The Cities of Produce: How Canadian Cities Shaped a Thriving Produce Industry

December 9, 2024

The Canadian produce industry has a storied history, with urban centres playing pivotal roles in its growth and success over the last century. From bustling trade hubs to centers of innovation and collaboration, cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver have laid the groundwork for a flourishing industry that supports farmers, businesses, and communities nationwide. In this blog, we'll explore how these cities, along with Calgary, Halifax, Quebec City, Edmonton, and Ottawa, have shaped Canada's produce landscape and continue to drive its evolution today.

Introduction

Over the past century, Canada's produce industry has experienced significant evolution and remarkable growth, transforming from a relatively modest sector into a vibrant and multifaceted component of the national economy. This transformation has been particularly concentrated in urban centres, which have emerged as critical hubs for trade, innovation, and collaboration within the industry. These cities not only facilitate the distribution of fresh produce but also serve as the primary venues for networking and knowledge exchange among industry stakeholders.

One of the key players in this evolution is the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA), which has been a driving force in the advancement of the industry since its inception. As the CPMA prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, its role in connecting urban markets and fostering industry growth becomes even more pronounced. The association has organized numerous conventions, trade shows, and initiatives to promote best practices, inspire innovation, and encourage collaboration among growers, distributors, retailers, and other industry participants.

Through these efforts, the CPMA has not only helped to bolster the profile of Canadian produce on both domestic and international stages but has also championed sustainability and the importance of fresh fruits and vegetables in the nation's diet. As the industry continues to evolve, the connections fostered through CPMA initiatives will remain crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

1. Toronto: The Heart of Canadian Produce Trade

Toronto serves as the vital epicentre for produce distribution in Canada, capitalizing on its advantageous geographic position that connects various regions and facilitates the flow of fresh goods. One of the key components of this distribution network is the Toronto Food Terminal, recognized as one of the largest wholesale produce markets in North America. This facility plays an indispensable role in the logistics of produce supply, enabling the movement of a wide array of fruits, vegetables, and other fresh items to markets and retailers across the country.

Beyond its strategic location, Toronto is at the forefront of embracing technological advancements that streamline distribution processes and improve overall efficiency in the produce sector. Various stakeholders within the industry have established fruitful partnerships that have contributed to the evolution of the marketplace. Events such as the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) conventions, hosted in Toronto, have proven vital in fostering networking opportunities, sharing best practices, and driving innovation within the industry. These conventions attract a multitude of professionals, facilitating discussions on emerging trends and technologies that shape the future of produce distribution in Canada. Overall, Toronto's blend of strategic positioning, commitment to technology, and collaborative efforts make it an unassailable leader in the nation's produce market.

2. Montreal: A Gateway to the East

Montreal holds a prominent place in Canadian history as one of the country's oldest trade hubs, and this significance has had a profound impact on the produce market. The city’s strategic geographical location as a major port allows for the efficient importation of a diverse range of international produce, while simultaneously facilitating the export of a variety of Canadian agricultural goods to global markets.

Montreal's multifaceted culinary scene, which celebrates flavours from around the world, plays a crucial role in driving the demand for a wide array of fresh produce. This demand not only supports local farmers and businesses but also fosters a vibrant marketplace for both domestic and international products, making Montreal an essential player in the agricultural industry.

Moreover, events organized by the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) in Montreal, from the first conference in 1925 to the 100th in 2025, have significantly influenced the sector by creating platforms for networking, collaboration, and the sharing of valuable insights among industry professionals. These gatherings contribute to the ongoing development and innovation within the produce market, reinforcing Montreal's status as a pivotal center for trade and commerce in Canada. The combination of its historical significance, strategic location, and dynamic culinary landscape ensures that Montreal continues to thrive as a hub for the produce industry.

3. Vancouver: Bridging Asia and North America

Vancouver's strategic positioning as a major port city has cemented its significance in linking Canada with burgeoning Asian markets, facilitating trade and commerce on an international scale. This connectivity not only enhances economic relationships but also contributes to a diverse cultural exchange, enriching the local community.

The city is a pioneer in sustainability initiatives, leading the way with innovative practices that prioritize both organic and sustainably sourced produce. This commitment to environmental responsibility is reflected in various programs aimed at reducing food waste, promoting local farming, and supporting eco-friendly businesses. Vancouver’s landscape is dotted with farmer’s markets and urban farms, where residents can access fresh, seasonal, and organic products.

Moreover, Vancouver's dynamic culinary culture plays a pivotal role in shaping produce trends, as chefs and food enthusiasts actively seek out new and unique flavours to experiment with. This creative approach to cooking not only highlights local ingredients but also drives demand for diverse produce options, fostering a culture of innovation in the culinary scene.

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) conventions held in Vancouver have showcased the city’s notable achievements in this sector. These events not only highlight the latest advancements in farming and distribution but also provide a platform for industry stakeholders to network and collaborate. The conventions have further reinforced Vancouver's contributions to the broader food industry, emphasizing its role as a leader in promoting sustainability and innovation. Through these efforts, Vancouver continues to inspire other cities and regions to adopt similar practices, ultimately driving positive change across the industry.

4. The Other Pillars: Calgary, Halifax, Quebec City, Edmonton, and Ottawa

• Calgary and Edmonton: The cities of Calgary and Edmonton are at the forefront of greenhouse farming and innovative practices in cold-weather agriculture. These urban centers leverage advanced technologies to create controlled environments that allow for the production of a wide variety of crops year-round, significantly contributing to Canada's overall supply of fresh produce. This focus not only helps in meeting local demand but also plays a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation, making Alberta a leader in sustainable agricultural practices.
• Halifax: As a pivotal shipping hub within the Maritime provinces, Halifax has cultivated a strong emphasis on supporting local and seasonal produce. The city fosters partnerships with regional farmers, which ensures that the community has access to fresh, nutritious food while also boosting the local economy. By prioritizing seasonal produce, Halifax enhances food security and encourages sustainable agricultural practices, creating a robust network that benefits both consumers and producers.
• Quebec City: Renowned for its distinct culinary trends and rich cultural heritage, Quebec City holds its agricultural sector in high esteem. The city's emphasis on unique produce, often celebrating local varieties, reflects its cultural significance and identity. This dedication to local agriculture not only preserves traditional farming practices but also promotes biodiversity, thereby enriching the province’s agricultural landscape and culinary offerings.
• Ottawa: Positioned as the heartbeat of Canada's policy-making, Ottawa plays a critical role in fostering innovation and collaboration across the produce industry. Through strategic government partnerships, the city champions research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural practices and addressing challenges faced by farmers. Ottawa's proactive approach to policy shaping and investment in agricultural technology serves as a driving force in advancing the produce industry, ensuring that it meets the needs of consumers now and in the future.

CPMA's national impact is evident through its conventions held in these key cities over the last 100 years, which bring regional insights to the national stage, promoting growth and collaboration.

Conclusion

The cities of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, along with other key urban centers, have collectively shaped and continue to drive Canada's thriving produce industry. Their contributions as trade hubs, centers of innovation, and platforms for collaboration have paved the way for growth, adaptability, and sustainability. CPMA's role in uniting these regions and fostering industry development has been invaluable, and as the association celebrates its 100th Anniversary, we are reminded of the progress made and the exciting future ahead.

To learn more about CPMA's work over the last century and explore the CPMA 100th Anniversary microsite. Join us in celebrating this milestone and discovering the stories that have shaped Canada's produce industry.