Industry veterans John Toner and Phil Gruszka have joined the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas as business development directors, the organization said in a news release.
Toner brings experience at the United Fresh Produce Association and the International Fresh Produce Association, where he was vice president of political affairs, according to the release. He’s currently the founder and CEO of Toner Insights, a consulting firm that specializes in trade show management, exhibitor strategy, event marketing and relationship building.
FPAA said Toner Insights will work with companies that have headquarters east of the Pacific Region and those that are international.
“Together working with the entire industry, we can advocate for better working conditions and transit/inspection times,” Toner said in the release. “I am looking forward to helping the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas expand a national footprint to service fresh produce industry members doing business on and through the border.”
Gruszka has served in roles with Grimmway Farms, among others in the fresh produce industry, the release said. He founded Gruszka Consulting in 2011, a California-based full-service marketing and sales consultancy focusing on the food and beverage sectors. Gruszka Consulting helps produce companies tackle marketplace challenges, build successful teams and improve its consumer presence, the release said.
Gruszka Consulting will work with companies with headquarters in the Pacific Region, including California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Hawaii and Alaska, according to FPAA.
“California and other Western companies have made large investments in expanding their Mexican imports. Because of FPAA’s work in keeping the border running efficiently, joining the FPAA is a great way to safeguard that work,” Gruszka said in the release.
FPAA said following a strategic review, the organization unveiled a new mission to ensure market access for imported fresh fruits and vegetables. The organization said other key focuses would be in advocating and informing government officials and industry on behalf of members.
FPAA said adding Toner and Gruszka will help expand membership.
