DATE: TORONTO, OCTOBER 30, 2007

Those who believe in the importance of purchasing Ontario-grown products are being asked to add cut flowers and potted plants to their list.

At the Grocery Innovations Tradeshow, Flowers Canada (Ontario) Ltd. today launched Pick Ontario, a comprehensive marketing communications campaign intended to raise awareness, interest and demand for Ontario-grown cut flowers and potted plants.

“Increasing numbers of people want to support their local economy by purchasing products grown in Ontario,” said the Manager of Pick Ontario, Gary Gander. ”Yet our market research shows that one in five people don’t know the origin of the flowers and potted plants they buy.”

Gander added that with Ontario-grown cut flowers and potted plants, consumers are ensured the freshest product available – there’s no time in storage while they wait for their flight. This reduced time to market and proper transportation means that Ontario flowers and potted plants give consumers great value.

To raise the profile of Ontario grown cut flowers and potted plants with independent grocers and retailers, Flowers Canada (Ontario) Ltd. has set up a Pick Ontario display at Foodland Ontario’s Grocery Innovations Tradeshow booth. Some of the 50 varieties of cut flowers and 150 varieties of potted plants grown in Ontario will be on display.

Pick Ontario is funded by The Ontario Greenhouse Alliance, the Agricultural Adaptation Council and the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. A consumer-focused campaign will be launched in the coming months.

Flowers Canada (Ontario) Ltd. is an association of floriculture farmers in Ontario. Its mission is to enhance the profitability and competitiveness of Ontario’s floriculture industry.