PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

This past year, we were fortunate to celebrate over 40 years of service to our sector. In the first in-person event in almost 2 years, we honoured our Lifetime Members, and added one more star to the lineup with Richard Halenda. We recognized Business Member leadership in our Meat Industry Achievement Award (MIA) that went to King Cole Ducks. Our Associate Member Recognition Award (AMRA) recognized Viscofan for their outstanding contribution to our association.

In a record year for entrants (17 from across the province), we had 4 finalists battle it out in-person and live-streamed on social media (Facebook) for Ontario’s Finest Butcher competition. Paul Gentile from Metro took home the honour of Ontario’s Finest Butcher. The Hon. Lisa M. Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs not only joined us to kick off the Finals event but witnessed first-hand the talent and skill in our sector.

With success obtaining funding for 4 projects to help the sector move forward together, we are on our way to implementing the Meat and Poultry Growth strategy and measuring the potential of Ontario’s meat and poultry sector. We developed a Workforce Development plan to identify how we can help address labour shortages and established a technology roadmap to explore technology to increase efficiency with existing labour. Finally, we launched a project to look at how sustainability strategies could help differentiate and improve businesses.

I need to acknowledge the amazing team of people who help make this organization great. Melissa McDougall, for being the warm welcome for new members, and helping existing members navigate our registrations and services. Derek Boudreau, our eyes and ears on the ground who is largely responsible for getting you the information you need and connecting members to each other. Daphne Nuys-Hall, who is always ready to assist with technical and regulatory issues. April Jackman, our event, marketing, and communications ninja, who makes sure that we provide relevant content and events out to you throughout the year. I would also like to welcome Meghan Schmuck to the team, who will be our Office Manager, taking over the bookkeeping and day to day office management.