MILLEN, GA – The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) has announced the appointment of retail veteran Garry Bergstrom to its Board of Governors, bolstering the advisory panel with his storied background in our industry and a fresh perspective for the SEPC.

In his new capacity, Bergstrom will serve as a member of the advisory council to the current SEPC Chairman of the Board and Board of Directors as they make decisions that will directly affect the membership.

Bergstrom entered the industry in 1972 as a part-time produce clerk for Publix. He was soon after promoted to produce manager in 1975, became a produce merchandiser in 1987, a buyer in 1989, and Divisional Manager of Produce/Floral for the retailer’s Lakeland Division in 1999. From there, Bergstrom was quickly promoted to Corporate Produce Purchasing Manager in 2000 and served as Business Director of Produce/Floral from 2005 until his retirement this year.

Also joining the Board of Governors is Gordon M. Hochberg—former VP and Co-Owner of The Produce News. In their capacity as board members, Bergstrom and Hochberg will also provide insight and guidance to maintain the integrity and equality of the council as important decisions are made. Bergstrom and Hochberg will join Bobby Creel of L&M Companies, Al Finch of Florida Classic Growers, Andrew Scott of Nickey Gregory Company, John Shuman of Shuman Produce, and Mark Daniels of General Produce as the SEPC’s current Board of Governors.

Hochberg entered our industry in the late-1970s as a freelancer for The Produce News. He quickly moved through the ranks as an assistant editor, then an associate editor, finally becoming Editor in Chief in 1985. In 1994, Hochberg entered into management as VP and Co-Owner, and while he retired from day-to-day operations in 2011, Hochberg continues to report on a variety of topics.

We at AndNowUKnow wish both new board members—and all of SEPC—the best.

Southeast Produce Council