Why Expos Like Fresh Summit Still Matter

I've been waiting for this week for nearly a year - my first trip to Produce Marketing Association's Fresh Summit. I joined PMA shortly after 2013's event and have been anxiously awaiting a chance to see the big event in person.

Even though I'm fully immersed in the digital life - follow me on Twitter! - events like Fresh Summit - expos that bring together buyers & sellers, partners and competitors - still matter. And they still work.

They still matter and they will continue to matter as long as relationships matter. When used effectively, digital tools and platforms are excellent for creating and strengthening relationships. But they aren't the only tools.

We're going to employ a whole host of those tools to enhance the Fresh Summit experience for the 20-some thousand people in attendance. But those tools don't fill up the toolbox. Videos on YouTube aren't quite the same as a handshake and text messages don't fully replace a face-to-face conversation about a new product or service. And while Instagram and Pinterest are great vehicles for the produce and floral industries, there's nothing like seeing and smelling fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers and there's no app for sinking your teeth into a fresh peach.

There will always be a place for that type of interaction.

As a member of the produce industry, I'm excited to see our members dive deep into the educational offerings, check out the latest and greatest innovations and make connections to grow their businesses. As a leader in our organization, I must admit that I am really fired up to see my team shine on such a huge stage. Maybe it's the coach in me, but I've watched my folks putting in long hours, pushing hard to create a unique and fulfilling experience. Now the prep is over and it's game time. The game plan is impressive and I know they are going to execute effectively. Watching all of that unfold, well, that's what I've been waiting for since arriving.

If you see me in Anaheim, I hope you'll stop by and say hello!

Dan'l Mackey Almy

Founder and CEO of DMA Solutions, Inc. & Co-Host of The Self Smarter Podcast

8y

So true Karl - lots of things come and go in business, but relationships have the staying power that makes our industry great! #FreshSummit

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#freshsummit rocked! Innovative packaging was my takeaway. #mucci setting the bar high.

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Rose Strong

Executive Assistant to Gina Rubel - Virtual

9y

Nice post Karl!

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