MEDIA ADVISORY: Meetings to Connect Maryland’s Growers, Producers with Regional Buyers to be Held Tuesday

ANNAPOLIS, MD (Jan. 18, 2010) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is holding a trade show style meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 25, for Maryland growers and producers to have the opportunity to display their products and buyers have a chance to speak with them one-on-one.

There are more than 300 registrants including produce farmers, grocery stores, restaurants, chefs, schools, distributors, economic development officials, hotels, Maryland Cooperative Extension and regional agricultural marketing officials.  Visitwww.MarylandsBest.net for more details including a video from last year’s event.

Rising consumer demand for healthy, locally-grown fruit and vegetables is sparking more interest in Maryland products from commercial purchasing agents. Maryland’s farmers play an important role in providing local, healthy food, saving open farmland, and expanding rural economies.
MDA’s marketing division has several on-going programs to link farmers with regional buyers and local consumers: the Maryland’s Best branding program, farmers’ market development, and the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs.

WHAT:
MDA will hold a trade show style meeting to provide opportunities for Maryland growers and producers to increase sales by introducing them directly to food purchasing decision-makers.

WHEN:
Tuesday, January 25, 2010
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Annapolis Elks Lodge
2517 Solomons Island Road
Edgewater, MD 21037