Grab your business cards and pack some comfy shoes because it’s showtime in North America! During April and May two of the biggest conventions in the US and Canada roll into town and expectations are running high. Once again, Las Vegas hosts the United Fresh Produce Association’s annual exhibition and conference event, while, across the border, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) takes its 2009 expo to Toronto.
Although exhausting, no-one can deny the significance of trade shows. A platform for networking and marketing, the format offers an unrivalled opportunity to meet face-to-face with key representatives in the business – from produce exporters and importers to technology and logistics providers – all under one roof.
With the world in the midst of a recession, it’s never been more important to promote your company and forge relationships with both new and existing clients. Indeed, the show must go on. Just as fruit and vegetable consumption is predicted to stay constant during the economic downturn as long as produce remains accessible, small to large industry players need to be visible to secure the longevity of their business and the produce trade as a whole.
Now is the time to really get to grips with the trade; discover what’s on offer out there; understand exactly what your customers and consumers need and secure programs for the year ahead.
In this month's issue of Americafruit Magazine, our event previews feature a wide selection of firms set to attend United Fresh 2009 and CPMA 2009. Interestingly, a number of those interviewed are participating for the very first time, alongside the usual suspects. Moreover, this year organizers expect exhibitor and visitor numbers to remain stable, with CPMA even anticipating its biggest-ever show. During a period when we’re all cutting back on the non-essentials, it just goes to show the value our industry places on events like these.
It’s all too easy to get swept up in the digital age but you can’t beat a handshake and real-life conversation. With their variety of social and business networking opportunities, United Fresh 2009 and CPMA 2009 promise to be crowd pleasers. What’s more, Las Vegas and Toronto are two of the world’s most cosmopolitan and interesting cities to visit, so go, have fun and connect with your produce friends!
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