CPMA successfully hosts its largest convention and trade show to date in Toronto

Last week, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) hosted its 2026 Convention and Trade Show, which brought together produce industry members, innovators, and attendees from around the world. The event was highly successful, attracting over 4,600 attendees. 

Over 700 exhibitors representing more than 330 companies filled the Trade Show floor. Among those, 151 were international exhibitors from 13 countries, 194 Canadians, and 49 exhibitors were new members. Thanks to the generosity of these exhibitors, over 42,300 pounds of fresh produce were donated to Toronto’s Daily Bread Food Bank. The 2026 New Product Showcase featured 66 products from 51 different companies. 

“CPMA’s Annual Convention and Trade Show provides produce industry professionals with exceptional networking, education, and business development opportunities,” says Ron Lemaire, President of the organization. “The remarkable turnout and international participation at this year’s event were unprecedented, illustrating the competitiveness of the Canadian produce marketplace and the key role it plays in driving the economy in Canada and beyond.” 

CPMA honors the best of the produce industry

Congratulations to the following individuals and companies who earned honors at this year’s event:

• Fresh Health Award – Peak of the Market Ltd. 

• Young Professional Award – Amanda Knauff, Taylor Farms 
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Paul Catania Jr., Catania Worldwide 
• The Packer’s Produce Person of the Year Award – Daniel Terrault, Gen V 

Best Booth Awards 

• Best Island Booth Award – DelFrescoPure® 
• Best Inline Booth Award– Bayshore Family Farms 
• Best First-Time Exhibitor Booth Award – The Produce Counter 
• People’s Choice Award - Equifruit 

New Product Showcase Awards 

• Best New Product Award – Arte salad, The Produce Counter 
• Packaging Innovation Award – SUNSET® Tomato Branch, Mastronardi Produce • Organics Award – Earthbound Farm Beet Greens, Earthbound Farm 
• Best Snackable Product Award – Apple Sticks, Martin's Family Fruit Farm Ltd 

Following the Annual Convention and Trade Show, CPMA hosted the 2nd edition of Women in Produce Summit, providing women with a unique networking and educational opportunity. 

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