NEWARK, DE - The Produce Marketing Association (PMA) and Center for Growing Talent (CGT) recognize how valuable it can be to inform the buy-side on the innerworkings of fresh produce. As such, the two have channelled the success of the online education resource FreshEd Academy to provide an all-new certificate course in produce at retail.
“Professional training is important to member companies and industry professionals alike, driving company performance and professional development. It has never been more important to meet our members where they are with high-quality training and education opportunities,” said CGT Executive Director, Doug Bohr. “Retail is one of our direct connections to consumers. It determines so much of how we as an industry represent your products, our industry, and grow demand. We’re proud to offer Essentials of Produce at Retail and support our retail members’ efforts to onboard and train teams who sell your products.”
This exclusive educational opportunity, called The Essentials of Produce at Retail, contains five modules and is designed for new retail produce department staff and newer associates with up to two years of experience. The course provides an onboarding experience for those new to the produce industry that combines best practice experience from seasoned industry experts with a comprehensive and engaging virtual learning experience. Participants will learn about the entire supply chain, top produce items, effective merchandising, customer focus, and interaction, and they will learn about the importance of food safety.
PMA, CGT, and industry experts with years of experience in produce departments have all partnered together to create this one-of-a-kind experience. For over 18 months, the task force participated in countless surveys, calls, and meetings to create a learning experience for those just beginning their work in the produce and floral industries, as stated in a press release.
“Volunteer leadership is essential to our industry, and I am grateful for the task force members that took part and proud of what we created together,” said Joe Watson, PMA Vice President of Membership Engagement and Resident Retail Expert. “Many of us on the task force started our careers on the floor in the produce department. They all have a deep passion for the work, and for empowering new talent with the best resources and information.”
FreshEd Academy will continue to grow in topic areas and will also provide unmatched education for professionals at all levels of their career in the industry. These certificate courses complement the professional development programs and other in-person and virtual learning experiences offered by PMA and Center for Growing Talent.
We appreciate industry leaders such as PMA and CGT for continuously pursuing unique education experiences. As more news surrounding FreshEd Academy comes to light, we at ANUK will keep giving you the latest.
