Who will be The Packer's 2021 Produce Marketer of the Year?

(Graphic by Amelia Freidline)

Do you know someone who has done significant work to further the fresh produce industry's marketing efforts? Then nominate them for The Packer's 2021 Produce Marketer of the Year award!

The Produce Marketer of the Year and Marketer for All Seasons awards, which date back to 1972, represent leaders from various segments of the industry whose work has furthered the fresh produce sector's interests in marketing fruits and vegetables. 

The award is presented in conjunction with the Produce Marketing Association's Fresh Summit, which this year is scheduled to take place Oct. 28-30 in New Orleans.

Nominations for the award are due Oct. 1 and should be submitted here. E-mail The Packer's editor Tom Karst at tkarst@thepacker.com with any questions.

Recent winners include:

  • 2020: Alvaro Luque, president and CEO of Avocados From Mexico, for his strategic vision and forward-thinking approach to marketing avocados.
  • 2019: Don Christopher, founder of Gilroy, Calif.-based Christopher Ranch, Produce Marketer for All Seasons, for his commitment to the garlic industry and the way he has given back to his community.
  • 2018: Lynda Resnick, vice-chair and co-owner of The Wonderful Co., and Stewart Resnick, chairman and president, for innovative brand marketing and commitment to inspiring healthier choices.
  • 2017: John Shuman, president and owner of Shuman Produce, for his work in sweet onions and cause marketing.
  • 2016: Steve Church, CEO of Church Brothers Farm, and Tom Church, chairman, Produce Marketers for All Seasons, for their innovation in fresh produce marketing for retail and foodservice.
  • 2015: Roger Pepperl, marketing director for Stemilt Growers LLC, for his ability to create programs that connect with consumers with products through compelling stories.
 

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