SANTA BARBARA, CA - Apeel Sciences has announced plans to grow its leadership team as it continues its efforts to quickly expand its grower, distributor, and retailer partnerships. As Apeel makes preparation to head to PMA Fresh Summit in Orlando, Florida, this week, the company has announced the appointment of Natalie Shuman as its new Director of Trade & Retail Marketing.
“Joining Apeel allows me to return to my passion for produce marketing, with the added bonus of being a part of a purpose-driven company with an incredible mission. Apeel's unique ability to reduce food waste and provide value to so many different people in the food system is unparalleled,” Shuman said, in an announcement to the industry. “I’m excited to be part of this team that is so dedicated to bringing proven, plant-derived shelf-life extension technology to fresh produce and look forward to sharing the benefits of Apeel with our industry partners.”
Natalie comes to Apeel—recently named one of Time Magazine’s 50 Most Genius Companies of 2018—with more than 15 years of marketing and communications experience—including more than a decade in produce. Natalie previously led the development and management of the Sun World global brand, as well as marketing strategies across all B2B and B2C touch points. Natalie also held communications roles with Kaiser Permanente, and recently broadened her knowledge of ag tech as the Director of Marketing for Concentric Ag.
The company noted that Natalie’s appointment is part of an ongoing effort to accelerate its talent acquisition efforts to better support its accelerated commercial growth and the rising public demand for fruits and vegetables with Apeel.
“We’re thrilled to have Natalie join us on our mission to arm the produce industry with a tool that not only extends shelf-life, but also simultaneously unlocks new revenue opportunities by preventing waste and creating efficiencies at every stage of the supply chain,” said Michelle Masek, Head of Marketing. “Natalie brings a new perspective to our team and her passion for the food industry and natural creativity make her the perfect fit for us as we look to take Apeel to the next level.”
In her new role, Natalie will work to deepen Apeel’s relationships with growers, suppliers, and retailers. She will continue the company’s efforts to establish Apeel as the post-harvest solution of choice—from farm to shelf—and will develop and execute global marketing programs with retail partners and their important suppliers that drive consumer awareness and brand preference for fruits and vegetables with Apeel.
PMA Fresh Summit attendees can visit booth #2689 to learn more about Apeel, its mission, and the ways in which its primed for growth.
