Kevin Climie, senior director of produce and floral at Fortinos, is the 2024 recipient of the Grocery Business Innovator in Produce Award.
He has been active in the produce industry for more than 26 years with two of Canada’s major grocery retailers, Sobeys and Fortinos’ parent company Loblaw. Prior to joining the grocery industry, he served as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves. He first entered the produce industry in 1990, working on a fruit farm in the Niagara, Ont. region. He began his retail career as a produce manager at Sobeys in 1996 and quickly took on progressively senior produce roles in Sobeys and then at Fortinos, where has been for close to 11 years.
Peter Weicker, Fortinos Supermarkets banner head and senior vice president at Loblaw Companies, says Climie is incredibly passionate about produce and the food retail business.
“He is persistent in his pursuit of offering Fortinos customers’ only the freshest, top quality produce at a fair price. He is always on the lookout, and works closely with his supplier partners, to bring new, innovative produce from all over the globe to customers first… Sumo mandarins, Jackfruit pods and Kandy Cantaloupes are just a few examples. The produce department is a key differentiator at Fortinos, and Kevin and his team are constantly innovating to offer our customers only the best.”
Lorne Burnett is chairman and CEO of Burnac Produce Limited and a long-time supplier to Fortinos.
“On behalf of Burnac Produce, I congratulate Kevin. The award is well-deserved recognition after years of tireless work and commitment to the produce industry. Throughout his career, has been laser focused on heightening the customers shopping experience. Whether it be seeking out a new offering from all corners of the earth, a unique taste profile, the importance of consistent quality and service, speed to market, or sustainable packaging and eye-popping merchandising displays, Kevin has raised the bar given his drive, knowledge, and passion for produce in pursuit of continuous improvement through innovation. It has been our privilege and pleasure to collaborate with Kevin spanning many years. His leadership, commitment, passion, and desire to improve the produce industry servicing food retailers is a testament of the role model he is for both promoting growth, awareness, and the development of future leaders in our industry.”
The Grocery Business Innovator in Produce is an annual award that recognizes individuals or businesses who contribute to the growth of the produce category through innovative strategies, creative initiatives and overall commitment to produce in grocery.
To nominate an individual for the 2025 award, contact Mary Scianna, Grocery Business editorial director: [email protected] | O: 905-430-9990 | M: 647-408-6137.
