2018 September Board Book

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NAFTA Mexico negotiations progressing With Mexico being our highest volume importer of California dairy and effects of the tariffs starting to kick in, it is notable that progress is being made in resuming negotiations. There is a possibility an agreement could be reached soon, with automobile and agricultural differences being worked out. It is not clear, however, if and when Canada will enter the talks as there is not a willingness yet to let go of their high, protective tariffs.

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PLMA Executive Education Program Key processors including a retailer/processor attended a 3-day executive education program at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia to gain insights on private label marketing from industry experts. Rizo Lopez, SSI and Albertsons/Safeway Manufacturing were our attendees/guests, sharing in the expenses. A special emphasis was placed on dairy products. With supermarket chains taking more control of their own destiny by expanding their own brands into super-premium items, processors need to understand what buyers are looking for. This shift will help retailers and processors to develop higher value items without the expense of promoting national brand.