WASHINGTON, DC - United Fresh attendees, hold onto your hats—U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue will not only be attending this year’s show in Chicago, but will also be the opening keynote speaker on Tuesday, June 26.

“We’re honored that Secretary Perdue will join us in Chicago,” said Tom Stenzel, United Fresh President and CEO. “He’s a proven leader for agriculture, helping the Administration and Congress both to understand the importance of feeding the world. A task that requires a secure U.S. workforce, and a global trade system that supports both producers and consumers.”

As keynote speaker, Secretary Perdue will address issues the industry is currently facing, like immigration reform and the need for a legal workforce, and NAFTA and the need to retain a fair international trade framework for agriculture.

“The fruit and vegetable industry is highly dependent on our workforce in order to sustain and grow our industry to meet increasing demand for fresh fruits and vegetables. Likewise, our ability to trade around the globe in an open and equal import/export environment allows our businesses to grow beyond our nation’s borders in order to better serve U.S. consumers,” United Fresh noted in a press release.

From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Secretary Perdue will take the stage at the United Fresh 2018 Keynote Breakfast at the McCormick Place Convention Center, which requires a United Fresh All Access Package to attend. Don't miss out!

This year’s attendees will also be the first to lay eyes on the SmartFood Expo™, a co-locate with the Global Cold Chain Expo and the International Floriculture Epo that focuses on fresh, healthy foods.

If you have not yet registered or would like to learn more about this year’s exciting event, visit www.unitedfreshshow.org.

For more upcoming produce events that should be on your calendar, stick with us at AndNowUKnow.

United Fresh