NOGALES, AZ - The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) has announced that it will be having two big name speakers at its 46th Produce Convention and Golf Tournament: Seald Sweet's Director of Global Affairs Bruce McEvoy and Arizona Congressman Jim Kolbe.

“We are really excited about this year’s event.  In addition to Bruce McEvoy of Seald Sweet, we also have former Arizona Congressman Jim Kolbe to round out the educational component,” said FPAA President, Lance Jungmeyer.  “Of course with our fantastic weather and our concentration of produce companies for people to network with, the FPAA Produce Convention has been a must on everyone’s calendar for many years.”

According to a press release, Bruce will be discussing market access issues that are a critical component of global sourcing. In addition he will be sharing his experience in turning Seald Sweet into a global company with $4 billion in annual sales, including its merger with Belgium-based UNIVEG Fruit and Vegetable Group. He will be sharing how his experience in this process can help inform the decisions of other produce executives going through the same phase with their own companies.

Jim will be speaking on the topic of trade with Mexico and his vision for how Arizona will succeed as this trade market moves into the future.

Located in the Plaza at the Tubac Golf Resort and Spa, the event's opening evening will provide guests a great opportunity to both enjoy the view as well as network with fellow influential produce leaders.

“We strive to give everyone a great backdrop as they interact with their clients, suppliers, and friends in the industry.  The produce business is very much based on relationships, and this is the event to nurture those relationships,” says Jungmeyer. 

Other highlights of the event include:

• A two day Golf Tournament starting Friday morning and hole-in-one contests in which golfers will have 4 opportunities to win a brand new car.
• Helicopter rides from the putting green at the Tubac Golf Resort and Spa, down produce row, to the border and back.
• The Gala Event and “Pillars of the FPAA” Award Ceremony which will be held on Friday, Oct. 31. The award recognizes excellence and service to the FPPA. Last year's winner was former FPAA Executive Director Bob Hathaway.

According to a press release, the Produce Convention & Golf Tournament will run from October 30th to November 1st in Tubac, Arizona.

In order to register for this event, interested parties can visit the convention website here.

FPAA