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Recognizing excellence in the direct farm marketing industry

The Ontario Farm Fresh Marketing Association recently delivered their annual awards to a number of deserving Ontario operations.

May 8, 2019  By Fruit and Vegetable Staff


Hollis English (left) is presents OFFMA’s Outstanding On-Farm Market Award to Brian, Will and Judy Hugli, owner-operators of Hugli’s Blueberry Ranch in Pembroke, Ont. Photo courtesy of OFFMA.

Excellence is not a skill, it is an attitude. The Ontario Farm Fresh Marketing Association (OFFMA) recently recognized excellence among its members at its annual Awards Gala.

“OFFMA’s Annual Awards Gala is an opportunity to recognize some of the excellence that happens in our industry but is not celebrated often enough,” says Cathy Bartolic, executive director of OFFMA. “OFFMA members are not only some of the most innovative farmers in Ontario, but also great leaders. The Gala is one of the best evenings throughout the year.”

Foodland Merchandising Award – Bre’s Fresh Market
This annual award recognizes an OFFMA member for excellence in display and promotion of Ontario foods and support of Foodland Ontario. The entry from Bre’s Fresh Market stood out not only because of its creativity and visual appeal, but because of how it exemplifies what Bre’s Farm Market is all about, “Your Local Food Connection.”
It is a great example of how a single sign or display can create conversation with customers and ultimately boost the success of your business.  

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Outstanding On-Farm Market Award –  Hugli’s Blueberry Ranch
This award recognizes an OFFMA member who has demonstrated outstanding qualities in regards to their own market as well as the advancement of the industry as a whole. Brian Hugli and his family run a first class agri-tourism operation in Pembroke. It started with Christmas trees but the crops have expanded to include pumpkins and blueberries. The Huglis also provide many innovative experiences on their farm, namely farm weddings, giant pumpkin boat races and pirate parties. Brian is past president of OFFMA and is involved in local politics as well.

The Awards Gala also saw the Ambassador Award presented to Danielle French from South Pond Farm and the Leadership Award presented to Chris and Christy Hiemstra of Clovermead Apiaries.


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