(NAFB) – Leaders of the Produce Marketing Association and United Fresh Produce Association have reached an agreement to create a new global trade association.

The agreement will combine the two groups. The two associations will continue to operate as independent organizations through 2021, with the new association to be launched January 1, 2022.

A United Fresh spokesperson says, ”This agreement reflects the ongoing commitment of both associations to deliver the highest level of value to members.”

Over the past several months, PMA CEO Cathy Burns and United Fresh CEO Tom Stenzel have worked with a group of Board leaders from each association to develop the strategic commitments for the new association. The new association will be led jointly by Burns and Stenzel as Co-CEOs throughout 2022. After that time, Burns will become the sole CEO.

Over the coming months, Burns and Stenzel will work with their staff teams and Board leaders to build out the new organization.