There is a growing awareness worldwide that United Fresh Produce Association is more than just a US organisation, said John Toner, vice-president of convention and industry relations.

United Fresh was formed as a result of the 2006 merger of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association and the International Fresh-Cut Produce Association.

Toner explained: “We have four new boards, all with international membership. The boards are: grower-shippers; foodservice-retail; fresh-cut processors; and wholesale distributors.”

United has ambitious growth plans, thanks to an International Trade Council headed up by David Barney of Bakkavör. Toner said: “The trade is more international than it used to be and standards are becoming more global.”