The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has announced its keynote speaker lineup for the 2025 Global Produce & Floral Show, taking place in Anaheim, California, October 16–18.
The show kicks off with a deep dive into the trends shaping the future of the industry, followed by general sessions packed with fresh insights and compelling personal stories.
"This speaker lineup is exactly what our industry needs right now—bold voices, fresh ideas, and real inspiration," said Tom Pierce, director of supplier development at Sobeys and Global Produce and Floral Show committee member. "These sessions will spark important conversations and energize everyone attending the show."
Keynote speaker lineup
- State of the Industry, Oct. 16 | 8:45 a.m.: Cathy Burns, CEO of IFPA, will open the show with her State of the Industry presentation. Burns will bring the organization's insight on key trends, challenges, and opportunities, and what they mean for association members and the global produce and floral community.
L-R: Cathy Burns, Sarah Robb O'Hagan
- General Session: Leading Through Turbulence, Oct. 16 | 1:00 p.m.: Sarah Robb O'Hagan, executive, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Extreme Living, will keynote the Leading Through Turbulence General Session. Known for transforming brands like EXOS and Gatorade, Robb O'Hagan brings insights on how to embrace headwinds to sharpen performance and seize tailwinds to accelerate success. She will challenge the industry to change the game and reshape the competitive landscape so others follow the lead. Following Robb O'Hagan's keynote, a panel of industry leaders will unpack how her high-performance principles can be applied to today's most pressing challenges—from supply chain disruptions to evolving consumer behaviors and economic volatility.
- General Session: The "No Barriers" Life, Oct. 17 | 8:35 a.m.: Erik Weihenmayer, a world-class blind adventurer who has summited Mt. Everest and kayaked the Grand Canyon, will deliver his keynote titled "The 'No Barriers' Life." Through stories of extreme challenge and triumph, Weihenmayer explores how individuals and teams can turn adversity into advantage, build strong support systems, and reach for seemingly impossible goals. Discover the mindset needed to shatter barriers, embrace innovation, and lead with purpose.
L-R: Erik Weihenmayer, Amy Trask
- Women's Fresh Perspectives Breakfast: Breaking Barriers & Owning the Huddle, Oct. 18 | 7:45 a.m.: Rounding out the slate of General Sessions is The Women's Fresh Perspectives Breakfast, where attendees will hear from Amy Trask, former CEO of the Raiders and current CBS Sports Analyst. In "Breaking Barriers & Owning the Huddle," the NFL's first female front office executive and a true game changer in business and broadcasting will bring candid insights on leadership, resilience, and owning a seat at the table.
Only attendees with an All-Access Pass can attend these sessions.
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
[email protected]
https://www.freshproduce.com/