The Ontario Produce Marketing Association’s (OPMA) 31st Annual Gala and Awards Ceremony honour individuals or organizations whose efforts have made a significant impact on the Ontario produce industry.

The OPMA Fresh Award, presented to an individual who demonstrates a fervent determination to improve the quality, distribution or consumption of fruits and vegetables marketed within or outside of Ontario during 2022, was awarded to Gord Watson, from Sobeys for his dedication to innovation and sustainability.

The Cory Clack-Streef Produce Person of the Year Award recognizes individuals who work tirelessly to improve the consumption of fruits and vegetables through innovation and hard work. Congrats to Jane Ryno from Nature Fresh Farms for her dedication to mentoring the next generation and spearheading marketing initiatives such as 100% recyclable packaging.

The OPMA Outstanding Achievement Award was presented to the Berry Growers of Ontario for its online marketing efforts. Each of its 200+plus strawberry, raspberry and blueberry growers has the ability to quickly update their hours of operation and on-farm picking conditions in real time. The objective is to reach millennials, in particular, who want a look-and-click solution to their food sourcing and hyper-local activity browsing.

The Produce Hero award, presented to a group of individuals who embody the passion of the produce industry in their every day work was awarded to seven individuals and companies: Vince Filangeri from Mastronardi Produce, Chris Veillon from Pure Flavor, Jody Mott from the Holland Marsh Grower’s Association, Madison Hopper from Equifruit, Michael Wexler from Oppy, Stephanie Myles from Nature Fresh Farms and the Asparagus Farmers of Ontario.

Lastly, the OPMA Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to an individual who has dedicated many years of their lives to improving the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, was awarded to Paul Mastronardi from Mastronardi Produce for his life- long commitment to shaping and innovating in the produce industry.

Source:  Ontario Produce Marketing Association November 19, 2022 news release