KINGSVILLE, ON - A family is a community you are born into, whereas a community is a family you have the opportunity to make yourself a part of, getting as much as you give in return. One among our own produce community was recently recognized for turning this idea into actions—Paul Mastronardi, CEO and President of Mastronardi Produce^®, was awarded the honorable Alf Bennie Award at the Leamington Business Excellence Awards earlier this week.

“From the time my great grandfather immigrated here over 90 years ago, this community has given so much support to my family and has helped us grow into who we are today,” Paul said upon the announcement. “I am honored to be able to give back to the community and am humbled to have received this recognition.”

Highlighting exceptional leadership, an innovative mindset, a passion for the produce industry, and philanthropic spirit, the event recognized Paul as a leading participant in many charitable events that support local youth and promote the greenhouse industry in the Leamington community, many of which the company has hosted, according to a press release. Some of these include CAMP-ARI youth camp, a Sliced Leamington cooking competition, and sponsoring the amphitheater at Seacliff Park.

Among his most recent moves is Paul’s influential leadership and support of both his employees and community throughout COVID-19.

Recognizing the proactive approach Paul and Mastronardi Produce took, including having developed a number of health and safety policies like the COVID-19 Taskforce and SHIELD™ Program, the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce recognized Paul’s commitment to ensuring the seamless operations of the company in order to continue to provide fresh produce to its customers.

Paul and his family also joined Mastronardi’s ‘Flavor Army’ to help pack and distribute significant donations of PPE supplies and fresh produce to essential service partners in health care, delivery services, and community food banks.

“Named after our first President of the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce, the Alf Bennie Award recognizes an individual in the community who has made a difference either through volunteering or community involvement,” Wendy Parsons, General Manager of the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce, commented. “Paul’s involvement in the community and the many philanthropic initiatives that have occurred under his leadership are admirable. He is truly deserving of this award.”

Paul’s team shared that his continued leadership and boundless passion for the community and produce industry has been remarkable, and while giving back has always been at the core of Paul’s values, it appears to have rung especially true during this time when the strength of community and leadership has been needed the most.

Congratulations, Paul, on this honorable recognition.

Mastronardi Produce®