Kent Shoemaker named Chairman of AgroFresh Solutions

USA – AgroFresh Solutions, Inc. has appointed Kent Shoemaker as the Chairman of its Board of Directors.

Kent Shoemaker brings a wealth of experience to AgroFresh, having served as CEO of Lipman Family Farms for nearly 14 years.

Lipman Family Farms, the largest open-field tomato grower in North America, provides fresh produce year-round through an integrated network of research and development, farming, processing, and packing.

Clint Lewis, CEO of AgroFresh, expressed his enthusiasm for Shoemaker’s appointment: “As we continue to expand our products and services for additional crops, we remain committed to helping our customers meet their post-harvest challenges at every step in the fresh produce supply chain.”

“We are excited to welcome a leader like Kent who has walked in our customers’ shoes and has been a successful business leader with direct experiences in produce production and managing risk along the supply chain as produce travels from harvest to home.”

Shoemaker’s journey in the agriculture sector is marked by a deep respect for sustainable practices.

Reflecting on his new role, Shoemaker said, “A deep respect has marked my journey to this role for agriculture and a passion for fostering sustainable practices. It is an honor to be associated with such a highly regarded leader around produce sustainability.”

AgroFresh is known for its pioneering work in post-harvest solutions, including the use of 1-MCP (1-methylcyclopropene) for ethylene management.

This innovation helps maintain the freshness of produce during storage and transportation.

Additionally, AgroFresh developed Uvasys, the world’s first laminated SO₂ generating sheets product, which controls fungal decay in grapes and other produce.

Shoemaker’s appointment comes at a time when AgroFresh is expanding its pathways for growth. The company recently completed the acquisitions of Tessara and Pace International, enhancing its capabilities and market reach.

“Kent’s experience will be invaluable to us as AgroFresh continues its transformation to expand its pathways for growth,” Lewis added.

Shoemaker replaces Brian Kocher as Chairman of the Board. Kocher has recently transitioned off the Board to take on the role of CEO for SunOpta.

Shoemaker will join other independent board members, including Tina Lawton, former APAC President of Syngenta; Sandor Nagy, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Supply Chain at Driscoll’s; and David McInerney, Founder and Former CEO of Fresh Direct.

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