FMA and CMAA are the latest horticulture industry bodies to co-host the event, alongside AUSVEG, PMA Australia-New Zealand (PMA A-NZ), Australian Organic, Onions Australia and Irrigation Australia. Hort Connections 2017, to be held in Adelaide from 15-17 May 2017, will combine the National Horticulture Convention and PMA Fresh Connections to bring together the largest number of growers, supply chain members, government stakeholders and industry service providers in the Australian horticulture industry.

AUSVEG National Marketing Manager Nathan McIntyre said that the introduction of the two new co-hosts is an exciting development that will open the event to even more people in the industry. “We are incredibly pleased to have both FMA and CMAA back on board for Hort Connections 2017 after successful partnerships that lead to last year’s National Horticulture Convention and PMA Fresh Connections being the most successful events in Australian horticulture.

“The Hort Connections 2017 programme will contain the world’s leading horticultural experts to provide industry with the latest information, the return of the hugely successful Trade Show and opportunities for growers, wholesalers, marketers and supply chain members to network.”

“Both organisations offer unique dimensions to the convention through their representation of the fresh produce markets and their wholesalers, and their presence at the Hort Connections 2017 Trade Show will certainly benefit delegates from the entire supply chain,” according to PMA A-NZ CEO, Darren Keating.

FMA Chairman, Shane Schnitzler, said the FMA was excited to join Hort Connections 2017 and anticipates a strong turnout from the wholesaling sector of the Australian fresh produce industry. “FMA and CMAA have been big supporters of the National Horticulture Convention and PMA Fresh Connections over the years, and we have been strong advocates of the two events coming together to form one national event.”

CMAA spokesperson, Angelo Demasi, said both organisations are looking forward to working with Hort Connections 2017 to build on the success of the two previous events, incorporating world-class speakers, an expansive Trade Show and unparalleled networking opportunities. “FMA and CMAA are looking forward to welcoming all delegates to the 2017 event and making this the biggest and best horticulture event in Australia.”

The Hort Connections 2017 Trade Show will officially open on Monday 15 May and remain open until Wednesday 17 May.