The event is created for the full supply chain, including suppliers, growers, exporters, importers, distributors, supermarkets and all who serve these sectors. “During the exhibition we focus on both education and business development through networking. PMA Fresh Connections does what the name says, namely it connects people with each other, opportunities, new products, information, technology and more.”
Nancy explains that the educational sessions are always a key factor that differentiates PMA programmes from other events. “This year, a mix of international and Mexican experts focused on topics including Mexican and North American consumer trends, social responsibility, food safety and FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act), waste reduction, and gaining financial capital for your company. PMA President, Catherine Burns; international food safety expert Dr. Bob Whitaker, Markon CEO Tim York and many others shared relevant insights and practical solutions. Moreover, the education program offered insights into best-in-class business strategies to help attendees become more competitive in the Mexican marketplace.”
Several activities were organized for the first time this year, as for example the first Women´s fresh perspectives leadership breakfast. The breakfast was hosted by the Center for Growing Talent by PMA. “In total 28 people networked and listened to the challenges and opportunities in the career of Ines Masallach of Imalinx. Ines is also Chairwoman, PMA Mexico Country Council and a member of the Board of Directors of PMA, explains Nancy. “To our knowledge, it was the first time that women in the produce industry in Mexico had an event dedicated to cultivating their potential, developing educational and leadership skills, and of course, networking.”
As well for the first time at Fresh Connections: Mexico, was the business roundtables. Nancy explained that they matched 9 buyers (importers from the US and supermarkets from Mexico) in various one-on-one meetings with 14 growers of various products. “Both the buyers and growers really appreciated this opportunity to make many valuable connections in a short amount of time.”
She continues: “One of the fun opportunities at the event was to meet and have your picture taken with the Sesame Street characters, Elmo and Cookie Monster. They helped us promote the ‘eat brighter!™ (¡ponle color a tu mesa!™) program that is now available for the Mexican industry. With this special alliance, fresh produce companies can use the Sesame Street characters on their packages to encourage young children to eat more produce. The program is just starting in Mexico. In the U.S., sales of products using the characters continue to track at a 3 percent average increase in sales year-over-year (source: PMA’s Research Center survey). The program’s success has led to it being extended through 2018. So there is plenty of time to join and share in the success for your business and for our kids.”
“This year, we moved to a different city in Mexico - Leon, Guanajuato. It is a growing and vibrant city, centrally located in the middle of Mexico and has excellent meeting facilities, so it is likely we will return next year. We will be working to expand our new and existing programs to provide the best value possible to PMA members and clients in Mexico”, concludes Nancy.