Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario – April 29, 2026 – Food and Beverage Canada (FBC-ABC) concluded a productive Board of Directors meeting this week in Niagara-on-the-Lake, bringing together industry leaders from across the country to advance priorities related to competitiveness, sustainability, and investment in Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing industry.

The meeting was held at Jackson-Triggs Estate Winery, hosted by FBC-ABC member Arterra Wines Canada. This visit provided Board members with insights into the Canadian wine industry, highlighting its economic significance and the importance of domestic production in supporting local economies and trade.

As part of the meeting, FBC-ABC welcomed three new Directors to its Board:

• Michelle Cheddie, Canadian Senior Sales Manager, Ingredion
• Jeff McDowell, Chief Agribusiness Officer, Sofina Foods
• Jonathan Blais, Executive Director, Corporate Development and Government Affairs, VegPro International

FBC-ABC is also pleased to announce changes to its Executive Committee, reflecting the continued leadership and engagement of industry representatives from across the country. The following individuals were elected as officers of the corporation:

• Gabrielle Fallu, Senior Director, Corporate Communications and Government Relations, Nortera – Co-Chair
• Rod Kirwan, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Lantic – Secretary-Treasurer
• Michael Mikulak, Executive Director, Food and Beverage Manitoba – Vice-Chair

Throughout the meeting, Board members engaged in discussion on key policy priorities, including domestic investment and competitiveness, labour and immigration, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Canada-U.S. trade relations, and the Association’s upcoming advocacy activities in Ottawa.

During the meeting, Mike Bannister, FBC-ABC Co-Chair was also pleased to present the association’s first annual Chair’s Award to Michael Burrows, Executive Chair of Maple Lodge Farms. The award recognizes an individual who has been a tireless advocate for the success of Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing industry, and honours Mr. Burrows’ longstanding leadership and contributions to the industry.

FBC-ABC looks forward to continuing to work with its Board, members, and partners to advance policies that strengthen Canada’s food system and support a competitive, innovative manufacturing industry.

About Food and Beverage Canada (FBC-ABC): Food and Beverage Canada is the national industry association representing Canada’s domestic food and beverage manufacturers. FBC-ABC works with members, provincial and regional associations, and government to advance policies that support a competitive industry that provides safe, high-quality food for Canadians and global markets.  

Media Contact:
Kristina Farrell
Chief Executive Officer
Food and Beverage Canada
613-322-9235