SALINAS, Calif. —The Ontario Produce Marketing Association (OPMA) celebrated its premier Annual Gala Event & Awards Ceremony in Toronto on Friday, Nov. 8. The event is regarded as the most anticipated event of the year where produce industry professionals gather for an evening of celebration, recognition and networking.
The OPMA honors produce partners and colleagues who have significantly contributed to improving the industry. The OPMA FRESH AWARD—one of the highlights of the event—is presented “to a young individual, or newcomer to the industry, that has demonstrated innovation, passion, spirit and dedication towards the produce industry and consistently exhibits a fervent determination to improve the quality, distribution or consumption of fruit and vegetables marketed within or outside the province of Ontario.”
Ben Alviano, Canadian National Account Manager for Mann Packing in Salinas, Calif., was the recipient of this year’s OPMA Fresh Award. Ben has been with the family-owned, third generation fresh produce company for two years. Mann’s CEO Lorri Koster said, “It’s not surprising that Ben is being recognized for his contributions to the produce industry by the OPMA. We’re proud of his hard work and ability to build solid relationships with our Canadian retail partners.”
Greg Kurkjian, VP of retail sales, added, “Ben continually demonstrates Mann’s core values—honor, quality, vision and passion—in his work ethic and excellence in his customer service, and we’re thrilled to have him on the Mann team.”
About Mann Packing Company
Mann Packing Company, Inc., located in Salinas, Calif., is an industry-leading supplier of fresh vegetables. Mann Packing Company is certified as a women’s business enterprise through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation’s largest third party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the US. Mann encourages the commitment to supplier diversity that is embraced by corporations and government agencies today.
Source: Mann Packing Company