Harrisburg, PA – Ed Weaver of Morgantown in Berks County has been appointed to serve on the board for the PA Apple Marketing Program (PAMP). A long-time PAMP member and farm market owner, Weaver brings a direct marketing perspective to the board mix.
“We’re excited to welcome Ed to the board,” said Julia Haller, board chair. “His understanding of the important role marketing plays in promoting apples and products will be invaluable as we continue to find new ways to engage consumers with Pennsylvania’s apple industry.”
Weaver is a third generation grower and is president of his family’s business, Weaver’s Orchard, Inc., which offers a variety of fresh produce – including 30-plus apple varieties, as well as an assortment of products ranging from sauces and preserves, to baked goods and fresh honey. The farm market is also a hub of activity for the local community and includes free summer cooking classes and family fun days during the fall months.
“Working in the retail environment, I understand what consumers want in terms of product and information,” said Weaver. “And with the proper marketing and outreach, we can increase their knowledge about the benefits of eating both fresh apples and apple products, which, in turn, hopefully increases their daily apple consumption.”
In addition to PAMP, Weaver is also a past president of SHAP (State Horticultural Association of Pennsylvania) and is currently chairing an ad-hoc committee that is focused on raising research dollars for the industry. He is a member of the North American Farmers’ Direct Marketing Association (NAFDMA), as well as the Pennsylvania Retail Farm Market Association, Inc.
The Pennsylvania Apple Marketing Program is a commodity marketing program established by the Commodity Marketing Act of 1968. The program is funded by apple growers and governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is composed of growers from various regions of the state and a representative from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The website is www.pennsylvaniaapples.org.
Source: The Pennsylvania Apple Marketing Program