Ontario Greenhouse Sector Celebrated at 2026 Business Excellence Awards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LEAMINGTON, ON – September 10, 2026 – Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) is proud to celebrate the achievements of Ontario’s greenhouse vegetable sector following a strong showing at the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Business Excellence Awards.
Held September 9 at the Roma Club, the annual awards recognize businesses, organizations and individuals making a positive impact throughout the region. This year’s event also marked the Chamber’s 90th anniversary and 32 years of celebrating local business excellence.
OGVG was honoured to receive the Innovation Award, recognizing the organization’s leadership in advancing Ontario’s greenhouse vegetable sector through research, advocacy, market development and support for new technologies. The nomination also highlighted OGVG’s role in strengthening competitiveness, sustainability and long-term growth while helping ensure Ontario greenhouse growers continue to produce safe, sustainable, locally grown food year-round.
“This recognition reflects the innovative spirit that exists throughout Ontario’s greenhouse sector,” said Daniel Terlizzese, Research, Innovation & Plant Protection Lead for OGVG. “Across Ontario, greenhouse growers are investing in new technologies, research, environmental stewardship, and production practices that help improve efficiency, sustainability, and food security. OGVG is proud to support that work, and we are honoured to have our collective efforts recognized by the business community.”
Rick Mastronardi, President of IPR Farms, Vice-Chair of OGVG, and Chair of OGVG's Research Committee, said the award reflects the dedication of growers who continually adapt to meet new challenges and opportunities.
Innovation has always been at the heart of Ontario's greenhouse vegetable sector," said Rick Mastronardi. "Our growers are committed to finding new ways to improve crop production, address labour and environmental challenges, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace. The research investments made by growers, along with their willingness to adopt new technologies and best practices, have helped build one of the most resilient and successful greenhouse sectors in the world. This award is a testament to the commitment and vision of our members."
Several OGVG members were also recognized during the evening. Nature Fresh Farms received the Grow South Essex Award and was a finalist for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Del Fresco Pure received the Environmental, Social & Governance Impact Award and was a finalist for Grow South Essex; and Mucci Farms was a finalist for Business Excellence – 50+ Employees.
“The recognition of so many greenhouse businesses across a diverse range of categories speaks to the strength, leadership, and innovation of the sector,” added Mastronardi. “Our members continue to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, invest in their communities, and advance sustainable food production. We are incredibly proud to see their contributions acknowledged.”
OGVG extends its congratulations not only to this year’s award recipients and finalist, but also to every business, organization, and individual nominated for a 2026 Business Excellence Award. The caliber of nominees demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit, community leadership, and commitment to excellence that continue to make Leamington and Essex County one of Canada's most dynamic regions.
OGVG also thanks the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce for its ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the businesses and organizations that contribute to the region's prosperity and success.
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About Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers
Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers is the association representing Ontario's greenhouse tomato, cucumber, and pepper growers. OGVG supports its members through advocacy, industry leadership, market intelligence, food safety initiatives, and collaboration with stakeholders across the agri-food value chain.
Media Contact:
Richard Lee
Executive Director
Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers
519-326-2604
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