Canadian Produce Marketing Association Convention Chair Bernadette Hamel, vice president of national procurement-produce for Metro Richelieu Inc., is ready to welcome the industry to the largest convention in CPMA history. Ms. Hamel — along with CPMA staff and the 12 committees tasked with bringing the annual convention to life — has been working hard to make Toronto’s event one that shouldn’t be missed.

With annual sales of more than $11 billion and more than 65,000 employees, Metro Inc. is a leader in the food and pharmaceutical sectors in Québec and Ontario, where it operates a network of more than 600 food stores under several banners, including Metro, Metro Plus, Super C and Food Basics.

As vice president for the Metro banners in Ontario and Quebec, Ms. Hamel ensures that products they source are of the best quality and that Metro resources cover supply required by the market. Ms. Hamel also keeps her pulse on new products and market trends.

Over the next year, Ms. Hamel believes the main priority for the industry is to be responsive to the needs and trends that are currently driving the market, including the increased consumption of organics and ethnic foods, whether local or imported, as well as fine dining and ready-to-eat products. “We’ve seen the offering steadily improve across these categories,” said Ms. Hamel.

Supply in these categories has greatly improved throughout retail. “Prewashed salads are now available with various toppings, such as fruits and nuts, and include seasonings, like dressings and herbs,” she said. “The main priority is to do what we can to ensure these products are available in store, even when demand is exceeding supply.”

Metro is a longstanding CPMA partner and has on multiple occasions had representatives take on the challenging role of convention chair. Metro sends a large delegation to attend the annual event, showing its strong support of CPMA and the convention. “Attending the event is a great opportunity,” stated Ms. Hamel. “It is a chance to look at issues affecting the industry and explore solutions as well as get different perspectives from all players in the industry attending the event.”

One of the great strengths of CPMA is the involvement of all stakeholders in the industry. Ms. Hamel credits the association for its involvement and work in government relations and industry technology with “improving and advancing the industry through harmonization of best practices.”

In addition to CPMA staff, there are 12 committees that work to bring the CPMA Convention & Trade Show to fruition. As convention chair, Ms. Hamel is responsible for “coordinating activities, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and motivating the troops. Committees also share their proposals for activities with me. Metaphorically, I act as a conductor for the orchestra-like event,” she said.

“With 522 exhibitors, this year’s Toronto event will be the largest convention in the history of the CPMA. It is also the largest convention in terms of sponsorship,” she continued.

One of the new features this year is the retail manager program, which will bring more than 200 produce managers to the show. “It allows them the opportunity to attend the convention as well as meet various exhibitors,” Ms. Hamel said. “This will be a unique experience for them to expand their knowledge and to meet with stakeholders from all walks in the industry. Being the last link in the chain and in direct contact with customers on a daily basis, it is important for retailers and produce managers to attend.”

She stresses the importance of knowledge transfer with this group and the importance of seeing what is available and to better understand what is involved and the process by which the products arrive in stores.

Ms. Hamel wants to help showcase all CPMA has to offer and to create an experience that will leave participants wanting to return and to encourage others to get involved. “There are so many opportunities from business dealings, knowledge sharing and of course networking.

What can one expect from this year’s event? “A good time! Come and enjoy the hospitality of the East,” she said.