Industry body has paid tribute to Joe Watson, its vice-president of retail, foodservice and wholesale, describing him as beloved by the fresh produce community
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has announced the news of the recent passing of Joe Watson, who served as the organisation’s vice-president of retail, foodservice and wholesale, after a prolonged battle with cancer.
“Joe was synonymous with many of our connections and engagement with the buying community in our industry,” said IFPA chief executive Cathy Burns.
“A true retailer at heart who was quick with a handshake and who knew practically every buyer by face and name.
”His stories about his ‘retail days’ were legendary, sharing merchandising success stories and pictures of stores he since visited,” she continued.
”The industry consistently looked to him for his insights and analysis of our sales data and consumer trends.
”His passion for our industry was only surpassed by his faith and love for his family,” Burns noted.
Watson joined IFPA legacy organisation PMA in June of 2015, where he was hired as vice-president of domestic business development.
Prior to joining PMA, he was the director of produce for Louisiana-based Rouses Supermarkets, where he managed the produce departments’ operations of the chain’s 46 retail stores.
”IFPA extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife Jeannie, his two daughters, granddaughter, family members, and countless industry friends who knew him,” said the association.
”Joe was beloved and will be sorely missed by the many IFPA staff and volunteers who had the pleasure of knowing and working alongside him to make the global fresh produce community better.”
