Katie MacLennan becomes the new chair of the board, the first female to do so. A seed grower, she and her husband farm in West Cape.

Apple growers – and first cousins -- Katie Campbell & William Spurr from Spurr Brothers Farm, Melvern Square, Nova Scotia will be representing Atlantic Canada.

Several horticultural businesses and associations have won recognition in the annual competition.

Massimo Bergamini will be retiring from the Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada. A leadership search process is to be finalized for his replacement.

Canada’s second largest grocer, with $31 billion in sales, has announced a company veteran will lead the next chapter in its growth.