MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION
JUNE 2025 – MAY 2026
Behind every piece of produce are countless people who helped along the way – the skilled hands, sharp minds, and big hearts that comprise a critical industry in our country. SEPC brings these worlds together. Because together, we create a strong, vibrant industry now and for decades to come.
TOGETHER WE GROW HIGHER!
Please review the updated membership information on our website, including restructured membership tiers, and select which annual membership* best suits your company's needs. Once your current membership status is confirmed, then you'll be able to register for our events.
*Note that our annual membership period runs June through May of the following year. We do not prorate our membership fees. Contact our office if you do not have a current membership or are unsure of your current membership status.
**All conference attendees are required to be SEPC members in order to attend any events. SEPC conferences have their own registration and fees. Exhibitors are required to maintain a corporate membership.**
OUR SPONSORS
SEPC sponsors are a vital part of our existence. Simply put, sponsor contributions help us bring more to the table for everyone. Like better networking and education events, fresh talent, and a broader awareness of best practices throughout our industry. And of course, when you help us promote produce, your organization will gain crucial exposure at our events and engagements throughout the year.
Together We Grow Higher!
APRIL LEVEL SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
🌟 INVEST IN THE FUTURE 🌟
Sponsor SEPC Educational Programs!
SEPC offers exclusive sponsorship opportunities dedicated to driving our best-in-class educational programs! With different tiers available, you can directly contribute to the future education of our next generation of produce professionals.
Beginning in May, we will be accepting sponsors for the 2026-2027 fiscal year!
Visit our website today to learn more about the innovative ways you can support the future of our industry and gain exposure for your organization!
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025-2026 FUTURE OF INDUSTRY SPONSORS!
🎸 REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR SOUTHERN INNOVATIONS—Where Innovation Takes Center Stage! 🌟
Get ready to see the produce industry in a whole new light!
From September 9–12, 2026, the Southeast Produce Council is taking over the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee, for an unforgettable Southern Innovations experience. This year, we’re celebrating the bold, bright, and brilliant innovations driving our industry forward. Just like the glowing marquees of Broadway, the future of produce is vibrant—and it's waiting for you in Music City.
Nashville is a hot ticket, and our room blocks will go faster than a guitar solo! Secure your registration and housing today to ensure you’re center stage for the most innovative experience in the Southeast!
✨ LIGHT UP THE INDUSTRY BY FEATURING YOUR BRAND ALONG OUR WALL OF INNOVATIONS!✨
Is your company launching a groundbreaking new product, sustainable packaging, or a cutting-edge tech solution? Don't let your hard work go unnoticed—give it the spotlight it deserves at Southern Innovations 2026!
We are officially inviting you to feature your latest advancements along our Wall of Innovations. This premier showcase is the first stop for attendees looking to see the advancements driving the future of produce.
Why Showcase with Us?
The Wall of Innovations is a high-traffic, illuminated display designed to put your brand front and center. It’s more than just a display; it’s a dedicated space for the industry’s boldest ideas.
The Details
- Exclusive Price: $500
- Case Dimensions: 37” W x 13” H x 25.5" D
- Premium Features: All shelves include professional lighting to make your product pop, and cases remain locked for security throughout the event.
- Limited Opportunity: To ensure a diverse range of innovations, space is limited to one (1) case per company on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Secure Your Space
- Register: As you register for Southern Innovations, select "Wall of Innovations" as one of your sessions.
- Submit Your Info: As you register, you will receive access to our submission link. You’ll need to provide one (1) high-resolution product image and a brief description (50 words or less) for our official conference materials.
Deadline to Purchase & Submit: July 10, 2026 *Please note: Refunds will not be issued after the July 10th deadline. Purchases made after this date will not be included in the printed conference directory.
Don't miss your chance to stand out in Nashville. Let’s show the industry what the future looks like.
TOGETHER, LET'S LIGHT UP THE INDUSTRY—TOGETHER WE GROW HIGHER!
THANK Y'ALL FOR ATTENDING
We are so grateful that you were able to join us at this year’s conference where we celebrated the powerful connection between those who grow our food and the families who gather around the table to enjoy it, all while providing abundant opportunities for Networking, Innovating, Connecting, and Educating – Together We Grow Higher!
Feedback Survey
Please take a moment to complete the surveys. We truly value your feedback to further cultivate Southern Exposure for next year!
Attendee List
Don’t forget you can still connect with fellow attendees through our conference app. You may also download the final attendee list. It is our Board’s policy that we do not provide contact information with this list.
Conference Photos & Videos
Our Southern Roots Women's Luncheon and Good Seeds MENtor Program sessions are available upon request.
We sincerely appreciate our Sponsors, Committee Members, Exhibitors, and Retail & Foodservice Family for making Southern Exposure 2026 such a success!
Our industry is about passion. Every member of SEPC puts in extra time on the job because of the satisfaction that a better yield in crops, businesses, and relationships brings us. But there are a select few who stand out among us who unite our region through tireless effort, extraordinary instinct, and a genuine love for our industry. We’re proud to recognize them with the Terry Vorhees Lifetime Achievement Award as well as The Unseen Hero Award.
The Southeast Produce Council, along with our co-sponsor, The Produce News, are proud to honor Garry Bergstrom at Southern Exposure 2026 with our highest honor, the Terry Vorhees Lifetime Achievement Award. The award was presented to Garry during the Keynote Brunch on Saturday, February 28th, at Southern Exposure.
Garry joined Publix in 1972 as a part-time produce clerk while attending college to study pediatrics. He was then promoted to produce manager in 1975, to produce merchandiser in 1987, and to produce buyer in 1989. In 1999, he became the Divisional Manager of Produce/Floral for the Lakeland Division. He rose to Corporate Produce Purchasing Manager in 2000 and served as the Business Director of Produce/Floral from 2005 until his retirement in April of 2017.
Garry married his wonderful wife Virginia (Ginny) in 1974. Together, they have three children, Eric, Kristina and Nicholas, nine grandchildren, and a great granddaughter.
The Unseen Hero Award honors individuals who work behind the scenes in the produce industry, recognizing their dedication, impact, and essential contributions. Our mission is to celebrate these heroes, fostering appreciation throughout the industry.
We are now accepting nominations for The Unseen Hero Award! If you know someone whose dedication, hard work, and contributions deserve to be recognized, we encourage you to submit a nomination.
Award Criteria
Nominees should exemplify:
- Dedication & Commitment – A strong work ethic and long-term contributions to their role.
- Impact & Influence – Significant contributions that improve their company, team, or the industry.
- Leadership & Initiative – Going above and beyond their responsibilities.
- Collaboration & Teamwork – Supporting colleagues and fostering a positive work environment.
- Integrity & Values – Embodying the core values of SEPC and the produce industry.
How to Nominate:
- Submit your nomination by July 17, 2026 using the link below.
- Nominations must include details on the nominee’s role, impact, and why they deserve to be honored. Supporting documents such as testimonials or letters of recommendation are encouraged but not required.
Help us shine a light on the incredible individuals who make a difference every day. We look forward to celebrating these Unseen Heroes at Southern Innovations 2026.
Last month, SEPC successfully hosted our STEP-UPP Foodservice Class for an immersive spring tour, offering participants a deep dive into the produce supply chain and fostering vital grower-retailer partnerships.
STEP-UPP (Southeast Training Education Program for Upcoming Produce Professionals) serves as SEPC’s flagship educational initiative. The program is specifically designed to provide rising leaders in the retail and foodservice sectors with a 360-degree view of the industry through a blend of strategic leadership development and hands-on, field-based training.
The educational journey kicked off on Tuesday, March 17th, when participants engaged in a series of facility, farm, and field tours hosted by SEPC level sponsors Fresh Del Monte Produce, Sunripe Certified Brands, Wish Farms, and Florida Classic Growers.
The momentum continued into Wednesday with additional on-site experiences courtesy of SEPC level sponsors Pioneer Growers and Duda Farm Fresh Foods, providing the class with a comprehensive look at modern agricultural operations and logistics.
The tour concluded on Thursday with a final visit to SEPC Future of Industry sponsor Southern Specialties. This closing leg allowed participants to reflect on the complexities of the supply chain before heading home with newfound expertise.
SEPC extends our sincere gratitude to the Future of Industry sponsors whose generosity makes these educational milestones possible: Divine Flavor, Fresh Alliance, Mid-State Produce, Nature Fresh Farms, Nickey Gregory Company, NPC Foodbuy, RPE, Shuman Farms, Southern Specialties, Southern Valley Fruit and Vegetable, and Vick Family Farms.
“Our Florida trip was a great success, despite a few travel complications. We saw excellent engagement from our students and a real desire to immerse themselves in learning about growing and supply chain processes. The students really came together as a group, and they supported each other through every step of the trip.” ~ Heather Hart | STEP-UPP Foodservice Committee Co-Chair | Baldor
“Despite a very hectic travel day due to weather delays, our students used the time to push through challenges, which helped them better appreciate each other and the anomalies that define our industry. Because of those hardships, the group quickly came together and immersed themselves in the learning process. After three full days visiting a wide range of SEPC partner growers, packers, and shippers, their attentiveness and thoughtful questions were clear signs of genuine engagement.” ~ David Verdrager | STEP-UPP Foodservice Committee Co-Chair | RPE
The journey for the STEP-UPP Foodservice Class of 2026 is far from over. These professionals will officially celebrate their graduation during Southern Innovations this September in Nashville, Tennessee.
Share Your Expertise!
The Southeast Produce Council invites you to share your expertise as a presenter during our STEP-UPP Virtual Education Days. These sessions provide class participants with valuable insights into all aspects of the produce industry — from growing and harvesting to distribution, marketing, and emerging trends.
Unlike our in-person tours, Virtual Education Day presentations are open to companies nationwide. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your knowledge and highlight your company’s role in the supply chain, regardless of location.
To ensure these sessions are as impactful as possible, we kindly ask that presentations remain educational in nature rather than promotional. The goal is to equip participants with tools, insights, and real-world knowledge they can carry forward in their careers.
We encourage presentations that may include:
📹Virtual field or facility tours🏭
🌱💡Educational sessions on sustainability, innovation, or retail/foodservice trends📈
🎯🚚Insights into marketing, distribution, or processing practices ⚙️
🧠Other impactful topics that provide learning and leadership development🌟
Thank you for helping us inspire and equip the next generation of leaders in the fresh produce industry. Together, we grow higher!
As part of our SEPC Cares commitment to giving back, we are seeking support for our Good Seeds Buckets and Strong Roots, Strong Heart initiatives. These bags and buckets are filled with essential items for the homeless, and your support will have a meaningful impact on those in need.
In appreciation of your generosity, we will send you a copy of our new book, For the Love of Produce - Southeast Produce Council's Culture and Spirit, which features personal stories and experiences from our members.
We encourage you to join us in making a difference in our community—because Together, We Grow Higher!
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Our Featured Charitable Partner for April is the Paul Anderson Youth Home. Since 1961, this Christ-centered, fully accredited home has been offering a second chance to young men and their families from across the country.
By providing a nurturing environment focused on recovery, restoration, and redemption, they help transform troubled lives and rebuild them on a foundation of faith and hope.
🌱Through our partnership, SEPC is proud to support the hands-on programs that help these young men grow:
The Goodness Garden: Cultivating life skills through agriculture.
Ag Business Class: Educating the next generation of industry leaders.
Annual Bike Ride & Golf Tournament: Rolling and swinging toward a brighter future.
Victoria Shuman (Advancement Officer for PAYH), proudly represented the Paul Anderson Youth Home at the Southern Exposure Conference in beautiful Orlando! 🍊🌴
Hosted by the Southeast Produce Council, this incredible event brought together leaders from across the produce industry to build partnerships, strengthen communities, and make a lasting impact.
We’re grateful for opportunities like this that allow PAYH to share our mission, connect with supporters, and continue raising young men to become strong leaders grounded in faith and responsibility. Thank you, Victoria, for representing PAYH with excellence!
⛳️ TEE UP FOR A CAUSE! 🏌🏼♂️
Registration is NOW OPEN for the Paul Anderson Golf Classic (PAGC), and spots are filling up fast. This incredible day on the course directly supports the mission of the Paul Anderson Youth Home—changing the lives of young men and strengthening families through faith, discipline, and love. Mark your calendar for Monday, May 4th, grab your team, invite your friends, and secure your spot today. Let’s make this year’s tournament the best one yet!
🏃🏼SAVE THE DATE - SATURDAY, JUNE 6TH 🏃🏼♀️
For the past few years, SEPC has been the Title Sponsor of the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life Superhero Sprint where we give away fresh, free produce to event attendees. All proceeds benefit Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's Strong4Life program, which helps Georgia families raise healthy, resilient kids.
We invite you to join our team this year as we support this super benefit, or if you aren’t up for the run, but would like to help out, we would love for you to volunteer with us!
We're excited to welcome a new charitable partner to our SEPC family! Founded in 1906, Nazareth Child & Family Connection is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for every child, individual, and family.
Nazareth has an array of services which are provided in their continuum of care including Family Foster Care, Adoptions, Transitional Living Services for Young Adults, Level II Therapeutic Residential, Short Term Care, Individual and Group Outpatient Therapy, Psychiatric Services, and Outpatient Substance Abuse Therapy in Rowan and Davidson Counties.
Spring reminds us that new life often begins quietly, beneath the surface 🌱
At Palmer Home for Children, we see that same kind of growth in the lives of the children we serve. With care, stability, and love, what begins as a small seed of hope can grow into a future filled with confidence, purpose, and compassion. This Easter season, you can help that hope take root. Join us in making a difference:
🌱HOPE GROWS HERE🌱
Thanks to generous support from the Southeast Produce Council, the Hope Grows Garden at Palmer Home helps their campus serve as a restorative environment for children and families in need of hope and healing.
🗓️ SAVE THE DATE! 🗓️
"I’m excited to share that we have confirmed the date for our 2026 Radiothon — Thursday, July 16. We are incredibly thankful for your generous $25,000 gift and are thrilled to announce your match sponsorship during the live broadcast. Your continued support makes such a meaningful impact on the success of this day and on our mission." ~ Sarah Zambroni, Sr. Director of Development, Palmer Home for Children
On February 28th, 135 SoSA volunteers came together to pack an impressive 72,272 pounds of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, and juice generously donated by SEPC exhibitors at Southern Exposure 2026. The donations were first consolidated at Mack Farms before the show, then transported to Southern Exposure by Move For Hunger and the Florida Food Bank, where they were kept on site and kept fresh until showtime.
Early Saturday morning, 25 SoSA volunteers gathered on the dock to pack up 10,800 pounds of fresh food that hadn’t made it onto the showroom floor. This food was quickly sorted and distributed to 15 food pantries and soup kitchens across three counties in Florida.
On Saturday evening, 110 volunteers packed up the remaining items from the show. The Florida Food Bank distributed 55,747 pounds of food throughout the state, while One Heart for Women and Children received nearly 6,000 pounds for hungry Central Florida residents.
“Each time the trucks pull away, loaded with the most beautiful produce, my heart fills with joy. I know that tens of thousands of hungry people will soon be served nutritious and healthy food. For some, it will be their first time tasting certain fruits or vegetables. I am deeply grateful to SEPC for making this beautiful blessing possible for so many.” - Kelly Stainner Butler
To learn more about SEPC Cares and how you can join the Southeast Produce Council in giving back to the community by educating others about the benefits of healthy eating and habits, click the link below.
We’re excited to share the 2026 SEPC Sustainability Webinar Series calendar! This year’s lineup is designed to meet members where they are—whether you’re just beginning your sustainability journey or looking to dive deeper into data-driven solutions and best practices across the supply chain.
Each webinar will focus on a key sustainability topic impacting the fresh produce industry. While speakers, session content, and learning objectives will be shared closer to each event, we encourage you to preregister now using the individual links below to secure your spot.
SUSTAINABILITY 101
An introductory session designed for individuals new to sustainability or those looking to build a strong foundational understanding. The webinar covers key topics including packaging, waste, integrated pest management, energy and carbon emissions, social responsibility, logistics and transportation, water stewardship, deforestation, and biodiversity.
FOOD WASTE & RECYCLING
📅MAY 20, 2026 🕐1:00 PM EST A practical discussion on measuring and diverting food waste, as well as managing non-organic waste and recycling streams. The session will cover best practices and resources specific to the fresh produce supply chain.
REGENERATIVE & CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE
📅JULY 29, 2026 🕐12:00 PM EST An overview of regenerative agriculture and climate-smart ag practices, including how these approaches support long-term resilience and environmental stewardship, along with the economic considerations associated with their adoption.
GHG EMISSIONS
📅OCTOBER 28, 2026 🕐1:00 PM EST A deeper look at greenhouse gas emissions, with a focus on carbon measurement, reduction strategies, and available tools.
We hope you’ll join us for these timely and educational conversations as we continue working together to grow a more sustainable produce industry.
Visit our SEPC University resource site for session recordings and more!
Recipients of the SEPC Member Scholarship will each receive a scholarship of $1,500 toward their educational goals for the upcoming school year. The SEPC is proud to have awarded 41 scholarships ($61,500) in 2025 thanks to the dedication of our members.
The SEPC Member Scholarship application can only be submitted online through our link which was provided beginning March 9, 2026. The application deadline is April 24, 2026 at 5pm EST.
Visit our website for more scholarship information!
Congratulations to Michelle Teague of US Foods for being the first to answer our March SEPC Fruit & Veggie Trivia Question correctly!
APRIL TRIVIA QUESTION
Be the first to answer correctly and win a $25 gift card!
April marks the peak of the season for this "regal" vegetable, which is unique because it takes three years of growth from seed before it can be harvested for the first time. Once established, however, a single crown can produce spears for up to 15–20 years!
Can you name this spring favorite?
A) Rhubarb
B) Asparagus
C) Artichoke
D) Vidalia Onion
Our office will be closed on Friday, April 3rd, in observance of Good Friday.
Contact Us!
242 North Masonic Street | Millen, GA 30442 | 877.720.SEPC (7372) | info@seproducecouncil.com