Why Attend Produce Trade Events in New York?
New York isn’t just the financial capital of the world—it’s also one of the most vibrant food and produce trade hubs in the United States. For growers, suppliers, retailers, exporters, and industry experts, New York’s top produce trade shows offer unmatched opportunities to network, discover new products, build partnerships, and stay informed on market trends. Whether you’re a business looking to expand or a professional hoping to stay ahead, these events are must-attend.
1. The New York Produce Show and Conference
Venue: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York City
Date & Time: December (Annually – usually early December), 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Cost: Varies – starts from $75 (general admission); higher for conference sessions
What to Expect:
- Hosted by the Eastern Produce Council and Produce Business Magazine
- One of the largest produce events in the Northeast
- One-day expo, pre-show tours, educational panels, and an opening cocktail reception
- 400+ exhibiting companies from farm to retail
- Topics range from sustainable farming, tech in agriculture, supply chain, packaging, and export-import dynamics
Nearby Hotels:
- The New Yorker, A Wyndham Hotel (0.2 miles)
- EVEN Hotel Times Square South (0.3 miles)
- Arlo Midtown (0.4 miles)
Benefits of Attending:
- Direct access to decision-makers in produce retail and wholesale
- Educational breakout sessions with global experts
- Exposure to new products and technologies
- A perfect event to build B2B relationships
2. Summer Fancy Food Show (Specialty Food Association)
Venue: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York City
Date & Time: June (Annually), 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cost: $45 to $95 for attendees (depending on registration window)
Event Highlights:
- Although it covers broader specialty foods, fresh produce and organic items are strong segments
- Features more than 2,000 exhibitors from over 50 countries
- New Product Showcase, Hall of Innovations, Start-Up Spotlights
Who Should Attend:
- Importers, buyers, brokers, specialty retailers, and produce marketers
- Small businesses and food entrepreneurs looking to grow distribution
Nearby Stays:
- YOTEL New York Times Square
- Hilton Garden Inn Midtown Park Avenue
- Staypineapple, An Artful Hotel Midtown
Key Perks:
- Great exposure to international trends in fresh food
- Opportunity to sample products and interact with suppliers directly
- Access to seminars on branding, sales, and market expansion
3. The Global Organic Produce Expo (GOPEX) (Satellite New York Events)
Venue: Typically in Miami but hosts East Coast Meetups, including New York previews
Date: Various pop-ups throughout the year
What to Know:
- Exclusive focus on the organic produce segment
- Networking with certified organic producers, certification bodies, and eco-conscious retailers
- Smaller-scale but very targeted audience
Why It’s Valuable:
- Connects you with rising stars in organic farming
- Insight into USDA regulations and sustainable practices
- Perfect for green brands and health-focused grocery chains
4. New York Farm Show (Upstate NY, but closely followed in NYC)
Venue: New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, NY
Date: February (Late), 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry Fee: $5 pre-purchase; $10 at gate
Focus Areas:
- Though technically upstate, this show influences NYC buyers heavily
- Includes machinery, packaging, produce handling tools, irrigation, and seed suppliers
- Spotlights farm-to-table practices
Recommended Nearby Accommodations:
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Syracuse
- Marriott Syracuse Downtown
Why NYC Businesses Follow It:
- Strong network-building with upstate farms and co-ops
- Great for farm managers, greenhouse owners, and suppliers in fresh produce logistics
5. International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York
Venue: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
Date: March (Annually), usually 3 days
Cost: Starts from $60 depending on ticket type
Key Features:
- Combines the foodservice industry with a strong produce and ingredient focus
- “Healthy Pavilion” features plant-based, organic, and fresh produce suppliers
- Product demos, culinary performances, and business development talks
Good to Know:
- Features buyers from hotels, supermarkets, restaurant chains, and institutional kitchens
- Excellent for food entrepreneurs, chefs, caterers, and produce exporters targeting foodservice channels
Nearby Stays:
- Hyatt Place New York/Midtown-South
- Pod Times Square
- Renaissance New York Midtown
Why These Events Are Worth Your Time
✔ Grow Your Network:
Build new connections across retail chains, restaurants, wholesalers, and farmers. You never know who could be your next supplier, distributor, or client.
✔ Stay Competitive:
These shows are hotspots for innovation. From AI in produce sorting to biodegradable packaging—see what’s shaping the next decade.
✔ Boost Brand Visibility:
Exhibiting at these events? You’ll get access to buyers actively looking for new produce options. For visitors, it’s a treasure trove of market insights.
✔ Education and Knowledge:
Panels, expert talks, and workshops let you learn from the best in the business—from sustainability to logistics and food safety.
✔ Taste & Test:
Unlike many B2B industries, here you get to sample, test, and touch. This makes buying or sourcing decisions more real and hands-on.
Pro Tips for First-Timers
- Register Early to save on fees and secure better access
- Download the Event App for real-time updates, floor plans, and session alerts
- Schedule Meetings in Advance—exhibitors’ calendars fill up fast
- Carry Business Cards and Samples if you’re a vendor
- Wear Comfortable Shoes—you’ll be walking a lot
Final Thoughts
Attending any of these Top Produce Trade Events & Expo in New York isn’t just about seeing what’s new—it’s about understanding the pulse of the industry, staying relevant, and building genuine relationships. Whether you are in production, retail, foodservice, or distribution, these events are your gateway to a more informed and successful business year.
Want to Attend the Next Big Produce Show in New York?