Yesterday was the second and last day of CPMA's Vancouver trade show. As expected, it wasn't as busy on the show floor as the first day as retail buyers focus their presence on day one. At the same time, a slower second day provided exhibitors with the opportunity to leave their booths for a walk on the show floor and meet up with industry peers and friends.
At CPMA, the first trade show day is traditionally the shorter one with four hours of show time and the second day covers five hours. While these hours may best align with CPMA's program and other activities, exhibitors would prefer to have more trade show time on the first day and make the second day shorter.
However, overall exhibitors and attendees were very positive about the event. "We love to bring flavor to every show we attend, and this year's CPMA was a special event for us," says Paul Mastronardi with Mastronardi Produce. "As we approach our 70th anniversary as a company, we feel privileged to be part of an industry that is collectively pushing boundaries in Canada and beyond. It was an honor to wrap up the show with many positive connections."
International Sustainability Summit
The day ended with CPMA's traditional annual banquet. While that's usually the end of the event, this year the program has been extended with an International Sustainability Summit, a subject that was also heavily addressed in Ron Lemaire's State of the Industry. Access to the Summit, which is taking place today, is separate from general CPMA registration.
If you're curious to see who attended the trade show this year, here is a sneak preview. FreshPlaza's traditional photo report from the show will be published on Monday.
Team Mucci Farms.
Team Equifruit.
Greg Akins and Steve Page with Catalytic Generators.
Sarah Quackenbush, Mayme Mesa, Jennifer Pulcipher and Freddy Hoflack with North Bay Produce.