NEWARK, Del.– From kids to adults, taste buds have become more discerning, appetites more global and the desire for healthier meal options stronger. Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) Foodservice Conference & Exposition, July 20-22 in Monterey, Calif., USA, combines the essential ingredients to help the foodservice industry understand these consumer demands and respond with flavorful solutions that drive the use of fresh fruits and vegetables, and increase profitability. This event, held one week earlier than in previous years, remains the only event dedicated to fresh produce and foodservice.
Attendees will be able to get business cooking with numerous networking and educational opportunities throughout the three days. Education sessions will feature real world examples exploring consumers’ evolving tastes, menu trends and influences, and approaches to strengthening consumer confidence in produce safety. A live chef challenge using ‘half the plate’ guidelines to develop healthy and flavorful kids’ menus is designed to spark creativity with new menu ideas kids will love. Plus, the sold out Foodservice Produce Expo, widely known as the “best five hours in foodservice,” is the place to see new products, strengthen business relationships by meeting suppliers face-to-face, and save time and expense by doing it all in one place.
“Not only does PMA’s Foodservice Conference & Expo connect produce industry leaders to consumer trends and tastes, but it also connects the entire supply chain,” said Scott Sargent, Chick-fil-A, Inc. and chairman of PMA’s Foodservice Conference committee. “As a result, key partnerships can be formed and powerful solutions can be developed, together.”
Other 2012 PMA Foodservice Conference & Expo highlights include:
• The PMA Foundation Joe Nucci Memorial Golf Tournament benefiting the Career Pathways Program.
• The Foundation 5K Race for Talent supporting the PMA Foundation’s mission to attract, develop and retain talent for the global produce industry.
• The Women’s Fresh Perspectives reception providing opportunities to network with and be inspired by industry leaders.
•“Behind the Scenes” field and plant tours (requires separate registration).
Pre-registration ends July 6. Register early by June 15 to save up to 35 percent. Foodservice operators, menu developers and chefs can receive significant registration discounts, but space is limited, so register early. For more information and to register for PMA’s Foodservice Conference & Expo and special events, visit www.pma.com/foodservice. Connect with other Foodservice Conference attendees on PMA Xchange- PMA's new social networking site at pma.com/xchange, or on Twitter @PMAFSC.
About Produce Marketing Association (PMA)
Produce Marketing Association is the leading trade association representing companies from every segment of the global produce and floral supply chain. PMA helps members grow by providing business solutions that expand business opportunities and increase sales and consumption. For more information, visit www.pma.com.
Source: Produce Marketing Association