Fresh From Florida is partnering with state producers to promote the distribution and sale of Florida agricultural products and services worldwide at SEPC’s Southern Exposure show this year, occupying Booth No. 815.

“Florida produces over 300 fresh commodities and the Fresh From Florida brand provides an umbrella under which marketing initiatives are completed,” said Jackie Moalli, director of the division of marketing and development for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. “We are proud to be participating in the celebration of 20 years of SEPC and will be taking a look at ‘Back to the Future!’ with Fresh From Florida ‘then and now’ facts.”

In addition to generating new Fresh From Florida leads, the department benefits as the show attracts many of its current retail partners.

“The Southern Exposure show is known for its innovative trade show approach which focuses on bringing buyers and producers together. We look forward to meeting industry leaders and to representing Florida growers,” Moalli said. “Those that visit our booth can expect to learn more about our Fresh From Florida program all while sharing in some educational fun with a Plinko game and some great takeaways.”

The department views the expo experience as a chance for the team to represent all Florida growers and immerse themselves within their multi-sensory showcase of the most innovative products on the market today. 

“The education sessions provide on-trend educational sessions to keep our team in the know of the latest in produce industry information,” Moalli said. “Their activities are also wonderful opportunities to network, with choices to attend events and other ways in which we are able to interact with our retail partners as well as meet potential new clients.”

An important effort for the marketing representatives is to educate and encourage retail partners to continue to purchase Florida commodities over other countries. It’s also prepared to talk about two exciting promotions coming up in the months ahead.

Sunshine Sweet Corn retail promotions officially begins April 2019, the third-consecutive year that Fresh From Florida marketing representatives have worked with select grocery retailers in the domestic United States and Canada on Sunshine Sweet Corn display contest, POP material, product stickers and inclusion of Sunshine Sweet Corn in store ad circulars.

Fresh From Florida will partner with the Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida, Inc. to promote this delicious healthy whole grain with promotions scheduled to occur through May 2019.

Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida, Inc. is comprised of 22 growers and 12 shippers who have come together to promote and market their corn under the Sunshine Sweet Corn brand. Members collectively grow 30,000 acres of non-GMO, extra tender, extra sweet varieties. When looking for sweet corn this season, the Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida are ready to serve you with the highest quality product you can find. Contact one of our shippers today to find out more!

“Growers regulate themselves for quality control and hire multiple inspectors during the harvest season to make sure that all mandated quality standards are being met,” Moalli said. “One of the things you can count on with Sunshine Sweet Corn is consistency that is fresh from the Sunshine State.”

Florida peach promotions are set to start in April to coincide with the beginning of Florida’s peach season.

“We are partnering with the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association’s Florida Specialty Crop Foundation to promote consumer awareness of this relatively new Florida commodity. Promotions are scheduled to occur through mid-May,” Moalli said.

Other buzz from Fresh From Florida is that it is focused on incorporating innovative marketing approaches for all commodities through the participation on social media with IBOTTA and Mobile Fuse. It is also giving its Florida commodities recipes and videos an updated look.