Learning Lounges

3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

AI in Action – AI Implementation and Supply Chain Resiliency

AI in the agriculture supply chain uses data, machine learning, and automation to boost efficiency, cut waste, and increase transparency from farm to fork, optimizing everything from yield forecasting and planting to logistics, sorting, and market prediction, creating smarter, more resilient food systems. There are also opportunities to enhance traceability, ensuring quality, fighting fraud, and empowering data-driven decisions to manage risks like weather or demand shifts, ultimately supporting sustainability and global food security. How is the industry delivering on the promise of AI and what are the potential pitfalls?  This session will focus on pragmatic implementation including those already leveraging AI in their business.

3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.  

Trade in 2026 – A return to stability or market shake up?

As the CUSMA/USMCA review approaches, and amid a constantly evolving global trade and tariff landscape, the fresh produce sector is seeing change in product movement, purchasing patterns, and target opportunities. As markets shift, the produce industry is focused on what will happen in target markets; will it be a return to stability under renewed trade agreements or are we in for a market shake-up? Industry representatives focused on global trade will share their experiences, expertise and expectations for the year ahead.

2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Building Your Personal Brand

What is your brand and how do you nurture and build it? Particularly for young professionals, your brand is important for both personal and business growth and success, but it may be a facet of your professional life you’ve not yet consciously considered. This session will explore the development of personal brand, its significance in your professional path and how to identify and fix any pitfalls along the way.  

2:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.  

Leveraging Influencers for Business Success

The emergence of social media platforms has changed the way brands market themselves and influencers play a major role in this.  So how do produce companies leverage influencers to differentiate their products, build brand trust and drive sales?  What are the earmarks of successful engagement with influencers and how do you provide the best information and environment to ensure a partnership that results in benefits to your bottom line? Join a panel of Canadian influencers to learn more.  

3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.  

What’s in store in 2026?

Each year brings new realities for those on the front line to consumers. With the continuing undercurrent of consumer concerns around product origin, cost, and more, retailers and foodservice operators need to find the balance between maintaining the product availability (and price) Canadians expect and adjusting to shifting trade realities. Add to this a supply chain with a new Code of Conduct, and challenges in production costs that also impact product availability. So, what is at the forefront of Canadian procurement focus? Retail and foodservice representatives from across Canada will discuss what 2026, and beyond, looks like in store.