Apr 21, 2006 9:07 AM, from staff and wire reports

The United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association and International Fresh-cut Produce Association are planning to merge their operations into a new entity called the United Fresh Produce Association.

With a combined total of 1,100 corporate members, this group would represent all portions of the produce industry and would be based in Washington DC. Tom Stenzel, who is United’s president and chief executive officer, would retain those positions in the new group. IFPA President Jerry Welcome will serve as executive vice-president for business development.

The groups will continue to offer separate trade shows.