FPAA sets agenda for fall convention, 75th-anniversary celebration

Celebrating 75 years of service, the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas has its programing and speaker lineup set for its Nov. 7-9 convention.

The FPAA’s 51st Annual Produce Convention and Golf Tournament will be at the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, Tubac, Ariz.

Educational sessions are on the agenda for Nov. 7. Speakers include Raquel Espinoza from Produce House, Walter Ram from Giumarra Cos., and Jaime Chamberlain from Chamberlain Distributing, according to the release. The keynote speaker this year is Rick Stein from the Food Marketing Institute, whose presentation is on the FMI’s “Power of Fresh” research study.

“Every year we work to bring engaging speakers to cover relevant topics that impact our members and their partners in the industry,” Lance Jungmeyer, FPAA president, said in a news release. “The caliber of speakers and the knowledge they bring to the table is a valuable part of our annual event. This year is no exception.”

During the event, the FPAA will celebrate its 75th anniversary with photos and other artifacts on display.

The association, initially called the West Mexico Vegetable Distributors Association, was formed in 1944, according to the release. The name was changed to represent the changing nature of the supply chain, according to the group.

“FPAA has such a great history, and a great future,” FPAA Chairman Scott Vandervoet said in the release. “We can’t wait to share in the celebration and storytelling with our members and guests.”

FPAA has worked on a historical project with Axel Holm, son of Walter Holm, co-founder of the original association, which will also be featured.
The event’s fourth Culinary Showcase — Top Dishes out of Mexico’s Top Produce will give attendees the opportunity to sample appetizers and enjoy live music.

To register for the event, contact the FPAA at 520-287-2707 or visit www.freshfrommexico.com.