<p><img src="https://cdn.andnowuknow.com/legacyWriterImages/hl_united_fresh_may_2013_BODY01.jpg" alt="IMAGES 5-16-2013" />United Fresh 2013 has by all definitions of the word, met with success, as individuals from all facets of the industry came out from around the world for this unique networking, educational, and relationship-building opportunity.<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">The first day of the show commenced with an Open Breakfast Session highlighted by Whole Foods Co-CEO Walter Robb, who presented on strategies to leverage customer values to attract a loyal and growing customer base. Educational sessions also included insights on the current political landscape and how it affects the produce industry.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p><img src="https://cdn.andnowuknow.com/legacyWriterImages/united_entrance.jpg" alt="IMAGES 5-16-2013" /></p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Humming with conversation, suppliers, manufacturers, buyers and the like perused the show floor, home to over 275 exhibitors.<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">Impressively, industry donors announced a landmark donation of salad bars to 436 schools in California.<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">At the Women in Produce reception held Wednesday night, Lisa McNeece, Vice President of Foodservice and Industrial Sales at Grimmway Enterprises was honored for her work in the industry, setting a high standard for women – as well as men – in the produce business. She noted her start in the industry, attempting to popularize a current produce staple: the baby carrot. </p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">
