PMA issues update on COVID-19 precautions at Fresh Summit

Cathy Burns gives an Aug. 13 video update on COVID-19-related precautions for Fresh Summit.
Cathy Burns gives an Aug. 13 video update on COVID-19-related precautions for Fresh Summit.
(Courtesy PMA)

Cathy Burns, CEO of the Produce Marketing Association, has issued an update on COVID-19-related precautions as plans continue for an in-person Fresh Summit in New Orleans, set for Oct. 28-30.

In a short video released Aug. 13, Burns talked about preparations for the event. 

From the video:

“I wanted to take a couple of minutes to give you an update as we plan for Fresh Summit at the end of October. We continue to plan for the in-person Fresh Summit with the health and safety of our attendees, exhibitors and staff as our highest priority. We are monitoring all facility, local and federal recommendations very closely to guide our planning decisions.

"Right now, in New Orleans, indoor events require that all attendees wear a mask and show proof of vaccination or provide a negative COVID PCR test. Now while we cannot guarantee that this will be New Orleans’ requirements when we get together in two-and-a-half months, we do encourage all guests to keep this in mind while you’re doing your planning. We are using the most updated science-driven guidance to determine our health and safety protocols. So, while some details may not be available until we actually get closer to the event, we have already put some measures in place.

"For example, you will see plexiglass shields at registration, hand sanitizing stations throughout the convention center and an enhanced sanitation process for all surfaces. We’ve also designed the show floor to broaden aisles and allow for optimal personal spacing. We know it’s important to you to have access to the most up to date information and the best way to stay informed is to visit our Fresh Summit Health and Safety page. You can also find other Fresh Summit-related information on Freshsummit.com or pma.com. And as always, if you have any questions or any concerns, you can reach out to me directly or any member of the PMA team. In the meantime, be well, stay safe, and I really look forward to seeing all of you in October.”

 

Latest News

Industry alliance: European packaging rules raise trade and food safety concerns
Industry alliance: European packaging rules raise trade and food safety concerns

New packaging rules adopted by the European Parliament raise serious trade and food safety concerns, says to the Alliance for Sustainable Packaging for Foods.

Consumers, retailers drive growth of new grape varieties
Consumers, retailers drive growth of new grape varieties

The world of table grapes has expanded exponentially from traditional red and green varieties to today’s plethora of cultivars with appearance, flavor and size characteristics.

CPMA president touts industry resiliency, global solutions to challenges
CPMA president touts industry resiliency, global solutions to challenges

In his State of the Fresh Produce Industry address, Ron Lemaire talked about the current political climate, the need for global sustainability goals and the need to focus on the consumer.

ShopRite and supermarkets to hold walk-up job fairs
ShopRite and supermarkets to hold walk-up job fairs

Wakefern Food Corp.'s supermarket banners, including ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Gourmet Garage and Fairway Market, are hosting hiring fairs on April 27 across several states.

Mushroom Council applauds WIC enhancements, offers recipe tips
Mushroom Council applauds WIC enhancements, offers recipe tips

The Mushroom Council is highlighting multiple ways families can incorporate fresh mushrooms and other WIC foods into daily meal plans.

Harris Teeter and Consalo Family Farms donate 48,000 pounds of mandarins
Harris Teeter and Consalo Family Farms donate 48,000 pounds of mandarins

More than 16,000 bags of Little Smoochies mandarins were donated through the "Mandarins Making a Difference" campaign, aiding local hunger relief efforts.