Nogales, AZ — The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) is putting the final touches on its 43rd Produce Convention and Golf Tournament. The Produce Convention will be held November 3 – 5, 2011 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.
“We are really excited about this year’s event. We have some great speakers lined up for the educational component,” says FPAA president, Lance Jungmeyer. “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 3, with guided tours of Nogales warehouses and afternoon educational opportunities including:
Phoenix Rising: How FPAA Can Achieve Its Goals in Arizona
Hear an overview of FPAA lobbying activities in the state of Arizona and what FPAA’s strategy is for engaging state leaders to help accomplish association goals.
Relay Race: A New Pony Express for Trucking
Hear from Jay Thompson, President and General Manager of Transportation Business Associates, who will discuss new cutting edge team driver concepts and other trends in produce transportation.
Mariposa Configuration: How Construction is Progressing and How it May Affect Your Business in the Coming Season
In this panel discussion, we will hear from industry stakeholders, including JB Manson, Chairman of The Greater Nogales and Santa Cruz County Port Authority, John Halikowski, Director of the Arizona Department of Transportation and David Higgerson, Director of
Field Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The Ideal 21st Century Supply Chain: What it Takes to be a First-Tier Supplier in the New Age of Food Safety, Traceability and Social Responsibility
Steve Grinstead, CEO of Pro*Act, will discuss topics ranging from environmental standards, traceability and farm standards to what foodservice buyers are looking for.
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.
In its second year, the coveted “Pillars of the FPAA” award honorees will be unveiled during the Saturday evening dinner and dancing and networking 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, Descarga, a well-known salsa 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 Jungmeyer.
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. Companies interested in registering for the event or that have more questions are encouraged to contact the FPAA office at (520) 287-2707 or to visit the convention website at: http://www.freshfrommexico.com/view.php?pg=6
Source: The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
