VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA — Sustainability was a hot topic with numerous exhibitors at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association Conference and Trade Show, April 23-25
Sustainability was front and center at the Chiquita booth, where the discussion turned to the banana company’s Yelloway Intiative, the goal of which is producing bananas that are resistant to both pathogenic diseases and environmental threats.
Chiquita is synonymous with the women’s empowerment movement, said Chiquita’s Tina Varjabedian.
“It’s unique that a woman has been the face of a major company for all these years,” she said.
Chiquita also showed off its new branded banana merchandising display unit that allows for cross-merchandising of cereal, nuts, pineapple and more.
“It’s great for encouraging cross-category consumption,” said Varjabedian. A video component of the display unit brings to life the banana’s journey from the tropics to the U.S., she added.
Mucci Farms highlighted its Savorries Sweet Strawberry Tomato line.
“It’s a very versatile tomato,” said Ajit Saxena. Mucci Farms also celebrated winning the Canadian Produce Marketing Association 2024 Packaging Innovation Award for its sustainable mesh bags made of paper and bamboo.
“CPMA is a great opportunity to connect with everyone,” said Gwillimdale Farms’ Alexa Hambly.
At the booth, the company showcased its Gwilly’s Second Best line of No. 2 potatoes that were also featured in the new products showcase.
“This year we’re focused on sustainability,” said Chris Christian of the California Strawberry Commission. “The California strawberry industry [members] are pioneers in drip irrigation and integrated pest management.”
“We’re a minority, Mexican-American, woman-owned importer. We’re here to find opportunities in Canada,” said Natalia Merienne of Avocado Queen, who added CPMA was the company’s first international trade show.
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