Eat & Think Pink Canada: A Transformational Journey in Gastronomic Diplomacy
This May, the project Eat & Think Pink Canada takes center stage in Toronto and Montréal, showcasing a dynamic blend of cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and culinary excellence. This marks the second mission of 2023, following the successful earlier initiatives aimed at strengthening the ties between Italy and Canada. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the project’s strategic initiatives and ambitious agenda.
Sunday, May 7, 2023: Arrival and Orientation
17:59: Arrival at Toronto Pearson Airport.
- Location: Fairmont Royal York Hotel, Toronto.
- Evening: Preparation for the week’s activities.
Monday, May 8, 2023: Preparations and Networking
- 11:30: Meeting with Inga Lavallée.
- Location: Fairmont Royal York Hotel, Toronto.
- 13:00-18:00: Booth setup and product sampling.
- Location: Booth 721, SIAL Toronto, Enercare Centre.
- 20:00-22:00: Working dinner with importers.
- Location: Sotto Sotto, Yorkville.
Tuesday, May 9, 2023: SIAL Toronto Opens
- 10:00-17:00: Meetings with buyers including ADW/Acosta and Dolanfoods.
- Location: Booth 721, SIAL Toronto, Enercare Centre.
- Evening: Free time to explore Toronto.
Wednesday, May 10, 2023: Expanding Opportunities
- 10:00-17:00: Meetings with Vaughan city officials, Italian Trade Commission, and others.
- Location: Vaughan City Hall, Little Italy BIA, and Enercare Centre.
Thursday, May 11, 2023: Final Day at SIAL Toronto
- 10:30-16:00: Visits to local retailers such as Masellis Supermarket and Alimentari Italian Grocery.
- Location: Greater Toronto Area.
- Buyer meetings: Halenda’s Meat and Cheese Boutique.
- Location: Booth 721, SIAL Toronto.
Friday, May 12, 2023: Transition to Montréal
- 08:00-09:17: Flight to Montréal.
- Location: Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.
- 11:30-12:45: Meeting with Investissement Québec.
- Location: 1001 boul. Robert-Bourassa, Montréal.
- 14:00-15:45: Discussions with CBT Foods.
- Location: CCIC Office, Montréal.
Saturday, May 13, 2023: Exploring Local Markets
Montréal Option:
- 10:00-16:30: Visits to Atwater Market, Italimenti, and Les 5 Saisons.
- Locations: Various retail points in Montréal.
Québec City Option:
- 11:00-17:00: Visits to Épicerie Européenne, La Réserve, and Morena Épicerie-Traiteur.
- Locations: Various gourmet stores in Québec City.
Sunday, May 14, 2023: Concluding Activities
- 10:00-15:00: Optional visits to additional retailers.
- Locations: Various locations in Montréal.
- 20:00: Departure for Italy.
- Location: Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.
Outcomes and Vision
The Eat & Think Pink Canada initiative demonstrates the synergy between cultural diplomacy and trade. By aligning institutional, commercial, and culinary strategies, the project lays the groundwork for a stronger Italian presence in Canadian markets, setting the stage for the grand autumn 2023 promotional campaign.
Stay tuned as Eat & Think Pink Canada continues to blend tradition, innovation, and collaboration on the global stage!
