Chairman's Letter
It is my very enjoyable duty to welcome you to this year's Annual U.S. Tea Association Convention.
This 59th event is a hybrid of the historical and enjoyable format of past conventions blended with facets
adopted from the very successful World Tea Forum held last year in Manhattan.
Someone once said that "... Most people miss opportunity because it comes dressed in overalls and disguised as work!"
In the office environment of today, opportunity is sometimes obscured by the complex nature of our business,
from legislative requirements to meeting the demands of the shareholders. And while many Brands are the constant
recipients of marketing spend, there would appear to be more potential than that yet harnessed.
The convention format allows you time to focus on issues meaningful to your business without the distractions that the multi-tasking Manager deals with sitting behind his desk. This year we shall be bringing you up to date on the substantial progress of the Global Pesticide Initiative (started at the WTF!), updates on the various FDA/Homeland security initiatives, a look at Ready to Drink, the practicalities of the tea and health message and much more on the opportunities for our beverage.
As for location, the Tea Association has done a great job in contracting the Ritz-Carlton in Cancun, which promises their usual efficient, sumptuous service amid this tropical paradise. Not that azure seas, warm breezes and rustling palms should be an argument to register; there are REAL reasons for attending. In addition to vital program content, the event offers many networking occasions and, for a far flung trade, a one-stop destination to discuss ongoing issues with industry allies.
The "opportunity" in this case may be easier to find. It may come dressed in shorts and a Bermuda shirt but it will be found at this US Tea Association Convention.
I look forward to personally welcoming you In Cancun.
Yours Sincerely,
John Snell
Convention Chairman