The Colombia Avocado Board announced its appointment of Meg Buchsbaum as its new retail account manager Nov. 17. The group calls her a seasoned food industry professional with more than 30 years of experience in retail and wholesale buying as well as product development.
Most recently completing her seventh year with the National Mango Board, Buchsbaum has built a strong reputation for developing results-driven programs in supply chain, temperature management, sourcing, merchandising and marketing, according to CAB. She partners with East Coast retailers to design strategic initiatives that drive sales and strengthen category growth. Drawing on her earlier roles with C&S Wholesale and Whole Foods Market, Buchsbaum offers well-rounded insights that connect growers, distributors and retailers.
In addition to her industry work, Buchsbaum owns and operates Tapestry Hill Farm in Colchester, Conn.
“Produce has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember,” she says. “From my childhood days on the farm to the early mornings I now spend among the orchard, vegetable fields, flowers and bees — listening to the chickens — I find endless inspiration in the land and the food it provides. I am thrilled to join the CAB team and ready to help increase consumption of Colombian avocados in the U.S. while implementing proven strategies and industry knowledge.”
“Meg’s experience in creating and cultivating retail partnerships will be key to the CAB’s retail initiatives,” says Manuel Michel, managing director of CAB.
“She has a deep understanding of how to connect with retailers and shoppers alike, and her proven track record of building successful produce programs will bring tremendous value to our partners. Meg’s professionalism, insight and passion for fresh produce make her an excellent fit to represent Avocados from Colombia in the U.S. retail and foodservice space. I am confident that her leadership will strengthen industry collaboration, elevate our visibility in stores and reinforce retailer confidence in the quality and reliability of Colombian avocados.”
