Fresh Ideas, Full Plates: IFPA’s Foodservice Conference Celebrates Record Breaking Attendance Including Over 1,000 Buyers in Monterey

August 1, 2025

MONTEREY, Ca  - International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) hosted their annual Foodservice Conference, taking over Monterey with all of the important players in the fresh foodservice supply chain.  This year’s conference featured one of the most diverse collections of buyers, record breaking attendance, a sold-out expo, and a growing number of field tour programs for chefs and K-12 operators.  

“With over 1000 buyers, new operators, colleges and universities and more than 2200 attendees, the foodservice community really showed up this week for the Foodservice Conference," said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns.  "Innovation and consumer trends were front of mind and we focused on building collaborative connections that will help us shape plates at all segments of the foodservice supply chain.  Foodservice drives trends and habits, and we were humbled to host the industry that has consumers health in their hands.  From those serving our youngest and up and coming consumers in K-12 and colleges and universities and those who are serving produce to those in hospitals, cruises, restaurants, and more - nutritious food has the power to unite us all. We are honored to stand with this community to Fight for Fresh and ensure our products are at the center of the plate - not just a garnish - always." 

 Dubbed the most important 5 hours for produce in foodservice, the conference brings together the entire supply chain to celebrate produce based menu creations, product innovations, and the insights to drive increased consumption at all foodservice segments. In addition to Burns’ opening statement, the keynote was delivered by David Henkes, senior principal and head of strategic partnerships at Technomic. Henkes highlighted the latest in consumer trend research and uncovered the truth about many of the perceptions driving consumer behavior that are inspiring menu strategies nationwide.  

In addition to the general session content, there were programs designed for specific segments.  The 2025 Foodservice Award winning Chefs and their teams attended a day of field tours, K-12 Foodservice Forum attendees also attended a day of tours and Wednesday also saw a sold-out buyer sourcing meeting event providing fast paced connections and a networking lunch or participants.  

The K-12 School Forum was the largest in the program’s history with over 100 participants attending the Conference and the additional opportunities for ideation, collaboration and networking between school menu planners and produce leaders.   College and University Professionals also showed up in record numbers. 

“Increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables is foundational to improving global health outcomes,” said Foundation of Fresh Produce President, Lauren M. Scott. “It’s also one of the most complex challenges that requires a unified effort at every point of contact we have with consumers.  We’re thrilled to see a growing community of representatives from these segments that have such a strong influence on building the palates and habits of consumers especially in our schools and universities.” 

Professionals from all segments also attended the Foodservice Conference’s Expo taking place on Friday afternoon. This year’s Expo floor was sold out with exhibitors meeting with over 1000 buyers from all foodservice segments at the show.  The exhibitors showcased new products and solutions at the Fresh Ideas Showcase, and also showed off some of their most delicious produce-centered recipes.  Each year, IFPA recognizes 4 winners from the Expo, and the field is becoming more and more competitive each year.  This year’s winners include:  

Best in Show: J. Marchini Farms – Joe’s Premium 

Runner Up: Melissa’s  

Best Product Promo: Coosemans LA Shipping / Essential Mixology 

Chef’s Choice:  Rijk Zwaan – compressed yellow watermelon  

IFPA will be back in Monterey in 2026 for Foodservice Conference and all 2025 attendees will be notified when registration and exhibitor applications open for the event.  

Fresh Ideas, Full Plates: IFPA’s Foodservice Conference Celebrates Record Breaking Attendance Including Over 1,000 Buyers in Monterey

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