Nogales, AZ—The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) is putting the final touches on its 42nd Annual Produce Convention and Golf Tournament. The Produce Convention will be held November 4-6, 2010 in Nogales, Arizona, home to the largest port of entry for fresh fruits and vegetables from Mexico and to a wide array of companies involved in distributing fresh produce across North America.
“Our convention committee has come up with some really creative and new ideas this year,” says FPAA public affairs director, Amy Adams. “Of course with our fantastic weather and our concentration of produce companies for people to network with, the FPAA Produce Convention has been a must on everyone’s calendar for many years.”
The FPAA Convention kicks off on Thursday, November 4, with guided tours of Nogales warehouses and afternoon educational opportunities including:
Border Challenges
Participate in a candid discussion with both US and Mexican Customs on the realities and challenges of importing produce.
Food Safety, Traceability and Logistics from the Buyer Perspective
Hear from key foodservice, retail and traceability organizations on the trends and opportunities they see. Invited speakers are from SYSCO Corporation, Food
Lion, LLC and HarvestMark.
The opening evening takes full advantage of the spectacular weather and networking opportunities. Set in the cozy, inviting Plaza at the Tubac Resort, participants have the opportunity to meet with old friends, make new business relationships, and discuss the Mexican produce season.
The FPAA’s Golf Tournament kicks off on Friday morning, and the FPAA Convention crew has designed a fun, two-day golf event where players can pick their own partner and win more prizes in each golf flight.
New to this year’s convention is the unveiling of the annual “Pillars of the FPAA” award, which will be presented during the Saturday evening dinner and dancing event. The “Pillars of the FPAA” award recognizes excellence and service to the FPAA and honors individuals who have excelled in the industry. The award highlights members’ accomplishments in the industry.
To celebrate the FPAA honorees and all of the participants of the Convention, American Idol contestant, Crystal Stark, and her band will perform on Saturday evening.
“We strive to give everyone a great backdrop as they interact with their clients, suppliers, and friends in the industry. The produce business is very much based on relationships, and this is the event to nurture those relationships,” says Adams.
The FPAA Convention will all be held at the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, which is located a few miles north of Nogales, Arizona. Tubac is also conveniently located just 45 minutes south of the Tucson International Airport.
Source: FPAA
