CPMA Announces A Record Number Of Passion For Produce Participants

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) is proud to announce the participants for the 2015 Passion for Produce (PFP) Program in Montreal. As an added value to membership, PFP was created by the CPMA in 2010 to provide rising stars in the produce industry with the opportunity to accelerate their professional development through a unique mentoring experience at the Annual Convention and Trade Show. At 19 attendees, this is the largest number of participants to date.

“We are thrilled to have so many rising stars from some of the leading companies within our industry” said Ron Lemaire, President, CPMA. “PFP provides mentoring and education in a fast-paced but fun setting where participants learn through targeted mentoring sessions and networking events. This program also gives participants the opportunity to increase their knowledge beyond the scope of their current role within the industry.”

Over the three day Convention and Trade Show, PFP candidates are partnered with industry mentors for off-site tours, interactive sessions, networking events, and more to learn all they can about the fresh produce industry in Canada. PFP candidates gain knowledge through first-hand experiences, discussions, and networking that empowers them to return to work with an enriched understanding and renewed enthusiasm for the produce industry. Candidates develop lasting relationships with mentors, fellow candidates, and other industry leaders that will guide them through their careers. PFP has mentored 65 candidates to date and is proud to continue growing this program.

The CPMA is proud to announce the 2015 PFP candidates:

  • Gregory Bass / Metro Richelieu Inc.
  • Lynda Dick / Red Sun Farms
  • Peter Duckett / Loblaw
  • Sarah Friesen /Vineland Growers Co-operative Ltd.
  • Jack C. Hall / The Giumarra Companies
  • Allen Hoang / Westmoreland Sales
  • Pierre Landry / QPMA Internship / Sobeys
  • Lex (Barry) Lexchin / Richard E. Ryan & Associates Ltd.
  • Fiona McLean / Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers
  • Justin Meilleur  / Del Monte Fresh Produce Canada, Inc.
  • Dorothy Redick /  First Fruits Marketing of Washington, LLC
  • Michael Rojas / AMC Direct Inc.
  • Susan Sipos / Nova Agri Inc.
  • Bryson Slade / Martin's Produce Sales
  • Michael Sousa / Mann Packing Co. Inc.
  • Jean-Luc Talbot / Metro Richelieu Inc.
  • Rhaymond Tuazon / Fresh Direct Produce Ltd.
  • Ryan Thomas / Markon Cooperative
  • Joel Veri / Exeter Produce

For more information about the program or to arrange an interview please contact:

Vanessa Sherry, Communications Manager Canadian Produce Marketing Association 613-226-4187 ext. 225 / vsherry@cpma.ca

Source:  Canadian Produce Marketing Association