SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA - Under the leadership of 2023 Chair Michael Schutt of Bay Area Herb & Specialties, the Fresh Produce & Floral Council (FPFC) experienced a year of great growth and success. Now, with the new year underway, the organization is bidding farewell to its outgoing 2023 Board of Directors as it ushers in its incoming 2024 leaders.

"It has been an incredible year of growth and achievement for the FPFC,” said Schutt, expressing his enthusiasm for the organization’s 2023 accomplishments. “Our dedicated members, innovative initiatives, and collaborative spirit have propelled us to new heights. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am confident that 2024 holds even greater opportunities for the FPFC."

Schutt will be succeeded in the role of Chair by Kristen Reid of MIXTEC Group. He will remain on the board as Immediate Past Chair, replacing Kori Martin of Oppy, who will remain on the board as Past Chair Representative, and Bryan Presley of Albertsons will serve as Chair-Elect, a release explained.

In celebration of this transition, the FPFC will host a Dinner Dance at the Balboa Bay Resort on Saturday, February 24, 2024, to formally induct the 2024 Board of Directors.

As she prepares to step into her new position, Reid shared her excitement for the coming year.

"I am honored and thrilled to lead the FPFC in 2024. The organization has a strong foundation, and I am committed to taking it to new levels of success,” Reid commented. “Together with our members, we will continue to foster excellence within the fresh produce and floral industry."

In addition to Reid, Paige Venable of Vallarta Supermarkets has joined the FPFC’s Executive Committee as Secretary, and Veronica Rodarte of Progressive Produce will serve as Treasurer. Roger Schroeder and Marvin Quebec of Quebec Distributing Co. will continue to serve as Honorary Advisors to the board.

To see the full list of FPFC Board Members, click here.

Cheers to these leaders on their new roles!