Paul Catania Jr., president and CEO of Catania Worldwide, has been named the 2026 Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. This prestigious honour recognizes individuals who make significant contributions to the fresh produce industry.

Catania’s achievements and contributions to the produce supply chain make him one of the renowned keyindustry leaders in Canada. His successful career spans more than five decades at his family’s business,Catania Worldwide, which was founded in 1929. He has played a pivotal role in carrying forward thecompany’s legacy of hard work, integrity, and commitment to quality, while shaping the Canadian Produceindustry globally.

Under his visionary leadership, the organization has expanded its operations throughout North America, strengthened its market presence, and embraced innovation while remaining true to the core values established nearly a century ago.

Beyond his business achievements, Catania is greatly involved in the produce industry. He is widely respectedfor his mentorship, generosity, and commitment to empowering employees, partners, and future leaders. Hisquiet philanthropy has cultivated a culture of paying it forward, resilience, and continuous improvement thatreflects both his character and the enduring principles of his father Paul Catania Sr. and grandfather MichaelLeonard Catania.

“Paul Catania Jr. is renowned for his decades-long career which illustrates leadership and unwaveringdedication to support his team in efforts to advancing the fresh produce supply chain globally,” says RonLemaire, CPMA president. “His commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation have not only shapedhis family business legacy but also inspired the next generations of produce industry professionals in NorthAmerica and beyond.”

Paul Catania will be presented with this award alongside other industry members and businesses at the CPMA Convention and Trade Show’s Awards Brunch on Thursday, April 30, in Toronto.

Source:  Canadian Produce Marketing Association April 8, 2026 news release