May 16, 2008

Seeley Conference Stresses Differentiation, InnovationSource: Cornell University

In a time of heightened rivalry resulting from a maturing marketplace, growers need to differentiate themselves from the competition. This year’s Seeley Conference, taking place June 21 to 24 at Cornell University, will explore the topic: “Profit Squeeze: Is Differentiation the Solution?”

The conference addresses changes in the industry’s marketplace, with focus on differentiation and innovation as ways to achieve success. Growers Gary Mangum of Bell Nursery in Maryland and Brian Minter of Minter Country Gardens in British Columbia, both renowned for their approaches to the marketplace, will share their perspectives on differentiation for the mass marketer and the independent retailer.

In addition, William Lipinski, CEO of First Pioneer Farm Credit, will discuss “the ultimate product.” Conference Coordinator Bill Gouldin, of Virginia-based Strange’s Florists, Greenhouses and Garden Centers along with Drs. Charlie Hall of Texas A&M University and Marvin Miller of Ball Horticultural Company, will facilitate the discussions.

The conference is a tremendous opportunity for growers and others to focus on the future, according to a Cornell University press release.

The event is organized by Gouldin and the Seeley Conference Board of Directors. Author Jim Marstiller, senior vice-president of consulting services for TNS Retail Forward, a leading management consulting and market research firm specializing in consumer behavior will be the keynote speaker.

For more information, visit http://www.hort.cornell.edu/seeleyconference/ or contact Dolores Higareda at (607) 255-1789.