Born into a farming family in the Western Cape of South Africa, farming and food production is a passion and skill passed down to Leon through many generations.

With countless years working on the family farm in food production behind him, Leon continues to be passionate about the food business and is a strong and vocal supporter of local farmers and producers. He believes in quality and freshness which makes buying locally his first choice whenever possible.

Leon has exceptional knowledge in the produce industry, having worked on a farm at the grass roots level of food production, as well as for a produce terminal in Vancouver supplying local stores.  He also spent some time as the organic produce specialist for Wild West organic foods (now Sunopta).

Along with an education in marketing and the above experiences, Leon has an extensive background in specialty groceries, having brokered and sold items for several food companies both on the mainland, as well as on Vancouver Island.

Having just undergone extensive renovations, this new and exciting specialty foods store is located at 1308 Gladstone Avenue in the neighbourhood of Fernwood.

Aubergine Specialty Foods is a short walk from downtown and is conveniently situated on a bus route. As well as some limited on street parking, there are three reserved parking bays allocated for customers use only, located behind the store.