Headline News

Province recognizes two Simcoe-Grey businesses for supporting Ontario farmers

July 20, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Two Simcoe-Grey businesses have been awarded the 2025 Foodland Ontario Retailer awards for their commitment to protecting Ontario’s farmers and local food supply chain by promoting local produce.

The Retailer Awards program recognizes creative in-store displays of fresh, seasonally grown fruits and vegetables that make it easy for consumers to recognize and buy the good things that grow in Ontario.

Goldsmith’s Farm Market & Bakery in Thornbury earned a Platinum Award. Wasaga Beach Foodland earned a Silver Award of Merit.

Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saudnerson presented the awards on behalf of the Ontario government on Thursday, July 2.

“Congratulations to the Oakley family from Goldsmith’s Farm Market & Bakery and the Spry family from Wasaga Beach Foodland, as well as their dedicated teams, on these well-deserved awards,” said MPP Saunderson. “These businesses play an important role in supporting Ontario farmers and connecting residents and visitors with the incredible food grown right here in our province. Through their commitment to promoting local produce and creating outstanding shopping experiences, they are helping strengthen our agricultural sector, support local jobs, and encourage consumers to buy Ontario-grown products.”

The annual Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards have been the produce industry’s signature opportunity to recognize the creative talent of produce managers and staff for 39 years.

“Congratulations to all the winners of the 2025 Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards,” said Trevor Jones, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Retailers play an important role in supporting Ontario’s local food system by helping shoppers identify and choose fresh Ontario-grown produce. When we choose to purchase what is grown right here at home, we are protecting our province by supporting our farmers, strengthening our economy and ensuring the long-term stability of our food supply.”

This year, the Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards are recognizing 60 grocery stores across the province for their innovative promotion of fresh Ontario-grown produce.

These annual awards include four categories of displays that celebrate excellence in retail display and promotion of local produce.

Readers Comments (0)