Andy LaVigne. (AgWired photo)

Alexandria, VA (December 20, 2023) — The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) brought its well-known and widely attended Field Crop Seed Convention to Orlando for the first time.

Formerly known as the CSS and Seed Expo, the new name and location demonstrates member company and attendee interest to expand the topics and commodities discussed at the December meeting, as well as interest to move to another location. For the last several years, ASTA leadership has engaged the board of directors, member companies, and attendees through surveys and ongoing discussions about ASTA’s line-up of events.

The new location also provided a different gateway for attendees, making international travel easier and more accessible for the 15% of attendees who traveled from outside the United States.

“ASTA is grateful to our board of directors, member companies and attendees for their participation in a successful first conference," said Andy LaVigne, President & CEO, American Seed Trade Association. "As a member-driven organization, we actively engage and listen to our 700+ member companies regarding their needs and interests, ensuring that the events, member services, and materials we provide match the high quality they have come to expect from us. The 2023 Field Crop Seed Convention in Orlando was a solid foundation that will allow us to build on for future conventions, benefiting the American seed industry and our international partners. We look forward to continue receiving feedback from member companies and attendees, and are excited to welcome them back to Orlando next December.”

Highlights from the 2023 Field Crop Seed Convention Include:

  • A streamlined convention schedule, minimizing the number of sessions and panels provided to increase the quality of speakers and panelists on relevant topics.
  • 112 exhibitors, a 14% increase from 2022 exhibitor count
    • 21 exhibitors were first time exhibitors
  • Six large equipment displays
  • Attendees and exhibitors represented 27 countries
  • Attendees and exhibitors represented 493 companies
  • 28% of attendees were first-time attendees

Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents nearly 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is the leading voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association's broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.


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