Florida agriculture has played an important role in Florida’s 500-year history, providing food and fiber for the people of Florida, the United States and around the world. Today, Florida agriculture has a $100 billion impact on our state’s economy and employs nearly 1 million Floridians – and it continues to grow. As Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, one of my most important missions is to strengthen and grow Florida’s agriculture industry.[emember_protected custom_msg=”Click here and register now to read the rest of the article!”]
Through the “Fresh From Florida” brand, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services works to raise awareness of the high-quality fruits and vegetables we produce in Florida, as well as promote the sale of Florida products.
We’re proud of the success we’ve had thus far in increasing consumer awareness of the “Fresh From Florida” brand and the products it represents. This year, we launched the first statewide advertising campaign to promote fresh Florida seafood and produce. Advertisements featuring easy-to-prepare recipes are currently airing on major network and cable television stations statewide. Print and online advertisements are running in target magazines and websites to complement the television campaign.
To build on this recent success, we plan to expand the use of television, print, and online advertising in the coming year. We are also expanding member programs specifically designed to grow agriculture industry sales. I am confident the new energy behind the “Fresh From Florida” campaign will have a positive impact on Florida’s entire agricultural industry.
I encourage Florida’s farmers, growers, and ranchers to join the “Fresh From Florida” program to support our efforts, as well as reap the benefits of these recharged and exciting new programs. Members have the opportunity to use the “Fresh From Florida” logo, receive point-of-purchase materials, access trade leads, tie-in to supermarket promotions, and display a farm sign customized with the member’s business name.
I value your partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and your continued support for our efforts. To learn more about the “Fresh From Florida” program and view the latest advertisements, visit www.FreshFromFlorida.com.
CREDITS
column by Commissioner Adam H. Putnam
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