HAVING input to the organisation on a world stage has been touted as one of the benefits for Australian members of the newly announced International Fresh Produce Association.
In January 2022 the Produce Marketing Association, including PMA A-NZ, joined the United Fresh Produce Association to create the brand-new entity.
Upon its launch, Good Fruit & Vegetables highlighted the overwhelming American-connections within the organisation.
But the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has assured Australian and New Zealand members will "continue their hard work in supporting members locally".
Current members of the former PMA A-NZ automatically became members of the IFPA.
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The association said those members have a lot to look forward to, with increased access to global connection and insights, as well as tools and education to help them improve their profitability.
IFPA ANZ chief executive officer Darren Keating said one of the most significant benefits that members of IFPA in Australia and New Zealand will see is greater connection to colleagues from markets from across the globe, allowing better sharing of ideas and access to importance industry information.
The IFPA has committed to focus on three key aspects:
- conducting advocacy;
- connecting people and ideas;
- offering guidance that will allow members to take action with confidence in improving their businesses' outcomes.
The IFPA is led by co-CEOs Cathy Burns and Tom Stenzel.
"The International Fresh Produce Association will be the engine that helps drive our industry forward. But the fuel for that engine is our members, our stakeholders, our friends, our colleagues. You will help us drive this mission forward to achieve those goals," Mr Stenzel said.
"Our association is not only for our members, but it is also driven by the engaged leadership of our volunteer leaders as well.
"We were thrilled to receive over 1000 applications from volunteers across the industry, a sign of support for our association, but also an indication of the enthusiasm and urgency that our industry feels about the role we have to play in today's global environment."
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