Jan DeLyser shares insight on global trends
AU: PMA Fresh Connections speakers provide knowledge
Currently responsible for the overall leadership, management and organisation of the CAC’s marketing functions, Jan has helped the avocado attain phenomenal growth during her time in the industry and she will offer delegates valuable lessons on how other sectors of the fresh produce industry can also be successful.
"Jan will bring to delegates some great insights into successful fresh produce marketing and really being able to connect with consumers" Michael Worthington, CEO of PMA Australia-New Zealand said.
"During her time as Marketing VP, avocadoes have seen a phenomenal rise in sales. Being awarded Produce Marketer of the Year was highly justified and a reflection of her considerable success and wealth of experience in the fresh produce industry" he added.
Jan will be addressing the topic of consumers as drivers of change throughout the fresh produce industry in her plenary session and cites "interest in locally grown, food safety, and the "consumer voice" as the three main trends influencing change that she has seen in the fresh produce industry in the past decade.
"Do your consumer research, know your capabilities, understand your distribution and then make disciplined decisions based upon your strengths and competitive advantages. Work on building both demand and value" she emphasised.
PMA Fresh Connections delegates will also benefit from speakers including Jason Bosch, of Origin Direct Asia and Gustavo Yentzen from Chile, who will address the topic of southern hemisphere suppliers competing for market share in China; and David Thomas, BRICS Expert and Thought Leader with Think Global, who will be speaking about emerging opportunities in the BRICS countries. Sessions on food safety, the growing foodservice sector, the battle for retail space, attracting talent to our industry, launching profitable new products and getting the most out of social media will round out a program that has something for everyone.
New to PMA Fresh Connections in 2012 are a number of Special Interest Workshops, which will be held during trade show hours each day to provide more practical knowledge for delegates.
"The Special Interest Workshops (hosted by various retailers, industry organisations and technical experts) are designed to give specific industry segments the opportunity to ask the how, what and why questions that don’t usually get asked, and to learn how to apply the most recent techniques into their business environment" said Mr Worthington.
A joint initiative by PMA Australia-New Zealand and The Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries, PMA Fresh Connections will bring together delegates from across the entire fruit, vegetable and floral industries in Australia and New Zealand and will be sure to inspire, educate and build business connections.
Registrations for PMA Fresh Connections 2012 are now open. To register, and for full information on the event, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, please visit www.pmafreshconnections.com.au