Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and MPP for Huron Bruce has recognized the amazing efforts of two grocery stores in Huron – Bruce for their work and dedication in promoting fruit and vegetable growers in Ontario.
MPP Thompson awarded Foodland Southampton Produce Manager Linda Millor and owner Martino Catalano and Hansen’s Your Independent Grocer Produce Manager Kim Conrad in Exeter with Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards, to celebrate the creativity each store has demonstrated in building produce displays that encourage shoppers to buy local produce.
“The Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards is an important program recognizing excellence in the display, and promotion of fruit and vegetables grown right here at home in Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
The Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards celebrate the creative expression of produce managers and their staff for the unique and innovative displays that promote locally grown food. Only 60 awards were given across the province and having two award winners in Huron – Bruce, shows a tremendous commitment by both stores to help grow Ontario’s local food industry.
Lisa Thompson said “I congratulate Foodland Southampton and Hansen’s YIG Exeter for building innovative displays that encourage shoppers to support our local farmers and market gardens. Buying Ontario produce supports our agri-food sector and benefits our entire economy.”
This annual program includes four categories of displays that Retailers can enter between January to November that promote locally grown and in season fruits and vegetables.
- Ontario has one of the most diverse agri-food industries in Canada, producing more than 200 commodities, such as greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers, asparagus, berries, tender fruit, and apples.
- For more than 45 years, Foodland Ontario has connected with families on how to recognize, prepare and enjoy locally grown foods.
- To know when all your local fruits and vegetables are in season, visit Foodland Ontario’s Availability Guide.
