Later this month, the fresh produce industry’s spotlight turns to Orlando, Florida, where Southern Exposure 2026: From Fields to Families, the Southeast Produce Council’s annual gathering, will take place Feb. 26 through March 1 at the Orlando World Center Marriott.
Long known as a must-attend event for growers, distributors, retailers, category leaders and service providers, Southern Exposure once again promises a potent combination of high-level education, trend-setting innovation showcases, robust networking and business development opportunities that reflect the dynamic evolution of the produce sector.
At its core, this year’s theme—From Fields to Families: Nourishing Our Nation—underscores the fundamental connection between the produce industry and the people it ultimately serves; families who depend on fresh, nutritious produce.
The event will celebrate the remarkable journey of produce from the farm gate through the supply chain to consumers’ tables and spotlight the innovations, partnerships and leadership necessary to sustain that journey well into the future.
A Lineup of Speakers That Inspires
One of the marquee reasons industry professionals mark their calendars for Southern Exposure each year is the speaker lineup, and 2026 is no exception. Leading the conference with an influential voice is John C. Maxwell, the globally respected leadership author, coach and keynote speaker. Maxwell, whose books and seminars have guided millions, will deliver the conference’s keynote, offering insights into leadership that promise to resonate not just with corporate executives but with growers and operational leaders navigating the challenges of a competitive marketplace.
Adding a different but equally powerful perspective to the agenda, Molly Yeh, chef, cookbook author and host of Food Network’s Girl Meets Farm, will speak at the Southern Roots Women’s Luncheon. A beloved figure in food media, Yeh brings a blend of culinary creativity, cultural storytelling, and genuine passion for food that aligns beautifully with the event’s celebration of produce and family nourishment.
Another standout is Stephen Mansfield, New York Times bestselling author and leadership coach, who will address attendees as part of the Good Seeds MENtor Program. Mansfield’s session emphasizes values-based leadership—a timely topic in an industry where relationship building and ethical stewardship are foundational to long-term success.
Beyond these keynote and featured presentations, Southern Exposure’s educational program will dig into the pulse of the produce business with sessions designed to illuminate pressing challenges and future opportunities.
In one session titled “The State of Agriculture,” experienced industry leaders will tackle the critical issues shaping production, supply chain dynamics and sustainability. Moderated by Robby Cruz (Vice President of Produce & Floral, Target), this panel includes voices like Steve Church (Chairman, Church Brothers Farms), Sarah Frey (Founder & CEO, Frey Farms) and Ashley Rawl (VP of Sales, Marketing & Product Development, WP Rawl), providing attendees with a multifaceted view of production challenges and innovations.
Another highlight within the educational lineup is “The Power of Produce 2026,” a session centered on consumer data, market trends and the continuing role of fresh produce in driving category growth at retail. With insights from Anne-Marie Roerink (President, 210 Analytics, LLC) and a distinguished panel moderated by Rick Stein (VP of Fresh Foods, FMI), this session offers actionable marketplace intelligence that attendees can apply directly to merchandising and marketing strategies.
Innovation Stations and Fresh Arrivals
Southern Exposure is also known for bringing new ideas and products to the forefront, and in 2026 that tradition continues. Among the features returning by popular demand are the Innovation Stations—interactive spaces where exhibitors can showcase cutting-edge products, technologies and services that make waves within the supply chain. These stations provide a unique opportunity for attendees to see firsthand what’s new, disruptive, and potentially category-transforming in fresh produce.
Similarly, the Bright Ideas Fresh Arrivals Showcase brings fresh thinking to the floor with curated presentations of novel products and solutions. For buyers and decision-makers, these showcases are a concentrated source of inspiration, helping attendees discover items that can invigorate their offerings and attract consumers eager for innovation.
An Event That Connects
Beyond education and exhibitor experiences, Southern Exposure thrives on its role as a connector— a place where business relationships are forged, networks grow stronger and ideas turn into collaborations. With hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of industry professionals expected to participate, the show floor will be a vibrant marketplace of opportunity, where deals are made and partnerships begin.
From thought-provoking sessions and world-class speakers to showcases highlighting tomorrow’s products and technologies, Southern Exposure 2026 exemplifies why it remains a cornerstone of the produce calendar.
For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit seproducecouncil.com.
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About the Author
Keith Loria
A graduate of the University of Miami, Keith Loria is a D.C.-based award-winning journalist who has been writing for major publications for more than 20 years on topics as diverse as healthcare, travel, sports and produce.
