Canada's largest fresh produce trade show returns to Vancouver on 13-15 April 2027, connecting growers, shippers, retailers and foodservice buyers across the produce supply chain.
Dates
13–15 Apr 2027
City / country
Vancouver, Canada
Venue
Vancouver Convention Centre
Time
1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Event overview
CPMA 2027, the Annual Convention and Trade Show of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association, brings Canada's fresh produce supply chain to the Vancouver Convention Centre from 13 to 15 April 2027.
Retailers, wholesalers, foodservice buyers, growers, packers, importers and exporters meet across three exhibit halls, with a New Product Showcase, business sessions, awards and structured networking.
The 2026 edition drew more than 4,600 attendees and over 330 exhibiting companies, making this the country's largest dedicated fresh fruit and vegetable event and a practical route into Canadian retail and foodservice accounts.
TL;DR
Visit to meet Canadian retail and foodservice buyers in one hall, compare suppliers across categories, and see the New Product Showcase. The programme mixes business sessions with receptions and an awards brunch, so a two-day visit can cover sourcing, category review and relationship building without a separate road trip.
Exhibit to reach decision-makers from Canada's largest grocery, wholesale and foodservice operators in a trade-only setting. More than 330 companies took part in 2026, and the 2027 floor was already 80% sold out at announcement. A Vancouver edition adds Pacific Rim importers and exporters to the Canadian buyer base.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
2Vancouver Convention Centre West, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
Food options
West Building concourse catering, Canada Place waterfront restaurants
On-site diningParking: Use the Canada Place / West Building parking access off Canada Place; allow extra time on cruise-ship turnaround days.
Gate: Trade-show access is through the West Building Meeting Level foyer, where registration and badge collection are located.
Attend
Event days & opening times
Ticket info
Badge collection
Collect your badge at the registration foyer on the Meeting Level of the West Building; bring photo ID and the confirmation email.
Ticket notes
Delegate registration opens in January 2027. The International Retailer Program includes full delegate registration, economy airfare and a convention hotel stay for accepted first-time international retail buyers.
What's on
How the last edition performed
Last edition
2026
Visitors: 4,600
Exhibitors: 330
Floor area: 6,503 sqm
Visitor countries: 15
This edition
2027
Visitors: 4,600
Exhibitors: 350
Next edition
Not announced yet
New this edition
Impact
CPMA is Canada's largest dedicated fresh produce gathering, and the 2026 edition set the benchmark with more than 4,600 attendees and over 330 companies. The 2027 move to Vancouver shifts the buyer mix toward western Canada and Pacific Rim trade while keeping national grocery and foodservice chains in the room.
Audience quality
The audience is concentrated among retail produce category managers, wholesale distributors, foodservice procurement teams and import-export traders. Attendance is trade-only and programme-led, so conversations tend to be commercial rather than consumer-facing; a booth or meeting room reaches buyers with live category responsibility.
Exhibitor outcomes
The show works best for suppliers with a clear Canadian listing or distribution proposition. A 10x10 booth puts a brand in front of national and regional buyers, while the New Product Showcase and business sessions create earned attention. Plan follow-up around retail listing cycles and expect several weeks to convert meetings into orders.
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
Canada imports a large share of its fresh produce out of season, so CPMA is where Canadian retail and foodservice buyers meet growers and shippers from the Americas, Europe and beyond. The Vancouver edition adds a Pacific Rim gateway and puts western Canadian supply close to national account teams.
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Year-round sourcing and supply resilience
Canadian retailers are diversifying origin countries and adding backup suppliers to protect shelf availability through weather, freight and border disruption.
What it changes: Suppliers with consistent quality and logistics across multiple origins can win listings that reward reliability, not just price.
Packaging and sustainability rules
Retailers and governments are pushing recyclable, compostable and right-sized packaging while keeping produce protected and shelf life long.
What it changes: Packaging choices now affect listing decisions and can differentiate an exhibitor on the show floor.
Category premiumisation and convenience
Value-added formats such as ready-to-eat, snack packs and meal solutions are growing faster than bulk produce in many Canadian banners.
What it changes: Brands that solve meal preparation and reduce waste can earn space beyond the commodity aisle.
CPMA anchors the Canadian calendar in spring. Buyers and suppliers pair it with the global Berlin show in February, the European spring show in Italy, and the North American fall gathering.
Fruit Logistica 2027
Berlin, Germany
Dates from the annual early-February circuit slot; confirm on the organiser site before booking.
websiteMacfrut 2027
Rimini, Italy
Spring circuit date is indicative; confirm the official 2027 calendar.
websiteIFPA Global Produce & Floral Show 2027
Orlando, United States
Autumn circuit slot; exact 2027 dates and venue to be confirmed by the organiser.
websiteCircuit dates are planning guidance, not confirmed CPMA information.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Vancouver International Airport
Canada Line trains run from the airport to Waterfront station, a short walk from the venue.
About 12 km
to venue
25-35 minutes by taxi; 25 minutes by SkyTrain Canada Line
by car
Abbotsford International Airport
Useful for regional British Columbia flights; allow extra time for highway traffic.
About 70 km
to venue
60-80 minutes by car
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 130–190 / night
April is shoulder season; refundable rates cluster at the top of the band.
USD 210–300 / night
Walking distance to the West Building and Canada Place.
USD 360–540 / night
Connected to or opposite the venue; book early because the 2027 programme uses these hotels for receptions.
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
SkyTrain Canada Line
Fastest option during peak traffic; trains run every 6-12 minutes.
Taxi / rideshare
Use the official taxi queue at YVR; rideshare pickup is on the departures level.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eTA (visa-exempt air travellers) | Citizens of visa-exempt countries flying to Canada | $7.00 | Usually minutes to a few days | |
| Visitor visa (TRV) | Travellers from visa-required countries | $75.00 | Varies by office; apply weeks in advance |
US citizens do not need a visa or eTA for short business visits. Check IRCC for your nationality before booking.
Canada accepts ATA carnets for qualifying temporary imports; confirm the goods list and customs broker arrangements before shipping.
Official visa pageWeather
Vancouver in mid-April is mild and changeable: daytime highs around 14°C and lows around 8°C, with frequent light rain. Pack a waterproof layer and comfortable walking shoes for the Canada Place waterfront.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The venue offers business-grade Wi-Fi in meeting areas; mobile coverage is strong downtown. Bring a North American plug adaptor for UK/EU devices.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Tipping
Restaurant servers expect 15-20% before tax; taxis and rideshare tips are typically 10-15%.
Business etiquette
Meetings are punctual and direct. Exchange business cards, use first names, and confirm follow-up actions by email within a few days.
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: YVR - Vancouver International Airport
Book 8-12 weeks ahead for April; YVR is the closest gateway and the Canada Line connects it to downtown.
Book flightsMost visa-exempt air travellers need an eTA; visa-required travellers need a visitor visa. US citizens are exempt from both for short visits.
Estimated cost: CAD 7 eTA; CAD 100 visitor visa application fee (indicative)
Processing: eTA usually minutes to days; visitor visa weeks, depending on the office
Apply through IRCC only. Carry your passport, eTA or visa confirmation and a copy of your registration.
OfficialGet to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Take the Canada Line from YVR to Waterfront station (about 25 minutes, CAD 9-11), then walk 8-10 minutes to the West Building. A taxi takes 25-35 minutes and costs CAD 35-45.
Hotel → venue: Canada Place and Coal Harbour hotels are a 5-15 minute walk; Burrard Street hotels are 10-20 minutes or a short taxi ride.
Ride-hail: Uber and local taxis serve downtown; use the Canada Place drop-off area rather than the cruise terminal approach on busy days.
Public transit: TransLink SkyTrain and buses cover downtown; a Compass Card or contactless fare is required.
Parking: Paid underground parking at the Vancouver Convention Centre, accessible from Canada Place; expect event-week pricing.
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: April
Temperature: 8-14°C
Seasonality: Frequent light rain and occasional bright spells; spring is changeable rather than hot.
Packing: Bring a waterproof jacket, layers, an umbrella and comfortable shoes for the waterfront.
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Wednesday 14 April
Wednesday combines the first full trade show afternoon (13:00-18:00) with the delegate breakfast, business sessions and the Outstanding Women in Produce Reception, so a single day covers sourcing, programme content and networking.
Register and book travel to YVR — Registration opens in January 2027; book refundable flights and a Canada Place-area hotel.
Build a target exhibitor list — Use the exhibitor directory and the New Product Showcase to pick 12-15 must-see companies.
Confirm eTA or visa and download documents — Check passport validity and carry registration confirmation.
Book meetings and download the programme — Request 20-minute booth meetings and shortlist business sessions and receptions.
Plan the route to the West Building — Check Canada Line times, pick badge collection slot and pack a waterproof layer.
Badge collection and delegate breakfast
West Building, Meeting Level foyerSupplier meetings on the trade show floor
Exhibit Halls A-CBusiness session and New Product Showcase review
West Building session roomsRetail buyer meetings and Learning Lounge drop-ins
Exhibit Halls A-C, Booth 2144Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Nature and Outdoors
20-25 minutes by shuttle or car from downtown
A short pre- or post-show half day in the North Shore rainforest; book the free shuttle from downtown.
Granville Island Public Market
Food and Culture
15 minutes by Aquabus or car from Canada Place
Useful for food-trend spotting, local produce and a relaxed client meal away from the venue.
Fairmont Waterfront lobby and bar
Hotel bar
The PFP and Young Professionals Reception is held here on 13 April; good for informal follow-ups.
CPMA Booth 303 and Learning Lounge
Show-floor meeting point
Booth 303 hosts the International Reception on 15 April; the Learning Lounge is Booth 2144.
CPMA buyers evaluate suppliers against Canadian listing cycles, so speed and a clear next commercial step matter more than a generic brochure.
Budget
Shell scheme
CAD 450–650 / m²
Raw space
CAD 360–420 / m²
Standard booth
9.29 m²
Published 2027 rate per 10 ft x 10 ft space. Shell scheme and furniture are procured separately; fitted shell band is indicative.
sourceAdjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
booth_space
exhibitor · standard
CAD 3500–3675 / per 10x10 ft booth
hotel
both · mid
USD 210–300 / per night
per_diem
both · standard
USD 50–80 / per day
flight
visitor · economy
USD 320–950 / return
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| booth_space | exhibitor | standard | CAD 3500–3675 / per 10x10 ft booth | official | 2026-10-31 |
| hotel | both | mid | USD 210–300 / per night | estimate | 2026-10-31 |
| per_diem | both | standard | USD 50–80 / per day | estimate | 2026-10-31 |
| flight | visitor | economy | USD 320–950 / return | estimate | 2026-10-31 |
Decision
Six quick questions to decide whether CPMA 2027 is a visit, an exhibit or a skip for your team.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What best describes your role?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You have live category or sourcing decisions and can commit one to two days on the floor.
Best for
Retail, wholesale and foodservice buyers sourcing fresh produce and packaging
Min. budget
$1,200.00
Timeline
Book 6-8 weeks ahead; registration opens January 2027
Risks
April hotel rates rise near the show
A single day may not cover all halls
exhibit
You have a Canada-ready product, pricing and a follow-up team.
Best for
Growers, shippers, importers and suppliers targeting Canadian retail or foodservice accounts
Min. budget
$6,500.00
Timeline
Reserve space now; 2027 floor was 80% sold at announcement
Risks
Booth, travel and freight costs add up quickly
Buyer meetings need to be booked in advance
skip
Your target market is outside Canada or your product is not ready for listing discussions.
Best for
Companies with no Canadian commercial plan in the next 12 months
Timeline
Reassess in late 2027 for the next edition
Risks
Missing competitor and category signals
Losing early access to 2028 space
Book with
Vancouver Convention Centre
The waterfront venue hosting CPMA 2027 in the West Building, Exhibit Halls A-C.
Venue named on the official CPMA attendee page.
Air Canada
Canada's flag carrier with domestic and international connections through Vancouver International Airport.
A useful travel resource, not an official CPMA partner.
Canadian Produce Marketing Association
The national association that owns and organises the annual Convention and Trade Show.
Organiser named on the official event pages.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Federal department supporting Canadian agriculture and agri-food market development.
Public body relevant to Canadian produce exporters; not confirmed as a 2027 partner.
Recommended providers
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Apply for an eTA or visitor visa only through the official IRCC site.
Waterfront hotel opposite the venue and a programme reception venue.
Book YVR flights 6-8 weeks ahead; the Canada Line connects the airport to downtown.
Official 2027 freight handler (to be confirmed)
Do not ship until the exhibitor manual names the handler and delivery address.
Travel and exhibitor liability cover; confirm the certificate meets the venue's requirements.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Book the free downtown shuttle for a half-day pre- or post-show break.
CRM of choice
No official scanner was published; use badge scanning or a shared mobile form and export daily.
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
5 more alternate names hidden
Trust footer
6
References
2
Publishers
6
Date checked
Canadian Produce Marketing Association
Vancouver Convention Centre
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
