NOGALES, AZ - A new team of produce leaders is taking its rightful position. During its annual meeting on November 1, the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) gathered to celebrate its members and elect a new Board ahead of the 53^rd Nogales Produce Convention and Golf Tournament. FPAA's outgoing Chairman, Leonardo Tarriba of Farmer’s Best International, led this portion of the meeting, welcoming Crown Jewel Produce’s Rod Sbragia as the organization’s new Chairman.

“I am excited to have added new, young people to the Board and leadership. They are the individuals that will carry the Association forward for years to come,” commented Sbragia on the development.

Raquel Espinoza of Produce House was elected as the FPAA’s new Chair-Elect, according to a press release, where she will serve a two-year term before transitioning into the role of FPAA Chairwoman.

“FPAA has been a fundamental pillar for the growth of Produce House,” Espinoza noted on her new position. “The knowledge and support I have accorded has given me a sounding board to lean on. I am paying it forward with high expectations to giving it my best.”

The open Board seats available included two-year terms for eight Distributor members and one-year terms for two Associate members, the release stated. To see the list of newly appointed and re-elected members, click here.

In addition to the Board elections, the organization also discussed some of the key issues from the previous year that impacted its member companies.

“FPAA has been very active on all fronts this past year, and it was great to bring together the Members to celebrate the achievements,” said President Lance Jungmeyer. “Members of the FPAA rely on us to have their back, and we intend to keep up with that promise in 2023 as well.”

Congratulations to each of FPAA’s Board members on their successful produce journeys!

As always, keep reading ANUK for more industry updates.

Fresh Produce Association of the Americas