Deloitte, professional services network and sponsor of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies award, announced the 2025 award winners May 7. Produce companies Oppy, Mastronardi Produce, Fresh Direct and Red Sun Farms were among the winners at the Platinum Club level, meaning the companies have won the award for seven consecutive years or more.
Oppy has received the award for 24 years running, being selected every year since 2001. In its news release about the award, the company attributed much of this sustained success to the leadership of John Anderson, its chairman, CEO and managing partner.
“John’s half-century with Oppy is nothing short of extraordinary,” said David Smith, Oppy’s president and chief operating officer. “This Best Managed recognition is, in many ways, a reflection of John’s enduring legacy and the team culture he helped foster.”
Reflecting on the milestone, Anderson said, “It is a true honor to receive this recognition year after year. It speaks volumes about our organization’s commitment to excellence and the strong values we nurture. I’m incredibly proud to celebrate this achievement with the people who have made Oppy what it is today.”
This is the 16th consecutive Canada’s Best Managed Companies award win for Mastronardi Produce.
“Our dedicated team truly drive our success as a company,” said Paul Mastronardi, president and CEO of Mastronardi Produce, in the company’s announcement of the win. “Being once again honored as one of Canada’s best Managed Companies in 2025 and retaining the prestigious Platinum Club is a testament to our team’s commitment to success.”
Fresh Direct Produce Ltd., and its partner companies Islands West Manufacturers Ltd. and Emperor Specialty Foods Ltd., was honored to win the award.
“We are excited to receive our 14th consecutive Best Managed Companies Award,” said Fresh Direct President Adri de Wet in the company’s announcement. “I want to thank our team members, customers, vendors and business partners for coming together to ensure a stable supply of nutritious and delicious fresh produce for Canadians, and we are excited to further expand our distribution in Canada as we celebrate our 22nd anniversary in business.”
For Red Sun Farms, 2025 marks its 13th win in a row. The company called the award a recognition of its continued performance and business practices in its news release announcing the award.
“This recognition highlights our dedication to investing time and effort in fostering strong, long-term business partnerships and developing a successful team,” said Carlos Visconti, CEO.
“Guided by our core values of accountability, collaboration, trust and innovation, we continue to cultivate an environment that makes Red Sun Farms a trusted partner for lasting relationships,” Visconti added. “Our team embraces these values in every aspect of our operations, and this acknowledgment reinforces our leadership within the produce industry.”
“To become a Best Managed Platinum Club winner is nothing short of remarkable. Their continued adaptability in an era of uncertainty sets the standard for how to overcome new barriers and demonstrate resiliency at the highest levels,” said Derrick Dempster, partner, Deloitte Private and co-leader, Canada’s Best Managed Companies program.
“These companies truly impact how Canada is viewed on the world stage when it comes to the success of private business.”
