OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA - With many consumers and businesses socially distancing, interactions have gone over to the digital side. Much of the industry has embraced the virtual platform like fish to water, and the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) is one such marlin. Recently, CPMA jointly announced with the Canadian Horticultural Council (CHC) the 2020 Fall Harvest event will be proceeding in a virtual format.

“Each year, CPMA and CHC look forward to the opportunity to connect with a great number of Parliamentarians and this year will be no different,” said Ron Lemaire, CPMA President. “With four days of engaging programming and meetings, the virtual event has the potential for dozens of members to participate for the first time and get a sense of the importance of the advocacy work we undertake for our members.”

According to the press release, the 2020 Fall Harvest event is one of the leading advocacy events for the Canadian fruit and vegetable industry. It will take place the same week as originally planned, from November 2–5, 2020. This year will be the ninth annual edition of the event, and the new virtual format will offer all elements attendees are accustomed to, including issue overviews, panel discussions, team gatherings, and networking, while allowing a broader membership group to participate.

For this year, however, a new addition will be thrown into the mix. The Fall Harvest 2020 will include a series of educational panels for Parliamentarians and government officials to learn more about the fresh produce supply chain across Canada and the industry’s priorities for government action.

“Fall Harvest is critically important for our advocacy on behalf of the Canadian fruit and vegetable industry,” said CHC Executive Director Rebecca Lee. “By holding the event virtually, we can ensure that Canadian fruit and vegetable growers still have the opportunity to have their voices heard in Ottawa during these unprecedented times.”

Both associations have been heavily involved in advocating for the industry’s needs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of these include: keeping borders open and the supply chain moving, allowing entry of temporary foreign workers, developing and promoting safety protocols, urging the government to establish funding to lessen financial burdens resulting from the pandemic, and much more.

To learn more about the 2020 Fall Harvest event, visit the CPMA website and CHC website.

As fresh produce continues to move and thrive, AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the latest.

Canadian Produce Marketing Association Canadian Horticultural Council