Targeting NextGen at NYPS Lunch

December 11, 2025 | 3 min to read

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Consumer media explore trends for Gen Z and Alpha and experience guided produce tasting at New York Produce Show.

A select group of 50 consumer media and influencers explored trends and opportunities presented by NextGen, particularly Gen Z and Alpha, at a private luncheon during the New York Produce Show, Dec. 3. Attending the event were top journalists and dietitians from lifestyle magazines, social media, radio, news services and television.

Stefanie Katzman of wholesaler S. Katzman Produce welcomed the group, setting the stage for the NextGen topic. Belinda Wilson, managing director of IFPA Australia-New Zealand, made a brief appearance with Dorothy the Dinosaur to discuss their consumption promotion campaign with The Wiggles.

Generational experts David and Jonah Stillman provided a foundation of facts related to the generations and led a thought-provoking Q&A with attendees. Katie Calligaro, director of marketing and communications at The Foundation for Fresh Produce in Newark, DE, discussed key research and actionable steps for reaching NextGen.

Katie Calligaro, director of marketing and communications at The Foundation for Fresh Produce in Newark, DE, discussed actionable steps for reaching NextGen.

Calligaro noted that engaging with media influencers at the New York Produce Show is an invaluable opportunity. “When nutrition communicators have direct access to the people shaping today’s conversations around food, it allows us to share authentic, compelling stories about fruits and vegetables in ways that truly resonate with consumers.”

“Influencers help translate the science, the passion, and the purpose behind our products into everyday inspiration,” she adds. “That visibility doesn’t just build awareness — it drives consumption, strengthens trust in our industry, and ultimately helps more families enjoy healthier, happier lives.”

Sponsoring companies included Dole Fresh Fruit, Fresh Gourmet Company, SnapDragon and RubyFrost Apples (Crunch Time Apple Growers), California Walnuts and Katzman Produce. Jessica Wells from Crunch Time Apple Growers shared how they are connecting with NextGen and brought the SnapDragon mascot for an appearance.

Jennifer Olmstead of California Walnuts conveyed the new perception of walnuts and how the product is growing in usage applications. Culinary expert Jill Overdorf of The Produce Ambassador walked attendees through a guided four-bite Winter Tasting Experience, showcasing sponsors’ products.

Jill Overdorf of The Produce Ambassador walked media luncheon attendees through a guided four-bite Winter Tasting Experience, showcasing sponsors’ products.

“Attending the media lunch always helps to keep me, as a dietitian and media expert, up on the latest trends,” says Mandy Enright, registered dietitian at Eating Well based in Asbury Park, NJ. “This year’s discussion about generational behaviors and approaches towards produce consumption certainly gave a lot of food for thought in how I plan to communicate messages about produce in my work.”

The program is part of the New York Produce Show and took place at the Javits Center. The one-day trade show and three co-located events were Dec. 2-4. The New York Produce Show is organized by Produce Business and the Eastern Produce Council.

SAVE THE DATE!

Mark your calendar for next year’s New York Produce Show and Conference: Dec. 2-4, 2026.

And exhibitors, book your booth now, as there’s limited time to maintain the current booth rate. Visit www.nyproduceshow.com/exhibit2026 or talk to your sales representative before Jan. 16, 2026, to lock in the 2025 rate!