800+ attendees gather in Tucson for FPAA’s premier January event

(Tucson, AZ) – The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) proudly held its much anticipated follow up SouthWest International Produce Expo (SWIPE 2026), marking a milestone year for the event with record-breaking attendance and heightened engagement across the North American fresh produce supply chain.

Hosted at the JW Marriott Starr Pass in Tucson, SWIPE 2026 welcomed over 800 attendees, including a wide array of retail and foodservice buyers, reaffirming the event’s role as a must-attend January gathering for companies across the supply chain.

“This year’s SWIPE exceeded expectations in every way,” said FPAA’s Chairwoman Raquel Espinoza. “From attendance and buyer participation to education and networking, the energy on site reflected an industry eager to connect, learn, and move forward together.”

A Program Built for Impact

The 2026 program was intentionally designed to align with exhibitor seasonality and the evolving needs of the industry. Highlights included:

  • 65 exhibitor booths showcasing an array of fresh produce items and innovation across the supply chain
  • Four timely education panels addressing AI, tariffs, risk management, and black swan events
  • Speaker’s Corner sessions, a new, peer-driven format featured directly on the expo floor
  • Signature networking experiences, including the Desert Golf Classic, Produce Par-TEE, Pickleball Paddle Battle, Border Dash Tour, and a Trap & Skeet outing

Educational sessions drew strong attendance and engagement, with panels exploring how companies are preparing for unpredictable disruptions, leveraging AI to reduce shrink and waste, and navigating duties and tariffs in an increasingly unstable global trade environment.

Networking That Moves the Industry Forward

SWIPE 2026 maintained its reputation for delivering high-value, relationship-driven networking. From exclusive buyer and sponsor receptions to large-scale events celebrating the spirit of the Southwest, attendees enjoyed multiple opportunities to build meaningful connections beyond the trade show floor.

The move to January timing proved to be a strategic success, creating momentum early in the year and allowing exhibitors and buyers to engage at a critical point in the business cycle.

Gratitude to Sponsors and Exhibitors

FPAA extends its sincere appreciation to the exhibitors, sponsors, and partners whose support made SWIPE 2026 possible. Their investment and engagement were instrumental in delivering a high-impact event that created real value for attendees across the North American produce industry.

“SWIPE is a reflection of our members and partners, who are very passionate about this industry, and this event. SWIPE was the largest ever golf tournament at this particular resort, which is a demonstration of the excitement that we see,” President Lance Jungmeyer added. “The continued support excitement from the industry allows us to raise the bar each year and deliver programming that matters.”

With record attendance, expanded programming, and strong buyer participation, SWIPE 2026 – the third installment of the event – sets a new benchmark as FPAA looks ahead to building on this momentum for 2027 and future editions.

About the Fresh Produce Association of Americas: 

Founded in 1944 in Nogales, Arizona, the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas has grown to become one of the most influential agricultural groups in the United States. Today, the FPAA provides a powerful voice for more than 100 U.S. companies involved in the importation and distribution of fresh produce grown in Mexico.

For more information about SWIPE 2027, FPAA membership, or upcoming events, please contact the FPAA at (520) 287-2707 or visit www.thefpaa.com or www.swipeexpo.com.