Produce Marketing Association, United Fresh to merge

The Produce Marketing Association (PMA) and the United Fresh Produce Association (United Fresh) have reached an agreement to create a new global trade association.

The two associations will continue to operate as independent organizations through 2021, with the new association to be launched Jan. 1. 

“This agreement reflects the ongoing commitment of both associations to deliver the highest level of value to members,” said Board Chairs Michael Muzyk of United Fresh and Dwight Ferguson of PMA, in a press release. “Looking ahead, we believe we can accomplish that goal better together building on the synergies and experience of our expert staffs, complementary education programs and member services, and a stronger voice in advocating for our industries."

Over the past several months, PMA CEO Cathy Burns and United Fresh CEO Tom Stenzel have worked with a group of board members from each association to develop the strategic commitments for the new association. These include:

• Commitment to serve all sectors of the global fresh produce and floral supply chains, growing global membership and participation.
• Commitment to government advocacy and leadership to build and maintain a positive business climate in the United States and the North American market so critical to members’ success.
  •    Commitment to global engagement with international bodies and allied organizations to promote free and fair trade, international harmonization of standards and worldwide growth in consumption.
• Commitment to providing expertise and business solutions in food safety, new technology, supply chain management, sustainability, leadership and talent development, business operations, marketing and more.

Over the coming months, Burns and Stenzel will work with their staff and board leaders to build out the new organization. The two associations will begin sharing their expertise and promoting participation in each other’s events and programs.

It is anticipated that the volunteer leadership, governance and membership structure, and 2022 business plan for the new association will be in place and shared with the membership this fall.

This article appeared at ProgressiveGrocer.com.