Celebrating milestones in Montreal
A sold-out trade show floor with over 325 companies exhibiting in Montreal marked the CPMA’s 100th anniversary with a truly special celebration.
The week started with Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics Stewart Lapage and Marketing Communications Specialist Sandra Ulewicz attending CPMA board and committee meetings, demonstrating Oppy’s commitment to supporting the organization and the produce industry as a whole. CEO John Anderson participated in various industry leadership events. Sales Representative Sarah Taylor participated in the prestigious Passion for Produce program, expanding her knowledge of the industry and forming valuable connections. Stewart was named as a member of the CPMA board of directors.
Oppy’s buzzing booth saw lots of traction from attendees lining up to get their much-needed caffeine fix while insightful conversations were had in our meeting spaces. The booth was thoughtfully designed to showcase our grower partners — UP Vertical Farms, Sun Grape California, Avoworks, Pink Cosmo, Hunkaberry, Happy Berry, Envy apples, Divemex, Perpetual Vegetable Co., Ocean Spray, OriginO and Zespri. T&G was present, sampling Envy apples paired with a variety of cheeses to booth visitors.
Oppy presence went beyond the booth and spanned across the show — Blushing Farms stone fruit and UP Vertical Farms greens drew attention in the New Product Showcase. Blue Diamond almonds were sampled at the delegate brunch and delivered to hotel guest rooms on Wednesday evening as the perfect bedtime snack. UP Vertical greens and Sun Grape grapes shone in the closing banquet menu.
Marketing Communications Manager Kelsey Van Lissum met with journalists throughout the week, coordinating key interviews with our growers. The impact was seen through various features published in industry trade outlets, with quotes from UP Vertical Farms in The Packer, The Produce News and Fresh Plaza. Sun Grape was seen in The Packer, with many smiles in photo recaps, and more articles coming down the pipeline.
Senior Vice President of Categories and Chief Marketing Officer James Milne opened the final banquet with an impactful speech, nodding to John Anderson’s 50 years with Oppy and his inspirational impact on the produce industry. James introduced a video featuring the history of Oppy and CPMA in the last 100 years, produced by Graphic Designer and Videographer Alleanna Barrera. Ending with an out of this world dinner with entertainment and a reveal of the 2026 host city — Toronto!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who was part of making the 2025 convention a huge success for Oppy!
