In response to member feedback and as part of its new strategic plan implementation, Produce Marketing Association (PMA) unveiled its redesigned website at pma.com today. With a fresh new design, new structure, a fully functioning search feature and mobile-ready access, the website is part of the association’s ongoing efforts to bring a complete portfolio of value to members of the fresh produce and floral industries.
“Over the past several years, we’ve made a conscious effort to share the wealth of industry resources the association offers in addition to all our conventions, shows and meetings,” said Bryan Silbermann, PMA CEO. “One of the challenges we had is providing members with a fully functioning and easy-to-use ‘one-stop-shop’ where they can access those resources. Our members told us they needed a global information hub that’s intuitive and engaging—and we’re responding to those needs through this complete rebuilding of pma.com.”
Silbermann added that PMA members have asked for:
• Improved search functionality. Locating various pieces of value is made easier with the enhanced search engine.
• Connections to related content. The new website is smart and, as web users have come to expect, the site now serves up related articles and information to members exploring topics on anything from global trade to food safety to retail.
• Mobile design. Members said they needed mobile access to retrieve information in the field, so the new website includes responsive design, making it easy to navigate on any mobile device.
• Spanish translation. PMA says its members across the globe are in need of easy access to information, so the new pma.com will have much of its content translated into Spanish. Information in Chinese and Portuguese also will roll out as the information on the website continues to grow.
In addition, to give members more of the resources they’ve asked for, the website will house a collection of new information, including three new consumer trend reports from The Hartman Group. “Outlook on the Millennial Consumer 2014” is available on the website now, and members can expect to have two additional reports from Hartman this summer—”Organic and Natural” as well as “Digital Lives.” These reports provide critical insights into consumer behaviors driving fresh fruit and vegetable sales.
PMA says members also can expect to see more information sharing on the site with the integration of blogs, social media and third-party news.
“We’re here to support the needs of our members by connecting them to experts, ideas, trends and talent,” said Silbermann. “We know produce and floral companies are focused on building consumer demand for the products they grow, ship and sell and, as the industry’s marketing association, we’re committed to providing resources that help reach that goal.”
