Taking Care Of Business

By Greenhouse Grower staff|November 3, 2009

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We had a productive few days in Park City, Utah, last week, facilitating more than 400 strategic business meetings for leading growers and vendors during our Greenhouse Xchange, Oct. 25-28 at the Lodges at Deer Valley.

Greenhouse Xchange began four years ago as a joint venture between Greenhouse Grower magazine and Vertical Xchange in Burnsville, Minn. Our sister magazines at Meister Media Worldwide have launched Xchange events in the vegetable and tree fruit markets.

Growers participating in this year’s Greenhouse Xchange include representatives from our Top 100 Growers and Top 25 Young Plant Growers, as well as leading nursery operations. Vendors span the complete gamut of grower input, structure and equipment needs, as well as specialized services, such as helping growers secure energy grants or legal workers through H2A.

While at least half the participants had participated before, an influx of new participants on both the grower the vendor sides keeps the event fresh each year. Growers who participated this year said they like the format and the focused time away from their operations to have strategic discussions they wouldn’t normally have with companies they already do business with as well as new ones. Some of the growers had as many as 20 meetings over the two days. But the best part is the fellowship and networking opportunities with the entire group of nearly 150 people during meals, receptions and after hours. Growers really appreciate the opportunity to talk to fellow growers from all over the country in an intimate setting. To see the highlights of this year’s event, view the slideshow below.