Equifruit, the Montreal-based Fairtrade International-certified banana company, has been named one of Canada’s top growing companies by The Globe and Mail for a fourth consecutive year. Ranked No. 174 with a growth rate of 195%, this is the company’s highest position on the list yet, up from No. 229 in 2024.
“We’re so proud to be included again on this year’s list,” says Jennie Coleman, president and co-owner of Equifruit. “For us, growth is not just about numbers, it’s about impact for banana farmers. Every Equifruit Fairtrade banana sold means fairer wages and better conditions for banana growers. That drives us to keep growing across North America.”
Demand for Fair Trade Bananas on the Rise
A certified B Corp and women-owned business, Equifruit says its sustained growth speaks to consumer demand for fair-trade bananas in North America. In the past five years in Canada, organic, fair-trade certified banana volumes have grown by 521% and one in three organic bananas are now fair trade, supported by major retailers switching their organic banana program to fair trade, according to a news release. Equifruit says this growth creates positive impact for banana farmers.
This latest milestone comes on the heels of Equifruit’s other achievements this year, including becoming a certified Fairtrade workplace and achieving a place in ECIP’s Leadership Circle, which recognizes produce suppliers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to improving labor practices.
Equifruit Goes Bananas for Fairtrade Month
Equifruit says it is now gearing up for Fairtrade Month, a global celebration where retailers and brands spotlight what it means to “buy better” this October. Equifruit says it will position the Equifruit Fairtrade banana as a fruit that fuels the body and pays banana farmers fairly.
The Equifruit team also plans to attend the IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show, Oct. 16-18, in Anaheim, Calif. Meet the team at booth No. 3568 and “prepare to go bananas.”
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