RESTON, Va., and OAKLAND, Calif. – The North American Meat Association (NAMA), born through the merger of the National Meat Association and the North American Meat Processors Association, begins operations July 2. NAMA, consisting of approximately 700 member companies in the US, Canada, Mexico and other countries, is one of the larger meat-industry associations in North America and dedicated to a goal of safe food in a sound and competitive marketplace.

NAMA is operating two offices in the US: one in Oakland, Calif., and another in Reston, Va. It also has an office in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

“Together we can achieve an excellence that builds upon the remarkable accomplishments of both groups,” said NAMA CEO Barry Carpenter. Phil Kimball, CAE, is executive director.

NAMA services, which include workplace issues support, legislative analysis and media assistance, will continue supporting members/ Regulatory guidance and proactive information will also be provided. The NAMP Meat Buyer’s Guide and associated products will continue to be published by NAMA.

In order to ensure a seamless transition while maximizing synergies, officers from the consolidating organizations will share leadership positions. NAMA co-officers are: Co-Chairs of the Board – Larry Vad, Ideal Meat & Provision; and Jeff Saval, Deli Brands of America; Co-Presidents – Mike Satzow, North Country Smokehouse, and Marty Evanson, Jobbers Meat Packing; Co-Vice Presidents – Mike Hesse, Beef Products Inc., and Tony Gahn, Jr. Gahn Meat Co. Inc.; Co-Treasurers – John Vatri, Cardinal Meat Specialists Inc. and Brian Coelho, Central Valley Meat; and Co-Secretaries – Don Clift, Preferred Beef Group, and Joe Maas, JTM Provisions.

The first meeting of the new association will be the NAMA Outlook Conference in San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 24-27.

For more information, visit NAMA’s new website at www.meatassociation.com.