Overview of the Global Produce & Floral Show

The Global Produce & Floral Show is one of the largest and most significant trade events dedicated to the fresh produce and floral industries. Held annually across various locations in the United States, including major venues like Anaheim Convention Center in California, this event brings together growers, wholesalers, retailers, importers, exporters, technology providers, packaging innovators, and foodservice professionals from around the world. The show is organized by the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), the leading global trade organization serving the fresh produce and floral supply chain.

The event has evolved into a global platform for networking, showcasing innovations, learning from industry leaders, and forming business partnerships that span continents. It is the ultimate gathering for professionals aiming to grow their influence, expand their market knowledge, and stay updated with the latest trends and technologies shaping the produce and floral landscape.

Venue and host cities

The Global Produce & Floral Show takes place in different major cities across the U.S. each year, rotating among prominent convention centers. One of the most popular and frequently chosen venues is the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. This location is favored for its expansive facilities, proximity to transportation hubs, and excellent hospitality services.

Other past and potential venues include:

• Orlando, Florida (Orange County Convention Center)
• Chicago, Illinois (McCormick Place)
• New Orleans, Louisiana (Ernest N. Morial Convention Center)
• Dallas, Texas (Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center)

These cities are selected based on their infrastructure, accessibility, and capability to accommodate thousands of international guests.

Date and timing

The Global Produce & Floral Show typically takes place in October, with the most recent editions spanning three days, from Friday through Sunday. The event begins with educational sessions and workshops, followed by full-scale exhibitions and keynote addresses.

Typical event hours:

• Day 1 (Friday): 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Day 2 (Saturday): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Day 3 (Sunday): 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Exact dates and times vary year-to-year and are announced in advance by the organizers.

Categories and exhibitors

The exhibition floor of the Global Produce & Floral Show covers a broad array of product and service categories. This includes:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Cut flowers and ornamental plants
• Organic produce
• Sustainable packaging solutions
• Refrigeration and cold chain technologies
• Supply chain logistics
• Retail merchandising solutions
• Marketing services
• Biotechnology and agri-tech products
• Food safety innovations

Thousands of exhibitors participate each year, from startups and small-scale growers to international corporations and export organizations.

Visitor profile and attendance

The show attracts over 20,000 attendees annually, representing a wide spectrum of the industry:

• Retailers and supermarket chains
• Importers and exporters
• Growers and packers
• Foodservice operators
• Floral designers and buyers
• Packaging and logistics professionals
• Government and trade officials
• Investors and consultants

Networking is one of the show’s greatest strengths, with countless opportunities to connect via roundtables, industry mixers, and buyer-seller meetings.

Benefits of attending the show

Attending the Global Produce & Floral Show offers numerous advantages:

• Business development: Connect with thousands of potential partners and buyers under one roof.
• Market exposure: Gain visibility in one of the most competitive and rapidly evolving industries.
• Product launches: Present new innovations to a global audience of decision-makers.
• Learning: Attend keynotes, educational sessions, and innovation showcases.
• Trend insights: Discover emerging technologies and sustainable practices reshaping the produce and floral industries.
• Brand credibility: Increase your brand’s trust factor by associating with a high-profile global event.

Perks and features

• Innovation Hub: A space for startups and new technology providers to highlight transformative products.
• Fresh Ideas Showcase: A curated collection of the most innovative products at the show.
• Business Matching Program: A matchmaking platform to help attendees set meetings with relevant contacts in advance.
• Retail and Foodservice Tours: Explore how local retailers handle fresh produce and flowers, giving international attendees real-world insights.
• Networking Lounges: Dedicated zones for informal networking and idea exchange.

Cost and registration

The cost of attending the Global Produce & Floral Show varies depending on your participation type:

• Attendee Pass (Non-IFPA member): $995 – $1,295
• IFPA Member Pass: $695 – $995
• Exhibitor Fee: Starts around $4,000 per booth, varying by size and location
• Student Passes and Media Access: Offered at discounted or complimentary rates

Early bird pricing and group discounts are often available, so registering early is recommended.

Nearby hotels and accommodations

For events held in Anaheim, a wide range of accommodations is available within walking distance of the convention center. Popular hotels include:

• Hilton Anaheim – Directly adjacent to the convention center
• Anaheim Marriott – Offers upscale comfort and modern amenities
• Hyatt Regency Orange County – Family-friendly with free shuttles to the venue
• Clarion Hotel Anaheim Resort – Budget-friendly and close to dining options
• Residence Inn by Marriott – Great for extended stays with kitchenettes and suites

Additional hotel options are available through IFPA’s official travel partners, offering discounted rates for registered attendees.

Transportation and accessibility

Anaheim is easily accessible from:

• John Wayne Airport (SNA) – 15 miles away
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 35 miles away
• Long Beach Airport (LGB) – 20 miles away

Public transportation, ride-sharing apps, and shuttles make commuting between the airport, hotels, and convention center seamless.

Conclusion

The Global Produce & Floral Show is more than just a trade exhibition — it’s a global meeting point for everyone involved in fresh produce and floral industries. With unmatched access to decision-makers, new technology, and future-forward discussions, this event continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global food and floral supply chains.

Whether you are an industry veteran or a new entrant looking to break into the market, the show provides the perfect platform for exposure, learning, and connection.

To learn more about the event, register, or explore future dates and locations, please visit the official website:
https://www.freshproduce.com