WAXAHACHIE, TX - It’s the beginning of another new year, and the Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association (PAIA) couldn’t wait to get a jump start. Priscilla Lleras-Bush, PAIA Director, announced that the association will be welcoming two new Co-Chairmen for the 2020-2021 term at the Association Meeting that took place in October 2019 in Anaheim, California.
“The elected PAIA Co-Chairmen for the 2020-2021 term are Jay Rodriguez of Crystal Valley Foods, Miami, Florida, and Walter Yager of Alpine Fresh, Doral, Florida,” Lleras-Bush said. “These two gentlemen have close to a combined 60+ years’ experience within the international trade/agricultural sector. Their knowledge provides our asparagus association with the foresight that will propel the entire asparagus industry forward.”
Rodriguez and Yager have been consistent, driven leaders of the asparagus industry and of PAIA. According to a press release, PAIA consists of 34 members: 23 key industry importers, focused on advancing and expanding market consumer demand, and 11 industry service providers solely focused on streamlining service to the sector.
“Each member of PAIA contributes their knowledge, experience, and specialized skills for the initiatives set forth by the association,” stated Rodriguez.
Yager added, “PAIA companies believe in membership synergy, and they understand that synergy is the single component stimulus for the association to obtain industry goals.”
In 2020, the association plans to focus even greater efforts on spreading the positive word to trade press, supermarkets, and consumers concerning the benefits of fresh asparagus.
“PAIA has always been an association with its finger on the pulse of the asparagus industry,” said Lleras-Bush. “We have been focused on dedication, direction, and increasing demand for asparagus. We will continue to work together with industry and agency to advance asparagus industry goals.”
Congratulations to Jay Rodriguez and Walter Yager on their new positions! For more produce-related updates, keep reading ANUK.
