Equifruit has earned a spot on The Globe and Mail’s latest ranking of Canada’s Top Growing Women-Led Companies.
The list celebrates successful female entrepreneurship and trailblazing companies that are shaping Canada’s business landscape, according to a news release.
“We’re honored to appear on this list alongside other women-led companies that are transforming the face of business here in Canada,” said Jennie Coleman, president and co-owner of Equifruit. “As a 100% Fairtrade banana company, we are 100% committed to one of Fairtrade’s key tenets, gender equity. We won’t stop fighting to end discrimination and elevate women, both in our banana supply chains and here at home in Canada.”
Equifruit has been women-owned since its beginning, and its co-owners — Coleman and Kim Chackal, vice president of sales and marketing — are transforming the banana industry by promoting Fairtrade practices that support fair pay for farmers and workers, the release said.
Equifruit is a Certified Women-Owned Business through WEConnect International, a designation that recognizes women-led leadership and diversity in the marketplace. Under Coleman and Chackal’s leadership, Equifruit has been recognized as one of The Globe and Mail’s Canada’s Top Growing Companies for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024), showcasing its remarkable growth and dedication to ethical business practices, the company said.
This award celebrates not only the Montreal-based Equifruit’s growth under Coleman and Chackal, but also the culture and values that define Equifruit, making business a force for good, the release said.
Equifruit at CPMA 2025
Attendees of the upcoming Canadian Produce Marketing Association Convention and Trade Show, set for April 8-10 in Montreal, can catch Equifruit at Bbooth No. 1923. The company says the #BananaBadasses will be shining a spotlight on just how affordable fair pay for farmers really is — only an average of $5 more per year on your grocery bill. Equifruit is inviting show attendees to join them at their booth and “make it rain” $5 for banana farmers.
“This year’s CPMA is extra special for us,” Chackal said. “Not only is it CPMA’s centennial and Equifruit’s 10th time exhibiting, but it’s taking place in our home city of Montreal. I won’t spoil the surprise, but let’s just say Equifruit’s new booth will be a guaranteed showstopper.”
