WASHINGTON, DC - The past year has posed numerous challenges, one of which was the limitations placed on being able to gather together and meld minds with others in the industry. An invaluable event has been put on pause, as the Fresh Produce & Floral Council (FPFC) and United Fresh Produce Association have announced the cancelation of their combined convention and expo set for June 24-26. In light of the recent cancelation, United Fresh has launched a new program, Reimagine Connections, as a way to help bring industry leaders together.
“We’re very disappointed California requirements will not allow us to host our trade show in Los Angeles this June. We had looked forward to partnering this year with the Fresh Produce & Floral Council, and appreciate their collaboration and hard work in building what might have been our largest show ever,” said United Fresh Chairman Michael Muzyk, who is President of Baldor Specialty Foods. “But once again United Fresh is re-inventing the member experience to connect in new ways. Combining a new portfolio of top education, networking, and innovation sessions with a series of in-person regional events allows us to Reimagine Connections across our industry.”
While the FPFC and United Fresh had hoped to team up for the 2021 Expo in Los Angeles, California, this year, limited state guidelines posed challenges on large conventions and expos, according to a recent statement.
"We are very disappointed that we are not able to hold this year's 2021 EXPO,” said FPFC's Executive Director, Don Gann. “Thank you to the United Fresh staff and all the FPFC members that were involved in the planning of this event. Although we are unable to have this year's Expo, we are planning an exciting 2021 calendar for the rest of the year."
But, as United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel added in a separate statement, the opportunity to meld minds has not passed.
“We know that members are anxious to see each other, so we’re bringing that opportunity to them,” said Stenzel.
United Fresh's Reimagine Connections will serve as a new program designed to bring members together in-person at smaller regional events, as well as online for education, networking, and innovation events.
According to a release, the new program will feature a series of smaller in-person events.
During these events, members can gather and build valuable relationships, an online education and networking portfolio that serves the business needs of our industry, and a new opportunity for companies to host their own Innovation Spotlight Broadcasts to connect with clients and colleagues about new products, business solutions, and services.
“We know that everyone is tired of virtual expos, where 'exhibitors' have to wait patiently for someone to visit their 'booth,'” said John Toner, United Fresh’s Vice President of Convention amd Industry Collaboration. “But we also know that new product development and innovation are the lifeline to the future, and buyers want to see what’s new! So, we’re offering companies the opportunity to host their own live, interactive presentations online.”
We will continue to keep you up to date on all in-person and virtual events, so keep a tab open for us.
United Fresh Produce AssociationFresh Produce & Floral Council
