Oppy shines bright like a diamond at 2024 IFPA
The 2024 IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta, Georgia was an unforgettable event for team Oppy, drawing over 20,000 attendees from more than 70 countries to one of the largest floors in a decade. Over three transformative days, participants gathered for networking, learning and fostering impactful business relationships.
With many Oppy folks arriving early for a packed week ahead of over 170 meetings across retailers, growers, media and more, anticipation was building for the launch of its new partnership with Blue Diamond Growers. The team created buzz around Atlanta with a vibrant marketing campaign, featuring eye-catching sampling tricycles, billboards, activation stations, new product showcase, walking billboards and giant inflatable almond bags that drew attention in the convention center’s lobby and beyond.
The first day of the show kicked off in early hours of Friday morning with the Race for a Healthier World 5K where Oppy proudly repped their Blue Diamond Almonds running shirts. A notable victory was made by Senior Business Development Representative Sydney Schutkowski who placed first in her age group — way to go Sydney!
Later that morning Chair, CEO and Managing Partner John Anderson, serving as IFPA’s 2024 Chair, opened Friday’s general session with remarks on the year’s accomplishments. He highlighted the successes of the Fight for Fresh campaign, setting a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at influencing policy and lawmakers worldwide. John ceremoniously passed the role to Harris Teeter President Tammy DeBoer, the 2025 IFPA Chair.
As the show floor opened, Oppy’s booth was a hub of activity, hosting sales meetings, grower catch-ups, visits from retail dieticians and numerous media interviews. Marketing Communications Manager Kelsey Van Lissum coordinated a full lineup of journalists eager to learn about Oppy’s new partnership with Blue Diamond Growers from spokespeople Chief Commercial Officer Carmen Bourgaize, Group Marketing Manager Sara Holtberg, and grower Kelli Evans; Avoworks’ new BadHass campaign with President Pedro Somarriba, and the Envy apple season with T&G’s Marketing Business Development Manager Jon Kiley. Envy apples also sparkled in a range of captivating ads around the convention center and Atlanta airport, while Jon handed out samples paired with delicious cheeses.
Oppy’s booth featured its incredible grower partners and products, including UP Vertical Farms, Happy Berry, Sun Grape California, Perpetual Vegetable Co., Divemex, OriginO, Frank & Able, Ocean Spray, Hunkaberry, Pink Cosmo and more. This lineup underscored Oppy’s commitment to offering a diverse, premium product range.
Through IFPA’s Career Pathways Program, Director of Business Development and Key Account Management Audrey Desnoyers teamed up with Peyton Weber of the University of Arizona, serving as career ambassador to inspire and support future industry talent.
Oppy capped off Friday night with its annual Aftershow Reunion at The Westin’s iconic Sun Dial Restaurant. Set against a 360-degree view from 723 feet above Atlanta’s skyline, guests enjoyed a Southern evening filled with food and breathtaking sights.
Saturday’s quieter show floor created a more relaxed atmosphere for impromptu meetings before attendees began their journeys home.
A special thank you to our Executive Assistants Dee Homsavath and Ambar Mota, and Administrative Assistants Rhonda Leggett and Madie Johnson for organizing nearly every aspect of the show and keeping the team well-coordinated. Kudos to all who worked tirelessly to ensure Oppy and its grower partners were represented with excellence, and to John and the executive group for supporting this group in strengthening connections in the industry.
Looking forward to seeing everyone again in Anaheim in 2025!
