Canada: Focus on niche products for a successful import business

Minnaar is a Calgary-based Canadian firm devoted to the import of vegetables, mostly Peruvian, Mexican and U.S. asparagus and Mexican bell peppers. Occasionally, peppers and other products, such as Dutch and Belgian endive and aubergine, are flown in from Europe, depending on what the market dictates, but these represent only a small part of the business.

During the winter time, Canada’s local production is not perceived as a threat by the company, as the cost of gas is very high and the weather conditions too cold, of around minus 30 degrees Celsius, and thus the import produce from countries like Mexico is needed.

According to Wally Robanske, of Minnaar Canada, an increasing number of retailers are starting to go straight to the grower, bypassing wholesalers and importers and this is what pushes Minnaar’s focus towards the niche markets and special products which specific customers are looking for. The company covers the entire western Canadian market, with shipments being made as further east as Winnipeg, Manitoba, and as far west as Vancouver.

For more information:
Wally Robanske
Minnaar Canada
Email: wally.robanske@telus.net