Participation in SIAL Exhibition Expands Horizons

On October 17, 2014, Managing Director Roger Brou traveled to Paris, France to participate in the renowned Salon International de l’Agroalimentaire (SIAL), a trade show which seeks to advance the agri-food industry.  This year, food professionals from 200 different countries convened to see 1,757 innovative products, 250 conferences, debates, and keynotes, and 6,500 exhibitors from 105 countries.  Representing both African agriculture and the cashew industry as a whole, Mr. Brou greatly contributed to the diverse array of food advocates. 

His purpose for this trip was primarily to expand ACA’s business network and to increase its international exposure in order to strengthen its partnership base and, ultimately, its efficacy in promoting the African cashew industry on an international level.  By actively engaging with people across different nut value chains, he gained a greater understanding of the current market trends, thereby equipping ACA to handle any future challenges and to embrace potential opportunities.  He met with several ACA members to fortify relationships, including Burkina Faso-based Gebana and Benin-based Caro Nuts and Fludor, while simultaneously meeting with organizations and companies which could become new members.

One such company, Katoen Natie, focusing on logistics, engineering, and food innovation in Antwerp, Belgium, invited Mr. Brou to visit its headquarters and to discuss membership and potential for future collaboration.  On October 23, he visited the company and met with its senior management personnel, ultimately resulting in a new membership agreement.  The company is now excited to explore new business opportunities in the West African agricultural sector.