IFPA Retail Conference Coming to Phoenix

The International Fresh Produce Association’s Retail Conference returns April 27-29 at the Sheraton Grand at Wildhorse Pass in Phoenix, bringing together retail decision-makers, suppliers and industry leaders for three days of targeted networking and insight-driven programming.

Now in its fourth year, the event has quickly carved out a niche as one of the most effective, relationship-focused gatherings in the produce industry. Designed as a smaller, more curated alternative to large trade shows, the conference emphasizes direct access to buyers and actionable education.

This year’s agenda reflects that mission, with a mix of structured meetings, education sessions and networking opportunities designed to maximize interaction.

The conference kicks off with a Buyer Connect Session Breakfast (7:30–10:15 a.m.), followed by the Buyer Connect Session running throughout the day (10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.), giving suppliers extended face time with retail decision-makers. Additional programming includes networking with sponsors, general sessions and informal meetups that keep conversations flowing across the event. 

Education sessions—typically a cornerstone of the conference—focus on topics such as consumer behavior, retail trends and supply chain challenges, offering attendees practical insights they can take back to their businesses.

A signature part of the event is its Retail Conference Golf Tournament, which has become one of the most popular components of the gathering. Open only to conference attendees, the tournament is designed to facilitate meaningful connections in a relaxed setting. One retail buyer is typically assigned to each foursome, ensuring direct interaction between buyers and suppliers throughout the day. 

The event goes beyond just a round of golf, incorporating networking, awards presentations and social interaction that carry into the conference’s welcome reception. Organizers emphasize that the tournament plays a key role in fostering the kind of informal conversations that often lead to lasting business relationships. 

For companies across the produce supply chain, access to retail buyers remains one of the most critical drivers of growth. The Retail Conference is specifically designed to deliver that access.

Unlike larger expos where interactions can be brief or transactional, this event creates an environment where conversations are deeper and more strategic. Attendees can discuss category trends, merchandising strategies and operational challenges directly with decision-makers who influence what ends up on store shelves.

That combination of insight and access is especially important in today’s market, where retailers and suppliers are navigating shifting consumer preferences, pricing pressures and ongoing supply chain complexity.

A major draw of the conference is its robust lineup of retail buyers. While the full list continues to grow, participating companies have included a wide cross-section of the industry, including Walmart, Target, Costco Wholesale, Whole Foods Market, Albertsons, Sprouts Farmers Market, Harris Teeter, Wakefern Food Corp., Sobeys, Dollar General, 7-Eleven, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Giant Food, Hannaford, Gelson’s Markets, BJ’s Wholesale Club, and Meijer
Grocery Outlet.

These buyers attend with a clear objective: to discover new products, evaluate supplier capabilities and identify solutions that can enhance their produce departments.