New Food Safety Act Changes Game

As most of you are aware, the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act will have a significant impact on companies selling food items to the US. Between October 1, and December 31 2012, all Food Facility Registrations must be renewed, and then registration resubmitted every two years.  FDA will also have new enforcement powers over companies and their shipments to the US to ensure food safety.

In the past, Hamman Marketing Associates has acted as US Agent of Record for FDA facilities registration.  As of Q4 2012, we will no longer accept US Agent of Record assignments.  There are significant legal and financial implications under the new law that force us change our position on this topic.  We are happy to provide a free PDF that highlights the changes you need to know, and our colleagues at Registrar Corp can provide additional important details and guidance on this topic.

Of course, we will continue to support brands entering the US market with integrated marketing communications programs, package design, partner searches and special event promotion as outlined on our website.  We are passionate about helping companies build awareness and take advantage of the opportunities the US market has to offer.  We appreciate our client support in the past, and look forward to serving your marketing communication needs in the months and years to come.

New Tools for Foreign Market Access

Hamman Marketing Associates has been accepted to participate in the Enterprise Development Network (EDN) Program for the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) as a paid service provider and a loan originator for the organization.

OPIC is the US Government’s development finance institution. It mobilizes private capital to help solve critical world challenges and in doing so, advances U.S. foreign policy. Because OPIC works with the U.S. private sector, it helps U.S. businesses gain footholds in emerging markets, catalyzing revenues, jobs and growth opportunities both at home and abroad. OPIC achieves its mission by providing investors with financing, guarantees, political risk insurance, and support for private equity investment funds.

There will be a steep learning curve, and I'll be attending a 3-day seminar held by Moody's in Washington DC next month to help sharpen my skills on topics including:

• Credit Underwriting
• Assessing Equity Investments
• Conducting Due Diligence
• Constructing Financial Models
• Writing Business Plans
• OPIC Finance and Political Risk Insurance 101

  In an ever growing global economy, we feel this is an important step in our international business consulting practice.