See you at the World Ag Expo!

The World Ag Expo returns to Tulare next month! The largest farm show on earth will open its doors at the International Agri-Center on Tuesday, February 11th, and run for three days before closing on Thursday, February 13th.

As always, Sam Baldivia will be in attendance to represent Fruit Growers Supply, share information about the company’s newest projects, and spend quality time with customers. He’s more than our Irrigation Sales Manager — he’s an unofficial “expo expert,” having attended the farm show for more than twenty years. That makes him the perfect person to share some advice, from food recommendations (try the ribeye steak sandwiches — they’re an annual favorite) to relaxation tips (head over to the FGS booth, which offers free seating).

Here are some of Sam Baldivia’s suggestions for another successful visit.

Where should attendees park at the World Ago Expo?

If you park in the north parking lot, that will get you closer to the Irrigation Pavilion B, where the FGS booths are located. We’ll be in booths 2319, 2320, 2419, 2420, which is where we were last year.

You’ve been attending the Expo for 20 years. You must’ve seen it change during that time.

It’s all about new technology now, like telemetry and automation. In the last 10 years, I’ve seen those two areas become more and more advanced. Being able to automate how much water your tree is taking in — that is such impressive technology. It outsmarted me!

Why does FGS come back to the Expo every year?

We’ve been in this industry since 1907. That’s 118 years! We’re one of the oldest agricultural companies that hasn’t been sold or shut its doors. We’re here to stay and we’re here for the grower. Our industry has experienced a lot of bumps over the years, like inflation and bad weather, but Fruit Growers just rolls with the punches. Going to the Ag Expo every year is all about awareness for us. It lets everyone know that we continue to show up for the growers and for our vendors.

What do you have planned for the irrigation booths this year?

Gerardo Garcia, the supervisor who’s in control of our installation crews, will be there so customers can come meet him and talk about installations. Since we’ve started that installation business, it’s been the biggest highlight we’ve had at Fruit Growers in three years. Instead of hiring subcontractors, our in-house crew can install our irrigation systems instead. Growers really eat that up. They see the work we’re doing and they’re noticing how it’s increasing our ability to really tend to the grower, without having to hire any middlemen.

Finally, let’s talk about food. What’s the best thing to eat at the Ag Expo?

The steak sandwiches! We’re also partnering with Bowsmith and hosting a tailgate lunch for our customers on Wednesday from 11am to 2pm in the RV Parking Lot. Stay tuned for more info!

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