MPP Jill Dunlop, recognized three local stores with a Foodland Ontario Retailer Award for their commitment to protecting Ontario’s farmers and local food supply chain by promoting local produce. The awards were accepted by Billy Wright, Produce Manager of Foodland in Penetanguishene, Gary Crawford, Produce Manager of Foodland in Orillia, and Melina Stoutt, Produce Manager, together with Jim Welch, Store Manager, of Metro in Orillia.
The Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards program recognizes creative in-store displays of fresh, seasonally grown fruits and vegetables that make it easy for consumers to identify and buy the good things that grow in Ontario.
“Congratulations to Foodland locations at Fittons Road in Orillia, and Poyntz Street in Penetanguishene, along with Metro store at Front Street in Orillia, that have been recognized with a Foodland Ontario Retailer Award for their outstanding support of Ontario farmers and food producers. These awards highlight the important role local retailers play in connecting families with fresh, high-quality Ontario-grown and Ontario-made products. It was a pleasure to visit each location and personally thank their teams for their commitment to promoting local food and strengthening our agricultural sector. Their efforts help support Ontario farmers, grow our economy, and ensure consumers can easily choose local when they shop.”
The annual Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards have continued to be the produce industry’s signature opportunity to recognize the creative talent of produce managers and staff for 39 years.
“Congratulations to all the winners of the 2025 Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Retailers play an important role in supporting Ontario’s local food system by helping shoppers identify and choose fresh Ontario-grown produce. When we choose to purchase what is grown right here at home, we are protecting our province by supporting our farmers, strengthening our economy and ensuring the long-term stability of our food supply.”
This year, the Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards are recognizing 60 grocery stores across the province for their innovative promotion of fresh Ontario-grown produce. These annual awards include four categories of displays that celebrate excellence in retail display and promotion of local produce.
For 49 years, Foodland Ontario has connected with families, helping them recognize, prepare and enjoy locally grown foods. Ontario has one of the widest varieties of farming and food industries in Canada, producing over 200 different agricultural products, including asparagus, berries, tender fruit, apples, greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. To know when all your local fruits and vegetables are in season, visit Foodland Ontario’s Availability Guide.