The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) opened its general registration for this year’s Viva Fresh Expo last week, noting the event will return to the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine March 30–April 1, 2023.”
Registration can be handled at https://vivafreshexpo.com/attendees/
“Not only does Viva Fresh shine a light on the importance of Texas – especially the Rio Grande Valley – as a vital trade corridor and production zone for fresh fruits and vegetables, but it also puts a large focus on promoting healthy eating and adopting a healthy lifestyle. The three-day event will have everything the industry loves: great food, plenty of networking, unique education, and building relationships in a vibrant, relaxed, and intimate setting,” TIPA said.
“Of course, everyone can expect this year to be better than ever with the return of popular events such as the Viva Fresh Open Golf Tournament, Grapevine Winery Tours, and the In Bloom Women in Produce reception.”
The 2023 Viva Fresh promises attendees “a contagious burst of energy unlike any speaker before, during the keynote lunch where ex-rap record executive out of Atlanta turned health advocate, inspirational leader, athlete and philanthropist, Charlie Rocket (aka CEO Charlie) shares his pure energy. His story of music label success, fame, and multimillion-dollar worth was interrupted by a health crisis turned second chance. His story will inspire, and his energy will motivate everyone to raise the bar on following their dreams,” a TIPA release said.
TIPA CEO/President Dante Galeazzi added, “Viva Fresh has become known for our emphasis on big ideas around fruit and vegetable consumption, and what healthy living can look like in 2023 – and Charlie Rocket is an embodiment of that message. Our industry wants to sell more fruits and vegetables, but we have to walk that walk where consumption is involved. The Clean Eating Challenge is a first-hand account of an industry community doing exactly that! And the Viva Fresh Expo, well, we know that’s where fresh fruits and vegetables are the stars of the show.”
Also featured this year is the women’s event, In Bloom, “designed to empower and advance women in produce. The event continues to grow in popularity as members come together and share their learning and experiences at the event and throughout the year.”
2023 In Bloom “will sport a game-show theme, where guests can expect to win valuable insights while networking and continuing to build their community. Conceived at the 2019 Viva Fresh Expo, In Bloom utilizes shared opportunities, networking, mentorship, advocacy, and professional development, while also offering a supportive environment of women committed to helping each other.”
Back by popular demand is the Y-TIPA reception, “which brings together industry members under the age of 35 to network and learn from each other. Last year’s inaugural event was a huge success with over 100 attendees across multiple sectors of the industry.”