(Nogales, AZ) – The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) BB #:144354 held its annual membership meeting on November 8, 2024, at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa.
This year’s gathering provided an opportunity for FPAA members to reflect on the year’s achievements, discuss future initiatives, and recognize the dedicated leadership guiding the organization. The event, which took place at the 2nd Annual SouthWest International Produce Expo (SWIPE), also celebrated outstanding industry leaders and elected new board members.
The meeting marked a significant leadership transition as Rod Sbragia concluded his term as Chairman, transitioning to two-year position as Past Chairman. Raquel Espinoza officially assumed her new role as Chairwoman. Meanwhile, Guillermo Martinez of Frello Fresh was elected as Chairperson-Elect, ensuring strong leadership for the years ahead. Additionally, Leonardo Tarriba completed his two-year term as Past Chairman, wrapping up his service on the FPAA Board.
The election results for the 2024 Board members are as follows:
Distributor Board Members (Re-Elected for a Two-Year Term):
– Jose Antonio Martinez – Divine Flavor
– Gonzalo Avila – Malena Produce
– Kyle McGrath – Tricar Sales
– Martin Ley – Shipley Sales
– Scott Vandervoet – Vandervoet & Associates
– Lesley Sykes – The Sykes Co.
Newly Elected Distributor Board Members (Two- Year Team)
– Gris Cerezo – Flavor King
– Luis Mario Morales – Chucho Produce
Associate Board Members (Re-Elected for a One-Year Term):
– Mary Paz – Robinson Fresh
– Jorge Ruiz – Agri-Packing
Division Chairs:
– John Pandol – FPAA Grape Division Chairman (Re-elected)
– JJ Badillo – FPAA Tomato Division Chairman (Re-elected)
– Chris Ciruli – FPAA Mango Division Chairman (Re-elected)
The following directors will continue to serve with one year remaining in their terms:
– Jorge Donnadieu – Fresh Farms
– Juan Manuel Ibarra – Marengo Foods
– James Martin – Wilson Produce
– JC Myers – SunFed
– Jose Luis Obregon – IPR Fresh
– Walter Ram – The Giumarra Companies
– Rafael Roiz – TruFresh
The FPAA appreciates retiring board member Enrique Gracia at Flavor King for his valuable contributions to the board.
For more information about the FPAA and its initiatives, please visit www.freshfrommexico.com
About the Fresh Produce Association of Americas:
Founded in 1944 in Nogales, Arizona, the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas has grown to become one of the most influential agricultural groups in the United States. Today, the FPAA provides a powerful voice for improvement and sustainability by serving the needs of more than 100 North American companies involved in marketing, importing, and distributing fresh produce.
For additional information and updates, follow us on social media:
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/FreshProduceAA/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/freshproduce.aa/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/FreshProduceAA
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/freshproduce-aa/
Contact:
Lance Jungmeyer (lance@freshfrommexico.com) or
Allison Moore (amoore@freshfrommexico.com)
