Episode 395: Jennie Coleman and Erica Manfre
May 27, 2026
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Summary:
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor continues the 2026 Women’s Roundtable series with guests Jennie Coleman of Equifruit and Erica Manfre of South Mill Champs. The conversation explores the concept of the attention economy and its growing influence on the fresh produce industry.
Jennie and Erica share how shifting consumer behavior-driven by digital platforms, social media, and information overload-requires brands to communicate faster, clearer, and more creatively than ever before. From rethinking point-of-sale messaging to leveraging storytelling and entertainment, they discuss how produce brands can remain relevant, build trust, and drive loyalty.
The episode also dives into how the attention economy impacts talent recruitment, industry perception, and the future of fresh food consumption—highlighting the need for innovation, transparency, and cultural evolution across the produce sector.
Takeaways:
- The “attention economy” means brands must capture consumer interest within seconds to stay competitive.
- Simple, concise messaging is more effective than long-form education at the point of sale.
- Digital platforms, influencers, and social media are shaping how consumers discover and choose produce.
- Entertainment and storytelling are key to making fresh produce memorable and engaging.
- A multi-channel approach-digital + in-store is essential to reach diverse consumer demographics.
- The produce industry must modernize its messaging to attract and retain top talent.
- Transparency, authenticity, and company culture are critical for engaging the next generation workforce.
- Too many choices and constant decision-making can overwhelm consumers, making convenience and clarity more important than ever.
Chapters:
- 00:00 – Introduction to the Q2 Women’s Roundtable continuation
- 01:00 – What is the attention economy?
- 04:00 – How Equifruit adapted its messaging strategy
- 08:30 – Building trust and loyalty in a fast-paced digital world
- 12:00 – Point-of-sale strategies and digital influence
- 15:00 – Making produce more visible and craveable
- 18:00 – Attracting and retaining talent in produce
- 24:00 – Is it easier or harder to choose fresh today?
- 29:00 – Final thoughts on adapting to the attention economy
Resources:
Website: South Mill Champs | Fresh Mushroom Production & Wholesale
Instagram: South Mill Mushrooms (@southmillmush) • Instagram photos and videos
FaceBook: South Mill Champs | Kennett Square PA | Facebook
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-mill-champs-mushrooms
Website: Equifruit – Fairtrade Bananas Company – Importer Canada & US
Instagram: Equifruit | Fairtrade bananas (@equifruit) • Instagram photos and videos
FaceBook: Equifruit | Montreal QC | Facebook
LinkedIn: (23) Equifruit: Overview | LinkedIn
