Leaders from across the fresh produce supply chain will convene in São Paulo, Brazil, Aug. 22 for Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) Fresh Connections: Brazil. The event will feature networking opportunities, education sessions, and an exposition of products and services. PMA CEO Cathy Burns will deliver the opening presentation. Online registration started April 16.
The fifth-annual event will connect participants to insights, ideas and individuals who can help grow business in South America. Participants will include Brazilian growers, exporters, retailers, and business service providers operating in their domestic market, as well as importers and international exporters doing business in South America. The event will also offer growth opportunities for exporters to Brazil from Europe, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and China.
At least 45 exhibitors have already registered to participate in the exposition, which features growers and service providers such as Alfa Citrus, BASF, Benafrutti, Da Colheita, Estação Sabor Brasil, Fazenda Rio Bonito, Fava Frutas, Frutas Doce Mel, GS1 Brasil, Itaueira, Nortefrut, Paripassu, Sakata, Terphane, Trebeschi, Vegetais Saudáveis, VLAM, Zespri and more.
In addition to networking opportunities with industry businesses, leaders and local contacts, education sessions will explore emerging markets, consumer and retail trends, and best practices for managing risk and maximizing opportunities for growth in Brazil.
In the “State of the Global Fresh Produce Industry and the Implications for Brazil” session, PMA’s CEO will discuss top global trends such as e-commerce, marketing and merchandising, and efficiency and what this means for Brazilian retailers. Prior to joining PMA in 2013 as president and then assuming the CEO position in 2017, Burns spent 30 years in the U.S. supermarket industry. Her retail industry experience spans a host of senior-level positions at Hannaford Brothers and Food Lion, including president of the Food Lion banner where she was responsible for overall operations at 1,200 supermarkets.
Other education sessions will include:
- What’s Ahead for Brazil and the Economy – Participants will gain insights about the economy’s impact on the industry and consumer demand as growth gradually returns after recession and political turmoil.
- Continue the Conversation – Participants will have more in-depth discussions on the day’s education topics, get peer feedback, and identify business goals to work on following the close of the conference.
PMA members can receive one complimentary registration per company up through June 15. Register early for the greatest value. Prices for the conference and expo combination pass will change on May 16, June 16, and July 31 for nonmembers, and on June 16 and July 31 for PMA members. For registration information and more details, visit pma.com. The advance registration deadline is July 30. Expo only passes are available for members and nonmembers.
PMA said Brazil is expanding its presence in world markets, and the current economic outlook is expected to positively affect the fruit market. Brazil’s produce exports include melons, mangoes, bananas, limes, apples, grapes, watermelons, papayas, avocados, pumpkins, squash, carrots, onions and potatoes. Imports include pears, grapes, kiwifruit, peaches, plums, garlic and onions.
“The is the second year we are holding an expo in conjunction with our Fresh Connections: Brazil conference, and we are looking forward to growing the event this year,” said Luiz Claudio Haas, Chairman of PMA’s Brazil Country Council. “We invite fresh produce buyers and suppliers looking to connect to join us for networking, education, and to hear from PMA CEO Cathy Burns who has extensive experience in the supermarket retail industry.” For additional information, please contact Valeska de Oliveira, PMA Brazil Representative, at +55 11 3522 7348 or voliveira@pma.com.
For more information:
Cassidy Taylor
Produce Marketing Association
Tel: +1 (302) 781-5852