Celebrating 100 Years!
Since 1925, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) has strived for progress and growth by developing a sense of community through active involvement of its members. As CPMA marks its 100th anniversary in 2025, our goal is to continue this journey towards sustainable success now and in the future as the solution space for the produce industry. Join us in celebrating this meaningful occasion in Canada and across the world.
THE MAKINGS OF OUR LEGACY
TIMELINE
Innovation
Refrigeration Technology
The widespread adoption of refrigeration allowed for the storage and transportation of perishable produce over long distances.
CPMA
Eastern Canada Fruit and Vegetable Jobbers Founded
On May 19, 1925, a group of fruit and vegetable wholesalers meet in the Montreal Fruit Auction to discuss organizing their industry. This meeting lead to the foundation of the Eastern Canadian Fruit ans Vegetable Jobbers Association, which becomes the seed of the latter-day CPMA.
CPMA
Leslie Franklin Burrows
Leslie Franklin Burrows, one of the founding members of the ECFVJA, becomes the First Secretary/Treasurer and holds this role until 1968.
CPMA
Western Canada Fruit Jobbers Association and Newfoundland Wholesalers Join
Three Newfoundland wholesalers and the Western Canadian Fruit Jobbers Association join the ECFVJA
Innovation
Synthetic Pesticides
The development of synthetic pesticides revolutionized crop protection, reducing losses due to pests and diseases.
CPMA
The Introduction of Traffic Offices
The Association opens Traffic Offices in Toronto and Montreal to assist in claims, tracing rail cars, and other transportation issues.
CPMA
Renamed the Canadian Fruit and Vegetable Jobbers Association.
Innovation
Hybrid Seeds
The introduction of hybrid seeds led to significant increases in crop yields and improved disease resistance.
Innovation
Controlled Atmosphere Storage
This technology allowed for the precise control of temperature, humidity, and gas composition within storage facilities, extending the shelf life of produce.
CPMA
Name Changes to the Canadian Fruit Wholesaler's Association
The Association renames once again this year to the Canadian Fruit Wholesaler's Association, as a way to more accuratly reflect their member base and committees.
CPMA
The Fresh for Flavour Foundation is Formed
The Fresh for Flavour Foundation is created, promoting initatives like $5 check-offs on each truckload or railcar of fresh fruits and vegetables, as a way to fund national programs.
CPMA
Integration of new Canadain Fruit Wholesalers Logo
The Association releases a new logo, which was used on multiple member directories over the following years.
CPMA
Name Changes to Canadian Produce Marketing Association
The Canadian Wholesaler's Association changes to its current name, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association.
CPMA
Launch of the Reach For It! Program
This year sees the amalgamation of The Fresh for Flavour Foundation into CPMA. The "Reach For It!" promotional program, one of the associations major campaigns in that decade, is also launched.
CPMA
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education
CPMA is one of the founding partners of the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education.
CPMA
Launch of "5 to 10 a day!" Campaign
The "5 to 10 a day!" consumer program is launched, and later becomes the foundation for MixItUp and Half Your Plate programs.
CPMA
Canadian Supply Chain Food Safety Coalition and Dispute Resolution Corporation
CPMA is a founding member of the Canadian Supply Chain Food Safety Coalition and works alongside the CHC to launch the Dispute Resolution Corporation.
CPMA
New CPMA Logo is unveiled at Toronto Convention
To mark the exciting change in timing and essence of the convention at the time, CPMA unveiled a new logo. This dynamic and stylized logo combined the visuals of a globe and produce to reflect the internationl nature of the event, while honouring the produce industry it serves.
CPMA
Canadian Nationally Coordinated Retailer Assigned PLUs
CPMA announces the release of these PLUs.
CPMA
Freggie™ Fridays Program
CPMA launches it's educational Freggie™ Fridays Program.
CPMA
Passion for Produce Program
CPMA creates this program to provide mentorship opportunities to rising stars in the industry.
CPMA
Fall Harvest Event
The first annual Fall Harvest Event is held. This year also saw Ron Lemaire take on his role as President of CPMA.
CPMA
CPMA Rebrands
CPMA successfully rebrands itself to it's current look and feel.
CPMA
Launch of Half Your Plate Campaign
The Half your Plate campaign is launched to provide a clear message for Canadians.
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COVID-19 and the Produce Industry
Through the struggles of the pandemic, CPMA was able to help serve its members by bolstering government relations. These efforts helped to keep the borders open to imports and exports of produce, allowed temporary foreign workers to enter the country, and allowed businesses across the supply chain to receive financial support to operate safely.
CPMA
100th Anniversary
The Canadian Produce Marketing Association celebrates its centennial year, reflecting on how far the association has come, and looking towards sustainable success now and in the future.
Articles
Explore a rich collection of stories celebrating a century of Canadian produce, from the evolution of the industry and memorable conference host cities to cherished recipes that have stood the test of time. Dive into the history, explore iconic moments, and rediscover flavors from the past 100 years!
Cauliflower Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
Recipes
The 2020s have seen plant-based eating explode, with cauliflower often used as a versatile substitute in traditional dishes.
Kale and Blueberry Smoothie
Recipes
The rise of superfoods took center stage in the 2010s. This kale and blueberry smoothie epitomizes the health-conscious trends of the decade, packed with antioxidants and nutrients.
Heirloom Tomato and Basil Tart
Recipes
As farm-to-table dining gained traction in the early 2000s, Canadians embraced heirloom vegetables for their superior flavour and historical significance.
A Century of Growth: Key Milestones in CPMA's 100-Year Journey.
CPMA
As we celebrate the Canadian Produce Marketing Association's (CPMA) 100th anniversary, we reflect on a century of remarkable achievements that have shaped Canada’s produce industry.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Recipes
Butternut squash grew in popularity in regions like Quebec and Ontario during the late 20th century, providing a nutritious and hearty autumn staple.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette
Recipes
In the 1980s, lighter and fresher cuisine trends grew in popularity, leading to the creation of bright and healthy salads. This strawberry spinach salad with raspberry vinaigrette embodies the era's love for fresh produce, blending tart and sweet flavours.
The Cities of Produce: How Canadian Cities Shaped a Thriving Produce Industry
CPMA
Learn about the cities CPMA has held its conferences in over the years and the roles these cities played in shaping the Canadian Product Industry.
Key Innovations in the Canadian Produce Industry
CPMA
Learn about key innovations in the Canadian produce industry that have improved efficiency, sustainability, and food safety as part of CPMA's 100th Anniversary.
Apple and Maple Pork Chops
Recipes
By the 1970s, Canadian cuisine began to embrace its local ingredients with pride. This dish, which pairs sweet apples with maple syrup, represents a classic pairing of two of Canada's most iconic produce items. It reflects a return to natural ingredients and seasonality.
Asparagus and Mushroom Quiche
Recipes
The 1960s marked a turning point toward more adventurous cooking in Canada. French influences, such as quiche, became popular in suburban households. This quiche combines fresh asparagus and earthy mushrooms, showcasing seasonal produce that started gaining more attention.
Classic Corn Pudding
Recipes
Corn, a significant agricultural crop in Ontario, was widely used in post-war dishes due to its availability. Corn pudding, a comforting side dish, gained popularity in the 1950s as families embraced more formalized mealtime traditions and farm-to-table produce.
Carrot and Beet Salad
Recipes
During World War II, Canadian households adopted victory gardens to supplement food rations. Root vegetables like carrots and beets were easily grown and preserved. This simple, colourful salad would have been a celebration of homegrown bounty during the war.
Potato and Leek Soup
Recipes
In the early 20th century, many Canadian families relied on simple, hearty meals. Potatoes were a key staple due to their affordability and versatility, particularly in rural communities. This potato and leek soup reflects the modest, warming dishes that helped families through the Great Depression.
Produce From Afar
CPMA
Canada's produce market has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last century. From a limited selection of local fruits and vegetables to a diverse array of global produce, the story of how these items found a home in Canada is both fascinating and illustrative of globalization's impact.