Statement from PMA

This from PMA about the end to merger talks....

To: All PMA Members
Re: Discussions with United Fresh Produce Association (UFPA)

On behalf of PMA's Executive Committee (names listed below), we are writing to give you an update on the outcome of our discussions with UFPA.
For the past six months, a group of PMA volunteer leaders has been in discussions with UFPA leaders to explore the feasibility of a merger between our two associations. As with all PMA leadership groups, the members involved represented a cross section of our supply chain, including grower/shippers, processors, distributors, as well as retail and foodservice buyers.
UFPA and PMA representatives met in March and July to discuss the potential merger as well as the feasibility of a formal structural collaboration. During the discussions, it became apparent to us that UFPA's and PMA's core competencies and cultures are different, and that each association carries out its mission in distinct ways. After careful deliberation at our recent meeting, the Executive Committee determined that at this time, it is in our members' best interests to have the two separate associations continue to focus on the unique value they each bring to the industry.
While the merger talks have been discontinued, please rest assured that both organizations will continue working together in a spirit of allied industry partnership on issues such as food safety, traceability and more. As in the past, PMA will also collaborate with UFPA and others to ensure your perspective is well represented in public policy debates. PMA will continue to participate in government relations and public affairs activities when such participation is in the best interest of our members across the supply chain.
We know both associations are committed to providing future services and value to their members under the leadership of their Boards of Directors, and pledge our continued cooperation in areas of mutual interest. We look forward to seeing many of you at Fresh Summit in Houston next month.
Peter Goulet
Chairman of the Board
Janet Erickson
Chairman of the Executive Committee
Members of PMA's Executive Committee are:
Janet Erickson, Chairman of the Executive Committee
Peter Goulet, Chairman of the Board
Bruce Taylor, Chairman-Elect
Dave Corsi, Secretary/Treasurer
David Gill, member at large
Rob Robson, member at large