You are using software which is blocking our advertisements (adblocker).

As we provide the news for free, we are relying on revenues from our banners. So please disable your adblocker and reload the page to continue using this site.
Thanks!

Click here for a guide on disabling your adblocker.

App icon
FreshPublishers
Open in the app
OPEN
Shoprite, Fruit & Veg City, Pick n Pay, Walmart/Massmart to discuss produce opportunities in Africa

PMA to Host Fresh Connections Conference in Southern Africa

Retailer insight will be in large supply at Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) Fresh Connections: Southern Africa Conference & Expo on Aug. 14-15 in Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa. The event will look locally, regionally and globally at retail growth, new sales channels, consumer trends, jobs and talent and other issues affecting the fresh produce supply chain. Findings will be unveiled from a study examining the region’s vacant agricultural jobs and training needed. A trade expo will showcase the latest technology on packaging, traceability software, input supplies and services. A fresh produce packaging seminar on Aug. 14 will precede the Fresh Connections event. Media are invited to attend the entire conference with a complimentary pass.

Confirmed speakers include: Richard Brasher, CEO, Pick n Pay, will outline South Africa’s second largest retailer’s plan for growth; Sherry-Lee Singh, operations lead, supplier development for Walmart/Massmart South Africa, will discuss new opportunities for sourcing; and Johan van Deventer, managing director of Freshmark (fresh produce procurement arm of Shoprite/Checkers) will join PMA President and CEO Bryan Silbermann in a look at global and local fresh produce trends, including challenges and opportunities for the African market. Brian Coppin, CEO of Fruit & Veg City, South Africa’s largest retailer, and Rich Dachman, vice president of produce for global foodservice distributor Sysco Corporation (USA), will sit on panel discussing new sales channels. Jan DeLyser, vice president of marketing for the California Avocado Commission (USA) and chair of the PMA board of directors, will present on best practices for engaging consumers.

The PMA Packaging Seminar will feature international and local packaging specialists discussing global trends in fresh produce packaging, including sustainability and recycling, and packaging technology such as modified atmosphere packaging, nanotechnology and shelf-life extension. Speakers include Lisa Cork, owner, Fresh Produce Marketing (New Zealand) and recipient of the 2013 PMA A-NZ/Produce Plus Marketer of the Year Award, and post-harvest packaging specialist Jeff Brandenburg, president, The JSB Group, LLC (USA).

Event Dates: Packaging Seminar: August 14;

Fresh Connections Southern Africa: August 15

Event Times: Packaging Seminar: 13:00–17:30;

Fresh Connections: 09:00–17:15

Event Location: Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa

For more program, session descriptions and registration, visit www.pma.com.

Publication date:

Related Articles → See More