Aug 17, 2017

USApple plans Apple Outlook Conference in Chicago

Held Aug. 24-25 in Chicago, USApple’s 2017 Apple Crop Outlook & Marketing Conference (Outlook) is the annual event to preview, forecast and discuss the global impact of the upcoming apple harvest. The two-day event features a strong line-up of experts covering crop production estimates, the status of current trade relations and the influence of consumer buying habits.

NAFTA is this year’s buzz word. With NAFTA renegotiations launching this week at the insistence of the Trump Administration, the conference will kick off with keynotes led by high-level government officials from Mexico and Canada. One out of three U.S. grown fresh apples is eaten in a foreign country, with Mexico and Canada comprising the number one and two export destinations respectively. Outlook speakers with NAFTA expertise will speak from varying viewpoints on the possible outcomes and impacts of renegotiating the treaty.

A new addition this year, veteran members of the agriculture trade press will discuss the overarching influences and public perceptions impacting consumer produce consumption during a panel discussion. From labor and immigration demands to innovative marketing concepts, the media panel will field questions from the audience on what drives content and makes a story or grower profile newsworthy.

Hands-on sessions over the course of the two days will dive into the projections of the apple crops by region, in the U.S., Europe, China, Canada, Mexico and South America. Participants will also attend an apple juice, concentrate and processing panel and listen to new research on buying habits when it comes to the safety of produce.

The conference will contain plenty of networking and reception events, giving attendees an opportunity to visit with old and new colleagues alike.

Visit here to download the registration form and secure a spot at the event.