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 unsure of 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!
SEPTEMBER LEVEL SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
NEW SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
SEPC is now offering sponsorship opportunities exclusive to driving our educational programs that are the best in class for our industry. With different tiers available, you can contribute to the future education of our next generation of produce professionals. Visit our website to learn more about the innovative ways through which you can support the future of our industry:
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025-2026 FUTURE OF INDUSTRY SPONSORS!
HEAR YE, HEAR YE!
Prepare to embark upon a grand exploration of the freshest innovations within our industry!
👑 KNOW BEFORE YOU GO👑
ATTENDEE CHECK-IN & BADGE PICKUP
Concourse C
Skip the lines and start your Southern Innovations experience with ease! Attendees who have pre-registered can stop by the Check-In Desks to collect their event badge, which must be worn throughout the conference.
• Wednesday, September 10: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• Thursday, September 11: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
• Friday, September 12: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Need to update your registration or purchase event tickets? Visit the Member Services Desk for assistance with registration changes, ticket purchases, and other event-related inquiries. Hours of operation will differ from check-in, so be sure to stop by during designated times.
Member Services Desk Hours:
• Wednesday, September 10: 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
• Thursday, September 11: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Friday, September 12: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
BADGE LANYARD COLOR CODES
TRANSPORTATION
All activity transportation will take place at the Charlotte Convention Center East Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Entrance
- Martin Eubanks Sporting Clays Classic
- Founders Memorial Golf Tournament
- The Cool Cucumber Classic Pickleball Tournament
- Local Tour
CONFERENCE ADDRESS
Charlotte Convention Center
501 S College Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
GET CONNECTED
PRODUCE DONATIONS
The SEPC is proud to donate all leftover produce from Southern Innovations to Society of St. Andrew. A Society of St. Andrew representative will be dropping stickers off to each booth during the Expo. If your company is interested in donating leftover product, please attach the stickers to donated product and leave in your booth after the Expo. If you have any questions, please stop by the AGS Service Desk.
WHO'S ATTENDING?
The complete attendee list can be accessed by logging in to your registration and selecting “Attendees” within the “Post Registration” dropdown.
*Please note that any external company solicitation has not been approved by the SEPC.
WHAT DO I WEAR?
Overall conference attire is business casual. Use this guide to help decide what to wear throughout the weekend:
- Founders Memorial Golf Tournament: Golf Attire
- Martin Eubanks Sporting Clays Classic: Sporting Clays Attire
- Local Tour: Casual with comfortable walking shoes
- Cool Cucumber Pickleball Tournament: Pickleball Attire
- Chairman's Dinner Dance: Dressy Casual or Medieval Themed Attire
***Please note, you must wear your conference badge and bring a valid ID to each of the events. Any badge swapping will result in dismissal from the event***
FUN STUFF
📯 🎤 Hear Ye, Hear Ye, SEPC Rock Royalty! 🎸 👑
Queen Legacy requests the honor of your presence for a killer night of legendary tunes and royal revelry — right in the heart of the Queen City! ⚔️ 🏰
Join us for a Bohemian Rhapsody-style celebration at the Chairman’s Dinner Dance during Southern Innovations, where the music will rock you, the vibe will lift you higher, and the memories will be forever champions. ✨
🎟️ Don’t stop us now — grab your tickets early, because this show-stopping night is by registration only! 🔥
👑 Long live the Queen... and the dance floor! 💃🕺
Expo Extras
We will feature refreshment stations as well as a relaxation station during the expo. We’ll also have our Southern Innovations Send-Off Reception during the final hours of the expo. All badge-wearing attendees of Southern Innovations are welcome…and did we mention it’s complimentary?!
Al Finch Memorial Prayer Breakfast
We invite SEPC members and family to join us in worship and fellowship on Sunday morning during our SEPC Prayer Breakfast.
SEPC Cares Initiative
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!
SEPC HERALDS SPEAKER LINEUP FIT FOR A QUEEN!
The following esteemed speakers shall surely stir the hearts of all, bringing forth mighty strength to SEPC’s noble endeavors:
Educational Session
Sustainability: It's Good for Business
Moderator
Kieran McNeice
Kieran McNeice is the Director of Sustainability Programs at Measure to Improve. Her role at MTI includes designing and implementing sustainability programs that are tailored to each client's unique goals and maximize their positive impact. Her knack for training and communication helps her translate complex sustainability topics into user-friendly resources for MTI’s clients. Kieran holds an MBA in Global Impact Management and an MA in International Environmental Policy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies. She received her undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Vermont. In addition to her work in fresh produce over the last 8 years, Kieran is also an active member of her local fiber arts community in Philadelphia, leading sessions on the intersection of sustainability and craft.
Panelist
Jana Fischback
Jana Fischback leads sustainability at Stemilt Growers, a leading tree fruit company in Washington state. She works to reduce emissions, conserve resources, and integrate sustainability across the company. Before joining the ag industry, she helped launch environmental programs at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and Metro Parks Tacoma. She later served as Executive Director of a rural Washington nonprofit she co-founded to promote sustainable living. Jana is passionate about making sustainability practical, measurable, and valuable to the business.
Panelist
Justin LaCroix
Justin LaCroix is a leader in sustainable retail with over 19 years of experience in the grocery industry. He manages sustainable operations efforts for Ahold Delhaize USA - the largest grocery retail group on the East Coast - with a passionate focus on driving climate impact and food waste reduction. Justin is also the health & sustainability lead for Food Lion - one of Ahold Delhaize USA's five local retail brands. Justin holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental management and an MBA with a sustainability concentration. Justin lives in North Carolina with his wife, Jenna, and dog, Bradie.
Panelist
Jonathan Quinn
Jonathan Quinn is President & CEO of US Plastics Pact. He brings more than 15 years of expertise and industry knowledge to the organization. His lifelong dedication to and leadership in plastic packaging, combined with his strong advocacy for a circular economy in plastics, drives his efforts toward the pivotal mission of the US pact. Quinn is acknowledged as an authority in many areas of plastic packaging and has been recognized as an industry leader by Plastics News, Waste360, and other media and associations. Moreover, he has conducted extensive consumer insight research on the packaged goods sector and consumer perceptions of packaging materials.
Panelist
Tyler Simmons
Tyler Simmons is the VP of Revenue at Flashfood, a marketplace app that helps consumers save money on fresh food while reducing grocery store waste. He leads the company’s growth across North America, positioning Flashfood as a key partner for grocers seeking in-store innovation and customer acquisition solutions. With over 15 years of experience, Tyler has led sales and go-to-market teams in the U.S. and internationally. He previously led business development at Bowery Farming and enterprise sales at Too Good To Go, both focused on reducing food waste. Outside the food sector, he spent 5+ years at Foursquare, including time as Managing Director for APAC based in Singapore. Tyler lives in Manhattan with his wife and young son.
Presenter
Anne-Marie Roerink
Anne-Marie Roerink is the President of 210 Analytics, LLC. Working closely with retailers, wholesalers, grower/shippers and trade associations, Anne-Marie has developed an excellent perspective on the ever-changing wants and needs of the produce consumer in a one-size-fits-no-one world. She understands the challenges and opportunities in the food and produce business today as well as the drivers of success tomorrow. Prior to founding 210 Analytics, Anne-Marie was the Head of Research for the FMI. She designs and authors the annual Power of Produce study and monthly performance reports, along with similar studies in meat, deli, frozen, bakery and other categories.
Southern Roots Women’s Luncheon Speaker
Dr. Jaime Kulaga
Dr. Jaime Kulaga is a licensed mental health counselor & life coach, entrepreneur, author, motivational speaker, mother and wife. She is a frequent mental health expert on national TV, radio and print media for her expertise in work-life balance. Dr. Jaime has taught and worked with thousands of people empowering them to overcome barriers, discover their own greatness, and in turn, create a loving and gratifying environment for both themselves and all those in their lives. Through teaching at the university level, coaching and counseling individuals, couples, businesses and students, she educates women, men and families to make better lifestyle decisions, steer the course of their lives, and use practical tools for overall health and success. Dr. Jaime is the Author of the International book The SuperWoman’s Guide to Super Fulfillment: Step by Step Strategies to Create Work-Life Balance named one of the best work life balance books of all time according to Book Authority. Her book has been translated and published in over 30 countries. With her engaging personality, sense of humor and tone, audiences are inspired and motivated to use the content in order to enhance their lives and find overall life happiness and fulfillment.
Good Seeds MENtor Program Speaker
Justin Forsett
Justin’s personal journey is one of the best stories in the NFL. Former NFL running back Justin Forsett was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2008 and played for seven teams in nine years, including the 2014 Pro Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens. Known for his speed and agility on the field, he is now a respected leader and businessman off the field. And as an award-winning speaker, he shares his stories of sacrifice, setbacks, and success. A Florida native, Justin was determined to play in the NFL. Despite his 5'8" stature, he broke several high school records and earned a college scholarship to Cal where, as a senior, he was named to the First-team All-Pac-10 Conference. Justin retired from the NFL in 2017 and moved from the backfield to the boardroom. The company he co-founded with college teammates even appeared on ABC's Shark Tank. Although they didn’t get a deal, they used the feedback to rename, rebrand, and relaunch their company. Now known as Hustle Clean, and with Justin as CEO, this multi-million-dollar wellness company sells all-natural body wipes and personal care products online and at major retailers.
Keynote Speaker
Erik Qualman
#1 Best Selling Author and Keynote Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in 55 countries and reached 50 million people. His Socialnomics work has been on 60 Minutes to the Wall Street Journal and used by the National Guard to NASA. His book Digital Leader propelled him to be voted the 2nd Most Likeable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. What Happens in Vegas Stays on YouTube helped Qualman be listed by Forbes and Fortune as a Top 100 Digital Influencer. His business books are used in over 200 universities, and he has received an honorary doctorate for his groundbreaking work. His latest book, The Focus Project, is a guide to pursuing less in order to achieve more. Qualman was formerly a sitting professor at Harvard & MIT’s edX labs.
Deadlines to Note
- July 11, 2025: Final date to receive refund for exhibitor booth and Wall of Innovations showcase.
- August 1, 2025: Final date to reserve hotel rooms within the SEPC room blocks. Any rooms cancelled after this date will result in a one night's room charge.
- August 8, 2025: Final date for retail or foodservice attendees to request complimentary hotel and airfare through SEPC registration.
- August 15, 2025: Final date for all attendees to receive refund for conference and session registration (does not include exhibitor booth or Wall of Innovation fees).
- August 29, 2025: Final date to receive checks in the SEPC office
- September 5, 2025: Final date for ACH payments to be posted to the SEPC account. Only payments via credit card will be accepted after this date.
Southern Innovations Exhibitors
SOLD OUT EXHIBIT SPACE!
EXHIBITOR BOOTH ASSIGNMENTS
We’ve added the exhibitor booth assignment list as well as the expo floorplan to our Southern Innovations website. Access either through the Southern Innovations registration site by selecting EXHIBITORS from the menu at the top of the page:
OR through the SEPC website by selecting the EXHIBITORS tab of the accordion menu on our Southern Innovations page:
EXHIBITOR TOOLKIT
Through our valued partnership with AGS Expo Services, the exhibitor toolkit information is now available! Your Welcome to Online Ordering email from eventservices@ags-expo.com will provide access to your online hub and exhibitor kit. We’ve also added the exhibitor toolkit to our Southern Innovations websites.
Cooking Guidelines
Do you plan to do any food or beverage sampling/cooking in your booth at Southern Innovations 2025?(Cooking includes the use of stovetop electric griddles, air fryers, fryers, microwaves, hot plate burners, or similar appliances)
If you do, please be aware that the Facility & Fire Marshal must review and approve your request before the event. Without written approval, you will not be permitted to operate cooking equipment onsite.
To request approval, you must submit a written description of your intended cooking activity and equipment to AGS Expo at eventservices@ags-expo.com by August 27th.
Sampling Guidelines
If you are only planning to sample, the Food and Beverage Sample Distribution Request form within the Exhibitor Toolkit must be completed and submitted to the convention center contact as listed on the form in advance of any food or beverage samples being served. Food Sampling Guidelines are also included within the kit.
DIGITAL TOOLKIT
Take advantage of these digital tools available for you as you prepare to join us in Charlotte for Southern Innovations!
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 September is Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. For the past few years, SEPC has been the Title Sponsor of the Strong4Life Superhero Sprint and gives 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 each 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!
Bridge the Gap Ministries is celebrating our newest graduate TJ. He is doing well and staying on for an additional six months in our transition program. Thank you for all that you do to make this possible.
🌱 GETTING READY TO GROW! 🌱
The boys have been hard at work preparing the Goodness Garden for planting (with Mr. Eddie, Sadie, and June supervising, of course)! From tilling the soil to setting things in place, their efforts are paving the way for fresh, healthy produce that we can enjoy and share.
We’re so thankful to the Southeast Produce Council, Inc. for making this garden possible. Their generosity is helping us teach valuable skills, foster responsibility, and enjoy the goodness of God’s creation—one seed at a time! 🌿🍅🥕
For 130 years, Palmer Home has been a place of hope and healing for children in need. A transformative moment in their history came in the 1960s, when they moved from dormitory-style housing to cottage-style family homes on our campus.
But this change was about more than just buildings, it was about creating a true sense of belonging. At Palmer Home, children experience love, stability, and belonging in nurturing environments.
Though much has changed over the decades, their mission remains the same: to provide safe, Christ-centered homes where children can grow, thrive, and envision a future filled with hope and possibility.
And today, that mission continues - stronger than ever.
SAVE THE DATE: 2025 HOLIDAY PARTY
Date: Dec 5, 2025
Location: Howard Phillips Center
Each holiday season, the Central Florida community donates hundreds of toys to OH/APHC. The annual holiday party is a fun community event for patients, children and families
The Phillips-Howard Center for Children & Families is APHC's social outreach partner for local children and families in need.
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.
Congratulations to Karl Heink of Publix Super Markets for being the first to answer our August SEPC Fruit & Veggie Trivia Question correctly!
September Trivia Question
Be the first to answer correctly and win a $25 gift card!
If you’re not keen on milk but would like more calcium in your diet, it may interest you to find out that a cup of these has as much calcium as the same amount of milk.
Blueberries
Carrots
Figs
Strawberries
Our office will be closed Monday, September 8th through Monday, September 15th. Please contact us with any questions at info@seproducecouncil.com. Be sure to visit our FAQs section of the Southern Innovations website for help during our absence.
Contact Us!
242 North Masonic Street | Millen, GA 30442 | 877.720.SEPC (7372) | info@seproducecouncil.com