Lenexa, Kan., (Sept. 20, 2021) — In the midst of limited travel and continued uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, The Packer and PMG are launching a new virtual platform to conveniently connect fresh produce growers with the right retail and foodservice buyers.
BizMatch Plus is an expansion of the popular in-person BizMatch program that has successfully paired buyers and sellers at recent West Coast Produce Expos and Global Organic Produce Expos. Sessions are scheduled to align with key commodity buying seasons with the first commodity-specific session Sept. 29, 2021, highlighting citrus growers to five top retail buyers. Subsequent sessions in October and November will feature onion and tomato growers.
“Fresh produce suppliers’ businesses grow and evolve much like the seasons, while buyers are constantly seeking the latest product and market information to boost their own businesses,” said Matt Morgan, executive vice president of produce for Farm Journal. “Additionally, we understand the dynamics of buyer turnover and are excited to provide a platform that will deliver valuable education to those who may be new to fresh produce procurement. We look forward to offering BizMatch Plus to forward-thinking suppliers who may not have a chance to travel or meet with buyers at industry events.”
BizMatch Plus sessions will empower suppliers to share the latest info on their business and products and educate produce buyers on trends, market dynamics and more. The program will guarantee dedicated and confidential time between growers and at least five regional and national buyers, perfect for presentations, conversations and building rapport.
“The Packer has developed a very interesting concept that will provide retail buyers with seasonally relevant, concise information sessions that will aid them in getting a seasonal category plan off to a good start,” said Jeff Cady, director of produce and floral at Tops Markets. “Knowing that time is one commodity that Mother Nature doesn’t impact too significantly, spending a few minutes with a few vendors versus sporadic phone calls and emails throughout the season will be time well spent.”
Each session will be capped at five suppliers with spaces available for all three scheduled sessions through the end of 2021. For more information and to secure your spot, contact Jordan Davis at jordandavis@farmjournal.com or 816-405-2724.
About Farm Journal
Farm Journal is the nation’s leading business information and media company serving the agricultural market. Started 145 years ago with the preeminent Farm Journal magazine, the company serves the row crop, livestock, produce and retail sectors through branded websites, eNewsletters and phone apps; business magazines; live events including conferences, seminars and tradeshows; nationally broadcasted television and radio programs; a robust mobile-text-marketing business and an array of data-driven, paid information products. Farm Journal also is the majority shareholder of the online equipment marketplace, Machinery Pete LLC. In 2010, the company established the non-profit, public charity, Farm Journal Foundation, dedicated to sustaining agriculture’s ability to meet the vital needs of a growing population through education and empowerment.