Our Story
Our story is one of taste, tradition, and craft — elevating mushrooms and specialty foods into gourmet experiences.
At a Glance
What We Specialize In
Premium Mushrooms
Fresh and dried shiitake, oyster, porcini, morel, and other gourmet varieties.
Curated Imports
Sourcing distinctive produce from Canada and around the world.
Organic & Ethnic Selections
Serving diverse tastes with authentic, high-quality ingredients.
Retail & Foodservice Packs
From elegant 14 g retail packs to bulk formats for chefs and industry
Experience the Difference
Discover Our Full Selection
From rare mushrooms to global specialty produce, Emperor brings gourmet quality to every table. Explore our collection and see how we can serve your kitchen, store, or menu.
Our Roots
From Shiitake Growers to Mushroom Importers
Founded in 1986 as a producer of fresh shiitake mushrooms, Emperor Specialty Foods quickly expanded by importing product from China to support local demand. By 1995, the company shifted its focus entirely to sourcing and importing fresh and dry mushrooms, laying the foundation for long-term growth.
Innovation in Supply
Leading the Way in
Mushroom Imports
In 1998, Emperor became the first Canadian company to routinely import containers of fresh mushrooms from China by ocean freight. This breakthrough allowed for larger inventories and expanded distribution across Canada and into the Northwest United States.
A New Chapter
Joining the
Fresh Direct Produce Group
In 2019, Emperor joined the Fresh Direct Produce Group, sparking diversification beyond mushrooms. Today, the company offers a wide range of conventional, organic, and ethnic fruits and vegetables, along with retail packs of dried mushrooms. Emperor proudly serves BC, the Prairies, Ontario, and Quebec, continuing to build on its legacy of quality and innovation.
