For Immediate Release: Oct. 21, 2016
Contacts:
Robert Sakata, CFVGA president 303-947-3097 or rtsakata@aol.com
Marilyn Bay Drake, CFVGA executive director 303-594-3827 or admin@coloradoproduce.org
CFVGA President Robert Sakata Recognized by The Packer
Colorado Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (CFVGA) President Robert Sakata, Sakata Family Farms, Brighton, was one of 25 individuals nationally recognized by The Packer, a Farm Journal publication, for his work and accomplishments in the produce industry. The list of 25 honorees was announced in a special publication, The Packer 25, released last weekend at the Produce Marketing Association’s Fresh Summit in Orlando, Fla. The publication was distributed to the 20,889 attendees from 65 countries.
“The Packer 25 is an annual collection of feature stories on 25 leaders in the produce industry,” said Greg Johnson, editor, The Packer. “
According to Johnson, those featured are selected by The Packer’s Editorial Board and published online and in The Packer 25. This year is the 12th edition.
“As for Robert’s selection,” said Johnson. “We looked at his work in his family produce company and influence in the Colorado Fruit and Veg Growers Association, and that made him a perfect industry leader to profile this year.”
“We are thrilled to see Robert recognized for all his hard work and expertise freely given to CFVGA,” said Marilyn Bay Drake, CFVGA executive director. “He continues to be an outstanding leader in the produce industry in Colorado and nationally. His insight and dedication have been vital to CFVGA’s establishment and growth.”
Educated as a cellular chemist, Sakata left a promising scientific career to return home and run the family vegetable operation, a choice he does not regret. See http://www.thepacker.com/marketing-profiles/packer-25/packer-25-robert-sakata for the full story.
The CFVGA is comprised of more than 200 members, including growers of all sizes and types of production throughout the state, as well as representatives of allied industries. The Colorado fruit and vegetable growing sector contributes nearly $300 million to Colorado at the farm gate and is multiplied as it goes through the distribution chain. Over 60,000 Colorado acres are in fruit and vegetable production. For more on the CFVGA, visit coloradoproduce.org
