Tom Stenzel Talks United Fresh 2015 and What to Expect in Chicago
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Next week, more than 5,000 United Fresh attendees will experience all the new and latest innovations the produce and floral industries have to offer.
Tom Stenzel, President & CEO of the United Fresh Produce Association, joined me for an interview to shed some light on what to expect at this year’s show.
To listen to what Tom had to say, check out our interview above.
United Fresh 2015 will bring attendees from more than 60 countries to meet with nearly 900 exhibiting companies, and Tom tells me that there is a lot more to expect from this year’s show.
“We’re just a week away from United Fresh 2015 in Chicago and we’re back together with FMI – Food Marketing Institute – but also a new partner this year, with the International Floriculture Exposition, so we’ve got 180 exhibitors of floral products. It’s going to add a lot of color and zest to the overall event,” Tom says.
Tom also took the time to discuss United Fresh’s Retail-Foodservice Board, which focuses specifically on issues that matter to them, as well as the Retail Produce Managers Award.
“We’re honoring 25 different retail banners this year, so their Produce Managers are coming, their Produce Directors and VPs, and in some cases, the Senior Management of those stores,” Tom tells me.
To see the winners of this year’s Retail Produce Manager awards, check out our previous story here.
Tom also discussed what to expect at the Fresh Marketplace.
“The theme of our event is ‘Produce Innovation Starts Here.’ That really is the key. There is going to be about 50 new products that are in an awards competition, so people get to come and look at the new products and vote for what they believe are the best new items,” he said. “Tremendous amount of innovation in produce marketing, packaging, the technologies for tracing and tracking – all those different areas.”
And of course, there’s the Opening Night Party on Navy Pier, where up to 1,500 guests will meet in the Crystal Gardens. There, attendees can ride the Ferris Wheel for the best views of Chicago.
It’s going to be an exciting show, so don’t miss out on everything United Fresh has to offer.
For the latest on United Fresh 2015, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow.
