NEW HAMBURG, ON, CANADA - If I were to sum up what I understand buyers want, it would be control, consistency, and commitment. This is also how I would sum up Pfenning's Organic Farms.
Pfenning's is not only a symbol of Ontario organic, but also a vehicle for creating social impact through consumers’ food purchases. Growing organically in Canada since 1981, the company even played a role in the early development of organic standards and certification in Ontario.
“This history places the farm among the pioneers of the organic movement in the province, and that legacy continues to shape how we approach farming and our role in the food system today,” Lauren Stallard Wedderburn, Sales and Marketing Manager, shared. “Today, every purchase of a Pfenning’s product supports a system built around stewardship of the land and respect for the people who grow and harvest food.”
That work includes:
- Protecting soil health
- Safeguarding surrounding ecosystems and wildlife
- Advocating for migrant workers’ rights
- Supporting the preservation of precious farmland
These are the stories consumers connect with, empowering their choices with an understanding of where their support goes in the vast supply chain.
“They become partners in this work with us, and that is something they can feel proud of. They’re investing in farms, communities, and landscapes that can thrive for generations to come,” Lauren pointed out.
On the buy-side, Lauren explained partners know they can count on high-quality certified organic produce, prompt and dependable deliveries, fair pricing, and a team that values transparency and strong relationships.
As growers, packers, importers, and distributors, Pfenning’s provides a full selection of certified organic produce year-round.
“Our team is committed to responsive customer service and open communication, helping partners meet the needs of their customers while maintaining confidence in the traceability and integrity of the food they sell,” she said.
It is no secret that trust and traceability are increasingly important in today’s marketplace, and many choose Pfenning’s because the brand is known to be a symbol of both local and organic.
“Even when a Pfenning’s branded product is imported, it still supports our Ontario organic farm. In addition, every purchase through Pfenning’s supports Ontario Organic (formerly The Organic Council of Ontario),” Lauren explained. A 0.1% fee is collected on all invoices and remitted to Ontario Organic to support the growth and development of the Ontario Organic industry.
Pfenning's is not only deeply rooted in Canadian organic farming but is also helping advance organic adoption and expansion across the country.
“Pfenning’s has always believed that a strong organic sector depends on collaboration. Alongside our own farming operations, we work with a network of organic growers across Canada! We help bring their produce to market through our packing and distribution channels, and they help us offer our clients a full assortment of certified organic fruits and vegetables that prioritizes Canadian sources, year-round,” Lauren said. “For many small organic producers, this kind of partnership can make an important difference in their ability to grow and thrive.”
It is clear as our conversation winds down that Pfenning's values guide every decision made by the business.
“Our philosophy is rooted in the idea that healthy soil grows healthy plants, and healthy plants nourish people,” Lauren stated simply. “Investing in practices like composting, crop rotation, and careful soil stewardship, while continually working to improve the sustainability of our operations has always been at the core of how we manage farm operations.”
Control, consistency, and commitment from the very first seed. But don’t just take my word for it, you can get to know Pfenning’s firsthand at this year’s Canadian Produce Marketing Association Convention. Be sure to visit booth #747 while walking the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, April 29–30.
