Last week, our team had the privilege of attending the Canadian Produce Marketing Association’s Annual Convention and Trade Show, one of the most energizing and valuable events of the year for anyone in fresh produce. For us, CPMA isn’t just a tradeshow; it’s a powerful opportunity for connection, exploring emerging trends, and showcasing the innovation happening right here at Gwillimdale Farms. Events like this help us stay ahead of industry shifts, connect with partners who share our passion for fresh food, and continue investing in the future of Canadian produce.
From the moment we arrived, the energy was unmistakable. The show floor buzzed with meaningful conversations, new connections, and exciting opportunities. We were thrilled to reconnect with long‑time partners and equally excited to meet so many new faces who are shaping the future of our industry. Thank you to everyone who stopped by, your engagement and enthusiasm made this week truly memorable.
A special highlight this year was seeing our Marketing & Communications Manager, Courtney Walker, selected for CPMA’s Passion for Produce (PFP) program. This immersive leadership experience brings together emerging produce professionals for mentorship, guided learning, and hands‑on exposure across the supply chain. It’s designed to empower the next generation of leaders, and we couldn’t be prouder to see Courtney representing Gwillimdale Farms in such an impactful program.
Day 1 brought an unforgettable moment when Premier Doug Ford stopped by our booth. It was an honour for our team and a great way to kick off the week. The conversations that followed about innovation, sustainability, and the future of Canadian agriculture, set the tone for a productive and inspiring event.
Our booth was buzzing with excitement around our new Arterra™ Rainbow carrots and our expanded root vegetable programs. We were grateful for all the positive feedback on our new booth design as well, it was wonderful to see how many people connected with the look, feel, and story behind our brand.
Of course, CPMA isn’t just about business, it’s also about community. Our team had a fantastic time at the after‑party at Ripley’s Aquarium, where lively conversations and great music kept the energy high. The carnival‑themed after‑party was equally unforgettable, and the banquet dinner was the perfect way to wind down after a full week of learning, connections, and celebration.
Across the show floor, we sampled an incredible variety of fresh products, and soaked in insights from the Learning Lounges. One standout moment was seeing Alexa Hambly, our VP of Business Optimization and fifth‑generation Gwillimdale leader, speak on the Half Your Plate Symposium panel. The discussion; From Farm to Fork: Navigating Challenges, Sustainability, and Innovation in Canada’s Produce Industry, highlighted the importance of collaboration and forward‑thinking leadership in our sector.
And of course, we can’t forget the food. Our Arterra™ Rainbow Carrot Asian‑inspired slaw was a hit! Fresh, vibrant, and a perfect showcase of what makes our carrots so special. (You can find the recipe here: Rainbow Carrot Salad.) But the true star of the show? Our Carrot and Parsnip Ice Cream Sandwiches. These weren’t your average treats, freshly grated Gwillimdale carrots and parsnips added natural sweetness, moisture, and a subtle earthy flavour that paired beautifully with warm spices and creamy filling. A little unexpected, a lot delicious, and a fun way to highlight the versatility of our Ontario‑grown vegetables.
As we wrap up an incredible week, we’re grateful for the conversations, connections, the learning, and the shared excitement for what’s ahead. CPMA continues to be a cornerstone event for our industry, and we’re already looking forward to next year.
If we missed you, or if our conversations were cut short, we’d love to reconnect.
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Let’s keep the momentum going.