United Launches 3rd Annual Produce Managers' Award Program

WASHINGTON -- United Fresh Produce Association has begun its third annual Produce Managers' Award Program with a call for nominations. Aimed at recognizing store-level produce managers for their work in increasing consumption of fresh produce, the program was announced in a telephone news conference that included representatives from United, Ready Pac, the sole sponsor of the program, and some past award winners. Participants noted the program is particularly important this year as the industry works to rebuild consumer confidence, shaken as a result of a string of foodborne illness outbreaks linked to produce. The awards committee will choose 20 awardees from the 250 to 300 nominees expected this year, United officials said. Nomination applications are available on United's web site: www.unitedfresh.org and www.freshmarketplace.org. Deadline for receipt of nominations is March 9. -- Roseanne Harper