May 7, 2009

NOVI, Mich. - Michigan’s retailers demonstrated ongoing interest in the “Buy Local, Select Michigan” concept with overwhelming support of Michigan producers and specialty food companies at the recent Associated Food & Petroleum Dealers, Inc. (AFPD) Annual Trade Show in Novi.

Over 15 Michigan food companies and wineries showcased their specialty products to grocery retailers, specialty food stores and other food purchasers in a “Select Michigan Pavilion” at the AFPD show, hosted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Select Michigan Program.

“MDA, and our Select Michigan program, play an important role in helping the specialty crop and food producers enhance their profitability by creating or expanding their markets. Specialty crops are a tremendous contributor to the state’s agricultural economy and diversity,” said MDA Director Don Koivisto. “Michigan has an abundance of specialty fruits and vegetables and other commodities and this show allowed those companies to make connections with buyers seeking items made from Michigan products.”

Companies participating in the Select Michigan Pavilion included: Nicky’s Family Recipes, Sterling Heights; Shoreline Fruit, Traverse City; Sassy Products, Livonia; Grand Traverse Distillery, Traverse City; Chartreuse Organic Tea, Trenton; Get Mint Trading Company, St Johns; Hudsonville Ice Cream, Holland; Jemfruit, Bad Axe; American Premium Blends, Dearborn; Bizzy Lizzy Bakery, Hillsdale; Safie Specialty Foods Co., Mount Clemens; Heeren Brothers Produce, Grand Rapids and wineries from the SE Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail.

For more information about the MDA Select Michigan Program, visit www.SelectMichigan.org, or contact Christine Lietzau at 517-373-9800 or lietzauc@michigan.gov.