The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) shared that the 2026 Viva Fresh Expo on April 22 in San Antonio drew a record 2,872 attendees, including 380 retail and foodservice buyers, and featured 199 exhibitors, marking the largest turnout in the show’s history.
Since its debut in Austin in 2015, Viva Fresh has grown into a premier regional trade show connecting the produce industry across North America. TIPA said the 2026 edition continued that trajectory, delivering a mix of networking, education and business development opportunities.
Platform continues to evolve
Bret Erickson, EVP at Little Bear Produce and Viva Fresh chairman, hailed the turnout.
“This year’s record attendance reflects the continued momentum and importance of Viva Fresh as a key platform for the fresh produce supply chain,” he said. “From meaningful buyer-supplier connections to high-quality educational programming, the event continues to evolve to meet the needs of the industry.”
Expanded networking opportunities
Activities included expanded networking opportunities, such as the Viva Fresh Open across two golf courses at the TPC San Antonio, as well as the annual Viva Fresh Pickleball Tournament and the first Viva Fresh Wine Tasting.
Signature programs such as the In Bloom Women’s Event, the EDGE student program and the Y-TIPA Young Professionals mixer highlighted the association’s commitment to leadership development and industry engagement across all career stages.
Education addresses industry issues
The educational lineup featured a range of sessions addressing topical industry issues, reflecting on challenges and opportunities.
Sessions included a discussion on Consumomics of Fresh Produce led by economist Richard Kottmeyer of FutureBridge, along with Sabrina DeLay.
Attendees also heard from keynote speaker Hunter Pinke, whose message of “no more bad days” and mindset shift seemed to resonate with participants and set the tone for the weekend.
Expo floor draws engaged buyers
The Saturday expo brought together exhibitors showcasing fresh produce, innovations and services to an audience of buyers and industry professionals.
With its strongest attendance to date, TIPA said Viva Fresh 2026 reinforces the continued growth and vitality of the Texas and Southwest produce sectors.
Looking ahead
The 2027 Viva Fresh Produce Expo is set for April 8-10 at the JW Marriott Hill Country in San Antonio.
Founded in 1942, TIPA promotes, advocates, educates and represents the nearly $13 billion in fresh produce that is grown in the state or calls Texas the first point of U.S.-arrival for North American distribution.
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2026 Viva Fresh Expo
