The Canadian Produce Marketing Association presented awards to several outstanding individuals for their contributions to the produce industry at the 93rd Annual Convention and Trade Show in Vancouver April 26. 

Fresh Health Award – Presented to the BC Produce Marketing Association

This prestigious award is presented to a company that has gone above and beyond in promoting the Half Your Plate program and/or the Freggie Children’s Program, aligning with the CPMA’s goal to increase the consumption of fresh produce in Canada for better health.

"Since the launch of Half Your Plate in 2014 the BC Produce Marketing Association has been an industry leader including the Half Your Plate logo, message and information on their website, promoting the message through their annual Healthy Chef competition and providing truck logos for their members. By integrating all these activities they have helped to share the message that the healthy choice is an easy choice: fill Half Your Plate with Fruits and Veggies at every meal,’” stated Ron Lemaire, president, CPMA.

The Mary Fitzgerald Award – Presented to Mike Catalano of Wonderful Brands

The Mary Fitzgerald Award is given to someone who has the same passion and dedication for the produce industry as Mary demonstrated throughout her career. This year the award was presented to Mike Catalano, regional sales manager for Wonderful Sales. “Mike has an incredible level of passion for the industry and has immersed himself in every industry association opportunity that he can. He is currently the vice chair of the CPMA Education Committee and participates in many industry events,” notes Chris Cockle.

CPMA Lifetime Achievement Award – Presented to Scott Fairbairn

This award honours an individual who has been recognized by their peers for their significant contribution in the produce industry throughout their career and for their continuous support of CPMA activities and industry initiatives. CPMA’s 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Scott Fairbairn category manager, produce operations at Thrifty Foods by Alex Campbell Jr.  CPMA President Ron Lemaire said of Scott, “Over his time on the CPMA Board of Directors and in his role on numerous committees, Scott was a dedicated senior volunteer providing clear vision and practical thinking to very complex issues in a very  diversified industry environment.”

Source:  CPMA April 27, 2018 news release