Fresh Connections, Seamless Execution

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Annual Convention and Trade Show 2026 brought together 4,600+ attendees and 330 exhibitors from across the fresh produce industry. As a long-standing GES client, this rotating national event continues to serve as a key platform for networking, innovation, and business growth. From vibrant show floor experiences to complex fresh produce logistics, GES delivered a seamless and visually impactful event that strengthened connections across the Canadian and global produce community.

With a tight move-in schedule and a highly dynamic show environment, CPMA 2026 presented several operational challenges. The event required daily delivery and removal of fresh produce, with up to 9 refrigerated 40’ trailers on the docks at one time, introducing both complexity and time sensitivity. High dock traffic, combined with over 440,000 lbs of freight, demanded precise coordination. 

At the same time, CPMA set clear goals: facilitate meaningful industry connections, showcase innovation and sustainability across the produce sector, and support business development for exhibitors. GES also needed to ensure that its custom builds and show features matched the elevated look and quality expected on the show floor, all within a compressed timeline. 

Leveraging years of experience with CPMA, the GES team approached the event with a detailed production strategy and strong on-site leadership. Dedicated operations managers divided responsibilities to ensure timelines were met, while specialized freight teams were deployed to separately manage fresh produce and standard materials. Pre-planning meetings and historical knowledge of the show enabled efficient coordination of daily produce logistics. 

On the show floor, GES brought the event to life with over 25,000 square feet of graphics and a cohesive “show look” developed by the creative team beginning in 2025. Using a bright, colorful palette, all elements aligned seamlessly across the space. 

GES enhanced the attendee experience with: 

• A sleek, modern learning lounge

• Eye-catching wayfinding structures

• Inviting food stations and networking lounges

• A standout relaxation lounge in prefunction space

• Product showcase displays and a high-impact registration area 

To balance speed and design quality, the team leveraged AMP modular solutions for backwalls paired with vibrant fabric graphics, delivering a polished and efficient build across more than 50 custom structures, including 20+ exhibitor builds and 30+ show management spaces. 

CPMA 2026 delivered a strong and successful event that met and exceeded key objectives. The show floor was busy and energized throughout, creating valuable opportunities for networking, product discovery, and business development across the produce industry. Exhibitors reported a positive experience, supported by consistent traffic and high-quality engagement. 

Despite the complexity of the event, including tight timelines and large-scale fresh produce logistics, GES executed a smooth and efficient operation from move-in through close. Careful planning, clear coordination, and a proactive on-site team ensured that every element came together seamlessly, reinforcing confidence in execution and partnership. 

The event also delivered meaningful industry and community impact. In collaboration with exhibitors and volunteers, more than 42,300 lbs of fresh produce was donated to the Daily Bread Food Bank, extending the value of the show beyond the show floor.