VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Oppenheimer Group is celebrating its past by making a commitment to its future.

The company, which commemorates its 150^th anniversary this year, announced today a $150,000 pledge to the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent (PMA FIT). This funding supports programs designed to attract, develop and retain talent for the produce industry. 

“During this milestone year, we at Oppenheimer have reflected on the path that has brought us here, while also dedicating a great deal of thought to what lies ahead — not only for our company, but for the international produce community itself,” said John Anderson, Oppenheimer’s chairman, president and CEO. “In the spirit of our anniversary, we acknowledge that a successful future for all of us hinges on bringing bright, passionate people up through the ranks of our organizations and empowering them to achieve and contribute.”

Anderson has served as a representative on the PMA Education Foundation board, which was recently renamed as the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent, since it was formed in September 2006.

“We are honored to be supported by organizations of Oppenheimer’s caliber,” said Cindy Seel, executive director of the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent. “The generous support of companies such as this helps us achieve our goals of attracting and developing the produce leaders of tomorrow.”

PMA FIT uses individual and corporate contributions to fund a number of programs including student outreach initiatives, internship best practices, visiting industry professors, industry job bank, online career resource center, event scholarships, PMA Leadership Symposium, Fresh Perspectives and the Tip Murphy Scholarship for Leadership Excellence.

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About The Oppenheimer Group

Founded 150 years ago in Victoria, B.C., The Oppenheimer Group is a leading North American fresh produce company, sourcing over 100 varieties of fruits and vegetables from more than 25 countries and delivering them to retailers, wholesalers and foodservice operators across the U.S. and Canada. The full-service marketer has offices throughout North and South America and relationships with growers around the world to ensure a 52-week supply of preferred produce items, including apples, pears, kiwifruit, grapes, pineapple, citrus, mangoes, berries, stone fruit and greenhouse-grown vegetables.

About the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent (PMAFIT)

Produce Marketing Association Foundation for Industry Talent was founded in 2006 by the Produce Marketing Association, the leading trade association for the produce industry. PMAFIT is a non-profit, 501 (c) 3 corporation dedicated to ensuring a quality workforce for the industry, and making a positive difference in the lives of current and future produce professionals by developing their potential for leadership, personal growth, and career success. For more information, visit www.pmaef.com.

About Produce Marketing Association (PMA)

Founded in 1949, the Produce Marketing Association is the leading trade association serving more than 2,100 companies representing every segment of the global produce and floral supply chain. Members rely on PMA year round for the business solutions they need to increase sales and consumption, build strong professional relationships, and expand their business opportunities. For more information, visit www.pma.com.

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