July 21-24, 2026 NPC President and Michigan potato grower Ben Sklarczyk brought the industry together for NPC’s Summer Meeting, hosted in Detroit. The event included committee and board meetings, as well as updates on the council’s ongoing advocacy efforts on behalf of the industry.
“This city is special to my family’s history. Just a few miles from here, my grandfather made the decision to switch from growing table stock to seed potatoes,” Sklarczyk told the group. “He believed it was the right move for the farm. Two generations later, I appreciate his wisdom and vision. That same wisdom and vision – from growers across the country – gives NPC strength in Washington. It keeps us focused on our long-term goals, not chasing trends or shifting political winds.”
During a combined general session with attendees of Potatoes USA’s Summer Meeting, the group heard policy and market updates from the two organizations. Updates included a 360° Industry Perspective panel moderated by Kelly Turner, Executive Director of Michigan Potatoes, and panelists Mark Klompien, President/CEO of United Potato Growers of America, Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council, and Blair Richardson, CEO of Potatoes USA.
Kim Breshears, Chief Marketing Officer of Potatoes USA, briefed the group on the forces shaping potato demand. The joint session concluded with a trade discussion moderated by Matt Lantz, Senior Vice President of Global Access at Bryant Christie Inc., and panelists Jared Balcom, President of Balcom & Moe from Pasco, Washington, Matt Wilkes, Director of Potato Services of Michigan, and Quarles.
In addition to organizational meetings and updates, the group enjoyed an evening at the historic music venue Saint Andrew’s Hall, dinner and a tour of the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, birthplace of the Model T, and a group outing to Comerica Park for a baseball game between the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals. Before heading out on Friday, attendees toured Better Made Snack Foods, located in downtown Detroit.
“It was a privilege to welcome my fellow growers to my home state,” said Sklarczyk. “Thanks to all the sponsors for their support and Michigan Potatoes for helping organize this important meeting for our industry.”
Photos from the meeting are available here.
