That’s what Joseph B. Fredricks did back in 1941 when he launched Select Food Products Limited with a line of canned stews. The company’s first location was a single room in the back of the ACME Screw & Gear Building on Weston Road, in Toronto. By the ’50s, Select had moved to the district of Yorkville—a location we wish we still owned!

State-of-the-Art Production
Today, we’re located in 100,000 square feet, east of the Don Valley Parkway and south of Eglinton Avenue. Our state-of-the-art facility features automated production lines and the ability to control every aspect of processing, warehousing, and distribution. It includes in-house laboratories, tasting kitchens, and administration. From those first stews, our product lines have expanded to include dozens of items from sauces to food colouring.

Generation 3
It’s been 60 years, and the Fredricks family still owns and actively manages the company. In fact, in July 1997, the third generation took over the reins as President after working in the industry and gaining twenty years of experience. One of the hallmarks of a successful, multi-generation family business is its ability to change with the times. Building on our foundation of quality, service and tradition, Select has remained nimble enough to adapt to changing trends and consumer preferences. But we’re not resting on our laurels: we’re still growing and innovating. In January 2001, Select received its Organic Certification from O.C.P.P. (Organic Crop Producers and Processors Ontario Inc.). We are now in the process of developing a number of organic products. We also received the Gold Rating of Excellence after a recently completed third-party audit conducted by Silliker Laboratories.

Select’s longevity is a testament to our customers’ loyalty and our ability to meet their needs. Thank you! Anytime you’d like to share your comments, we welcome your feedback. And cheers to the next 60 years.