Produce Industry Professionals Gather at Orlando Party
More than 500 industry leaders connected at an exclusive reception before the International Fresh Produce Association show.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Food and Drink
Over 500 produce industry professionals gathered in Orlando for the invitation-only First Pick party. The event served as a kick-off reception featuring live music, cocktails, and small bites.
Why it matters
The gathering allowed industry professionals to network, collaborate, and preview upcoming developments. It set the stage for the broader International Fresh Produce Association trade show held in the same city.
The International Fresh Produce Association trade show anticipates an audience of more than 20,000 attendees. Additionally, the event features 1,000 exhibiting companies showcasing their products.
The players
International Fresh Produce Association
This is a global organization representing the fresh produce and floral supply chain.
Fresh Gourmet Company
This is a food manufacturer specializing in salad toppings and related produce-based products.
Litehouse
This company is a producer of dressings, dips, cheeses, and other refrigerated food products.
Local Bounti
This is an agriculture technology company focused on controlled-environment farming and produce distribution.
NatureSweet
This is a producer and distributor of greenhouse-grown vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers.
The details
Co-hosted by Fresh Gourmet Company, Litehouse, Local Bounti, NatureSweet, and West Pak Avocado, the reception offered a space for sector leaders to connect. The event provided an informal environment for professionals to discuss work before the main trade show began.
Timeline
The First Pick party occurred in Orlando on Oct. 13.
The International Fresh Produce Association trade show occurred from Oct. 14 to Oct. 16.
Industry Dynamics
The First Pick party follows the industry standard of hosting exclusive pre-show networking events to build momentum for major trade conventions. This strategy helps foster direct professional connections before the larger crowds arrive at the main trade show floor.
While the First Pick party was an invitation-only event, industry professionals can still engage with these companies at the broader International Fresh Produce Association trade show. Attendees at the main event gain access to product demonstrations and networking opportunities with the 1,000 participating exhibitors.
The takeaway
Networking events such as First Pick are essential for professionals to exchange ideas before large-scale industry exhibitions begin. These smaller gatherings allow for more intimate discussions that can lead to long-term collaborative business opportunities.
Further reading
For more news on regional dining and industry gatherings, visit Orlando Food and Drink.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Supermarket Perimeter.
