AGENDA

 

 

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR TOMATOES?


Simultaneous translation available Spanish to English and English to Spanish

THURSDAY 5 NOVEMBER 2026

09:00
REGISTRATION AND WELCOME REFRESHMENTS

10:00
WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS

10:05
TALK: MARKET TRENDS
 Our opening speaker sets the scene and forecasts what the year ahead will bring for the tomato category.

10:20
PANEL: DISRUPTION TO SUPPLY
 An analysis of fresh tomato trends and emerging market opportunities, with a focus on how geopolitical conflict is reshaping supply chains. How are supply pressures and shifting shopper behaviour impacting the business?

10:50
CASE STUDY
 We highlight one supplier’s response to recent disruptions and find out what lessons have been learnt.

11:15
NETWORKING BREAK  

11:45
TALKS: EMERGING SUPPLY
 Insights from suppliers in key growth regions such as Central Asia and Turkey.

12:15
PANEL: RETHINKING SOURCING
 Our panel discusses the dangers of relying on a small number of origins due to logistical issues and extreme weather events, and how to build resilience while managing costs.

12:45
TALKS & DISCUSSION: TIME FOR TECHNOLOGY
 Technology is transforming supply management, in terms of yield forecasting, demand planning, real-time supply chain visibility and predictive logistics, and we hear about some of the most exciting innovations.

 

13:30
LUNCH AND NETWORKING  

14:30
PANEL: BUILDING DEMAND
 How can the industry strengthen consumer demand and build long-term loyalty in fresh tomatoes? What is the role of brands, taste, sustainability and packaging when it comes to engaging younger consumers and creating new eating occasions? 

15:00
PANEL: BREEDING FOR THE FUTURE
 Breeding companies discuss how innovation in varieties can support resilience, flavour, shelf-life and productivity in tomatoes. 

15:30
NETWORKING BREAK  

16:00
PANEL: MANAGING RESOURCES
 Our expert panel debates the issue of sustainability in tomatoes, including the importance of carbon footprinting, efficient water use and ethical labour practices, as well as the role of governments and cooperative associations.

16:40
INTERVIEW: RETAIL PERSPECTIVE
 One-to-one discussion with a leading retailer on sourcing strategy, category growth and future priorities.

17:00
CLOSING REMARKS

17:10
AFTERWORK DRINKS

18:30
CONFERENCE AND EXPO CLOSES

FRIDAY 6 NOVEMBER 2026

DELEGATE TOURS

Fruitnet Tomato Congress delegates can sign up for hosted tours to selected retail stores and distribution facilities. A separate booking form will be sent to all registered delegates to secure their space on these tours. Spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

You are welcome to propose a conference topic and/or nominate a speaker for Fruitnet Tomato Congress

Tom Joyce – tom@fruitnet.com