FVGC’s 2025 AGM Sets Direction for Advocacy, Trade, and Election Readiness

The Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) concluded its 2025 Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Quebec City yesterday, bringing together growers, industry leaders, and policymakers under the theme A Fresh Approach: Setting Goals, Achieving Success. This year’s AGM reinforced FVGC’s commitment to advocating for Canada’s fruit and vegetable sector as it navigates critical challenges, from the threat of US tariffs to the opportunities presented by the upcoming federal election.

As uncertainty surrounding trade, food security, and the upcoming election grows, FVGC is reinforcing its advocacy efforts on multiple fronts—from ensuring fair market access to equipping growers with tools to engage policymakers.

With an election on the horizon, FVGC is strengthening its advocacy efforts to ensure fruit and vegetable growers’ voices are heard in Ottawa. “The policies shaped by the next federal government will have lasting impacts on food security, trade, and the sustainability of the Canadian fruit and vegetable sectors,” said Marcus Janzen President of FVGC. “We are committed to working with policymakers to ensure they understand the challenges and opportunities facing fruit and vegetable growers and the essential role they play in feeding Canadians.”With growing uncertainty around international trade and potential tariff threats, FVGC reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and industry partners to safeguard Canadian growers’ competitiveness and secure fair trade policies. Discussions at the AGM centered on strategies to protect the sector from trade disruptions, strengthen food security and ensure fair market access.

“We need strong, proactive policies that protect Canadian fruit and vegetable growers from the ripple effects of international trade disputes,” said Janzen. “Our industry is a key pillar of Canada’s food security, and we will continue to push for solutions that support our growers and consumers alike.”

FVGC elected its Board of Directors at the Annual General Meeting. The 2025 Board of Directors is as follows:

• Marcus Janzen – British Columbia – President
• Jocelyn Gibouleau – Quebec – 1^st Vice President
• Quinton Woods – Ontario – 2^nd Vice President and Finance Chair
• Deep Brar – British Columbia
• Russ Van Boom – Prairies
• Beth Connery – Prairies
• Alison Robertson – Ontario
• Pascal Forest – Quebec
• Janet Parker – Atlantic
• John Visser – Atlantic

Honouring Industry Leaders

A highlight of the event was the recognition of outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to Canada’s fruit and vegetable sector:

• George Gilvesy and Jean-Bernard Van Winden received the Doug Connery Award, which celebrates leadership excellence and honours exemplary passion, commitment, and dedication to advancing the industry’s interests.
• Jane Proctor was presented with the Honorary Life Member Award, recognizing her long-term efforts to improve the sector through leadership, innovation, cooperation, and tireless effort.

“These individuals exemplify the leadership and commitment that drive our industry forward,” said Janzen. “Their contributions have shaped policies, strengthened collaboration, and created lasting positive impacts for fruit and vegetable growers across Canada.”

As FVGC moves forward, the Conference and AGM has set the stage for an action-driven year ahead. With strategic advocacy, strong leadership, and engaged members, FVGC is ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities ahead in 2025. The voices of Canadian growers remain at the heart of FVGC’s work as the association continues to push for solutions that enhance food security and strengthen Canada’s fruit and vegetable sector.