The Packer and the Canadian Produce Marketing Association have named Mimmo Franzone, senior director of produce, floral and merchandising services for Longo Brothers Fruit Markets, Canadian Produce Person of the Year. Matt Morgan, executive vice president, produce for The Packer presented the award on April 7, during CPMA’s annual banquet at its 96th annual Convention and Trade Show in Montreal.
Recognized for his longtime, creative and inspiring commitment to Canadian produce, Franzone has furthered the industry throughout his career. He led the Ontario-based Longo’s to become the first conventional North American retailer to launch a 100% Fairtrade-certified banana program, and industry colleagues describe him as unfaltering in his commitment to local produce and “making the grower the hero” through a variety of marketing channels.
Franzone joined Longo’s as a produce manager in 2003 and has spent the last 20 years championing different and unique types of produce, driving thousands of Canadians to expand their palates by trying new produce varieties.
“Mimmo is incredibly passionate about the industry,” said Morgan as he presented the award. His colleagues describe him as an “ideas man, generous with his time, and always willing to help others.” He continues to look for the latest and most innovative products to introduce to the Longo’s guest and has a strong eye for merchandising and marketing, Morgan added.
Franzone is an active member and leader in the Canadian produce industry. He’s been a director on the board of CPMA for over six years and sits on several committees with mandates that range from promoting greater consumption of fruits and vegetables to reducing and recycling plastic. He also works on CPMA’s Passion for Produce program, which offers mentorship to young leaders coming up in the fresh produce industry.
“Mimmo has demonstrated leadership in innovation, education, implementing sustainable initiatives and building strong partnerships with vendors,” said Morgan.
His contribution to the industry has not gone unnoticed. In 2020, he was awarded the Cutting Edge Innovator in Produce Award by Grocery Business. In 2021, he was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award by the Ontario Produce Marketing Association.
Franzone’s commitment to the industry extends across the Canadian border as an advisory board member with Viva Fresh and an at large member of the International Fresh Produce Association’s retail advisory council board.
