United re-ups for Chicago convention
United re-ups for Chicago convention
When the United convention convenes in Chicago about six weeks from now, it will represent the third year of its three-year commitment to hold its annual event along with four other trade associations in one giant gathering under one roof. But the event has proven so successful that United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association has already renewed its commitment to the idea for the foreseeable future.
"Our board of directors feels very strong about the show," United President Tom Stenzel told The Produce News Monday, March 6.
As such, United has renewed its commitment to hold its annual convention in Chicago in conjunction with the Food Marketing Institute Show, the Fancy Foods Show, U.S. Food Export Showcase and All Things Organic, in what is called the Power of Five.
United is "logged in for 2006 and 2007," said Mr. Stenzel, and has agreed to what he called a "two-year rolling cycle," meaning that United is basically agreeing to hold its show with the Power of Five for two years at a time, and can then choose to renew or not after each two-year term.
"The synergies we were hoping for are coming through," Mr. Stenzel stated, adding that a strong program with some new twists should enhance this year's event even more.
For example, there will be an "afternoon happy hour" each day of this year's show, which is set for May 6-9 at McCormick Place. There will be a reception with a cash bar, and chefs will be creating some exciting new menu items using fresh fruits and vegetables, he said.
United also announced that Bill Moran, founder, president and chief executive officer of the St. Louis-based retail supermarket chain Save-A-Lot, will deliver the keynote address at the show. Mr. Moran, who founded Save-A-Lot in 1977 with a single store, has grown the chain to more than 1,150 stores in 39 states.
"Our board of directors feels very strong about the show," United President Tom Stenzel told The Produce News Monday, March 6.
As such, United has renewed its commitment to hold its annual convention in Chicago in conjunction with the Food Marketing Institute Show, the Fancy Foods Show, U.S. Food Export Showcase and All Things Organic, in what is called the Power of Five.
United is "logged in for 2006 and 2007," said Mr. Stenzel, and has agreed to what he called a "two-year rolling cycle," meaning that United is basically agreeing to hold its show with the Power of Five for two years at a time, and can then choose to renew or not after each two-year term.
"The synergies we were hoping for are coming through," Mr. Stenzel stated, adding that a strong program with some new twists should enhance this year's event even more.
For example, there will be an "afternoon happy hour" each day of this year's show, which is set for May 6-9 at McCormick Place. There will be a reception with a cash bar, and chefs will be creating some exciting new menu items using fresh fruits and vegetables, he said.
United also announced that Bill Moran, founder, president and chief executive officer of the St. Louis-based retail supermarket chain Save-A-Lot, will deliver the keynote address at the show. Mr. Moran, who founded Save-A-Lot in 1977 with a single store, has grown the chain to more than 1,150 stores in 39 states.
