The board of directors for the Food Products Association (FPA) and the executive committee of the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) have agreed, in principle, to merge the two organizations effective January 1, 2007.

The board of directors for the Food Products Association(FPA) and the executive committee of theGrocery Manufacturers Association(GMA) have agreed, in principle, to merge the two organizations effective January 1, 2007. The merger will not be fully ratified until GMA's board of directors approves the terms of the agreement.Cal Dooley, FPA president and CEO, has been named to head the merged organization, which will be known as GMA/FPA for the first year. After that, it will be known as GMA.



Racine FederatedelectedJohn Erskine IIIas vice president. He will serve on the executive and divisional management committees and continue as product manager for Racine's Vortex flowmeter line.



Brian Kaufmanwas promoted to the position of engineering director of natural cuts withSargento Foods. He has held a variety of engineering positions with the company since 1996.



Bobby L. Hallhas been named an honorary lifetime director of theAmerican Dairy Products Institute.



Tetra PakandCarlisle Processing Systemshave reached an agreement where Tetra Pak will acquire the company, which is the cheese and powder processing business ofCarlisle Companies.



Ice cream and frozen yogurt makerBrigham'shiredGreg Campbellas director of sales grocery. He was previously business development manager atEdy's Grand Ice Creamand is currently president of theFrozen and Refrigerated Association of the Northeast. Bob Carlsonwas promoted to vice president of food service and brand development from his post as director of sales.Greg Welchwas hired as vice president of finance and business development. He was formerly the general manager of Gerrity Stone.



Devault FoodsappointedJim Falboas director of production. The company produces sandwich steaks, meatballs, hamburgers and specialty items.



Diehl Food Ingredientshas been formed through the asset purchase ofDiehlbyHighlander Partners. Charles Nicolaishas been named president and principal.