Efforts to build business partnerships with produce buyers in Canada already yielding results

Representatives from major Canadian retailers are in talks with Delaware farmers to add their produce to Canadian shelves, the first results in the wake of spring trade missions designed to increase Delaware exports to the north and a recent visit by Canadian buyers in Delaware.

Last month, Global Delaware and the Delaware Department of Agriculture hosted senior procurement staff from Canadian retailers Costco Canada and Metro responsible for purchasing produce for Canada’s 89 Costco superstores and 650 Metro Canada supermarkets. The event was part of a joint effort between both Delaware government organizations to cultivate a relationship between produce buyers and Delaware’s thriving produce growers.

The Canadian buyers began their visit with a tour of five local farms to sample sweet corn, watermelon, peaches and cabbage. The guests then toured the Port of Wilmington, where they learned about the unique assets that make the port ideal for fresh fruit and produce, including the “no-strike” clause in the Port’s labor contract and the immense number of on-site refrigeration units for perishable goods.

The visit culminated with a day at the Delaware State Fair, where Governor Jack Markell welcomed the Canadian buyers and announced a proclamation declaring July 30 as Metro and Costco Canada Day in Delaware.