The Markon Cooperative’s 19th annual Markon Summit in Monterey, Calif., brought together over 200 representatives from its member companies.
The three-day event drew representatives from Ben E. Keith Foods, Gordon Food Service, Gordon Food Service Canada, Nicholas & Co., and Shamrock Foods Co., according to a news release.
The summit program is designed to deepen attendees’ understanding of produce through various activities, the release said. Participants went on tours of the Salinas Valley and engaged in educational sessions aimed at enhancing their produce knowledge and skills.
Event highlights included:
- Field tours of fresh produce — Attendees explored the Salinas Valley, witnessing firsthand the work that goes into growing, packing and harvesting fresh produce they provide to operator customers.
- Educational sessions — These sessions provided insights into fresh produce management and industry trends.
- Mini trade shows — Participants had the opportunity to connect with supplier partners and explore Markon brand products, including Markon First Crop, Ready-Set-Serve, and Markon Essentials.
“The Markon Summit has been the pinnacle event for our membership,” Markon CEO Andy Hamilton said in the release. “For 19 years, we have strived to deliver an experience highlighting the value of Markon fresh produce. Featuring our Markon-brand items and valued supplier partnerships, these action-packed days leverage the bountiful harvest of the Salinas Valley to provide unparalleled training and tools.”
This year’s programming included practical lettuce cuttings, dynamic educational settings and a closing session designed to consolidate the learnings into actionable insights for members, according to the release.
“We look forward to this event every year,” Hamilton said. “The Markon team deeply appreciates the support of our supplier partners and sponsors who contribute to its success.”
