Yesterday, April 10, CPMA exhibitors and attendees came back to the trade show floor one more time before the doors closed at 4:30 pm. Exhibitors were content, but consistently shared it was less busy compared to the first day. While this is not uncommon, this year, many members of the produce industry were busier than usual due to Viva Fresh's trade show following right after CPMA's event. A share of attendees left the trade show early to fly to Houston, TX. In addition, IFPA's Women's Fresh Perspectives Conference starts in Carlsbad, CA this weekend.
Focus on Canadian grown
Evident this year was the focus from Canadian growers and shippers on packaging that clearly shows the product has been grown in Canada. Due to the tensions of the past few months, Canadian consumers highly favor domestically grown produce and as a result, Canadian produce companies are witnessing a surge in demand locally. To stay in packaging, a new laser etching technology for molded fiber was shown as well as more options in cardboard packaging and a heat seal option, reducing plastic use by 33 percent. An innovation in the equipment segment was a slice and wedge cutter.
True new product innovations were limited. What probably stood out most were stuffed mushrooms that come in an oven-ready PETE tray and can be enjoyed in just 15 minutes. In addition, some new greenhouse grown tomato and cucumber products were launched as well as some new snacking products.
Curious to see who attended the trade show this year? Take a sneak peek at the photos below. On Monday, FreshPlaza's traditional photo report from the show will be published.
© Marieke Hemmes | FreshPlaza.comIt's a home show for Team Canadawide
© Marieke Hemmes | FreshPlaza.comTeam Divine Flavor.
© Marieke Hemmes | FreshPlaza.comTeam Highline Mushrooms.
© Marieke Hemmes | FreshPlaza.comThe team at Pure Flavor, showing their new Rocco Red tomatoes.