22 • March | April 2026 • abasto.com SWIPE 2026: Driving the Future of Fresh Produce in the U.S. AT THE EXHIBITION HALL 1. Idaho Potatoe Commission. 2. SL Produce. 3. SEEDED. 4. GreenPoint Distributing. 5. National Mango Board. 6. RCF Mango. 7. Raquel Espinoza. 8. Malena Produce. 9. Cutting Ribbon. 10. Marengo Foods. PARA MÁS INFO 1 2 3 4 5 6 The speakers emphasized that the fu- ture competitiveness of the retail sec- tor will depend on the ability to adapt to the unpredictable. Other Key Sessions Included: AI in Grocery: Easing Shrink and Other Common Challen- ges: Experts and retailers discussed how AI is a key tool for combating food waste (shrink), optimizing the su- pply chain, and reducing ri- sing operating costs. BY DANNA GUEVARA T he third edition of the Sou- thwest International Produce Expo, SWIPE 2026, organized by The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA), established it- self as a strategic space for the fresh produce industry. The event, held January 22-24 in Tucson, Arizona, offered a compre- hensive platform for networking, education, and business, highligh- ting the region’s crucial role in su- pplying fresh produce to the United States. Networking and High-Level Connections The event kicked off on January 22 with the SWIPE Desert Golf Classic Tournament, co-hosted by the FPAA and the FPFC. This tournament not only promoted the sport, but also served as the first meeting point for industry leaders to establish links be- fore the official opening of the fair. The opening day culminated with the Southwest Social Produce Party at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. In a business-like atmosphe- re, attendees enjoyed an evening de- signed to strengthen business and personal relationships. Education: Technology and Resilience in the Supply Chain On Friday, January 23, the focus shif- ted to innovation. Educational panels highlighted how new technologies are transforming the supply chain from origin to end consumer. In the panel “Black Swan Event: Preparing for the Unpredictable,” industry experts such as Rob Billow of Charlie’s Produce, Kevin Carter of Associated Wholesale Grocers, Noe- lle Neary of Wakefern, and Kristi No- vak of H-E-B discussed the urgency of adopting emerging technologies. Special Insert Agriculture industry