The Packer's Midwest Produce Conference & Expo

The produce industry's No. 1 source for breaking news, new product information and industry trends, The Packer now brings that depth of expertise to a new trade event, The Midwest Produce Conference and Expo. Set for August 19-21, 2013, Midwest Produce will bring together leading produce industry buyers and sellers in a professional setting in downtown Chicago. By merging a focused conference program, networking events and retail tour with an expo of leading suppliers, Midwest Produce fills a niche in the region for produce growers, shippers, regional retailers and wholesalers.

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Why Attend?
The produce industry has demonstrated a significant interest in engaging buyers and sellers at regional events. These events have become popular because of the limited investment of time and money required for participation, the depth of conversation created in a more intimate atmosphere, and the regional focus.

Who Should Attend?
Midwest Produce is designed for retail executives, produce executives and managers, foodservice managers, produce distributors and wholesalers, specialty food retailers, and buyers of produce from any industry.

Who Should Exhibit?
Companies participating in Midwest Produce will include growers, suppliers, wholesalers, and distributors of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and floral. Also included will be packaging and labeling supplies and equipment, produce handling and storage equipment, displays and shelving, shipping and logistics organizations.

Receptions
Midwest Produce will host three receptions to give conference participants an opportunity to network with their peers. These receptions will also feature special menus created for Midwest Produce.

Cause Marketing Opening Reception & Exhibits

Open the conference by joining your colleagues for an evening of networking, drinks and hors d'ouvres. Local and national non-profits table top displays will introduce you to their causes to help you learn how produce and retail companies can get involved with and the mutual benefits of working with non-profits.

Exhibits Opening Lunch Reception

Join your peers and 200 exhibiting organizations for lunch during the opening of the exhibits. A "Taste of Chicago" food and drink will be located throughout the exhibit hall.

"Happy Hour" Exhibits Closing Reception

End a busy day with a drink and some snacks as you make your last trip through the exhibit hall.

Networking Opportunities
All events during the show will be presented in a professional, yet casual, manner to allow for maximum networking. Attendees will share similar competitive environments and the every-day challenges present in all facets of the industry. Exhibitor participation will be to support, not overshadow, retailer interaction.

Tours
Chicago is home to many exciting venues including the Chicago International Produce Market, world-class restaurants, national retail chains and niche stores. These will be made available to show attendees in private "backstage" tours on Wednesday. A variety of options will be offered at a small fee to cover transportation expenses.

 

Midwest Produce Steering Committee members include:

• Bob Cummings
  Crunch Pak Cashmere, Wash. (based in Lenexa, Kan.)
• Don Goodwin
  Golden Sun Marketing Minnetrista, Minn.
• Ed Osowski
  Martins Super Markets South Bend, Ind.
• Jim Richter
  Wilcox Fresh Rexburg, Idaho (based in Overland Park, Kan.)
• Drew Schwartzhoff
  CH Robinson Worldwide Eden Prairie, Minn.
• Lisa Strube
  Strube Celery & Vegetable Chicago