Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association Annual Convention Preview

FFVA 2014 logoRegistration is open for FFVA 2014, the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association’s annual convention, which takes place Sept. 17-19 at The Ritz-Carlton in Naples. As always, the event will offer a chance for you to network with colleagues, hear the latest on issues that are critical to your business, connect with our outstanding sponsors, and enjoy a lush South Florida setting.

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Last year, FFVA celebrated its 70th birthday at the convention, with an emphasis on the association’s strong heritage and seven decades worth of leadership in the industry. This year, we’ll focus squarely on the future of Florida agriculture. You’ll hear from a powerful lineup of industry leaders and experts from across the country who will take a look at what’s ahead in politics, health care, marketing trends, and more.

The convention kicks off with the state of the industry update, and Commissioner Adam Putnam is the invited keynote. He’ll give his perspective on the most important issues facing agriculture today. The commissioner, who has made protecting Florida’s water supply his signature issue, also will discuss opportunities for expanding markets for the produce industry, the progress that’s been made in putting more healthy produce on schoolchildren’s lunch plates, and more.

On The Front Burner

Also on tap are issues forums that will focus on major topics affecting agriculture:

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Have a Plan For Climate Change? Why Fruit Growers Need To Act Now
  • Navigating The Maze Of Health Care Reform: The Affordable Care Act is complicated and continually evolving, making it a challenge for agricultural employers to know what to do and when. Hear from the experts about what’s required to comply with the law and how it affects you and your workforce.
  • Election 2014 — The Political Landscape: The upcoming state and congressional elections are sure to have implications for agriculture. This overview of key races will provide a picture of what’s on the horizon for legislation that will affect your operations and profitability.
  • Fresh Perspectives And Trends For Produce: Evolving consumer and retailer preferences can be a moving target. Learn how technology, social media, shopping, and diet trends affect the fresh produce industry and how to be nimble in today’s marketplace.

A highlight of the convention is the Florida Specialty Crop Foundation’s annual Benefit Auction. The auction has generated more than $417,000 for deserving charities since 2003. Bidders can vie for a splendid array of sports items, travel packages, wine selections, gifts, and more while raising funds for a great cause.

Fun In The Sun

There also are plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. The foundation’s golf tournament gives duffers the chance to experience championship 36-hole golf at Tiburon Golf Course designed by golf great Greg Norman.
If you prefer fishing, you can enjoy an exciting morning on the water against the backdrop of Florida’s beautiful 10,000 Islands. It’s a great morning of fishing for snook, trout, redfish, snapper, and more with pleasant fishing companions and excellent boat captains.
Find out why growers and their business partners say that FFVA’s Annual Convention is the premier agriculture meeting in Florida. “Anyone in agricultural business in this state should jump at the opportunity to keep current with the state of agricultural business, and there is no better way to do that than the relaxing atmosphere of FFVA’s annual convention,” said an attendee from last year.
Visit ffva.com/ffva2014 for registration and details.

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