CANADA - April will be here before we know it, folks! That means it is time to get ready for the Canadian Produce Marketing Association’s (CPMA) Annual Convention and Trade Show, taking place April 25–27 in Toronto, Canada. As the industry ramps up for the show, I had the chance to chat with CPMA President Ron Lemaire, who told me why this is a can’t-miss event.

“Our Annual Convention and Trade Show brings the entire produce industry together to help members build and strengthen their business relationships,” Ron began. “In a recent CPMA membership value survey, the show was among the top aspects that our members value the most. It’s Canada’s largest event entirely dedicated to the produce industry, bringing together the entire fresh produce chain under one roof, from farm gate to dinner plate.”

Ron explained that despite the show’s large size, it is still considered a boutique format allowing participants the time to develop relationships with the speed and pace of the hyper-shows. It grants produce businesses from across the world access to Canada’s produce market, which is one of the largest in the world.

Attendees can enhance their skills, expand their professional networks, and strengthen their business relationships in a casual setting. Additionally, the onsite learning provides attendees with access to topics such as cybersecurity, sustainability, market development, and more. CPMA traditionally hosts over 20 different country representatives and again in 2023 will be celebrating international flavors with an international reception.

“The pandemic shifted how we do business, and while much of the business world transitioned to virtual or hybrid models, the produce industry remains one which requires face-to-face interaction to grow one’s business,” Ron continued. “Selling perishable products and the services that support our sector means knowing and trusting the person and company you are doing business with! The CPMA Convention and Trade Show provides that necessary forum for the industry to connect and renew old relationships or investigate new ones.”

This year, the show will feature over 600 exhibitors representing over 270 companies worldwide. CPMA’s New Product Showcase program will showcase 69 new products from 50 companies, and also new this year will be an inaugural Innovation Zone.

Education sessions will feature experts such as keynote speaker Josh Linkner. These experts will share insights on important topics impacting our industry, such as supply chain challenges, sustainability and innovation, women’s leadership in the industry, and the evolving workplace and produce market.

“We have been organizing the show for almost a century now, and I strongly believe it has greatly contributed to keeping the industry connected and the longevity of our association. This year, we will be celebrating our 98^th anniversary at our upcoming show in Toronto,” Ron expressed. “It has evolved over decades to become the go-to produce show where industry members can showcase products and services, meet with key industry leaders, launch new products, find new opportunities to grow, and see innovation as it comes to market.”

Ron noted that the Toronto event is traditionally CPMA’s largest, as the city and area are a central hub for produce across Canada. With a strong wholesale market, independent retail system, diverse food service establishments, and the national offices for all major retailers, the Toronto Fresh Week program will again bring a diverse group of industry members together and with over 1,200 unique companies participating.

“Whether you are looking to sell or buy domestic or imported products, or if you are a service provider to the supply chain, Fresh Week should be a key part of your business plan,” Ron concluded.

Stay tuned for more event updates as we inch closer toward April!

Canadian Produce Marketing Association