IFPA ANZ Honors Michael Simonetta with Inaugural Lifetime Membership Award; Patrick Vizzone Comments

WASHINGTON, DC - The International Fresh Produce Association ANZ has awarded its first-ever Lifetime Membership to Michael Simonetta, chief executive officer (CEO) of Perfection Fresh Australia, recognising his decades of leadership and services to the fresh produce and floral industry.

Presented at IFPA ANZ’s exclusive Diamond-Platinum Executive Dinner in Sydney on April 30, the award was delivered by incoming IFPA Global chair Patrick Vizzone and introduced by IFPA ANZ chair Dean Gall.

“Michael has exemplified what it means to drive impact across business, community, and industry. His leadership and vision have shaped the fresh produce landscape for over three decades,” Mr Gall said.

Michael Simonetta has been an active member and contributor of IFPA (formerly the Produce Marketing Association) since 1988 and twice chaired the ANZ board. His leadership helped establish the association’s presence in the region, building a strong foundation for what is now a $24 billion industry across Australia and New Zealand.

“Michael’s legacy goes beyond business success,” Mr Vizzone said in a recent press release. “He has cultivated new markets, championed collaboration, and reminded us that trust and relationships are at the heart of our work. His influence is felt across growers, suppliers, retailers and the broader community.”

Tributes included a video message from IFPA CEO Cathy Burns and a message from David Marguleas, executive chair of Sun World International.

Michael Simonetta, who will retire as CEO on June 30 but remain on the Perfection Fresh board, was joined by his wife Maryann and sons James and Anthony at the dinner.

“I am humbled and grateful to receive this honour from my peers,” Mr Simonetta said. “The connections and insights gained through IFPA over the years have shaped both the business and the person I am today.”

The Simonetta family’s contribution continues, with John Simonetta recently joining the IFPA ANZ Board. The award celebrates not only a personal milestone but also the generational impact of a family committed to the future of fresh produce.