On the ‘Merge’

The hot topic at IFPA Fresh-Cut Expo and the United Produce Show this past month was the merger of the two associations. The merger, approved by 98 percent of voting members, brings the two associations under one roof – and one name: United Fresh Produce Association.

This is a big step for the produce industry, especially for the fresh-cut industry. This merger shows that the fresh-cut industry has arrived and is no longer a niche of the larger department. Fresh-cut is a majority of the innovation happening in the produce department – and it’s bringing in the dollars to prove it.

The fresh produce industry as a whole is facing some challenges that affect every facet of the business – especially when it comes to food safety and government legislation. While IFPA staffers bring fresh-cut knowledge and focus to the table, the United staff brings experience working with government departments to ensure the industry is getting – and giving – what it needs.

Some worry that fresh-cut will lose its voice, its identity. I believe this is a legitimate concern. Any time two businesses merge, there is a concern – especially when one entity is so large and the other not so big. In the case of fresh-cut, that can’t happen. Because fresh-cut is such a big player in the produce department and because it’s where the future is, fresh-cut cannot be lost. Fresh-cut commands such a large portion of grocery store shelves and foodservice back rooms that it is becoming more the norm than the exception. For this reason alone, United Fresh Produce Association will – and must – keep the identity of fresh-cut. There’s no other way for this merger to be successful.

This is an exciting time, ripe with opportunity for the industry. Fresh Cut, the magazine, will be there with the industry as it goes through these changes. Fresh Cut will continue to be the industry’s source of information – from growers to processors to retailers and chefs. Rest assured that when you open the pages of this publication, you will continue to get the most pertinent information about your industry. Fresh Cut is your source for all things fresh-cut – and the industry’s only resource dedicated solely to the fresh-cut industry.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the new United Fresh Produce Association. Give me a call at (616) 887-9008, ext. 110, or send an e-mail to [email protected].

In closing this month, I would like to welcome Scott Christie to the Great American Publishing team. Scott joins us as assistant editor for Fresh Cut and Spudman. You’ll be seeing – and reading – more from him in the coming months. If you’d like to welcome Scott, send an e-mail to [email protected] or call (616) 887-9008, ext. 120.




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