The SE Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference returns to Savannah, Ga. this January 5?8, 2017. In 2016, the event hosted more than 3500 produce industry members, marking more than ten years of continued attendance growth. This 2017 event marks the 15th year of the SE Regional, an exciting milestone for the event.
“We’re looking forward to celebrating 15 years of outstanding SE Regional conferences at thisevent in 2017,” said Samantha Kilgore, GFVGA Communications Director. According to Samantha, attendees should watch for announcements on special events, photos to commemorate the conference’s history and interactive social media efforts to help celebrate the 15th year in upcoming communications.
Sponsored by the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) and the South Carolina Peach Council (SCPC) the conference will be held at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center. The event features three days of educational workshops and seminars, a two day trade show and several other evening networking opportunities.
During the three?day educational program, more than 85 hours of commodity specific production training, pest management information and marketing updates are offered to attendees. Commodities include peach, vegetable, Vidalia onion, watermelon, muscadine, wine, blueberry, strawberry, blackberry, and raspberry. There are also sessions on business operations, food safety, roadside markets and organic production.
Beth Oleson, Director of Education and Food Safety for GFVGA, “is eager and excited for another great conference” she said. “We are working with the Produce Safety Alliance on a food safety training to offer attendees this year.” Oleson said she believes this will be a valuable addition to the current educational offerings and expects high participation.
In 2016 the tradeshow floor was expanded to its full capacity. For the last several years, thetrade show coordinators have added booths to accommodate growing exhibitor numbers. At the 2016 event, Friday and Saturday lunch for attendees was completely moved upstairs, dedicating the entire hall to exhibitors. “Reaching full capacity [in the trade show hall] is a great problem to have to work through, especially as we approach this 15th year celebration,” said Charles Hall, GFVGA Executive Director.
The 2017 Trade Show will offer a varied assembly of produce industry vendors and suppliers. Marked as one of the most valuable networking events in the year, the SE Regional trade show will provide attendees with the opportunity to compare products, talk with industry representatives, observe demonstrations, network with other growers and learn about the latest in fresh produce technology.
Other special events during the conference include an awards program on Saturday morning and an Industry Roundtable on Sunday to close the conference. The roundtable is an opportunity for growers and suppliers to discuss issues of mutual concern. This forum provides input for the 2017 Program of Work to be adopted by the GFVGA Board of Directors in February 2017.
There will also be a Friday night reception and live auction on the trade show floor, a Saturday night reception at the Westin Savannah Harbor and a silent auction held during the trade show. For more information on hotels, educational sessions or to register for the 2017 SE Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference, visit www.seregionalconference.com or call 877?994?3842. Take advantage of early bird discounts by registering before December 11, 2015.
About GFVGA
The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association is a trade association representing farmers producing fruits and vegetables in the southeastern United States. The organization provides a viable and united voice to represent the industry. Through support for educational programs, agricultural research, member services and marketing activities GFVGA encourages efficient, cost effective production for growers and increased consumption by consumers.
GFVGA is managed by Association Services Group, a professional management firm with offices in Atlanta and LaGrange, GA, and is accredited by the Association Management Company Institute.
The South Carolina Peach Council is an association of growers, packers, researchers, allied industry, and produce buyers who seek to protect and advance the production and marketing of peaches in South Carolina.
Source: The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association
