Joe Watson, VP of retail, foodservice and wholesale for the International Fresh Produce Association, has died following a prolonged battle with cancer, the association announced. He was 62.
Watson was one of the produce industry’s most recognizable connections to the retail buying community, known for his relationships across the trade and his regular analysis of fresh produce sales data and consumer trends, according to IFPA.
“Joe was synonymous with many of our connections and engagement with the buying community in our industry,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns.
“A true retailer at heart who was quick with a handshake and who knew practically every buyer by face and name. His stories about his ‘retail days’ were legendary, sharing merchandising success stories and pictures of stores he since visited. The industry consistently looked to him for his insights and analysis of our sales data and consumer trends. His passion for our industry was only surpassed by his faith and love for his family.”
Watson joined IFPA legacy organization Produce Marketing Association in June 2015 as VP of domestic business development. Before joining PMA, he was director of produce for Thibodaux, Louisiana-based Rouses Supermarkets, where he managed produce operations for the chain’s 46 stores.
At IFPA, Watson was a fixture of the association’s retail-facing programming, helping lead The Retail Conference, championing the Retail Produce Manager Awards recognizing standout produce managers across the country and serving as a frequent industry voice on monthly fresh produce sales trends.
“Joe was beloved and will be sorely missed by the many IFPA staff and volunteers who had the pleasure of knowing and working alongside him to make the global fresh produce community better,” the organization said.
Watson is survived by his wife, Jeannie, two daughters and a granddaughter.
Related: IFPA’s The Retail Conference: Shaping Tomorrow’s Business, Today