April 24, 2024 – (Vancouver, British Columbia) – CPMA BB #:153602 CPMA Chairman Ron Lemaire delivers an industry address at the CPMA 2024 Delegates Lunch in Vancouver, highlighting the importance of fresh food amid global challenges. It highlighted the resilience of the food sector.
In his speech, the CPMA president said the past year had been a tumultuous one, including floods, wildfires, labor shortages, and geopolitical challenges. He spoke at length about his three factors that are impacting the ongoing challenges within the industry.
sustainability
Sustainability has become an important issue that sparks debate within and beyond the agricultural supply chain. Ron Lemaire urged industry stakeholders to take a pragmatic approach to this important issue and highlighted CPMA's commitment to working with his partners to address sustainability.
- Sustainability policy document released by Global Coalition for Fresh Produce
- An initiative to advance the debate on standardized approaches to sustainability at the International Sustainability Summit on Friday 26th April.
political change
The CPMA President provided an overview of the current political climate in Canada as Canada and more than 80 countries around the world prepare for elections in the coming months. He outlines how these changes will impact the produce industry, including policy shifts, broken partnerships, and regulatory changes, and calls for addressing political barriers to growth and longevity in the produce industry. He called on members to actively advocate.
“We are not just spectators. We are the architects of our destiny,” Lemaire said. “I have seen our industry stand tall in the European Union, here in Canada, and in North America, knowing that stability lies in our collective resolve. Engage, advocate and protect your interests.”
Changing consumer behavior
Stating that consumers are the most important influencer and focus of both politicians and the agri-food industry, the CPMA Chairman outlined the different categories of consumers and their ever-evolving needs, all of which are important to the industry. presents three clear key messages. Consumers want quality products, fair prices, and the best shelf life.
In summarizing his talk, Ron Lemaire emphasized innovation, collaboration, adaptation, and purpose-driven leadership as key elements to addressing industry challenges.
“The concept of navigating uncharted territory is not new to the produce industry, it is part of its DNA,” Lemaire said. “No sector has to adapt in some way every day like ours does. When faced with challenges, we realign routes, forge new partnerships, and make sure the lifeblood of our industry flows unimpeded. These skills allow our industry to feed this country and are the driving force behind our success in putting food on the tables of Canadian families.”
About CPMA
Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, CPMA is a not-for-profit organization representing a diverse membership.
Consisting of all segments of the produce industry's supply chain, they are responsible for 90% of the produce.
Selling fresh fruits and vegetables in Canada. Fortunately, CPMA
It is an important economic driver for local communities and also improves community health and productivity.
Canadian.
