Ontario is committing up to $1.6 million over four years to support Ontario Tender Fruit Growers in purchasing display bins branded with the Foodland Ontario logo.
The initiative aims to help consumers quickly identify and choose seasonal, locally grown tender fruits while shopping.
“Our province is renowned for its fresh tender fruits, which are sought after worldwide. By partnering with Ontario Tender Fruit Growers through this cost-share investment, we’re making it easier for people to recognize and select locally grown fruit,” says Rob Flack, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Many purchase decisions are made at the point of sale, so these bins will guide consumers to the best available fruit, support our farmers, and strengthen Ontario’s economy.”
Foodland Ontario-branded display bins are expected to enhance product visibility in stores and secure shelf space during peak season, encouraging demand for Ontario-grown fruits such as peaches, nectarines, cherries, plums, apricots, fresh table grapes and pears.
“These display bins elevate awareness of local tender fruit, making it easier for consumers to identify what’s grown close to home,” says Phil Tregunno, chair of Ontario Tender Fruit Growers.
The move is also part of the Grow Ontario Strategy’s goal of increasing the consumption of locally grown, raised, and produced food by 30 per cent by 2032. In 2023, the farmgate value of fresh market and processing sales for Ontario tender fruits exceeded $85 million.
