WASHINGTON, D.C. – Registration is now open for The Washington Conference, the annual policy summit of the United Fresh Produce Association in the nation’s capital. The Washington Conference the only annual event where the produce industry’s most prominent and influential executives gather for strategic, face-to-face dialogue with key members of Congress, their staffs and top regulatory officials. The event is recognized across the industry for its importance as a venue for produce leaders to address key policy issues with their elected representatives.
Two new events have been added to the Conference schedule. On Monday, September 8, select attendees will participate in the new Rising Leaders Seminar, a unique leadership development opportunity for up-and-coming produce industry members. Industry executives looking to drive their company’s future endeavors will participate in in-depth, interactive discussions in the role of how public policy engagement drives business success. Candidates for participation in the Rising Leaders Seminar must submit an application, including a brief essay, as well as receive support from their supervisor.
“The Washington Conference is already valued by produce industry executives for its unprecedented, face-to-face access to leaders in the House and Senate, and administration officials in the White House, at FDA, USDA, EPA and other federal agencies,” said Tom Stenzel, United Fresh president & CEO. “And with the new Rising Leaders Seminar, we are preparing the next generation of produce industry leaders to also be formidable advocates in the nation’s capital to shape the future success of your company.”
An additional new event, The Washington Conference Opening Party, will provide a strong forum for industry leaders to network and connect prior to general sessions and Capitol Hill meetings. The Opening Party will take place on Monday, September 8 on the rooftop of Charlie Palmer’s, known for its iconic view of the Capitol dome and Washington, DC.
Signature conference events continue, including general sessions with prominent legislative and regulatory speakers, business education sessions and two days of meetings with members of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The conference will again offer the Fresh Festival on Capitol Hill, where the fresh produce industry showcases its freshest products and newest ideas for members of Congress and their staffs. Over the years, the event has established itself as a favorite among staffers and lawmakers alike.
“Produce industry companies are keenly focused on priorities such as immigration reform, Farm Bill implementation, increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables and rulemaking for the Food Safety Modernization Act,” said Robert Guenther, senior vice president, public policy. “Attending The Washington Conference is the best way to learn about these and many other critical issues, and to ensure your voice is heard in Washington.”
The conference location, just steps from the Capitol at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, offers attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Washington experience.
“The Washington Conference takes place within shouting distance of the Capitol,” said Stenzel. “It puts the leaders of the produce industry right in the mix with the biggest and most powerful names in American politics.”
Registration options and more information about The Washington Conference can be found online at www.UnitedFresh.org/TWC.
Founded in 1904, the United Fresh Produce Association serves companies at the forefront of the global fresh and fresh-cut produce industry, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and Western Regional office in Salinas, Calif., United Fresh and its members work year-round to make a difference for the produce industry by driving policies that increase consumption of fresh produce, shaping critical legislative and regulatory action, providing scientific and technical leadership in food safety, quality assurance, nutrition and health, and developing educational programs and business opportunities to assist member companies in growing successful businesses. For more information, visit www.unitedfresh.org or call 202-303-3400.
Source: United Fresh Produce Association
