The world’s leading blueberry industry body has made changes to its board, ushering in a new era of development and collaboration for the popular fruit.

During the International Blueberry Organization (IBO) Summit in Argentina and Uruguay this week, the group announced Peter McPherson would take the reigns as the new president.

Mr McPherson, who is the General Manager – Berry International at Australia’s largest integrated fresh produce company Costa Group, said his election was unexpected but certainly an honor.

“I am very proud to represent the Australian Blueberry Growers Association and now the global blueberry industry - that being said I have big shoes to fill following on from my good friend [Chilean Blueberry Committee president] Mr Andres Armstrong and we must maintain focus on delivering value to all our members,” he said.

“Given Mother Nature’s influence on our business every day presents new challenges, and given the generic nature of the IBO we will continue to add value to all growers as the industry continues to grow – after all that’s what the IBO stands for.

“Hence we will strive to raise the bar with greater quality of information flow via the various forms of social media to assist this growth.”

Argentinean Blueberry Committee (ABC) President Carlos Stabile will step into Mr McPherson’s previous role of treasurer, while Polish industry representative Stephen Taylor will continue as IBO secretary.

The IBO is a global organization bringing together leaders from around the blueberry world in all segments of the industry, including blueberry producers and marketers, affiliated business, social groups, and governmental organizations worldwide. We come together to learn, share, increase, understanding, distribute information, address mutual challenges, coordinate potential solutions and explore opportunities. Ultimately, the organization exists to advance the health and sustainability of the blueberry industry.