Quebec, March 23, 2019 - In front of more than 400 guests, at its Annual Convention held at the Fairmont Château Frontenac from March 22 to 24, the Quebec Food Processing Council (CTAQ) presented the prestigious The Personality of the Food World 2019 to Mr. Gerry Van Winden, President and CEO of VegPro International Inc.
Mr. Van Winden's adventure in the salad began with his childhood, when he worked in the family business with his brothers and many cousins. In 1998 he took over the family business and founded Vegpro International inc. where he has since been acting as president and chief executive officer. Vegpro is today the largest producer of fresh vegetables in Canada. Specializing in growing and packing young lettuce shoots, the company also markets a wide range of vegetables grown on their own land.
From the beginning, the entrepreneur's vision was to supply its customers, Canada's major food chains, 12 months a year. He did not hesitate to invest heavily in the lands of Quebec and Florida to produce on a large scale throughout the year to supply his plants with different types of mixed lettuce, of unparalleled freshness. He also did not hesitate to build automated factories of very large capacity to wash, classify and package on a very large scale, and provide full traceability of its products by greatly reducing the risk of contamination.
To innovate, to listen, to question the norms and ways of doing things are the guidelines that guide the actions of Gerry Van Winden.
The aim of the Personnalité du monde alimentaire competition is to honor the great merit of someone who allows the Quebec food industry to reach new heights. Nominations are submitted to a jury that nominates, which of their peers deserves to receive this recognition.
The CTAQ reiterated its sincere congratulations to the laureate, thanked the jury for its involvement, and National Bank and Nielsen, proud partners of the 2019 edition that made this celebration possible.
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The Quebec Food Processing Council (CTAQ) is a consolidation of the forces of industry representing 11 associations. The CTAQ accounts for 80% of the annual business volume of a $ 29 billion industry. Its mission is to represent, promote and defend the interests of its members among stakeholders and support them in reaching their full potential to ensure the sustainability of the food industry in Quebec.
