitions like Vive Organic, Suja is expanding into categories like health sodas.
Chelan Fresh
A Washington-based grower cooperative, Chelan Fresh offers apples, pears, and cherries, including unique varieties like Rockit apples. Their focus on sustainability and community involvement strengthens their legacy.
Liberty Orchards
Famed for Aplets & Cotlets, this Washington confectioner preserves its 100-year heritage despite a 2021 acquisition. Their iconic fruit-and-nut candies remain a nostalgic favorite.
