Canadian Grocer March/April 2025 by ensembleiq

Pattison Food Group

CONSTANT INNOVATION, STRONG CULTURE AND AN ‘ALWAYS CUSTOMER FIRST’ APPROACH HAVE PUT THIS COMPANY AT THE TOP OF ITS GAME

FRESH INSIGHTS FROM OUR 2025 PRODUCE OPERATIONS SURVEY

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COCKTAIL MIXERS

SIMPLY ADD A SPIRIT

NO ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS SERVINGS PER BOTTLE 5+

NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVOURS NON CARBONATED

NO ARTIFICIAL COLOURS

From

As it marks 110 years in business, Pattison Food Group is firmly

Departments

7 Front Desk 9 The Buzz 77 New on Shelf

12 Brewing success How two friends from Alberta turned a passion for coffee into a thriving business

15 Call of duties Anti-U.S. sentiment draws consumers back to the grocery chains they once boycotted

AISLES

71 Cream of the crop A look at what’s driving demand in the dairy category

75 Sourdough: Four things to know A tangy, complex flavour with a boost of beneficial probiotics

EXPRESS LANE

78 Taxing times Uncertainty surrounding tariffs remains. What can grocers do?

Our sixth-annual survey digs into the challenges and opportunities of

17 Building a stronger industry An interview with CFIG’s Gary Sands

22 Oh, what a night! Check out the photos from this year’s Night to Nurture gala COLUMN

25 Value seekers Caddle’s Ransom Hawley uncovers what shoppers are looking for from their grocery store

65 Meaty selections As prices rise and tastes change, grocers must innovate to keep meat sales sizzling

*Except for Aylmer Accents Fire Roasted, Hunt’s Tomato Sauce (910 mL), Hunt’s Tomato Sauce no salt added (910 mL), Angie’s Sea Salt Popcorn (17 g, 35 g, 102 g and 340 g), Angie’s Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn (652 g), Puritan Mild Chili, Puritan Corned Beef Hash and Puritan Beans and weiners.

2300 Yonge Street, Suite 2900, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4 (877) 687-7321 Fax (888) 889-9522 www.canadiangrocer.com

BRAND MANAGEMENT

GROUP PUBLISHER/SVP, GROCERY & CONVENIENCE, CANADA Sandra Parente (416) 271-4706 - sparente@ensembleiq.com

PUBLISHER Vanessa Peters vpeters@ensembleiq.com

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shellee Fitzgerald sfitzgerald@ensembleiq.com

MANAGING EDITOR Kristin Laird klaird@ensembleiq.com

DIGITAL EDITOR Jillian Morgan jmorgan@ensembleiq.com

ADVERTISING SALES & BUSINESS

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Karishma Rajani (on leave) (437) 225-1385 - krajani@ensembleiq.com

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Julia Sokolova (647) 407-8236 - jsokolova@ensembleiq.com

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Roberta Thomson (416) 843-5534 - rthomson@ensembleiq.com

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Andrea Phills (416) 399-1680 - aphills@ensembleiq.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER Juan Chacon jchacon@ensembleiq.com

DESIGN/PRODUCTION/MARKETING

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nancy Peterman npeterman@ensembleiq.com

ART DIRECTOR Jackie Shipley jshipley@ensembleiq.com

SENIOR PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michael Kimpton mkimpton@ensembleiq.com

MARKETING MANAGER Jakob Wodnicki jwodnicki@ensembleiq.com

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

BONNIE BIROLLO , SOBEYS

RAY HEPWORTH , METRO

BRENDA KIRK , PATTISON FOOD GROUP

CHRISTY MCMULLEN , SUMMERHILL MARKET

GIANCARLO TRIMARCHI VINCE’S MARKET

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CORPORATE OFFICERS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jennifer Litterick

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jane Volland

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Derek Estey

CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER Ann Jadown

Suite 2900, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4. Printed in Canada

UNCERTAIN TIMES, AGAIN

At the time of this writing, it has been exactly five years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic; an extraordinary time that, for many of us, was characterized by hand sanitizer, N95 masks, social distancing, Plexiglas, lockdowns and pervasive use of the word “pivot.”

The anniversary has prompted reflection on the crisis, which we now know to be one of the deadliest outbreaks in recorded history. News feeds this week feature stories and commentary posing the question: what have we learned?

From the grocery industry’s perspective, we learned about the courage of front-line workers, we learned how agile and resilient the business can be and how crucial it is to be prepared for the next crisis, whatever form it might take.

Five years on, of course, another crisis is brewing, one that will again test the resilience of the industry. The Trump administration’s threat to our economy and even our sovereignty by way of punishing tariffs has rattled the country, plunging us into uncertain times, once again. One consequence, of course, is that Trump’s threats have mobilized Canadians and sparked a patriotic-infused buy-Canadian movement.

Grocers are also responding—they’ve been accelerating local sourcing strategies and boosting the visibility of Canadian products in-store to help shoppers identify Canadian goods. To weather this challenging period, leaders we spoke to for this issue stressed the importance of communicating with customers about the impact the trade war is having on prices

and to emphasize support of local suppliers and to lean-in to the resilience built up from dealing with past challenges.

On the subject of resilience, this issue we’re featuring Pattison Food Group (PFG) as our cover story. The B.C.-based company—a powerhouse in Western Canada—is marking a remarkable 110 years in business. Turn to page 43 to learn how PFG has managed such enduring success and what’s ahead for the company.

One more thing! At times like these, supporting communities and employees is all the more meaningful. And we want to hear about the great work you’re doing to make a positive difference. Be sure to submit your nomination for Canadian Grocer’s Impact Awards at cgimpactawards.ca before May 16. CG

Shellee Fitzgerald Editor-in-Chief

The Buzz

As part of a $2.2-billion investment, Loblaw will open 80 new stores under several

Longo’s continues its Ontario expansion with the opening of its 41st location, a 25,000-sq.-ft. space in Vaughan, Ont., just

And with the bite of an apple to mark the celebration, Ontario grocer LONGO’S opened its 41st location in late February. The 25,000-sq.-ft. space at 67 Colossus Drive in Vaughan, Ont., just north of Toronto, offers a full-grocery shop experience and features a stone oven pizza and gourmet sandwich program, hot buffet, salad bar, ready-to-go meal solutions and sushi made in-store daily.

To improve and expand its network of stores and modernize its supply chain, LOBLAW says it will invest $2.2 billion in 2025. This includes 80 new stores under the No Frills, Maxi, Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharmaprix and T&T banners, including approximately 50 hard discount stores; renovations to more than 300 grocery and pharmacy locations, including adding approximately 100 new Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacy care clinics; and modernizing the supply chain, including the opening of a 1.2-million-sq.- ft. facility in East Gwillimbury, Ont.

CALGARY CO-OP will anchor a mixed-use development located in the heart of the Marda Loop Neighbourhood, just south of downtown Calgary. The retail co-operative acquired the land in 2020 and chose Truman Homes as its joint-venture and development partner after an extensive search. Pending planning and development approvals, the 27,000-sq.-ft. grocery store is expected to open in 2028.

T&T SUPERMARKET has expanded again, opening its second downtown Toronto location—a 31,000-sq.-ft., two-level space at 26 Edward Street, near Yonge-Dundas Square. The location is T&T’s 38th in North America and offers the Asian grocer’s usual fare, including T&T’s street food section, self-serve hot food, sushi, PaPa Chicken, Egg Tart and more.

north of Toronto

Braving the winter elements, customers line up outside for the grand opening of T&T’s second downtown Toronto location, this one near YongeDundas Square, and the Asian specialty grocer’s 38th store in North America

of its banners, including No Frills

Naniss Gadel-Rab has been named president of Mondelēz Canada. She succeeds Karla Schlieper, who will be leaving the company in March. Gadel-Rab, a former Star Women in Grocery winner, most recently led the foods portfolio at Unilever Canada. She brings more than two decades of experience—in supply chain, sales, strategy, marketing and e-commerce across nine countries—to the role.

Metro has tapped Nicolas Amyot, a chartered professional accountant and chartered business valuator, to succeed François Thibault, who announced his retirement from the Quebec-based grocery chain last year. Amyot officially steps into the executive vice-president, chief financial officer and treasurer role on April 18. Amyot has more than 30 years of finance experience.

Natursource has promoted Catherine Sumague from vice-president of sales to chief revenue officer. She has been tasked with driving national and international growth at the Quebec-headquartered food and beverage manufacturer, overseeing sales, marketing and R&D, while managing key client relationships.

Maple Leaf Foods has made several changes to its senior leadership team. Mike Yang has been appointed as the new chief supply chain officer, while Josh Kuehnbaum, a 25-year company veteran, has moved into the role of senior vice-president, customer business development (Canada). Additionally, Ryan Walker, another long-time employee, has assumed the position of senior vice-president, poultry.

David Jacobs has been appointed vice-president of marketing for Mars Food & Nutrition North America. In this role, Jacobs will lead strategies to drive penetration and accelerate growth across the rice and ready-meal categories in the United States and Canada. During his career, Jacobs has worked across multiple consumer brands for such companies as SC Johnson and Unilever.

Conagra Brands Canada has promoted Myriam Ouaiss to director of marketing, grocery. In her six years with the company, Ouaiss has held various roles in innovation and brand management. Prior to joining Conagra, she worked in Morocco for such companies as Unilever and Coca-Cola. With this promotion, Zora Crowder has been appointed director of marketing, frozen.

Get recognized for making a positive impact!

Canadian Grocer’s Impact Awards are back! We want to recognize the initiatives introduced by retailers, suppliers and solution providers that are making a meaningful difference in four areas: sustainability; diversity, equity & inclusion; supporting employees; and community service. And we have a new category this year! The new Impact Champion award recognizes individuals going above and beyond to make a positive impact. Please take a few minutes to tell us about the great work being done at your company. It’s free to nominate and winners will be featured in our August issue.

Nicolas Amyot

Naniss Gadel-Rab

Catherine Sumague

Mike Yang

David Jacobs

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People

BREWING SUCCESS

How two Alberta entrepreneurs are taking their passion for coffee and the great outdoors and turning it into a thriving business

By Andrea Yu • Photograph by Colin Way

(L to R) Jamie Parker and Mike Wenzlawe of Canadian Heritage Roasting Co.

JA mie PA rker A nd m ike

Wenzl AW e were sitting around a campfire during an elk-hunting trip in 2014 near Willmore Wilderness Park in Northern Alberta when the idea to start a coffee company was sparked. The idea came to Parker, inspired by the pair’s work as wildland firefighters. “We learned to roast coffee in a cast iron pan on the fireline,” he explains. They wanted to embody that same connection to the outdoors in a business. “Our cause and our goal is to unite Canadians to pursue outdoor experiences,” says Wenzlawe. “Coffee is a conduit and a vessel that we use to do that.”

Once they finished working the subsequent firefighting season, in September 2015, Wenzlawe and Parker’s next step was to get their hands on some green coffee beans so they could start roasting. They drove from Calgary to Vancouver to pick up their first order of beans from a warehouse. “We thought we were going to have this big, important meeting with bean providers,” Wenzlawe recalls. “We showed up in suits at a warehouse to pick up this coffee and were greeted by a 300-pound man in a back brace carrying 160-pound sacks of green beans over his shoulder. I remember him asking: ‘Where’s your truck?’ We pointed to Jamie’s Toyota Matrix hatchback. We almost blew out [the car’s] suspension on the way home.”

They set up shop in Wenzlawe’s mother’s garage, using countertop roasters to fine-tune the bold, smooth flavour profile they were seeking. By November 2015, they were selling bags of roasted coffee beans on an e-commerce site under the name Calgary Heritage Roasting Co. Hitting the winter market circuit shortly afterwards, Parker and Wenzlawe struggled to keep up with demand. “The countertop roasters that we used only made 100 grams of coffee at a time,” Parker explains. “We’d be roasting for three days straight, go into a market, sell out on the first day, go home and roast until three in the morning making new product for the next day.”

Wenzlawe and Parker put all the early proceeds of their business back into the operation, upgrading to a larger roaster at the beginning of 2016, and then moving from Wenzlawe’s mother’s garage into a commercial kitchen by April 2016. The following year, the two realized they needed to expand from direct-to-consumer selling. “We realized that we couldn’t survive just selling on e-commerce,” says Parker.

They were hesitant, at first, to sell in grocery stores, worried about being perceived as “sell-outs” for being in chain retailers, but participating in the District Ventures business accelerator program made them think otherwise. “Our mentors were like: ‘This is ridiculous. You need to get your product out there so people know what you’re selling,’” Parker recalls. Their first grocery partner was Community Natural Foods, with just three stores in Alberta. Then they landed on 24 Co-op shelves in Calgary later in 2017.

After partnering with a new distributor who brought their coffee to buyers outside of Alberta, Parker and Wenzlawe found themselves with a branding challenge. “There was a huge amount of resistance for our product in other provinces, like B.C. and Ontario,” Wenzlawe recalls. “They couldn’t get behind the name.” That prompted them to change their name to Canadian Heritage Roasting Co. in 2018, and lean into retro Canadiana branding. The move led to more grocers getting on board—50 Sobeys stores in Alberta, as part of its local program and 11 Choices Market stores in British Columbia. In June 2019, the duo opened a flagship store in Southeast Calgary with a café and in-house roasting operations. Then COVID hit. “We had to lay off all of our staff overnight,” Parker says. “Mike and I had to run the entire business, just the two of us for three months straight, 24-7.”

The austerity measures helped the duo survive the crisis. Then, in 2021, they launched an instant coffee called Flash Fuel, which would eventually land in MEC stores across Canada. “We saw a big opportunity in the marketplace to have an instant coffee that is designed well, tastes great and is organic,” Parker explains.

In 2022, Canadian Heritage Roasting Co. launched in 13 Real Canadian Superstores in Alberta, as part of Loblaw’s local program. Then, in November 2024, they made their first major out-of-Alberta debut in 23 Fortinos grocery stores in Ontario. Canadian Heritage Roasting Co. is now available in 1,600 stores across Canada.

Throughout their journey, Wenzlawe and Parker have always prioritized giving back with philanthropic initiatives including roasts to raise funds for wildfire relief.

“It’s really heartwarming to see what we’ve become,” says Wenzlawe. “It’s cool to know that we’ve had cause and effect and lasting change. We can do good for the community, for Canada and the environment.” CG

JAMIE AND MIKE

What has been your best day in the business?

MIKE: Getting our Flash Fuel Instant Coffee listed at MEC and seeing it on the shelves was a surreal moment. I used to work at my local MEC as a university student back in 2011, so having something we made available to buy at MECs across Canada was wild.

JAMIE: My best day was opening up the coffee shop. We had a big grand opening and that was the day we felt like we had made it. It was cool to see the community and our fanbase show up.

If you weren’t in the food business, what would you be doing?

JAMIE: I would be a creative of some sort. I would still be a business owner, but it’d just be a different product or thing.

MIKE: I can’t imagine doing something else because we get to do everything we want with this business. We get to live out our passions, travel, get outdoors, work hard and play hard.

What’s the best career advice you’ve received?

MIKE: Entrepreneurship is a race to see who can suffer the longest. The idea of grit and camaraderie through hard times, that’s a lesson that translates directly from fighting wildfires.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

JAMIE: I’m an avid outdoorsman. I own horses and I like horse riding, hunting with the horses, fishing, camping, hiking and backpacking.

MIKE: I love anything to do with the outdoors as well—summer or winter. I travel a lot, especially for adventure tourism. I love fishing, hunting, crosscountry skiing, mountain biking or anything that involves getting the heart rate up and earning beers after a fun-filled day.

Ideas

CONSUMER SENTIMENT

CALL OF DUTIES

With the U.S.-CAnAdA tariff war taking hold, the “Buy Canadian” movement to support homegrown brands—including Loblaw’s PC and No Name private-label lines, or locally grown produce—has gained widespread momentum, drawing consumers back to the same grocers they boycotted not so long ago.

“Much of the anger they had after the pandemic and even from a year ago has moved on,” says retail analyst Bruce Winder. “A major reason is that food inflation eased. Additionally, in Loblaw’s case, the company has invested in resources trying to change its image, increasing transparency and over the past year lowering prices on many of its products.”

Efforts to increase transparency around costs include Loblaw’s “Real Talk” section of its website, which has addressed such topics as the price shoppers pay for meat and, more recently, the U.S. tariffs. Winder also points out that CEO and president Per Bank, who succeeded Galen Weston early last year, has been highly active on LinkedIn, engaging regularly with his nearly 80,000 followers—especially as the grocer navigates harsh duties.

While food inflation has eased, prices are poised to increase on a host of products during the trade war. In the meantime, Diane Brisebois, president and CEO of the Retail Council of

Canada, emphasizes the importance of shopper education.

“Grocers need to continue to communicate with their customers, providing information on products, the impact of the trade war on the cost of goods, and their ongoing support of domestic suppliers,” says Brisebois, who has put her retirement, announced earlier this year, “severely on hold” to help the industry navigate the crisis.

Brisebois says the sheer level of uncertainty today is unlike anything she’s seen in 30 years. Retailers are feeling it, too. “What I am hearing from all grocers is, ‘We don’t know exactly what we should be doing,’” she says. “Many of them have paused or slowed down their capital investments until such time they gain a better understanding of the situation.”

With a new leader set to take the highest public office and a trade war that could stretch on for months or even years, how should grocers move forward? Brisebois recommends leaning on the resilience they’ve built in recent years.

“Grocery retailers have had to be exceptionally resilient over the last five years, facing disruptions that we would typically see unfold over 15 to 20 years,” she says. “Grocers that are exceptionally well-run and quick to adapt will perform best.” —Chris Daniels

BUILDING A STRONGER INDUSTRY TAKING THE LEAD:

CFIG’s Gary Sands on always learning and advocating for meaningful, lasting change

By Chris Daniels

LEADING AN ORGANIZATION is one thing, but shaping and advancing a critical industry? That’s quite another challenge altogether. It requires engaging with a wide range of stakeholders—not just leaders and employees within the sector, but government officials, regulators and more. Effective leadership in this space means bridging diverse perspectives, driving meaningful conversations and ensuring the industry’s voice is heard and understood at multiple levels.

That has been Gary Sands’ mission at the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG) for nearly 25 years—a milestone he’ll mark this August. Through the ups and downs of the grocery industry, Sands, senior vice-president, public policy and advocacy, has been a steadfast advocate for independents, a group of more than 6,900 businesses across Canada, represented by the association since 1962.

Sands’ advocacy extends to the current situation around U.S. tariffs, making the case that any solution aimed at reducing Canada’s reliance on our southern neighbour include fair trade between provinces.

“Many independent grocers operate in rural and remote communities, where the cost of receiving goods is already high. It’s important we recognize this fact, understanding tariffs will hit these communities harder than most,” Sands tells Canadian Grocer . “As a country as well as an industry, we need to ask: ‘What investments can we make to help lower transportation and distribution costs in these areas?’”

Sands—who has previously worked at all three levels of government—shares his thoughts on leadership, the U.S.-Canada trade war and how time with his grandson reminds him of the bigger purpose behind his work. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

What key trait defines a strong leader and industry advocate?

While a leader must pay attention to operations, of greater importance is that they have a vision and a passion to bring that vision to life—a vision you wholeheartedly believe in. If you do, you won’t find yourself adjusting, reshaping or compromising that vision based on the audience in front of you. Your words and actions will also remain aligned. It’s vital to show people how that vision benefits different groups. And so, whether I’m speaking to members, industry partners, government officials or the media, my message stays the same: supporting independent grocers benefits everyone and the country. And I truly believe that. When your belief is genuine, it doesn’t sound like rehearsed talking points—it resonates. Not everyone will end up agreeing, but they’ll recognize your authenticity and commitment. That consistency builds credibility, which has been central to my leadership approach.

What might people not realize about leadership?

That it is a continuous learning process.

Even now, I still find moments where I think, “I could have done better,” and see those as opportunities to grow. No leader can claim to be mistake-free or beyond improvement. What truly matters is learning from missteps. A good leader doesn’t shy away from admitting mistakes, because without that self-awareness, growth is impossible.

The industry is facing a trade crisis with the U.S. How do you keep your head up?

What keeps me optimistic, even when things look tough, is my unwavering belief in the message I’m delivering. Just as important is the understanding that our common ground matters far more than our differences. No matter the sector or level of government, what unites us is a shared commitment to this country and doing what’s right for it. That is how this industry met the challenge of COVID and of bringing in a grocery code of conduct.

What activities outside of work make you a better leader?

Spending time with my six-year-old grandson reminds me why I do this work. While CFIG represents independent grocers, our impact goes far beyond the owners of today—we’re helping shape policies and advocating for changes that will leave a mark on future generations. Every decision we push for, every improvement we fight to make is about building a stronger industry and a better country.

In our Taking the Lead series, Canadian Grocer is speaking to leaders from across the industry about a specific project or initiative they’re leading. Have a pitch? Send it to jmorgan@ensembleiq.com

Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps® Milk Chocolate Crunch (155 g)

Canadian Rangeland Bison Steak Bites

Mio Energy & Mio Hydrate Powder Drink Mix

Kellogg’s® Mini-Wheats® Low Sugar

VILLAGGIO® RUSTICO™ Harvest Multigrain

EXCEL® Refreshers

RITZ Baked Chips Sour Cream & Onion

Cadbury Golden

Van Houtte® Brew Over ice

K-Brew+Chill

International Delight Cold Foam Crispers Smokey Bacon

Crave Global Cravings Frozen Meals

Naturegg® Omega Plus Solar Free Range

Western Family Hot Honey Pretzel Coated Cheese Bites

GoGo squeeZ® Apple Cinnamon and Apple Cherry Vanilla

Protein Candy Classic Fruit -

Wave Hybrid Snow Mattress

Shark Cordless Detect Pro

1.3L Auto-Empty System with QuadClean

KitchenAid® Multifunction Over-the-Range Microwave Oven with Infrared Sensor Modes

Colgate® PerioGard Gum Care + Enamel Rebuild Toothpaste

TUMS Chewy Bites with Gas Relief

Solutions Hairball Control + Urinary Care

KitchenAid® 4-Door Refrigerator with Flexible Temperature Zone in PrintShield Finish

Cheestrings X-treme Pizza and Nacho

Street Food Bio-Oil® Body Lotion

Whirlpool 30-inch Smart Electric Range with Air Cooking Technology, WipeClean™ Coating, Steam/ Self Cleaning, Rapid Preheat 5.3 CuFt Capacity

*Survey of 4,000 people by Kantar

OneBlade First Shave

Go!

The Laughing Cow Plant Based Garlic & Herbs

OREO Maple Creme

Heinz Pickle Ketchup

SOUR PATCH KIDS Strawberry

Terrabrae™ Soil Enhancer

Nerds Berry Gummy Clusters

Chips Ahoy! Caramilk

Dr Pepper® Zero Sugar

Sour

Zavida 24 Days of Coffee Advent Calendar

Sealy Posturepedic® Plus Eurotop

NEW WHAT’S

CRISPERS

SMOKEY BACON

Crispers Smokey Bacon pairs Crispers’ iconic crunch with the rich taste of Smokey Bacon. Proudly baked in Canada, this bold, savory snack offers a guilt-free indulgence with a unique chip-like cracker as it’s baked, not fried.

CADBURY GOLDEN

Introducing new Cadbury Golden – a delightful treat that combines white chocolatey creamy richness with a luscious caramel twist. Each bite offers a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it an indulgent experience. It’s perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your customer’s cravings. Whether they’re enjoying it on its own or sharing it with friends, Cadbury Golden promises a little moment of joy and decadence in every piece. Ideal for those who love a sweet escape!

PINSA ROMANA

Pinsa Romana traces its roots back to ancient Roman baking techniques, but has been modernized to meet today’s consumer preferences. Unlike traditional pizza, Pinsa is crafted with a unique blend of wheat, rice, and soy flours, fermented for up to 72 hours. This extended fermentation process results in a light, airy, and digestible crust, with 80% less fat and 30% fewer calories than conventional pizza dough. Product ingredients may not be exactly as shown.

*Product of the Year winners determined by a survey of 4,000 Canadians by Kantar

CHIPS AHOY! CARAMILK

Introducing CHIPS AHOY! Crunchy Cadbury Caramilk cookies. Now you can get the taste of the Cadbury chocolate you love, packed in irresistibly delicious cookies. For the perfect afternoon pick me up, try the Crunchy CHIPS AHOY! Cadbury Caramilk with delightful chocolatey caramel chips!

RITZ BAKED CHIPS SOUR CREAM & ONION

Ritz Baked Chips are a crispy, crunchy twist on the classic Ritz cracker customers know and love. Baked, not fried – Ritz Baked Chips offer a health-conscious alternative to potato chips. Now available in Sour Cream & Onion flavour! Customers can savour the combination of cool sour cream and herby green onion. Perfect for dipping or eating on their own.

OIKOS PRO

Oikos PRO is a high protein Greek yogurt range proudly prepared in Canada with 100% Canadian dairy and has no added sugar. Ranging between 18 to 24 grams of protein per serving, Oikos PRO is ideal for contributing to daily protein intake and supports muscle building. Oikos PRO offers four flavours of the 650g tub including Plain, Banana, Strawberry and Vanilla, and two 300 mL drinkable yogurt flavours, Mixed Berries and Strawberry and Banana.

*Product of the Year winners determined by a survey of 4,000 Canadians by Kantar

NIGHT TO NURTURE

SEQUINS, SUITS AND A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE SPRAYING ACROSS

the crowd from the hands of a Grammy-nominated rapper—this year’s Night to Nurture fundraising gala in Toronto was truly unforgettable.

Presented by The Grocery Foundation, the annual black-tie event raises critical dollars to fund breakfast programs in Canadian schools and to support the work of Kids Help Phone. And this year’s event was a resounding success.

More than 3,000 members of Canada’s grocery industry were in attendance and more than $2.2 million was raised.

The evening included a silent auction featuring a host of items including concert tickets and vacation packages, a raffle for the chance to win a Lexus and a lively performance from Flo Rida.

“We are beyond grateful to the Canadian grocery industry for their continued strong support of our annual gala,” Shaun McKenna, executive director of the Foundation, tells Canadian Grocer. “The proceeds from this year’s gala will have an incredible impact on Canadian children and youth—helping Make Happy Tummies through both breakfast and backpack programs, and being there to support them in any moment of crisis or need through Kids Help Phone. CG

1. The Night to Nurture reception 2. Rapper Flo Rida ignites the crowd 3. Bob Tasikas of Don Valley North Lexus presents car raffle winner Hilary Sheppard with a 2025 Lexus Uxh 4. Joe and Josie Fusco (Metro), Margaret Hudson and Iain McRuvie (Burnbrae Farms) 5. Flo Rida signs a pair of sneakers to give to the crowd 6. Rod Sturtridge (retired, Carlton Cards), Shaun McKenna (The Grocery Foundation), Greg Coles (Nestlé Canada) 7. Diane and Michel Manseau (Kruger Products), Scott Lorimer (Campbell Company of Canada) 8. Gala host Rick Mercer and Longo’s president Deb Craven read a handmade thank-you card from a school kid

A Special Thanks To Our Sponsors

Canadians continue to prioritize value at the grocery store

High prices and a trade war has shoppers seeking brands that deliver big on value

It’s clear that shoppers’ pursuit of value influences not only what and where they buy, but also which brands they trust

the SoAring CoSt of living in Canada is a growing problem. Nearly half of Canadians told Statistics Canada that rising prices are having a significant impact on their ability to meet their day-to-day expenses. Concerns about the high cost of groceries, “shrinkflation” and the threat of tariffs on goods imported from the United States have occupied news headlines. Even without the tariffs, Canada’s Food Price Report concluded that food prices are expected to rise in 2025—to the tune of a 3% to 5% increase compared to 2024.

To understand how shoppers view value in such economically fraught times, Caddle teamed up with Dalhousie University to survey more than 3,000 people across the country. The results show Canadians are mindful of ballooning bills and are focused on getting bang for their buck in grocery store aisles.

A majority of shoppers said they always (60.9%) or often (27.7%) look for discounts or deals when grocery shopping. Indeed, 48.6% of people surveyed said they often choose what product to purchase solely based on price, with 26.3% saying price is always the determining factor.

That’s not to say shoppers don’t have other considerations. Best quality for the price was one of the most important determinators of value to shoppers by a significant margin (64.1%), followed by discounts and promotions (49.7%), lowest price (41.5%) and better taste or freshness (33.4%). In fact, consumers identified price (36.2%) and quality (26.5%) as the two biggest influences of their perception of a product’s quality.

It’s clear that shoppers’ pursuit of value influences

not only what and where they buy, but also which brands they trust. Canned or shelf-stable foods are seen as the best investment (28.9%), followed by frozen foods (26.5%) and fresh produce (24.5%). Consumers were much more likely to say they always, often or sometimes prioritize private-label brands over national brands to score better value—and they aren’t opposed to switching brands if a competitor offers better value.

Thirty-five per cent of Canadians said they typically find the best value at discount retailers such as No Frills, followed by traditional grocery stores such as Superstore or Sobeys (21.4%), and Costco (18.3%). But, that doesn’t mean they aren’t willing to shop elsewhere. Though the majority (76%) of respondents said they have not changed where they shop in the past year, there were generational differences. Generation Z (38%) and millennials (31%) were most likely to say their store choice has changed.

For the 24% of those Canadians surveyed who have changed where they shop, they said they did so to take advantage of discounts and deals (35.8%), shop at discount stores more often (35.1%) and buy more groceries from Costco (23.2%). On that front, shoppers said they prefer buying groceries in bulk for savings, sometimes (34.5%) or often (34.1%), even if it means spending more up front. Interestingly, generation Z was the generation most inclined to save by always buying in bulk (38.5%).

Even with noticeably higher prices, most consumers say they haven’t changed how often they grocery shop (53.2%), with boomers most likely to have maintained their status quo (66.2%). Yet, nearly half of respondents admitted they’re buying smaller amounts more frequently (25.4%) or buying more items with less frequent trips (21.4%). They’re also likely to decide which foods to buy based on changing food prices, and strive to balance both quantity and quality when shopping for comparable products (49.4%).

Against the backdrop of a trade war, new opportunities are opening for brands. Shoppers overwhelmingly say they foresee grocery prices getting more expensive, and say promotions (51%), better quality (33.4%) or a made in Canada designation (33.3%) are motivators for trying a new brand or product.

With an increased focus on Canadian-made goods, rising food inflation and interest in private-label brands that deliver value, brands are well positioned to become new household favourites in the months ahead. It’s clear Canadians are open to embracing change in the grocery store aisles—now it’s up to brands to make a lasting impression. CG

Ransom Hawley, former packaged goods leader, is founder and CEO at Caddle Inc., the largest mobile-first insights platform that rewards Canadians for sharing data and engaging with brands.

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Ron Lemaire President, Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA)

“

We look forward to seeing the world in Montreal to celebrate 100 years of success! ”

Welcome

I am excited to welcome you to the vibrant city of Montreal for the 2025 CPMA Annual Convention and Trade Show (CPMA 2025 Fresh Week).

CPMA’s Annual Convention and Trade Show is Canada’s largest fresh fruits and vegetables event, attracting well over 4000 participants from over 1300 unique companies from across the entire fresh produce supply chain. With over 690 exhibit spaces showcasing more than 350 companies from around the world, the CPMA 2025 Trade Show provides an excellent environment for networking, forging new connections, and expanding businesses across Canada.

The convention program will feature engaging business sessions, offering attendees the chance to hear from renowned speakers who will share their insights on critical issues shaping our industry. This year, discussions will cover topics such as sustainability, commercial trends, women in the produce industry, and more.

The event will also highlight the New Product Showcase program, which helps CPMA member companies introduce innovative products to the Canadian produce market. Sponsored by Canadian Grocer, the New Product Showcase will support 45 companies in launching 66 new products this year. A preview of these exciting products can be found in the next section of this issue of Canadian Grocer.

Finally, I’d like to express our gratitude to Canadian Grocer for their continued support of the New Product Showcase which plays a vital role in fostering innovation within our industry.

We look forward to seeing the world in Montreal to celebrate 100 years of success!

Ron Lemaire President, Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA)

Program at a Glance

MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2025

12:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M Registration area is open

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

7:30 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Registration area is open

Palais des congrès de Montréal

8:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Retail Tour Off-site locations

11:45 A.M. – 5 :00 P.M. Sustainability workshop Le Westin Montreal

8:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M. Chair’s Welcome Reception

Oasis Immersion

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2025

7:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Registration area is open

8:00 A.M. – 9:45 A.M. Delegate Breakfast

10:00 A.M. – 11:15 A.M. Business Sessions

11:30 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. Delegate Lunch

1:20 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. Trade Show Opening Ceremony

1:30 P.M. – 5:30 P.M. Trade Show

3:00 P.M. – 4:15 P.M. Learning Lounges

5:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. Young Professionals Networking Reception

5:30 P.M. – 6:30 P.M. Women in Produce Reception

Palais des congrès de Montréal

9:30 P.M. – 1:00 A.M. After Party Le Westin Montreal

THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

8:00 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Registration area is open

Palais des congrès de Montréal

8:00 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Half Your Plate Symposium for Health Professionals Palais des congrès de Montréal

9:45 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Awards Brunch

11:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Trade Show

12:00 P.M. – 1:00 P.M. International Reception

12:30 P.M. – 3:15 P.M. Learning Lounges

6:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. Annual Banquet Reception

7:30 P.M. – 10:30 P.M. Annual Banquet and Entertainment

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025

8:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Women in Produce Summit

*Program subject to change or adjustment

Palais des congrès de Montréal

Le Westin Hotel

tantalizing table grapes

Juicy and crisp, these fruits are packed with ﬂavour

There’s good reason that table grapes remain a grocery item staple for Canadians across the country. Whether they’re part of a charcuterie board, hearty salad, or all on their own, fresh grapes pack incredible ﬂavour and nutrition with every bite. Michael Dupuis, Public Relations Manager at Divine Flavor, explains why consumers are opting for table grapes time and time again.

What’s new and exciting about table grapes these days?

Over the last decade, the table grape industry has been revolutionized by newer varieties that are sweeter, seedless, and bred to enhance ﬂavour. Table grapes are no longer limited to just the traditional varieties. Grape breeders/licensors such as Sun World International, have been developing superior grape and stone fruit varieties for many years, and through their passion to innovate and utilize technology, we are seeing a breakthrough in terms of growing grapes sustainably while optimizing ﬂavour and yields with the producers licensed to grow these premium grapes. Grupo Alta, Divine Flavor’s principal grower, is one of the largest locations in Mexico for producing Sun World branded grapes. A particular variety called AUTUMNCRISP® is considered one of the best green seedless varieties on the market.

What

makes this variety so good?

AUTUMNCRISP® seedless green grapes are mildly sweet with a hint of muscat that makes them stand out from the crowd. The subtle undertone notes of citrus, rose and

peach, give AUTUMNCRISP® a unique ﬂavour proﬁle, enhanced by their large size, juiciness and crispness. These green seedless grapes are naturally nutritious, versatile, and of course delicious.

Divine Flavor/Grupo Alta are one of the few licensed growers of AUTUMNCRISP® branded grapes in Mexico. The company’s new vineyard in Taliman, Mexico, a small city that sits in a sub-tropical climate in the state of Jalisco, is one of the newest areas for producing AUTUMNCRISP® grapes which the company will be harvesting during April and May. As the Peruvian/ Chilean grape season comes to a close in the coming weeks, fresh table grapes from Jalisco will be only a day’s ride from American/Canadian markets.

What

are unique ways to enjoy grapes and how can grocers promote them in-store?

One of my personal favorites is freezing/eating them as a cold treat on a warm sunny day. Another is to roast them and add to ricotta toast for a morning snack. Check out our lnstagram @divineﬂavor and @autumncrispgrapes for more delicious ideas.

We try to encourage all our retailers to cross-promote. We love working with our retail partners to find fun and unique ways to market grapes to consumers, whether it’s informing them about how nutritious grapes are, newer varieties such as AUTUMNCRISP® grapes or other mouthwatering varieties. We can also help to create private labeled products in a retailer’s own brand.

Product Spotlight

With subtle muscat undertones and notes of citrus, rose and peach, AUTUMNCRISP® green seedless grapes are a uniquely sweet treat. AUTUMNCRISP® large berry size, juiciness and crispness make for an irresistible snack or recipe enhancement consumers crave.

ALGOMA ORCHARDS

Snowﬂake apple is crunchy and sweet with the most complex ﬂavour. It’s the Canadian trifecta: bred in Canada , grown exclusively in Canada by Algoma Orchards with a Canadian name.

Snowﬂake name is characterized by the lenticels that are found on the skin. algomaorchards.com Booth # 1221

BCFRESH

BCfresh radishes are grown in British Columbia greenhouses with precision irrigation and climate control, producing high-quality bulbs and neatly trimmed tops for easy preparation. Enjoy their crisp, delicious ﬂavour year-round. Our greenhouse grown program o ers a sustainable alternative to imports, providing consistent quality and ﬂavour with every bite. bcfresh.ca Booth # 1800

BCFRESH

BCfresh Kalettes, North America’s exclusive source of this unique crop, are a one-of-a-kind vegetable, created through the traditional hybridization of kale and Brussels sprouts. Their distinctive ﬂavour blends the nuttiness of Brussels sprouts with the subtle sweetness and earthiness of kale. bcfresh.ca Booth # 1800

BLOOMIQ TECHNOLOGIES INC.

BloomIQ Technologies brings AI to the fresh produce industry, centralizing real-time data and analytics, to predict supply and demand. BloomIQ creates a more e cient and predictable fresh produce market while reimagining the industry into a more equitable, sustainable planet. Turn the unexpected into the expected.

bloomiq.io Booth # 2835

BOLTHOUSE FRESH FOODS

Carrot Side Dish Sizzlers make mealtime easy and delicious! These premium, artisan-sliced carrots come with a perfectly paired sauce—just toss, roast, or air-fry for a ﬂavorful side in minutes. Enjoy Garlic Herb, zesty Herb Vinaigrette, or Sweet Honey Heat! bolthousefresh.com Booth # 2014

BOLTHOUSE FRESH FOODS

Carrot Shakers Multipack makes snacking fresh, fun, and full of flavor! Each pack includes five snack-sized bags of baby carrots with bold seasonings: tangy Dill Pickle, creamy Ranch, and fiery Chili Lime. Shake, snack, and enjoy—perfect for on-the-go, lunchboxes, and anytime cravings. bolthousefresh.com Booth # 2014

CANADAWIDE FRUITS

Canadawide Fruits, in partnership with Les Entreprises Pitre, presents Bleu et Bon: small fruits from Quebec, available year-round! Thanks to our frozen, freeze-dried products, and delicious spreads, we give new life to imperfect fruits to o er you exceptional quality, even out of season. bleuetbon.com Booth # 1007

CANADAWIDE FRUITS

Dive into summer with our exquisite varieties of dragon fruit and passion fruit! canadawidefruits.com Booth # 1007

CHENAIL IMPORT-EXPORT

The Kaki Sharoni from Spain is a ﬂavourful, ready-to-eat product with an excellent shelf life and ability to maintain a perfect texture for a long period. This seasonal seedless product makes a great experience for consumers looking for a unique experience. chenail.ca Booth # 2829

CMSA - CRISTOBAL MESEGUER S.A

The Earthflow Paper Bag is a biodegradable and compostable packaging solution designed specifically for fresh produce. Made from sustainable, food-safe materials, it o ers excellent water resistance, keeping fruits and vegetables fresh while preventing moisture damage. The Earthflow Paper Bag is compatible with highspeed machines cmsa.es Booth # 2122

DEL FRESCO PURE

The Original Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine® will be featured in a beautifully designed, 100% recyclable, 12oz paperboard clamshell featuring a single-ply uncoated and unbleached kraft paperboard. delfrescopure.com Booth # 315

DEL FRESCO PURE

Crisp crunch in every bite. Del Fresco Pure® greenhouse grown Organic Seedless Cucumbers are a refreshing and delicious addition to any meal. delfrescopure.com Booth # 315

EATERY ESSENTIALS

This 7-compartment container, made from sustainable PET and PCR materials, keeps foods like pasta salads, vegetables, fruits, and snacks fresh and neatly separated for easy access and organization. Perfect for storing a variety of items while maintaining freshness. eateryEssentials.com Booth # 2105

FIRST GENESIS INC

Genesis HDR2™ is a high-clarity, scalable, and low-switching-cost solution designed to seamlessly integrate into existing packing lines, meeting retail standards without compromising on performance, strength, or recyclability. sunﬂowerpkg.com Booth # 302

GEN V CULTURES

A fresh new addition to our salad: tomatoes! Formerly known as Diva, now proudly part of Gen V, our greenhouse-grown cherry tomatoes are available year-round—fresh, local, and full of ﬂavor. The perfect touch to elevate your favorite dishes! gen-v.com/en Booth # 1211

GENEROUS BRANDS

A fresh take on soda. Supports digestive and immune health. Pre & probiotics. What makes our take on soda so fresh? Real organic fruit juice, never from concentrate, and zero added sugar. Vibrant in taste and bursting with beneﬁts in every bubbly sip. generousbrands.com Booth # 1509

GOODLEAF FARMS

Introducing the New Family-Sized Sweet & Spicy Mix! This chef-inspired salad mix features our garden-fresh Crisp Lettuce, supercharged with the ﬂavour and added nutrition of Sweet Pea Shoots and Zesty Micro Radish. Big enough to share, tasty enough to ﬁght over. goodleaffarms.com Booth # 323

HIGHLINE MUSHROOMS

Sizzlin’ Hot Stu ed Mushrooms have arrived—gourmet, ﬂavor-packed, and ready in minutes! Designed for mushroom-loving legends, these chef-inspired bites bring epic ﬂavor to any occasion. Choose from Roasted Goodness Red Pepper & Feta, SupHerB Basil Pesto Mozza, or Mmm Mmm Spinach & Artichoke.. highlinemushrooms.com/exploremushrooms/stuffed-mushrooms Booth # 1215

INLINE PLASTICS

Inline Plastic’s new platters feature patented tamper protection, keeping food fresh, secure, and organized. Available in two versatile styles, a reliable choice for parties and gatherings. Your conﬁdence in freshness meets Inline’s commitment to safety. inlineplastics.com Booth # 1425

LES ALIMENTS BERCY

Verdania’s Broccoli Slaw transforms broccoli stalks into a fresh, sustainable delight, ﬁghting food waste with every bite. Available in creamy and traditional varieties, it’s rich in vitamin C, healthy, and ready-to-eat—perfect for today’s busy lifestyle. Fresh ﬂavor, zero waste, ultimate convenience! aliments-bercy.com Booth # 2515

LITTLE LEAF FARMS

Little Leaf Farms’ Sweet Baby Butter Leaf 226gm is now available. littleleaffarms.com Booth # 2020

LITTLE LEAF FARMS

Little Leaf Farms’ Sweet & Crispy 113gm is now available littleleaffarms.com Booth # 2020

MAHI PONO

Pure Maui Limes – island-grown and freshly harvested from the heart of Maui. Bursting with juiciness, refreshingly hydrating, and farmed with aloha, these vibrant limes bring a taste of the islands to every sip, dish, and moment. mahipono.com Booth # 109

MASTERPACK NORTH AMERICA

a 100% polyolephin based, resealable lidding film sealing to APET punnets that can easily be recycled and that can float on water to ease sorting between the lidding film and the tray. mass balanced base material, certified 0% CO2 emissions masterpack.com Booth # 229

MASTRONARDI PRODUCE

Treat yourself to the sweet taste of summer every day of the year with Summer Delight™ Strawberries. Non-GMO and greenhouse grown in Canada. Delightfully fresh and ready to enjoy. sunsetgrown.com Booth # 807

MASTRONARDI PRODUCE

Flavor from the vine, Mediterranean shine. Tomatoes inspired by summer, available year-round. Secilia™ tomatoes enchant any dish with rich color, aroma, and irresistible sweetness. Greenhouse grown and non-GMO. These tomatoes create memorable salads, sauces, and pastas. Brighten any dish with vibrant and versatile Secilia™ tomatoes. sunsetgrown.com Booth # 807

MASTRONARDI PRODUCE

An extreme flavor combination of di erent premium BOMBS® snacking tomatoes in one package with high aroma and flavor. Greenhouse grown and non-GMO. Create a gourmet meal, salad, or snack straight from the vine for explosive flavor that will leave you craving more. sunsetgrown.com Booth # 807

MASTRONARDI PRODUCE

Crisp leafy greens with a satisfying crunch, now in recyclable packaging. Backyard Farms® premium crafted lettuce blends are non-GMO and greenhouse grown without pesticides or herbicides. Perfect in salads, sandwiches, wraps, and tacos. Wash, enjoy, then recycle the packaging! backyardfarms.com Booth # 807

MUCCI FARMS

Our award-winning Sun Drops™ Grape Tomatoes are now available as an organic o ering! These naturally grown, bite-sized tomatoes are packed full of sweet ﬂavour, making them great for salads, grilling and kabobs. muccifarms.com Booth # 1414

MUCCI FARMS

Senza Seedless Mini Peppers o er a delicious, seedless crunch in every bite. Packed with natural sweetness, these no-prep, bitesized beauties take on-the-go snacking to the next level! muccifarms.com Booth # 1414

MUCCI FARMS

The Linerless Label series of trays are made from food grade kraft paperboard and fastened by a one-piece linerless label lid that is made from food approved paper label material, completely eliminating plastic! muccifarms.com Booth # 1414

NATURE FRESH FARMS

Lil Chills™ are the tiny, refreshing cucumbers you can snack on like chips— but way cooler! These tiny cukes are big on ﬂavor and snackability, making healthy snacking as fun as it is refreshing. Grab a handful and chill out with Lil Chills™!

naturefreshfarms.com Booth # 507

NATURE FRESH FARMS

Our new Cheers™ Sweet Cocktail Tomatoes bring balanced sweetness and rich ﬂavor to every dish, turning any meal into something exceptional. Perfect for snacks or special occasions, they transform everyday moments into celebrations of great food for your inner chef!

naturefreshfarms.com Booth # 507

NATURE FRESH FARMS

Hand-picked and vine-ripened for exceptional ﬂavor, Nature Fresh Farms® Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine are grown from the best seeds in optimal greenhouse conditions, o ering a vibrant range of sweet ﬂavors and colors. naturefreshfarms.com Booth # 507

NATURIPE FARMS

Naturipe’s Heat Seal Blueberries have 33% less plastic, a recycled PET base, and a resealable top for freshness and sustainability—no spills! naturipefarms.com Booth # 1900

NATURSOURCE

Experience salad bliss with our Salad Topper Glazed Pecan Blend. The rich caramel notes of glazed pecans, paired with tart cranberries and savoury tamari pumpkin seeds, bring an irresistible blend of ﬂavours to your salad, snack, or any dish that craves a touch of indulgence.

natursource.com Booth # 1304

OPPY

Step up your salad game with UP’s innovative salad kits! UP Vertical Farms is yet again redeﬁning the packaged greens cooler with its fresh lineup of innovative salad kits. Grown indoors year-round in Pitt Meadows, BC, UP greens are bursting with ﬂavor and unparalleled freshness. upverticalfarms.com Booth # 701

OPPY

The nut that customers are nuts about… natural and dry roasted with no added oil or artificial flavorings, Blue Diamond’s new almond and almond-fruit blends are designed specifically for produce. Grown with love and packed with delicious goodness! promo.oppy.com/blue-diamond-almonds Booth # 701

PEAK OF THE MARKET LTD.

Fingerling potatoes o er an upscale taste with their unique shape, smooth skin, and yellow ﬂesh. Their mild ﬂavor and smooth texture make them perfect whole or cut into wedges, adding a gourmet touch to any meal. peakofthemarket.com Booth # 514

PURE FLAVOR

Amp up your sauces, salsas & meals! Rocco Reds™: The Chef’s Tomato™ will ignite your passion for cooking with its bold flavor, rich red color, & vine-fresh aroma. These tomatoes will elevate any dish with that classic tomato flavor–experience sauce the way Nonna makes it. pure-flavor.com Booth # 2407

PURE FLAVOR

Snack it! Slice it! Stu it! Grill it! Craft House Collection® Seedless Mini Peppers are perfect for both on-the-go munching and culinary adventures. It’s crisp texture, ease of use, and super sweet ﬂavor will have you coming back for more. pure-ﬂavor.com Booth # 2407

PURE FLAVOR

Meet Woka™, the stir-fry cucumber with a ﬁrm texture that holds up to heat while staying crisp. Its refreshing taste makes it perfect for cooking or snacking—whether in a stir-fry, salad, or on its own. Woka™ Cucumber is your next kitchen staple! pure-ﬂavor.com Booth # 2407

RED SUN FARMS

Join us as we explore our journey from traditional packaging to cutting-edge, eco-friendly solutions. This showcase will take you through our evolution, from foam trays to alternative materials for trays and ﬁlms, recyclable bags, and exciting future packaging concepts driving sustainability forward redsunfarms.com Booth # 2115

RPE CANADA LIMITED

RPE announces Tasteful Selections® O CANADA! Blend (680g/24oz) a delectable mix of Honey Gold & Ruby Sensation bite-size potatoes. Designed to pay homage to the Great White North, this premium blend is perfect for roasting, boiling or adding a pop of color to any plate.

rpespud.com Booth # 101

SAMBRAILO PACKAGING

The leading alternative to single use plastic clamshells in the produce industry. 100% recyclable, home compostable, and customizable for your products. ReadyCycle® is the sustainable packaging brand from Sambrailo Packaging based in Watsonville, California. sambrailo.com Booth # 2807

SENSEI FARMS

Introducing Sensei Farms greenhouse grown Baby Spinach! Farmed fresh year-round, our baby spinach is indoor-grown, non-GMO and pesticide free. Tender, sweet, and nutrient-rich, it can be enjoyed raw, steamed, or sautéed!

senseifarms.com Booth # 1422

STAR GROUP

Merging the global brand recognition of Fruit Ninja with delicious fresh-cut fruit from Sliced FC and the on-trend ﬂavour of Tajin Clasico, The Star Group is proud to present Fruit Ninja Snack Packs, the ﬁrst items to launch under its exclusive Fruit Ninja brand partnership. thestargroup.ca Booth # 1615

SERRES FOLIA GREENHOUSES

Character, crunchiness, freshness in every bite... Folia is a brand-new category of lettuces, grown in our new greenhouse, the only one of its kind in Canada. Available on two varieties - Crispy Bouquet & Crunchy Greens - and two formats - 113g & 227g. foliagreens.com Booth # 1209

TAYLOR FARMS

Crafted from recycled plant ﬁbers, our eco-friendly tray is designed to maintain the freshness of your greens while signiﬁcantly cutting down plastic usage by 95%. Experience the added convenience of our peel & reseal technology, ensuring your produce stays fresh and delicious for longer periods.

earthboundfarm.com/plant-based-tray Booth # 1623

TAYLOR FARMS

Dipping pizza in ranch is a beloved move, inspiring our Pizza Ranch Chopped Salad Kit. This mix of romaine, carrot, red cabbage, cauliﬂower, mozzarella parmesan pizza crusts, and grated parmesan is topped with ranch dressing, bringing familiar, delicious ﬂavors to a fresh, lively salad. taylorfarms.com Booth # 1623

TOPLINE FARMS

New 1LB Topseal Format! Our Premium Plum Tomatoes are a culinary delight! These elongated tomatoes are known for their rich taste, ﬁrm pulp, and low water content, making them a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike. Join The Roma Revolution toplinefarms.com Booth # 1715

VERDANT TECHNOLOGIES

We continue to transform mealtime for busy families and bring excitement to the category with our new A Little Hot Honey Microwave Ready Kit and A Little Garlic & Parmesan Oven/ Grill Ready Kits. Taste these two top-trending ﬂavours at booth #901.

littlepotatoes.com Booth # 901

HarvestHold Fresh is an easy-touse sheet that gradually releases 1-MCP in response to humidity, slowing ripening and preserving produce quality. It extends shelf life by up to 50%, reducing food waste, increasing packouts, and enabling more sustainable, cost-e ective shipping from farm to shelf. harvesthold.com Booth # 2939

VERGER PAUL JODOIN

Get Ready! Launch in April / Lancement de Tradition PLUS en avril – Soyez prêts ! Venez découvrir notre produit innovant en avant-première au kiosque #1208. Come taste our innovative product ﬁrsthand at booth #1208. vpj.ca Booth # 1208

WINDSET FARMS

Introducing Windset Farms® ON THE VINE Tomato Line: a vibrant family of ﬂavours that elevate every dish. Savoury sweet BRAVO® Grape Tomatoes, juicy AMORE® Sweet Plum Tomatoes, and the gold standard in snackingCAMEO® Cherry Tomatoes! It’s ﬂavour time with Tomatoes on the Vine! greenhousegrown.com Booth # 1807

WONDERFUL PISTACHIOS

Hold the salt, not the ﬂavor. Roasted Unsalted Wonderful Pistachios No Shells are perfect for healthy snacking, and they’re also a delicious, crunchy, sodium-free addition to fresh salads, pasta dishes, yogurt, charcuterie boards, and more.

wonderfulpistachios.com Booth # 1815

THE LITTLE POTATO COMPANY

CALIFORNIA RAISINS

Because it’s always the perfect time to remind your customers of all the reasons to choose California Raisins.

100% fruit

Most recognized raisin origin

Sustainable and reliable

Grown with the highest quality and safety

No sugar added

Beloved by consumers for their taste, nutrition, versatility and affordability Naturally sun-dried

Crop Consistency

Our farmers harvest and process grapes carefully and with the most advanced equipment. That translates into consistent colour, texture, flavour and goodness.

Top Quality

California Raisins are inspected under the most rigid standard, assuring that California Raisins are the cleanest, highest quality in the world.

Flavour Stability

California Raisins’ sweet, fruit flavour develops in the sun and stays stable for over a year when stored properly.

EVENT

APRIL 14 & 15, 2025

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE, EAST BUILDING

MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2025

TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2025

Conference: 7:30AM - 11:00AM Trade Show: 11:00AM - 4:00PM

SCAN

Conference: 8:15AM - 11:00AM Trade Show: 11:00AM - 4:30PM TO DOWNLOAD SHOW APP

WELCOME FROM THE CHAIR

Welcome to the 36th Edition of Grocery & Specialty Food West – Grocery Redefined!

We are excited to welcome you to Western Canada’s premier grocery exhibition and conference! Over the course of two actionpacked days, April 14 & 15, 2025, at the Vancouver Convention Centre, you’ll discover the latest innovations, gain valuable insights, and connect with key industry leaders.

Not to miss sessions include Monday’s session with grocery code adjudicator, Karen Proud and Q&A moderated by Gary Sands. CFIG’s President and CEO, Ron Welke, will also provide an update on the latest store openings across Canada.

Tuesday brings a spotlight panel on innovative independents, featuring Doug Lovsin of Freson Bros., Nathalie Coutayar of Denninger’s, and Jacky Ho of PriceSmart Foods, each of whom will share the unique strategies that make their businesses stand out in the Canadian marketplace. Attendees can also participate in a variety of workshops covering key topics such as in-store marketing and practical grocery strategies for independents. Later, Carman Allison from NielsenIQ will provide an essential overview of the latest grocery data in Western Canada.

Beyond the educational sessions, GSF is the only show that offers face-to-face meetings with grocers. The newly launched Category Connect program provides structured meetings on Sunday before the show officially opens, offering even more opportunities for business growth. Attendees can also take advantage of the numerous free networking events, including the Sunday Opening Reception and the lively Monday Mix ‘N Mingle on the Trade Floor.

The trade show floor itself is an exciting showcase of more than 70 product categories. This year, there are many local and regional products to discover, with dedicated spaces for Ontario, Buy BC, and Canada Connect. Additional themed pavilions, such as Sustainability Sentral and First Timers, highlight emerging trends in the industry.

We are also thrilled to invite you to meet with fellow retailers from coast to coast at the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers’ booth at the entrance to the trade show. Learn about the many benefits of membership and how it supports independent grocers across Canada.

We look forward to welcoming you to two incredible days of learning, networking, and discovery.

ERIN HIGDON, VP, Business Strategy,

INFO@CFIG.CA | WWW.CFIG.CA

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BUILDING

GENERAL INFORMATION

CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW ATTIRE–BUSINESS CASUAL

BADGE COLOURS

BLUE EXHIBITORS

GREEN ................................MANUFACTURERS/SUPPLIERS

RESTAURANT/FOODSERVICE

GREY MEDIA

RED RETAILERS/WHOLESALERS

YELLOW DISTRIBUTOR/IMPORTER/EXPORTER

EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION

REGISTRATION DESK AND SELF CHECK-IN KIOSK

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE, EAST BUILDING, 999 CANADA PLACE

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 8:00AM – 5:00PM

SUNDAY, APRIL 13............................................8:00AM – 5:30PM

MONDAY, APRIL 14 7:00AM – 6:30PM EXPRESS DESK.................................................7:00AM – 5:00PM

TUESDAY, APRIL 15 6:30AM – 3:30PM EXPRESS DESK.................................................6:30AM – 3:00PM

ATTENDEE REGISTRATION

REGISTRATION DESK AND SELF CHECK-IN KIOSK

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE, EAST BUILDING, 999 CANADA PLACE

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 CLOSED

SUNDAY, APRIL 13 CLOSED

MONDAY, APRIL 14 ..........................................7:00AM – 6:30PM

EXPRESS DESK 7:00AM – 5:00PM

TUESDAY, APRIL 15 ..........................................6:30AM – 3:30PM

EXPRESS DESK.................................................6:30AM – 3:00PM

CFIG TEAM

ANDREA ALMARZA | Executive Assistant, to the President & CEO and to the Vice President of Finance & Administration

LAURA COLLATON | Senior Vice President & COO

GARY SANDS | Senior Vice President, Public Policy and Advocacy

NANCY KWON | Vice President, Marketing & Communications

FRAN NIELSEN | Vice President, Finance & Administration

ROLSTER TAYLOR | Vice President, Sales

DIANA STEVENSON | Director, Conference & Events

SUZANNE REGIMBAL | Account Manager, Member Services

MATTHEW BROWN | Manager, Sponsorship & Advertising

IRMELI KOSKINEN Coordinator, Member Services

TYSON SMITH | Representative, Accounts

PRIYA VENKATESAN | Financial Accountant

CINDY SUH | Operations Coordinator, Trade Show

To learn more about the benefits and types of membership contact Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers:

1-800-661-2344 | WWW.CFIG.CA

Visit us at CFIG Members' booth (by trade show entrance) RON WELKE | President & CEO

•

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BUILDING

2025 CFIG BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS’ COUNCIL

*RON WELKE President & CEO, CFIG, North York, ON

*DOMINIC ARSENAULT IGA Coaticook, Coaticook, QC

*BRIAN BRADLEY Vice Chair, Stong’s Markets LP, Vancouver, BC

CRAIG CAVIN Country Grocer, Victoria, BC

GENE COLEMAN Coleman Group of Companies, Corner Brook, NL

NATHALIE COUTAYAR Denninger’s Foods of the World, Hamilton, ON

*BRAD FLETCHER Member at Large, The Village Grocer, Markham, ON

*JIM HAMILTON Secretary, Hammy’s AG, Ponoka, AB

BEN HARRACK Pattison Food Group, Langley, BC

*ERIN HIGDON Chair, Powell's Supermarket Ltd. Bay Roberts, NL

NEIL KENNEDY Sobeys Strathmore, Strathmore, AB

ADELE KOSTURA Independent Food Business (TGP) Federated Co-op Ltd.Edmonton, AB

*JAMIE NELSON Honourary Past Chair, Pattison Food Group, PAT PESSOTTO Longo Brothers Fruit Markets, Vaughan, ON

*RICK RABBA Treasurer, The J. Rabba Company Limited, Mississauga, ON

MIKE SHARPE Sharpe’s Food Market, Campbellford, ON

DEBBIE UNICK Federated Co-op Ltd., Saskatoon, SK

JASON VESELY Westlock Sobeys, Westlock, AB

MICHAEL BATKE Sr. VP Sales, Canada Sales Leader, Proctor & Gamble Inc.

PETER BOWMAN Sr. VP, Retail & Food Service Sales, Saputo Dairy Products Canada GP

ROBERT CLARKE Director of Sales, McCain Foods

*GREG COLES CHAIR, Chief Customer Officer, Nestlé Canada Inc.

KOSTAS KAPRALOS VP National Sales, Lassonde

JOHN KOTSOPOULOS VP Sales & Trade Mktg, The J.M. Smucker Co.

JOSH KUEHNBAUM Sr. VP Sales & Customer Business Development, Maple Leaf Foods

STEEVE LAMONTAGNE

Head of Canada Sales, Kruger Products L.P.

MCNERNEY

VINCENT NADEAU

*MARTIN PAYANT

GROCERY & SPECIALTY FOOD WEST 2025

APRIL 14-15, 2025 | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE, EAST BUILDING (999 CANADA PLACE)

SUNDAY, APRIL 13

8:30am–12:00pm

INDUSTRY TOUR CFIG RETAILERS ONLY

*Pre-registration required

Stores on tour: Fresh St Market (Esplanade), Save on (Park & Tilford), Stong’s (Dollarton)

To register, must have GSF ticket and be a CFIG retailer member. Contact cfig@microspec.com

Sponsored by:

12:00pm–3:00pm

CATEGORY CONNECT MEETINGS

BALLROOMS A, B | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

Sponsored by:

5:00pm–7:00pm

OPENING RECEPTION – All Welcome

BALLROOMS A, B | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

Sponsored by:

MONDAY, APRIL 14

*MORNING CONFERENCE SESSIONS

*Preregistration required

BALLROOMS A, B | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG

8:15am–8:45am BREAKFAST

Sponsored by:

8:45am–9:15am

CFIG President & CEO Ron Welke

Welcome & Remarks & Highlights of New Store Openings from CFIG Members across the Country

9:15am–9:55am 10 Ways AI will Transform Grocery & Food.

Exclusive IGD research report, Stewart Samuel, IGD

Sponsored by:

10:00am–10:45am

Exclusive session with Canada’s first Grocery Code Adjudicator, Karen Proud. Q&A moderated by Gary Sands, CFIG.

Sponsored by:

10:55am–11:00am

RIBBON CUTTING - TRADE SHOW ENTRANCE

HALL B | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG. 11:00am-4:30pm

TRADE SHOW EXHIBITION

HALLS A, B, C | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

MONDAY INSIGHTS & INNOVATIONS

TRADE FLOOR STAGE SESSIONS

1:00pm-1:30pm Flavour Forecast: McCormick’s Chef David Burnett shares the latest trends that influence what we cook and eat from the brand’s Flavour Forecast report.

2:00pm-2:30pm What’s in store? AIR MILES shares the latest Grocery Shopper Insights, presented by Jason Beales.

NETWORKING EVENTS

4:15pm-5:00pm MIX AND MINGLE Networking Reception – All Welcome INSIGHTS & INNOVATIONS STAGE

Sponsored by:

Best Booth Winners

6:00pm–9:00pm

*MONDAY EVENING EVENT

*Preregistration required VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | WEST BUILDING |

(1055 CANADA PL., VANCOUVER, BC)

6:00pm–6:30pm RECEPTION

Sponsored by:

6:30pm–9:00pm DINNER & ENTERTAINMENT

Cohosts: Ron Welke, Laura Collaton. Life Member Awards: Peter Bowman, Saputo and Jim Hamilton, Hammy's Comedian: Damonde Tschritter

PETER BOWMAN JIM HAMILTON

Sponsored by:

TUESDAY, APRIL 15

*MORNING CONFERENCE & WORKSHOP SESSIONS

*Preregistration required BALLROOMS A, B | MAIN STAGE | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST

7:30am–8:00am BREAKFAST

Sponsored by:

8:00am–8:05am CFIG Chair Erin Higdon – Welcome & Remarks

8:05am–8:50am UNLOCKING AI'S POTENTIAL IN GROCERY

Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the grocery industry, from super-charging customer experiences to upgrading operations. Learn how grocers are leveraging AI to optimize: Personalization, Efficiency, Automation, Insights. Progressive Grocer’s Gina Acosta with George Zoitas, Westside Market.

Sponsored by:

8:55am–9:35am Carman Allison, NielsenIQ will give an industry update on the everchanging retail and consumer environment in Western Canada.

Sponsored by:

9:35am–9:45am NETWORKING COFFEE BREAK Sponsored by:

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

BALLROOMS A, B, C | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

9:45am–10:15am CHOOSE ONE

BALLROOMS A, B | MAIN STAGE | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

Spotlight on Retailers: Doug Lovsin, President, Freson Bros.; Nathalie Coutayar, Merchandising & Marketing Senior Manager R. Denninger Ltd; and Jacky Ho, Regional Director, PriceSmart Foods share their consumer proposition in 5-7 mins followed up by some Q&A. Moderator Ron Welke

Sponsored by:

BALLROOM C | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

The Evolving U.S. Grocery Landscape: This session will explore the latest macro trends shaping the U.S. grocery landscape, with a focus on innovative and emerging store formats. It will also highlight how retailers are adapting to shifting consumer expectations and broader economic and policy changes, including those under the new administration and ongoing trade challenges. Presented by Amanda Lai, McMillanDoolittle

10:20am–10:50am CHOOSE ONE

BALLROOMS A, B | MAIN STAGE | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG. Best Practices for Instore Marketing & Communication: Ensuring your customers have an efficient, inspiring and enjoyable shopping experience requires savvy planning and precise execution of your instore marketing and messaging. Join retail marketing guru Patrick Rodmell as he shares best practices and best-in-class examples that will help you craft the most effective and engaging approach to your instore marketing.

BALLROOM C | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG. 10 Best Practical Ideas from Around the World that Independents Can Do. Presented by Stewart Samuel, IGD

Sponsored by:

11:00am–4:00pm TRADE SHOW EXHIBITION

HALLS A, B, C | VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE | EAST BLDG.

TUESDAY INSIGHTS & INNOVATIONS TRADE FLOOR STAGE SESSIONS

12:00pm-12:30pm

From High Turnover to High Impact: Solving the Grocery Staffing Crisis. Using AI and automation, Geoff Pershick, ClickHire.ai, will guide attendees down the thought path to rethinking and redefining their hiring processes.

1:00pm-1:30pm

Takeout takes off! Best foodservice ideas from grocery presented by Gina Acosta, Progressive Grocer magazine

2:00pm

RETAILERS PRIZE DRAW! INSIGHTS & INNOVATIONS TRADE FLOOR STAGE

Prize Draw for a Trip to GSF 2026!

Prize includes:

• Gift cards $500 WestJet & $400 Fairmont Hotel

• Full delegate Promo Code to get you VIP access

Enter to Win @ BOOTH 711

SAVE THE DATE

Prize Sponsor:

GROCERY INNOVATIONS CANADA 2025 TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE NORTH BUILDING OCTOBER 28 & 29, 2025

WWW.GROCERYINNOVATIONS.COM

GROCERY & SPECIALTY FOOD WEST 2026

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE EAST APRIL 21 & 22, 2026

WWW.GSFSHOW.COM

WIFI SPONSORED BY: MOBILE APP SPONSORED BY:

SPEAKERS AT GSF 2025

GINA ACOSTA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, PROGRESSIVE GROCER

Gina is obsessed with grocery stores, food retailers, international travel and her favorite place in the world is the 6th Arrondissement of Paris. Gina has covered the retail and CPG industries for various business publications since 2014.

CARMAN ALLISON, VP NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, NIELSENIQ

Carman constantly has his finger on the pulse of the CPG marketplace, and manufacturers and retailers rely on him to provide insights and solutions they need to make strategic business decisions. He has over 30 years of experience consulting on consumer and retail trends

JASON BEALES, CHIEF STRATEGY AND COMMERCIAL OFFICER, AIR MILES

As Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer at AIR MILES, Jason Beales helps steward Strategic Partnerships, Business Development, and the AIR MILES Rewards portfolio. He is motivated by working with partners to uncover unrealized value, advising on growth-driven corporate improvement, and optimization of client businesses (notably driving top line efficiencies).

CHEF DAVID BURNETT, SR. CULINARY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, MCCORMICK & COMPANY

With an extensive television and media background doing multiple shows on Food Network Canada and Global, Chef David has spent the last 10 years of his career focused on product development and manufacturing developing products for both the grocery retail and foodservice sides of the business.

NATHALIE COUTAYAR, MERCHANDISING & MARKETING SR. MANAGER, DENNINGER’S

Nathalie has been a part of the Canadian food retail industry for two decades. She started as a foreign student intern, and upon graduation began her career as a grocery and sweets purchasing assistant. Now, 15 years later, Nathalie is Denninger’s Sr. Merchandising & Marketing Manager.

JACKY HO, DIRECTOR OF PRICESMART FOODS

Jacky has been with the Pattison Food Group for 25 years. PriceSmart Foods is a retail banner part of Pattison Food Group providing authentic Asian products servicing the needs of the communities.

AMANDA LAI, DIRECTOR, FOOD INDUSTRY PRACTICE AT MCMILLANDOOLITTLE

Amanda Lai is the Director of the Food Industry Practice at McMillanDoolittle, a Chicago-based international consultancy that has served the retail industry for over 35 years.

DOUG LOVSIN, PRESIDENT, FRESON BROS.

Doug Lovsin serves as the President of Freson Bros., a proud Alberta-owned and operated fresh market retailer that has been serving communities across the province for 70 years. As one of founder Frank Lovsin's sons, Doug carries forward the legacy of what began as a humble butcher shop in 1955 and has grown into a celebrated chain of 16 locations known for their commitment to quality, fresh food, and exceptional customer service.

GEOFF PERSHICK, CO FOUNDER, CLICKHIRE TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Born and raised on the Canadian Prairies, Geoff is passionate about guiding companies to a healthier bottom line through Hiring automation and Operations excellence using AI and common sense.

KAREN PROUD, PRESIDENT & ADJUDICATOR, OFFICE OF THE GROCERY SECTOR CODE OF CONDUCT

As President and Adjudicator, Ms. Proud will oversee the implementation of the voluntary Grocery Sector Code of Conduct. Prior to serving as president and CEO of Fertilizer Canada, Proud held executive roles at Food, Health & Consumer Products of Canada and the Retail Council of Canada.

WIFI SPONSORED BY: MOBILE APP SPONSORED BY:

PATRICK RODMELL, PRESIDENT & FOUNDER, RODMELL & COMPANY

Patrick Rodmell is President and Founder of Rodmell & Company, an integrated consulting and creative agency specializing in brand and customer experience optimization for grocery clients throughout North America.

STEWART SAMUEL, DIRECTOR OF RETAIL FUTURES, IGD

Stewart is a recognised thought leader in the retail industry, with a deep understanding of retailer strategies, format evolution, and emerging technologies. He leads IGD’s Retail Futures team, exploring the trends and innovations shaping the future of global retail.

GARY SANDS, SR. VP, CANADIAN FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT GROCERS

Gary has been with the association for 24 years. During his tenure with CFIG he was elected the Chair of the Small Business Matters Coalition, composed of over 23 national trade associations which at the time of its existence, was the largest voice for business organizations in Canada. He is part of the Interim Board of Directors that brought to fruition the Grocery Code of Conduct. Gary is also a recipient of CFIG's Spirit of the Independent Award.

DAMONDE TSCHRITTER

Damonde is the first Canadian winner of America’s largest comedy competition, The Seattle International Comedy Competition. The Globe and Mail has said “Damonde is perhaps this country’s finest comedic story teller.”

RON WELKE, PRESIDENT & CEO, CANADIAN FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT GROCERS

Ron Welke took over the role of CFIG president and CEO Aug. 1, 2024. Welke joins the organization from Federated Cooperatives Ltd. (FCL), where he spent 32 years, most recently serving as the associate vice president of food. In that role, he led all aspects of both Co-op’s food and independent businesses, as well as pharmacy, liquor and convenience business units

GEORGE ZOITAS, CEO, WESTSIDE MARKET NYC

George Zoitas is the CEO of Westside Market NYC, a family-owned chain of supermarkets known for its exceptional customer service and innovative operational strategies. With over two decades of experience in the grocery industry, George has transformed Westside Market into a leader in integrating cutting-edge technology with personalized customer care.

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EXHIBITOR LISTINGS

CFIG MEMBER ✪ SHOW SPECIAL

✪ 32 LAKES COFFEE ROASTERS

4342 Padgett Road

Powell River, BC V8A 0T2

T: (604) 414-8363

E: roasting@32lakes.com

www.32lakes.com

32 Lakes Coffee Roasters is a BC-local, female-owned company offering coffee lovers a carbon-neutral, less-bitter coffee experience. We provide whole beans, ground coffee, and single-serve options for retail and food service. Booth #1507B

✪ ACOSTA GROUP

2700 Matheson Boulevard East, East Tower, Ste.101 Mississauga, ON L4W 4V9

T: (905) 238-8422

E: tal.dovas@mosaic.com www.acosta.ca

We are the sales & marketing powerhouse behind the most recognized brands and a proven resource for top retailers all across the U.S. and Canada. Booth #1314, 1315

ADN REFRIGERATION LTD.

1225 Kingsway Avenue. Ste. 3113 Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 1S2

T: (604) 945-0788

E: sales@adnrefrigeration.com www.kysorwarren.com/en

Epta Kysor Warren is a supplier of Refrigerated Merchandisers. With Canadian dealers, ADN Refrigeration, Icom Mechanical, and Lowe Mechanical provide complete turnkey refrigeration solutions. Booth #1756

ADSPROUT

1731 North Emerson Street

Denver, CO 80218

T: (407) 592-6375

E: info@ad-sprout.com

www.ad-sprout.com

AdSprout delivers engaging, contextually relevant in-store digital ads that shoppers enjoy – turning aisles into retail media channels that drive significant new revenue for grocers. Booth #1602

ADVANTAGE SOLUTIONS

1200 W 73rd Avenue

Vancouver, BC V6P 6G5

T: (800) 268-3425

E: customerservice@advantagesolutions.net www.youradv.com

Advantage Solutions is a leading provider of outsourced sales and marketing solutions for or to consumer goods companies and retailers. Booth #915

✪ AĒLO EXPERTLY HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS

PO Box 37585 The Quay North Vancouver, BC V7M 0G4

T: (604) 970-2976

E: hello@drinkaelo.com www.drinkaelo.com

aēlo provides non-alcoholic cocktails handcrafted in Canada. The cocktails are premium alcohol-free beverages that are not loaded with sugars for the perfect cocktail experience. Booth #400

AFFILIATED INDEPENDENT–

LOBLAW INC.

1 President’s Choice Circle

Brampton, ON L6Y 5S5

T: (888) 495-5111

E: business.development@loblaw.ca www.freshmart.ca

The Affiliated Independent Group includes over 300 independent retailers from coast to coast offering different programs to fit the needs of the independent stores. Booth #909

✪ AIR MILES REWARD PROGRAM

250 Yonge Street, 5th Floor Toronto, ON M5B 2L7

T: (437) 246-8376

E: businessdevelopment@loyalty.com www.airmiles.ca

AIR MILES is one of Canada's most recognized loyalty programs, with participation from more than half of Canadian households and 300+ Partners in-store and online. Booth #607

AMERLUX

178 Bauer Drive Oakland, NJ 07436 USA

T: (973) 882-5010

E: info@amerlux.com www.amerlux.com

Innovative lighting solutions that captivate, inspire, and command attention. Enhancing retail, commercial, hospitality, and supermarket environments while focusing on quality and service excellence. Booth #600

ARBUTUS FOODS

1497 Admirals Road, Ste. 201 Victoria, BC V9A 2P8

T: (250) 952-7100

E: jcoombs@jadefinefoods.com www.arbutusfarms.ca

ARNEG CANADA

18 Richelieu Road

Lacolle, QC J0J 1J0

T: (289) 795-5012

E: sfeere@arneggml.com www.arneg.ca

We proudly manufacture refrigeration display cases and compressor systems for Canadians by Canadians. Booth #601

✪ ASSOCIATED GROCERS

7100 44 Street SE/ 19580 Telegraph Trail Calgary, AB T2C 2V7/ Surrey, BC V4N 4H1

T: (800) 242-3182

E: info@associatedgrocers.ca www.associatedgrocers.ca/cc2

Associated Grocers is the leading grocery wholesaler in Western Canada serving independent retail locations from our facilities in BC and Alberta. Home of the Independent. Booth #1109

✪ ATWOOD HERITAGE

PROCESSING INC.

6687 Line 71

Atwood, ON N0G 1B0

T: (519) 356-8870

E: shop@atwoodheritage.ca www.atwoodheritage.ca

We manufacture a high-end line of cured meat products. We would like to showcase our shelf stable snack sticks, salamis, and sliced deli meats. Booth #502

✪ AVAFINA ORGANICS INC

100-1580 Brigantine Drive

Coquitlam, BC V3K 7C1

T: (604) 873-2983

E: sales@avafina.com www.avafina.com

Avafina Organics makes our cashew-based Queen Cheeses, and chia-based Chiaviar spreads in our certified GSFI plant in Coquitlam, BC. Also, Organic and Glutenfree bulk ingredients. Booth #1514A

✪ AVENCO LTD

240 Simpson Avenue, Unit F Bowmanville, ON L1C 2J3

T: (141) 689-2552

E: kathy@avenco.us www.avenco.pro

Avenco delivers Canadian-converted and packaged, high-quality parchment products in branded and private label formats, ideal for baking, cooking, and crafting applications. Avenco delivers Canadian-converted and packaged, highquality parchment products in branded and private label formats, ideal for baking, cooking, and crafting applications. Booth #423

AZUMA FOODS (CANADA) CO., LTD.

11451 Twigg Place Richmond, BC V6V 2Y2

T: (604) 288-0005

E: sales@azumafoods.ca www.azumafoods.ca

Azuma Foods Canada offers authentic Japanese frozen foods, serving foodservice and retail clients like Costco, to bring Japanese flavours to Canada.

Booth #1001

BARNSIDE BREWING CO.

6655 60 Avenue Delta, BC V4k 4E2

T: (778) 434-2264

E: info@barnsidebrewing.ca www.barnsidebrewing.ca

Road Pop Sparkling Hop Water celebrates Barnside’s farm-based story in a refreshing beverage that’s inclusive, and enjoyed by everyone, at any time. Booth #1519A

BC BLUEBERRY COUNCIL

275 – 32160 South Fraser Way Abbotsford, BC V2T 1W5

T: (160) 486-4211

E: erick@bcblueberry.com www.bcblueberry.com

Experience premium British Columbia blueberries: fresh, frozen, and processed products showcasing our naturally sweet, antioxidant-rich berries grown in Canada’s optimal Pacific coastal climate. Booth #1600

BEE KIND HONEY INFUSIONS #121 – 19055 34A Avenue T: (604) 245-8855

E: kirsten@beekind.ca www.beekind.ca

Producer of quality gourmet honey and gourmet infused honey products focusing on ethical beekeeping practices and agriculture biodiversity. Booth #1517A

✪ BERBICIAN ROYAL FOODS 130 Westmore Drive, Unit 218 Etobicoke, ON M9V 5E2

T: (416) 743-5531

E: membership@berbician.net www.berbician.net

Berbician specialty game meats, pork-free with halal options. Offerings include Bison Meatballs, Venison Kebab, Wagyu Bacon, Venison Doner, Camel Salami, Duck Jerky, Lamb burgers, Kangaroo. Booth #1625

✪ BEST BRANDS MARKETING INC. 105-9295 198th Street Langley, BC V1M 3J9

T: (604) 888-0193

E: ken.ou@bestbrandsmarketing.com www.bestbrandsmarketing.com

Best Brands champions the best in global food brands. We import and distribute authentic Asian specialty foods (Prima Taste, Itsuki, Daisho, Mr. Vietfrom, etc.) from Singapore, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Booth #1423

BIG CHIEF MEAT SNACKS INC. 3900 52 Avenue NE Calgary, AB T3J 3X4

T: (403) 264-2641

E: chuck@bigchief.ca

www.bigchiefmeatsnacks.com

Big Chief is a Canadian meat snack brand with 54 years of family tradition, offering tender, gluten-free snacks made form 100% Canadian Beef. Booth #1205

BIMBO CANADA

2 International Boulevard, Ste. 100 Etobicoke, ON M9W 1A2

T: (800) 465-5515

E: bc.consumerengagement@grupobimbo.com www.bimbocanada.com

Bimbo Canada is the leading producer and distributor of packaged fresh bread, bakery products, snacks, and sweet goods. Booth #608

✪ BITES OF TANG

202-15388 24th Avenue Surrey, BC V4A 2J2

T: (778) 836-6408

E: info@bitesoftang.com www.bitesoftang.com

To bring you a unique taste experience that bridges cultures and excites palates with our rice, wheat, and nut-based snacks. Booth #1615

B-O-F CORPORATION

2453 Prospect Drive, Ste.#191 Aurora, IL 60502 USA

T: (800) 323-2517

E: rbarraza@bofcorp.com www.bofcorp.com

B-O-F is a leading inventor, patent-holder, and designer of innovative gravity flow shelving products that help retailers sell more and save on labor costs. Booth #1621

BOXMASTER

#100 – 880 Belgrave Way Delta, BC V3M 5Y8

T: (604) 521-4715

E: aparsons@boxmaster.com www.boxmaster.com

Boxmaster successfully supplies corrugated packaging to many industries for over 30 years with products ranging from simple RSCs (Regular Slotted Cartons) to custom die-cuts and displays. Booth #605

BRINKS

95 Browns Line Etobicoke, ON M8W 3S2

T: (804) 289-9600

E: sales.canada@brinksinc.com www.ca.brinks.com

Brinks is a leading global provider of cash and valuables management, digital retail solutions, and ATM managed services. Booth #305

✪ BURNBRAE FARMS LTD

940 Matheson Boulevard East Mississauga, ON L4W 2R8

T: (190) 575-1500

E: beauchemin@burnbraefarms.com www.burnbraefarms.com/en

We offer Specialty Shell Eggs, Hard Boiled Eggs, Pasturized Liquid Whole Egg and Egg Whites, Egg Bakes, Egg Bites. We are Canadian and family owned. Booth #1736

BUY BC (B.C. MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD) 5th Floor, 545 Superior Street Victoria, BC V8V 0C5

T: (236) 478-3687

E: BuyBC@gov.bc.ca www.buybc.gov.bc.ca

Buy BC is a province-wide marketing program, led by the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food, that promotes B.C. food and beverage products to consumers. Booth #1511

✪ CALLISTER CRAFT SODA

#2155 – 575 Seaborne Avenue

Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 0M3

T: (604) 319-5161

E: info@callistersoda.com www.callistersoda.com

Callister Craft Sodas are made by us, with real juice, real cane sugar, and zero compromise. Come try our sodas and ask about co-packing! Booth #1510A

CANADIAN GROCER

2300 Yonge Street, Ste.2900 Toronto, ON M4p 1E4

T: (416) 400-2065

E: vpeters@ensembleiq.com www.canadiangrocer.com Booth #7

CANADIAN RANGELAND BISON

#103-3402 Hwy 12 Lacombe, AB T4L 1A7

T: (403) 786-9900

E: info@rangelandbison.ca www.rangelandbison.ca

Rangeland’s premium, exclusive bison meat is for the bold and discerning. Not only is it nutrient-rich and delicious, it’s also 100% Canadian. Booth #1742

CAVENDISH FARMS

100 Midland Drive Dieppe, NB E1A 6X4

T: (506) 858-7777

E: info@cavendishfarms.com www.cavendishfarms.com

Cavendish Farms is sampling frozen potato and appetizer products at booth #720. Booth #720

CHASERS FRESH JUICE LTD

31453 King Road, #180 Abbotsford, BC V2T 5Z2

T: (160) 442-8408

E: orders@chasersvancouver.com www.chasersvancouver.com

BC’s largest manufacturer of fresh Cold Pressed Juices. Chasers has 30+ SKUS featuring BC fruits (fresh pressed BC apples, Apple Cider, and Cranberry Cider). Booth #1500A

COCA-COLA CANADA

335 King Street East Toronto, ON M4A 1L1

T: (416) 424-6000

E: contactus@cokecanada.com www.coca-cola.com/ca/en

Come to our booth and try some of our exciting product innovations for 2025! Booth #901

CONAGRA BRANDS

2920 Matheson Blvd. E, Unit 400 Mississauga, ON L4W 5R6

T: (800) 461-4556

E: josie.cats@conagra.com www.conagrabrands.ca/en

Conagra Brands Canada has a diverse portfolio of well-known brands and innovative food products that enrich the lives of Canadians. Samples at our booth! Booth #914

CONCORD NATIONAL LLP

2515 Meadowpine Boulevard, Unit 2 Mississauga, ON L5N 6C3

T: (905) 817-0403

E: tony.dalleva@concordnational.com

www.concordnational.com

Stack Merchandising. A collective of human energy and innovative technology, Stack’s team and services are changing the future of merchandising. Simply putwe hustle to get ’er done. Booth #1100

CONGLOM

2600 ave Marie-Curie

St-Laurent, QC H4S 2C3

T: (438) 951-9975

E: ksande@conglom.com www.conglom.com

We are a supplier and manufacturer company that specializes in food packaging for retail and industrial-sized clients. Booth #1004

COWS CREAMERY (COWS INC)

12 Milky Way

Charlottetown, PE C1E 2E2

T: (902) 402-8318

E: lindsay@cows.ca

www.cowscreamery.ca

Based in Prince Edward Island, Canada COWS Creamery makes award-winning cheddars, butters, and Moo Crisps with 100% PEI milk. Booth #403

CREATION FOODS COMPANY

418 Hanlan Road, Unit 14 Woodbridge, ON L4L 4Z1

T: (905) 856-5644

E: info@creationfood.ca www.creationfood.ca

A family owned and operated organization established in 1995, we specialize in manufacturing frozen pastries such as Puff Pastry dough, Bourekas, Strudels, Croissants, and more. Booth #504

CTM DESIGN SERVICES LTD.

340 Midpark Way SE, Ste. 225 Calgary, AB T2X 1P1

T: (403) 333-2611

E: rguanlao@ctmdesign.ca www.ctmdesign.ca

We are a fully integrated Engineering Design Firm with a license to practice across Canada. Booth #1608

DANA INDUSTRIES

109 Woodbine Downs Bvld, Unit 1 Toronto, ON M9W 6Y1

T: (888) 998-0880

E: sales@danaindustries.com www.danaindustries.com

Dana Industries offers in-store signage, shelving, carts, and merchandising solutions–such as pushers and rollers –designed to optimize space, enhance organization, and drive sales! Booth #1121

✪ DAN-D-PAK 1545 Cliveden Avenue Delta, BC V3M 6P7

T: (604) 828-9844

E: taracoleman@dan-d-pak.com www.dandpak.com

Dan-D Foods Ltd. is a global supplier of high-quality nuts, dried fruits, snacks, and bulk food products, with a strong focus on innovation and community support.

Booth #404

DANONE

100 Rue de Lauzon

Boucherville, QC J4B 1E6

T: (450) 655-7331

E: serviceclientele-canada@danone.com www.danone.ca

We serve an array of delicious dairy products: Activia, Oikos, Two Good, Danino, Silk, International Delight, and So Delicious. Booth #808

DARLING DOWNS WAGYU

76 Skyring Terrace

Newstead, QSLD 4006 AUSTRALIA

T: (312) 479-1436

E: gregg@fftd.ca www.darlingdownswagyu.com/home

With 200 years of experience raising exceptional cattle and crafting exceptional beef, Darling Downs Wagyu is Australia’s permanent grower of world class Wagyu Beef. Booth #1306

DENNIS’ HORSERADISH

10 Arnold Sayeau Drive Delhi, ON N4B 2W5

T: (416) 300-3966

E: markw@dennishorseradish.com www.dennishorseradish.com

Dennis’ Horseradish is 100% Canadianroot, made and owned! Our small batch horseradish is crafted for exceptional quality and flavour. Our prepared horseradish is available in Original, Hot, and Extra Hot. To elevate and compliment seafood, try our Seafood Sauce. Booth #519

DIGI CANADA INC

87 Moyal Court Concord, ON L4K 4R8

T: (905) 879-0833

E: sales@ca.digi-group.com www.digisystem.com/ca/en

DIGI Canada is a proven global leader in the food industry offering a complete line of food equipment for over 25 years. We offer across-the-store solutions from quality weigh-wrap labelling equipment, POS machines, consumables to industrial machines. Booth #910

DISTRIBUTION CANADA INC.

3425 Harvester Road, Ste.102C Burlington, ON L7N 3N1

T: (905) 681-3933

E: admin@distributioncanada.ca www.distributioncanada.ca

DCI fosters collaboration in the Canadian food market, offering a membership platform for sharing funding and solutions to boost sales and profits. Booth #4

DON CHENDO PRODUCTS INC.

102-6994 Greenwood Street Burnaby, BC V5A 1X8

T: (177) 831-7144

E: zaira@donchendo.com www.donchendo.com

Since 2014, Don Chendo® Products have been dedicated to sharing the vibrant and authentic flavours of Mexico with over 2,000 products. Booth #805

DR. OETKER CANADA 2229 Drew Road Mississauga, ON L5S 1E5

T: (647) 519-3164

E: laura.jones@oetker.com www.oetker.ca

New Suprema by Dr. Oetker is an artisanalstyle pizza with triple fermented dough and premium toppings in 4 exceptional tasting varieties. Booth #415

✪ DYNA-PRO ENVIRONMENTAL 575 Roseberry Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 0T3

T: (204) 774-5370

E: larryj@dyna-pro.com www.dyna-pro.com

Dyna-Pro Environmental has provided Ultra-Pure’s reverse osmosis water dispensing machines, water treatment systems, and customized solutions to water problems across Canada for over 30 years. Booth #1207

EAT WELL ETHNIC FOODS INC. 12791 Clarke Place, #110 Richmond, BC V6V 2H9

T: (604) 244-9858

E: info@spiceitupfoods.com www.spiceitupfoods.com

Eat Well Ethnic Foods brings taste and convenience together in a series of high quality finely crafted ready-to-eat food products with an international food profile. Booth #1422

EDIBLE ACRES FARM & CAFÉ

1681 British Columbia 93/95 Windermere, BC V0B 2L2 T: (250) 342-3236

E: lin@winderberry.ca www.winderberry.ca

Bold, garlicky, and endlessly versatile! Our farm-fresh dips ~ made from garlic scapes and cloves~elevate snacks, spreads, and meals. Small batch, big flavour! Booth #1516B

EGGSOLUTIONS–VANDERPOLS INC.

3911 Mount Lehman Road

Abbotsford, BC V2T 5W5

T: (123) 651-4996

E: cservice@vanderpolseggs.com www.vanderpolseggs.com

EggSolutions-Vanderpol’s specializes in value-added egg products, offering liquid, frozen, and dried eggs for the foodservice sector, with a focus on quality, innovation, and process simplification. Booth #1308

✪ EM BAKERY EQUIPMENT

2209 Springer Avenue Burnaby, BC V5B 3N1

T: (604) 294-3500

E: admin@emequip.com www.emequip.com

Bakery equipment solutions for Canadian Grocers: Come discuss ovens, proofers, retarders, bread slicers or any bakery equipment related needs. Equipment sales, maintenance, and repairs. Booth #1209

✪ ERGOGENICS NUTRITION

1427 Bellevue Avenue PO Box 91603

West Vancouver, BC V7V 3P3

T: (778) 279-1460

E: richard@ergogenicsnutrition.com www.ergogenicsnutrition.com

We make plant-based functional sports nutrition products for health-conscious people to boost performance and overall wellness! Booth #407

✪ EVIANPAC

6707 Nelson Avenue, Unit 307

West Vancouver, BC V7W 0A4

T: (778) 222-3736

E: sam@evianpac.com www.evianpac.com

EvianPac provides innovative sustainable packaging solutions, including compostable food containers, thermoformed trays from recycled plastics, and eco-friendly pouches for CPG, reducing waste and environmental impact. Booth #315

FCC (FARM CREDIT CANADA)

310-5460 152nd Street

Surrey, BC V3S 5J9

T: (604) 576-3577

E: csc@fcc-vac.ca www.fcc-fac.ca/en

FCC provides flexible financing and capital solutions, while creating value through data, knowledge, relationships and expertise. Booth #1768

FEDERATED INSURANCE

2540 Boul. Daniel-Johnson Laval, QC H7T 2S3

T: (514) 730-6781

E: mauro.ditullio@federated.ca www.federated.ca

Federated Insurance is committed to working closely with our partners and members like you to develop tailored solutions that meet your unique needs. Call 1-844-628-6800. Booth #606

✪ FMS SOLUTIONS

90 Allstate Parkway, Ste.502

Markham, ON L3R 6H3

T: (416) 587-0537

E: joe.sawaged@fmssolutions.com www.fmssolutions.ca

Best-in-class services from leading industry experts. Comprehensive outsourced accounting and payroll solutions that allow our customers to focus on their business. Booth #908

FOUNTAIN FOOD BEVERAGES LTD.

1080 Fewster Drive

Mississauga, ON L4W 2T2

T: (905) 238-0000

E: info@dairyfountain.com www.dairyfountain.com

Dairy Fountain offers premium dairy products, including conventional and organic cow and goat milk yogurts, yogurt drinks, kefir, buttermilk, sour cream, fluid milk, and ice cream Booth #511

GENERAL MILLS CANADA

1875 Buckhorn Gate, Ste. 201 Mississauga, ON L4W 5N9

T: (905) 212-4000

E: tobias.boudreau@genmills.com www.generalmills.com

We serve the world by making food people love. Join us to share the excitement! Booth #1415

GIA FOODS LTD.

8288 North Fraser Way

Burnaby, BC V3N 0E9

T: (604) 244-0993

E: info@giafoods.com www.giafoods.com

Gia Foods offers authentic, flavorful dishes made from high-quality ingredients, blending tradition with innovation to deliver a memorable culinary experience. Booth #1752

GLENMORE CUSTOM PRINT + PACKAGING

13751 Mayfield Place Richmond, BC V6V 2G9

T: (604) 273-6323

E: info@glenmoreprinting.com www.glenmorecustomprint.com

Glenmore is a custom print + packaging company that provides paperboard boxes, roll labels, inserts, sleeves, custom prints, tubes, and folders. Booth #1616

GOLDEN VALLEY FOODS/SPARK EGGS

3841 Vanderpol court

Abbotsford, BC V2T 5W5

T: (123) 651-4996

E: ashariff@goldenvalley.com www.goldenvalley.com

Golden Valley Foods (BC) and its division, Spark Eggs (AB), provide high-quality eggs under trusted brands, ensuring fresh, locally sourced products for retailers and foodservice. Booth #1308

GREAT CANADIAN MEAT COMPANY

1390 Hopkins Street, Unit 5 Whitby, ON L1N 2C3

T: (905) 666-9395

E: info@greatcanadianmeat.com www.greatcanadianmeat.com

GCMC is Canada’s PremierMeat Snack Company that produces 365-day shelfstable meat snacks using the finest Canadian ingredients. Canadians support our homegrown brand. Booth #510

GROCERY BUSINESS MEDIA INC.

PO Box 23103 Longworth PO, Bowmanville, ON L1C 0H0

T: (905) 697-0467

E: admin@grocerybusiness.ca www.grocerybusiness.ca Booth #2

HANOI 36 RESTAURANT INC

141 Hudson Avenue Northeast, Unit A Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4N8

T: (778) 322-5986

E: hanoiathomefoods@gmail.com www.hanoiathomefoods.com

Hungry? Just say Pho Kit! MSG free! Gluten free! No Preservatives! Restaurant quality Pho in 7 minutes! Locally sourced ingredients. A BuyBC product. Booth #1508B

HAZEL’S ICE CREAM

2 – 6721 Butler Crescent Saanichton, BC V8M 1Z7

T: (778) 350-0033

E: sam@hazelsicecream.ca www.hazelsicecream.ca

We are a family business that sells handmade ice cream novelties. We specialize in chocolate dipped vanilla ice cream bars. Booth #1505A

✪ HILLOCK CONNECTIONS INC.

129 Riverview Street Longlac, ON P0T 2A0

T: (289) 808-7042

E: ryan@hillockconnections.onmicrosoft.com www.hillockconnections.com

Hillock Connections INC offers consulting, brokering, and networking services in the CPG industry. We specialize in food, beverage, wholesale, and retail market solutions. Booth #1618

HOBART CANADA

111 Gordon Baker Road, Ste. 600 North York, ON M2H 3R1 T: (141) 644-7643

E: tracy.durana@hobart.ca www.hobart.ca

Hobart Canada provides a complete line of equipment for the foodservice industry including baking, cooking, food machines, warewashers, refrigeration, and ventilation. Booth #704

✪ HONEY ONYX APIARY INC

3265 97 HWY Falkland, BC V0E 1W1 T: (250) 379-2072

E: sales@honeyonyx.ca www.honeyonyx.ca

Honey Onyx Apiary is a family operated farm whose mission is to raise happy bees and make quality honey products. Try honey packs from our own beehives in Okanagan / Peace: Canada NO. 1 White Honey (liquid-unpasteurized), Raw Honey (creamed), and Ginger and Cinnamon Infused Honey. Booth #1504A

HORIZONTE IMPORTS INC.

#112 – 13030 76 Ave.

Surrey, BC V3W 2V6

T: (604) 503-3311

E: mario@horizontegroup.com www.horizontegroup.com

Importer and distributor of Mexican and Latin American food products and manufacturer of fresh corn tortillas. We serve supermarkets, restaurants, and specialty food stores. Booth #923

HOWELINGS HOME HARVEST

2776 64th Street

Delta, BC V4L 2N7

T: (604) 946-0844

E: info@howelings.com www.houwelings.com

Howelings Home Harvest provides fresh & flavourful, harvest ready culinary herbs & lettuce plants grown locally year-round. Booth #1108

✪ HUMMZIES

4063 Shone Road

North Vancouver, BC V7G 2N4

T: (778) 929-8403

E: arda@khaledon.com www.hummzies.com

We provide healthy baked protein snacks made with chickpeas. Booth #1609

HUSSMANN CANADA

5 Cherry Blossom Road

Cambridge, ON N3h 4R7

T: (519) 653-9980

E: ashley.fuller@hussmann.com www.hussmann.com

We serve the needs of food retailers with the most extensive selection of display cases. We are known for our durability, efficiency and custom solutions. Booth #309

✪ IDEAL®

41 North Main Street, Ste. 202 Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 USA

T: (614) 767-8902

E: chris@designhouse.design www.designhouse.design

Ideal has revolutionized the digital flyer industry. We’ve built the most advanced customer experience, connected to an intelligent distribution system targeting your competitors’ customers. Booth #321

✪ INDIEROOTS VENTURES INC. (INGRANO) 128 W Cordova Street, Unit 1801 Vancouver, BC V6B 0E6

T: (604) 366-0718

E: indieroots.ca@gmail.com www.indieroots.ca

Ingrano offers premium organic and conventional pulses, spices, millets, frozen snacks, breads, and ready-to-eat mealsimported from India for the Canadian market. Booth #307

IN-STORE WATER SYSTEMS

1 – 2 High Meadow Place Toronto, ON M9L 0A3

T: (800) 508-7125

E: timg@instorewatersystems.com www.instorewatersystems.com

Refill Water Vending, Departmental (Grocery) Water Filtration Sales & Maintenance, Producing Misting/Fogging. Booth #1700

✪ INTERCITY PACKERS

MEAT & SEAFOOD

1900 No. 6 Road

Richmond, BC V6V 1W3

T: (604) 295-2010

E: info@intercitypackers.ca www.intercitypackers.ca/en

Discover new Canadian meat and seafood products for your butcher and seafood cases, as well as fully cooked items for your HMR offering. Booth #707

ISHIDA CANADA INC.

2076 192nd Street, Unit 101 Surrey, BC V3Z 0N2

T: (888) 517-1556

E: info@ishidacanada.ca www.ishidacanada.ca

Ishida Canada is a leader in the design, manufacturing and installation of complete weighing and packaging line solutions and food equipment. Booth #823

✪ ITALIAN TRADE COMMISSION

480 University Avenue, Unit 800 Toronto, ON M5G 1V2

T: (141) 659-8156

E: toronto@ice.it www.ice.it/it

Italian Trade Commission (aka ITA) promote Authentic Made in Italy products in Canada: spreads, egg pasta, sauces, oil, vinegar, cured meats, roasted coffee. Booth #1301, 1405

JACK LINKS

2476 Argentia Road, Ste. 103 Mississauga, ON L5N 6M1

T: (151) 936-2501

E: robert.waters@jacklinks.com www.jacklinks.com

Jack Link’s® is a family-owned business that grew from hard work, high-quality products, a sense of community and a little fun. Booth #619

✪ JIMMY ZEE’S DISTRIBUTORS 1145-1579 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 0H1 T: (604) 945-9337

E: sales@jimmyzees.com www.jimmyzees.com/user-login

Jimmy Zee’s Distributors offers wholesale candy, novelty treats, trending sweets, and Canadian-made confections, supplying retailers with exciting high-demand products to boost sales year-round. Booth #1760

✪ JIVA ORGANICS MFG & DIST INC

7442 Fraser Park Drive Burnaby, BC V5J 5B9 T: (604) 254-9840

E: orders@jivaorganics.ca www.jivaorganics.ca

Since 1998 Jiva Organics is one of western Canada’s largest full line distributors of vegetarian & healthy foods made in Canada. Fairtrade, Organic, Haccp. Booth #1766

JOHNSTON’S 5828 Promontory Road Chilliwack, BC T: (604) 858-4121

E: info@johnstons.ca www.johnstons.ca

We process, package, and distribute the highest quality pork to families all over British Columbia, Canada. We’re proudly local, truly an all-Canadian company! Booth #1502B

JRTECH SOLUTIONS

2365 rue Guenette

Montreal, QC H4R 2E9

T: (514) 889-7114

E: info@jrtechsolutions.com www.jrtechsolutions.ca

JRTech Solutions is Canada’s leading ESL provider since 2008, the largest distributor of Pricer ESLs, and exclusive provider of AIpowered inventory management cameras and robotics. Booth #1309

JTS FOOD CORPORATION 4-14231 Burrows Road Richmond, BC V6V 1K9

T: (604) 999-9569

E: info@fitbitechips.com www.fitbitechips.com

FitBite Chips are made fresh every morning in Richmond, BC, with cassava roots that are hand-peeled and fried to perfection. Booth #1518A

✪ KAN’S GOURMET FOODS

5035 Still Creek Avenue

Burnaby, BC V5C 5V1

T: (160) 431-7587

E: info@kansgourmetfoods.com www.kansgourmetfoods.com

Locally Manufactured. Ethnic appetizers, Gluten free certified. Vegan. NonGMO certified. Woman owned. Booth #1518B

KAWARTHA DAIRY COMPANY

PO Box 904

Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0

T: (705) 738-5123

E: info@kawarthadairy.com www.kawarthadairy.com

Kawartha Dairy has been family-owned and operated since 1937. Our premium ice cream is made with fresh milk and fresh cream from Canadian farms. Booth #522

✪ KB HONEY FAMILY/ WESTERN SAGE/QUEEN BEE

5684 Landmark Way, Unit 15 Cloverdale (Surrey), BC V3S 7H1

T: (604) 532-9757

E: kiddbros@telus.net

www.kbhoneyfamily.com

Family-owned KB Honey business, proudly presents KiddBros, Western Sage and Queen Bee honey brands…featuring Bee Complete (Honey/Pollen/RoyalJelly/ Propolis). Booth #1750

KELLANOVA CANADA

5350 Creekbank Road

Mississauga, ON L4W 5S1

T: (905) 290-5276

E: lisa@carabetta@kellanova.com www.kellanova.com/us/en/home

New Pringles Mingles are crispy on the outside and light and airy on the inside. Booth #819

KING RETAIL SOLUTIONS

3850 West 1st Avenue

Eugene, OR 97402 USA

T: (800) 533-2796

E: business.relationships@kingrs.com www.kingrs.com

King Retail Solutions (KRS) provides grocery design and strategy services. Known for innovation, KRS creates unique grocery spaces blending creativity and functionality. Booth #904

✪ KLONDIKE COLD STORAGE LTD.

3023 188th Street

Surrey, BC V3Z 9V5

T; (778) 870-6970

E: sgill@klondikecs.cs www.klondikecoldstorage.com

We provide reliable cold storage solutions for businesses of all sizes, ensuring product safety and success through personalized service, from farmers to international manufacturers. Booth #402

KOKO PATISSERIE

1205 Broad Street, Unit 102 Regina, Saskatchewan S4R 1Y2

T: (306) 581-9271

E: kmpunshon@accesscomm.ca www.kokopatisserie.com

Small batch, true scratch techniques. Offering a line of cookies, cookie dough, dessert bars, tarts and cakes. Boutique products without the boutique price. Booth #306A

KRAFT HEINZ

207 Queens Quay W, 700 Toronto, ON M5J 1A7

T: (416) 441-5000

E: info@kraftheinz.com www.kraftheinzcompany.com

Kraft Heinz provides high quality, great taste, and nutrition for all eating occasions. Kraft Heinz’s iconic brands include Kraft Peanut Butter, Heinze Ketchup, and KD. Booth #715

KRUGER PRODUCTS

2 Prologis Boulevard, Ste. 500 Mississauga, ON L5W 0G8

T: (437) 577-8372

E: matteo.tiberia@krugerproducts.ca www.mykrugerproducts.ca/en-ca Canadian-made paper products making everyday life more comfortable. Booth #815

LACTALIS CANADA

1939 Centre Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2E 0A8

T: (800) 563-1515

E: contactus@lactalis.ca

www.lactalis.com

Over 140 years of brand heritage, Lactalis Canada is committed to enriching and nurturing the lives of Canadians by producing nutritious great tasting dairy products. Booth #1015

LA FOURNÉE DORÉE

6 Rue de l'océan

Les Achards, Vendée 85150 FRANCE

T: (025) 105-9980

E: contact@lafourneedoree.fr www.lafourneedoree.fr/ca/en Brioches, brioche breads, Pains au chocolat and Croissants made with an inimitable know-how, simple & high-quality ingredients from unique authentic French family recipes. Booth #514

LEHAR FOODS

1647 Broadway Street, Unit 106 Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6P8

T: (778) 551-2271

E: info@ghalleyholdings.com www.lehar.ca

Lehar’s range of delicious food includes popped lotus seeds, namkeen, mithai, frozen aloo tikki, ras malai, veggie/plant –based burgers, plus Vij’s samosas, chilli cauliflower wings, and masala spring rolls. Booth #621

✪ LEVEL GROUND COFFEE ROASTERS

1757 Sean Heights Saanichton, BC V8M 0B3

T: (250) 544-0932

E: info@levelground.com www.levelground.com

Level Ground small batch roasts a variety of Fair Trade sourced coffee on Vancouver Island. 100% Canadian owned and operated since 1997. Booth #1416

✪ MAMACITA’S EMPANADAS

4 – 1410 11 Avenue N Golden, BC V0A 1H2

T: (125) 093-9864

E: mamcitasempanadas@gmail.com www.mamacitasempanadas.com

Argentinian Canadian frozen/take & bake empanada producer. We are inspired by sharing good food and having a good time with our friends and family. Booth #1501B

MANDI’S MICKLES

980 West 1st Street, Unit 105 North Vancouver, BC V7P 3N6

T: (778) 997-6336

E: mandi@mandismickles.com www.mandismickles.com/product-list

Mandi’s Mickles brings fun bold flavours with a twist to give you something a little unexpected. There’s a Party in Every jar! Booth #1506B

MAPLE LEAF FOODS

6897 Financial Drive Mississauga, ON L5N 0A8

T: (905) 285-5000

E: daisy.samaniego@mapleleaf.com www.mapleleaffoods.com

As we pursue our vision to become the most sustainable protein company on Earth, we work to reconnect families with the goodness of food. Booth #1115

✪ MAPLE ROCH PO Box 122, 13224 Victoria Road North Summerland, BC V0H 1Z0

T: (778) 516-7624

E: info@mapleroch.com www.mapleroch.com

Blending passion with the tradition and purity of Canadian maple syrup, Maple Roch is dedicated to offering maple syrup in its purest, most natural form. Booth #310

MARIPOSA DAIRY

201 St. George St. Lindsay, ON k9V 4Z4

T: (705) 341-2054

E: churley@mariposadairy.ca www.mariposadairy.ca

Bovelle, our small-batch cheese, is crafted with a traditional French process. Creamy and spreadable, it’s perfect for crackers, baguettes, recipes, or pairing with fruits and wine. Booth #515

MCCAIN FOODS

439 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 1K4

T: (866) 622-2461

E: consumeraffairs@mccain.ca www.mccain.ca

McCain showcases its world-famous French fries, Desserts, Snacks & Appetizers, plus our new plant-based entrees. Real Food for REAL LIFE! Booth #1021

MIKUNI WILD HARVEST

6711 Elmbridge Way, #200 Richmond, BC V7C 4N1

T: (604) 315-2132

E:orders@mikuniwildharvest.com www.mikuniwildharvest.com

Specialty Wild Foods Producer and Distributor. Booth # 1119

MONERIS

3300 Bloor Street West Etobicoke, ON M8X 2X2

T: (866) 318-7450

E: kelly.reaume@moneris.com www.moneris.com

Payment processing that works for Canadians. Our job is to empower business owners to keep doing business their way while we handle the payment processing our way. The safe, always-connected way. Moneris® is committed to providing our business owners with a payment partner that works just as hard as they do to make every sale. Booth #602

MOON’S GOURMET FOODS

45300 Luckakuck Way Sardis, Unit 101

Chlliwack, BC V2R 3C7

T: (778) 688-2109

E: moonsgourmetfoods@gmail.com www.moonsgourmetfoods.com

A local and women founded, small batch company from Chilliwack, BC that manufactures a variety of Asian inspired sauces and marinades. Booth #1514B

MOTOROLA VALUE

ADDED DISTRIBUTOR

633 Granite Court Pickering, ON L1W 3K1

T: (905) 831-6555

E: mvanderkooi@lenbrook.com www.lenbrookcanadasolutions.com Lenbrook, Canada’s Value-Added Distributor for Motorola Two-Way Radios and Body-Worn Cameras, invites you to explore the digital ecosystem and HALO Smart Sensor benefits today! Booth #1219

✪ MY LITTLE CHICKPEA GOURMET FOODS

80 Midwest Road, Unit 8 Toronto, ON M1P 4R2

T: (416) 285-7500

E: rula@mylittlechickpea.com www.mylittlechickpea.com

Heat-and-eat nutrient-dense and preservative-free Plant-Based Falafels, Risotto Balls, Sliders, Burgers and Cauliflower Bites. Retail and Food Service Formats Available. Booth #505

✪ NATURAL PASTURES

CHEESE COMPANY LTD.

635 McPhee Avenue Courtenay, BC V9N 2Z7

T: (250) 334-4422

E: cheese@naturalpastures.com www.naturalpastures.com

By celebrating local ingredients, tradition, and sustainability, Natural Pastures Cheese Company crafts award-winning artisan cheeses from cow and water buffalo milk on Vancouver Island. Booth #1517B

NATURE’S CHOICE FOODS

PO Box 93 Stn Maple Ridge Maple Ridge, BC V2X 7E9

T: (604) 465-2100

E: info@natureschoice.ca www.natureschoice.ca

Nature’s Choice Foods specializes in the CULINARY “spice & herb” trade. Booth #1714

NESTLÉ CANADA INC.

25 Sheppard Avenue West North York, ON M2N 6S8

T: (416) 512-9000

E: consumer.care@ca.nestle.com www.madewithnestle.ca

Nestlé Canada Inc. has a variety of food, beverage, and nutrition products to help you and your family live happier and healthier lives. Booth #615

✪ NO DAYS WASTED

1146 Pacific Boulevard, Unit 145 Vancouver, BC V6Z 2X7

T: (778) 88804081

No Days Wasted® offers science-backed supplements that support immunity, optimal hydration, and recovery – helping you feel your best every day, no matter the occasion. Booth #306B

✪ NORTHERN DANCER

SALES & MARKETING INC

1146 Glenridge Drive Oakville, ON L6M 2K7

T: (416) 705-0807

E: gingriselli@northerndancersales.com www.northerndancersales.com

We align the consumers’ needs with the manufacturers we represent. Brands: Wildly Delicious, Martelli Foods, Papille, Yummy Doh, Classic Group, National Pasta, and Victory’s Kitchen. Booth #1221

✪ NOT TOO SWEET CRAFT SODAS 6929 192 Street

Surrey, BC V4N 0B7

T: (778) 793-8884

E: evan@nottoosweetdrinks.ca www.nottoosweetdrinks.ca

Something completely different for your tastebuds – a gang of craft sodas that comes with fun flavours and pep for your step. Booth #1521A

NPX ONE LLC

4275 Reading Crest Avenue

Reading, PA 19605 USA

T: (164) 754-4170

E: wayne.antill@npxone.com

www.npxone.com

leading fresh food processors, retailers and packaging distributors to deliver quality food trays. Booth #317

OKANAGAN FROZEN DOUGH

4145 Spallumcheen Place

Spallumcheen, BC V4Y 0N1

T: (250) 546-0311

E: channce@okfrozendough.com www.okfrozendough.com

Okanagan Frozen Dough offers premium frozen dough products, including a wide variety of high-quality buns, bread, and pizza products all locally sourced with sustainable ingredients. Booth #906

OLD DUTCH FOODS LTD.

100 Bentall Street

Winnipeg, MB R2X 2Y5

T: (800) 351-2447

E: consumercare@olddutchfoods.com www.olddutchfoods.ca

Old Dutch Foods is a national snack food company, manufacturing and distributing a full assortment of your favourite Old Dutch and Humpty Dumpty snacks. Booth #1003, 1005

✪ OM NOMS BY YUMASOY

3708 West 27th Avenue

Vancouver, BC V6S 1R3

T: (604) 613-4170

E: info@yumasoy.com www.yumasoy.com

Om Noms® is the leader in Flexible Protein, redefining how the world approaches high-quality, satisfying meals, offering all-Canadian protein for every plate & palate. Booth #422

ONTARIO MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND AGRIBUSINESS

1 Stone Road West

Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2

T: (877) 424-1300

E: ag.info.omafa@ontario.ca www.ontario.ca/page/ministryagriculture-food-and-agribusiness Enhancing the growth of Ontario’s agri-food sector by delivering economic and business development programs, tools, supports, and techniques based on client needs. Booth #506

PACIFIC COAST DISTRIBUTION LTD.

27433 52 Avenue Langley, BC V4W 4B2

T: (604) 624-0224

E: chris.funk@pacificcoast.ca www.pacificcoast.ca

Twenty five years of focusing on best in class service of the food and beverage industry with locations in Calgary, AB and Langley, BC. We are SQF Certified, clean, organized, and optimized for max. efficiency. Booth #920

✪ PALRAM 4U

42 Jewel Avenue

Flushing, New York 11367 USA

T: (148) 426-4831

E: leeor.wieselberg@palram.com www.palram4u.com

Palram4U provides standard and custom illuminated and lockable retail fixtures for fresh bakery, tobacco, personal care and general retail, enhancing product visibility and store aesthetics. Booth #1614

✪ PAPER E. CLIPS

132 Railside Road

Toronto, ON M3A 1A3

T: (416) 510-1494

E: hello@papereclips.com www.papereclips.com

Paper E. Clips Inc. is a leading Canadian wholesaler and distributor of distinctive greeting cards and giftware. Booth #319

WIFI SPONSORED BY: MOBILE APP SPONSORED BY:

PEELED BEVERAGES

1450 Creekside Drive

Vancouver, BC V6J 5B3

T: (587) 700-9871

E: info@peeledbev.ca

www.peeledbeverages.ca

We craft sustainable, nutrient-infused beverages by upcycling organic peels –free from artificial ingredients. Supporting wellness, reducing waste, and doing good while tasting great! Booth #1521B

PEPSICO FOODS CANADA

2095 Matheson Boulevard East Mississauga, ON L4W 5R7

T: (800) 376-2257

E: info@pepsico.ca www.pepsico.ca

Pepsi Beverages, Quaker, and Frito-Lay will be present to share what’s new and exciting across their Beverage, Snack, Foods, and Nourishing Food categories. Booth #409

PERFECTLY NUTS

1 – 987 Marine Drive North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S4

T: (123) 688-9833

E: info@perectlynuts.ca

www.perfectlynuts.ca

Perfectly Nuts is a family-owned business from Vancouver, BC serving candied, savory nuts, and Freeze Dried Fruits. Candied nuts include almonds, cashews, pecans and walnuts that are roasted with cinnamon, vanilla and sugar. The savory nuts are roasted with the Spice Depot seasoning blends such as the garlic pepper, saffron lime, and smokey spicy mix. Booth #1732

PERMUL LTD.

3397 American Drive, Unit 5 Mississauga, ON L4V 1T8

T: (905) 670-3744

E: info@permul.com www.permul.com

We carry a range of food service equipment from a variety of brands: Hoshizaki, Flexeserve, Midea, and ZuMex. Booth #1620

✪ PRIMED WARRIOR

FOOD SUPPLIES INC.

430 McDonald Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4N 6E1

T: (130) 653-0857

E: team@primedwarrior.com www.primedwarrior.com

We manufacture, ship, and maintain supply for high-demand freeze-dried candy across Canada. Booth #312

PROCTER & GAMBLE INC.

5160 Yonge Street, Floor 14 Toronto, ON M2N 6L9

T: (416) 730-6830

E: calugareanu.g@pg.com www.pg.com

P&G has been doing business in Canada for more than 100 years. We are strongly committed to providing branded products and services of superior quality. Booth #800

✪ RAD JAMZ & RAD RELISH CO.

2648 Kyle Road, Unit 106 West Kelowna, BC V1Z 2N1

T: (778) 363-6911

E: kyla@radjamz.com www.radjamz.com

Rad Jamz creates unique jams, jellies, and spreads with radical flavours and local produce. Sister company Rad Relish Co’s Métis zucchini relish is a must-try!

Booth #1522B

RAIMAC INDUSTRIES

9744 197B Street Langley, BC V1M 3G3

T: (604) 324-1466

E: info@raimac.com www.raimac.com

Raimac supplies equipment for grocery, c-stores, butcher shops, delicatessens, seafood shops/processing, bakeries,

beer & wine, floral shops, restaurants, institutional kitchens, and more! Also, we offer many services and maintenance.

Booth #1201, #1203

RASPBERRY POINT OYSTERS

12 Milky Way Charlottetown, PE C1E 2E2 T: (902) 393-8308

E: james@raspberrypoint.com www.raspberrypoint.com

Raspberry Point Oysters grows and sells several brands of oysters: Raspberry Point, Lucky Limes, Pickle Point, Rustico, Shiny Sea, and PEI Petites. Booth #403

RED BULL CANADA

99 Atlantic Avenue, Unit 200 Toronto, ON M6K 3J8

T: (416) 593-1629

E: consumer.information@ca.redbull.com www.redbull.com/ca-en

Red Bull Energy Drink is appreciated worldwide by top athletes, students, busy professionals, and travelers on long journeys. Booth #419

RED PEPPER

24 Wyndham Street, Auckland Central Auckland, Auckland 1010

T: (416) 995-2990

E: sales@redpepperdigital.net www.redpepperdigital.net

Red Pepper helps retailers increase sales by acquiring customers and engaging with them through interactive, shoppable circulars, digital advertising and retail media solutions. Booth #6

✪ ROYAL CAVIAR CLUB LIMITED

148 Connaught Road West 29/F., Singga Commercial Centre, Hong Kong 00000 HONG KONG

T: (604) 551-9292

E: gordonli@royalcaviarclub.com www.royalcaviarclub.com

We distribute delicious caviar wholesale, retail, or e-commerce. Booth #1611

ROYAL STAR FOODS LTD.

175 Judes Point Road Tignish, PE C0B 2B0

T: (902) 88205051

E: fishmart@royalstarfoods.com www.royalstarfoods.com

Experience the best of PEI's seafood, featuring premium lobster in a box, lobster dip, smoked salmon dip, lobster meat, and shrimp box. Booth #403

RUBICON FOOD PRODUCTS LTD.

180 Brodie Drive, Unit 1 Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3K8

T: (905) 883-1112

E: info@rubiconexotic.ca www.rubiconexotic.ca

Rubicon creates exotic fruit beverages that true to each fruits DNA that provide consumers with a sense of bliss.

Booth #523

SALT SPRING SEA SALT LTD.

111 Robinson Road

Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 1R6

T: (250) 538-8502

E: info@saltspringseasalt.com www.saltspringseasalt.com

Handcrafted, natural & flavour-infused finishing salt products created from the waters of the Salish Sea. Made for chefs of all calibers. Try a 3-finger pinch!

Booth #1516A

SAPUTO DAIRY PRODUCTS CANADA

1889 Kingsway Avenue

Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 1S9

T: (604) 420-6611

E: salescanada@saputo.com www.saputo.ca Manufacturer and distributor of a vast range of dairy products. Some of our brands include Saputo, Dairyland, Milk2Go, Armstrong, Joyya, Woolwich & Alexis de Portneuf. Booth #609

SASKATCHEWAN TRADE A ND EXPORT PARTNERSHIP

#400-402 21st Street East Saskatoon, SK S7K 0C3

T: (306) 227-1859

E: tgao@sasktrade.sk.ca www.sasktrade.com

Featuring organic grains, legumes, dairy alternatives, premium chocolates, spices, seasonings, and gourmet sauces, offering sustainable, high-quality products for diverse culinary applications and healthconscious consumers. Booth #414

SCHOLTENS CANDY INC.

279 Candy Inc. Burlington, ON L7T 0B5

T: (905) 631-2999

E: info@scholtensinc.om www.cottagecountrycandies.com

Cottage Country by Scholtens Candy Inc. is proudly Canadian, offering the widest assortment of Candies, Nuts, and Trail Mixes from coast to coast. Booth #517

SECOND HARVEST

120 The East Mall Toronto, ON M8Z 5V5

T: (416) 408-2594

E: fooddonors@secondharvest.ca www.secondharvest.ca Booth #9

✪ SELLERS PUBLISHING

161 John Roberts Road

South Portland, ME 04106 USA T: (207) 772-6833

E: rsp@rsvp.com www.rsvp.com

Sellers publishes RSVP®, Wicked Funny® and High Note® greeting cards, 200+ calendars, gift & trade books, and High Note® Premium Planners & Stationery Booth #401

SHAN FOODS

1351 Matheson Boulevard East, Unit 26 Mississauga, ON L4W 2A1 T: (164) 778-6985

E: info@shanfoods.com www.shanfoods.com/canada Delivering the finest quality ingredients to tantalize your taste buds with rich and authentic flavours from across the world. Booth #614

✪ SHAY’S WAY

7899 258 Street Langley Township, BC V4W 1V4 T: (604) 621-9161

E: deus.m@shaysway.ca www.shaysway.ca

Canadian-owned and operated, we offer sustainably sourced, upcycled seafood products – human-grade, traceable, single-ingredient treats and toppers with high omega-es, long shelf life, and natural flavours. Booth #1520A

SHELF2CART

1120 W. 130th Street Brunswick, OH 44212 USA

T: (800) 637-6628

E: info@shelf2cartsolutions.com www.shelf2cartsolutions.com

Shelf2Cart offers stock and custom labels and signage for grocery, retail, and commissaries. Our custom label printing system, The Merchandiser®, allows for onsite, on-demand labels. Booth #1606

SIHE INTERNATIONAL GROUP

26 Laidlaw Road

Markham, ON L3P 1W7

T: (905) 554-3688

E: wxian@chefshuo.com www.chefshuo.com/en

We are a local frozen product factory. Our products are sold all over North America. Our signature products are beef noodles, buns, and soup. Booth #718

✪ SMART LABEL SOLUTIONS

105 – 3738 North Fraser Way

Burnaby, BC V5J 5G7

T: (888) 389-8989

E: info@smartlabelsolutions.com www.smartlabelsolutions.com

100% Canadian Owned and Operated Company. One-Stop ESL Solution Provider. Best Quality | Best Service | Best Value Booth #1101

✪ SMART N LOCAL FOOD CORPORATION

2085 Skyline, Ste. 2008 Burnaby, BC V5C 0M6

T: (177) 892-8525

E: averygoodpastasauce@gmail.com www,smartnlocal.ca Booth #1510B

SOBEYS WHOLESALE

1020 64 Avenue NE

Calgary, AB T2E 7V8

T: (403) 730-3500

E: wholesalecommunications@sobeys.com www.sobeyswholesale.com/en

Sobeys Wholesale is a progressive Canadian food distribution group committed to offering our customers quality products and services in a mutually beneficial partnership. Booth #809

✪ SOLECITO FOODS

222 MacKay Road

North Vancouver, BC V7P 3H4

T: (778) 223-5484

E: orders@authenticmexicanfoods.ca www.solecitofoods.ca

Solecito Foods is a family-owned business in North Vancouver that handcrafts burritos with bold Mexican flavours like Pork Al Pastor, Beef Birria, and Breakfast Chorizo. Booth #1507A

✪ SPECTANK ULTIMATE CLEANING SOLUTIONS

1861 Westover Road

North Vancouver, BC V7J 1X7

T: (604) 987-5854

E: spectank@cksclean.com www.cksclean.com

**aVeryGoodPastaSauce** brings authentic, high-quality pasta sauces made with fresh ingredients – no preservatives, no thickeners. Rich flavours, perfect for quick, delicious meals. Taste the difference! Booth #1411

STACKED MERCHANDISING

2515 Meadowpine Blvd. Unit 2 Mississauga, ON L5N 6C3

T: (905) 817-0403

E: tony.dalleva@concordnational.com www.concordnational.com

Booth #1106

ST-ALBERT CHEESE CO-OP

150 St-Paul, CP/PO Box 30

St-Albert, ON K0A 3C0

T: (613) 987-2872

E: sales@fromagestalbert.com www.fromagestalbert.com

St-Albert Cheese has been around for 130 years producing quality cheese made with 100% milk. We manufacture fresh cheddar cheese curds and poutine curds daily. Booth #501

✪ STOKE THE FIRE HOTSAUCE

1970 Osprey Lane

Cawston, BC V0X 1C1

T: (250) 814-8041

E: hello@stokethefirehotsauce.com www.stokethefirehotsauce.com

A British Columbia seed-to-bottle agri-food producer and brand, dedicated to growing, harvesting, and producing premium hot sauces, syrups, and spicy seasonings. Booth #1523B

SUMMER FRESH SALADS INC

334 Rowntree Dairy Road

Woodbridge, ON L4L 8H2

T: (877) 472-5237

E: IRathgeb-Rodriguez@summerfresh.com www.summerfresh.com/salads

WIFI SPONSORED BY: MOBILE APP SPONSORED BY:

For over 34 years, Summer Fresh® has been committed to providing fresh, high-quality food. With a wide range of delicious dips, hummus, salads and snacks. Booth #509

✪ SUNDANCE SEAFOOD/ WESTCOAST SELECT

4668 Walden Street, 1 Vancouver, BC V5V 3S7

T: (604) 315-9498

E: khamill@westcoastselect.ca

www.westcoastselect.ca

Canadian family-owned since 1989, specializing in sustainable wild smoked salmon. Offering both frozen and shelfstable products that highlight the finest salmon from Canadian waters. Booth #618

✪ SUNSHINE PICKLES

30043 Jane Rd. Thamesville, ON N0P 2K0

T: (519) 692-4416

E: adrian@picklesplease.ca www.picklesplease.ca

Our products are grown and processed in Canada. We offer conventional and certified organic products. Private Label and co-packing is also available. Booth #500

TAAM SPICE

920 Belvedere Boulevard North Vancouver, BC V7R 2B9

T: (236) 477-8111

E: nfo@thespicegallery.com www.thespicegallery.com

TaaM Spice Gallery, we are a local producer of premium organic spices hand-picked from their country of origin. Booth #302

TD INSURANCE

66 Wellington St. West, 39th Floor Toronto, ON M5K 1A2

T: (902) 489-8183

E: gagandeep.grover@tdinsurance.com www.tdinsurance.com/products-services/ small-business-insurance

Introducing TD Insurance for Business. Running a small business takes a lot. That’s why we’re making business insurance quick, easy, and convenient. Booth #303

TEKSMED SERVICES

44600 Skylark Road

Chilliwack, BC V2R 6H5

T: (877) 850-1-21

E: info@teksmed.com www.teksmed.com

TeksMed is the leader in Canadian disability management. TeksMed proactively manages occupational and non-occupational injuries and illnesses with personalized recover-atwork solutions and QuikCare expedited healthcare. Booth #1605

✪ THE BETTER BUTCHERS

2900-550 Burrard Street

Vancouver, BC V5L 2A8

T: (604) 338-1436

E: celeste@thebetterbutchers.com www.thebetterbutchers.com

Plant-based crumbles featuring a blend of pea protein and oyster mushrooms which are high in protein, iron, and fibre. They are available in Choirzo, Italian, and Natural varieties. Booth #1520B

THE BOG

26885 88 Avenue

Langley, BC V1M 3L8

T: (604) 418-1543

E: riversidecranberries@gmail.com www.riversidecranberries.ca

The BOG offers premium, farm direct BC cranberry products. Our CPG retail ready line of farm-to-shelf products includes pure juices, sauces, and dried berries. Booth #1504B

THE PLANT BASED WORKSHOP

296 Pemberton Avenue

North Vancouver, BC V7P 2R5

T: (604) 973-0163

E: hello@plantbasedworkshop.com www.plantbasedworkshop.com

Plant-based innovation, market-tested in our café. Rapid growth in retail and foodservice, driven by delicious, accessible meals. Booth #1515A

TOCHA FOODS

1868 Glen Drive, Unit 223 Vancouver, BC V6A 4K4

T: (604) 374-7172

E: tochateam@tochafoods.com www.tochafoods.com

Tocha Foods manufacturers ‘spiced sauces’ –creative condiments that provide a more flavourful alternative to ketchup, mustard, and relish. Think hot sauce without the heat! Booth #1505B

✪ TOWN DRAGON LIMITED

Flat C, 9/F Tai King Industrial Building No. 100-102 King Fuk Street, San Po Kong, Kowloon HONG KONG

T: 852-2752-8168

E: sales@striking.com.hk www.striking.com.hk

We are the manufacturer of STRIKING Popping Candy and other confectionery with fun and unique flavors. Sold in 30+ countries. For our Canadian Distributor, please contact sales@jettrading.ca. Booth #1610

✪ TREE ISLAND YOGURT

2800 Beck Avenue, PO Box 1060 Cumberland, BC V0R 1S0

T: (250) 650-6790

E: merissa@treeislandyogurt.com www.treeislandyogurt.com

Get BC’s best for your dairy shelf with 100% Canadian Yogurt made from grassfed milk and less sugar. Delicious Yogurt, Good for Business. Booth #1772

TREE OF LIFE CANADA

6185 McLaughlin Road Mississauga, ON L5R 3W7

T: (833) 640-8733

E: canada.communications@treeoflife.com www.treeoflife.ca

At Tree of Life Canada, we are curators of unique brands, bringing elevated food and beverage experiences to Canadians. Booth #801

TRIO BAKERY INC

2750A Laird Road, #2-5 Mississauga, ON L5L 0A6

T: (416) 782-0306

E: mdkesler@triobakery.ca www.triobakery.ca

Trio Bakery is a Canadian manufacturer specializing in frozen ready-to-bake phyllo appetizers, handhelds, and entrées for retail and foodservice. Booth #508

TRUE NORTH NUTRITION

88 East Beaver Creek, Building A, Unit #1

Richmond Hill, ON L4B 4A8

T: (403) 909-2652

E: dricci@truenorthnutrition.com www.truenorthnutrition.com

For 25+ years, True North Nutrition has provided Canadian Retailers with industry leading sports & nutritional supplements. Featuring Mammoth Supplements, SINFIT Protein chips/syrup/mix. Booth #620

✪ UBI COMMUNICATIONS

565 Bryne Drive, Unit B

Barrie, ON L4N 9Y3

T: (416) 432-7325

E: dave.white@ubicommunications. www.ubicommunications.ca

UBI provides retailers with technology required to reduce operational XP’s, manage prices changes, drive sales & vendor revenue with Solum ESL’s, LCD Displays, and CMS Portals. Booth #1754

UMYUM FOOD

1650 Broadway Street, Unit 100 Port Coquitlam, BC V3M 2M8

T: (778) 984-1707

E: hello@umyum.ca

www.umyum.ca

UMYUM is a plantbased food company based in Port Coquitlam, BC, dedicated

to creating high-quality, food experiences. This includes rinded & soft cheese, & butter. Booth #1401

UNILEVER CANADA

160 Bloor Street East, Ste. 1400 Toronto, ON M4W 3R2

T: (888) 568-7644

E: scott.mcalpine@unilever.com www.unilever.ca

Unilever is one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies, with 400+ brands in over 190 countries. Exhibiting 2025 innovations and offering ice cream samples! Booth #905

VILLA RAVIOLI

8495 Du Creusot Saint-Leonard, QC H1P 2A2

T: (514) 648-4552

E: claude.gagne@villaravioli.com www.villaravioli.com

Based in Montréal, Villa Ravioli offers a wide variety of pasta (ravioli/tortellini/ manicotti) fillings and sauces using only the high-quality ingredients. Booth #1217

VITALIS

3446 Spectrum Avenue Kelowna, BC V1V 2Z6

T: (844) 248-2326

E: info@vitalis.ca www.vitalis.ca

Great for supermarkets, Vitalis Roxsta CO2 (R744) refrigeration systems are safe, durable, and driven by a future-proof natural refrigerant. Single-rack capacities up to 960 kW. Booth #1744

✪ VUMAMI FOODS

2-10293 Sparling Place

Sidney, BC V8L 3K2

T: (403) 874-1879

E: hello@vumamifoods.com www.vumamifoods.com

Umami Bomb is the original blended chili oil that transforms your favourite dishes into addictive flavour explosions. Booth #308A

✪ WATERMARK BEVERAGES

1388 Derwent Way Delta, BC V3M 6C4

T: (604) 258-8464

E: milan@watermarkbeverages.com www.watermarkbeverages.com

Watermark Beverages manufactures highquality bottled water, juices, and Bag-in-Box solutions with a commitment to excellence and sustainability. Try our Berri Fresh – BC farm to table blueberry blend cold pressed juice/sparkling & shots. Booth #1418

WEBER MARKING SYSTEMS CANADA 6180 Danville Road Mississauga, ON L5T 2H7

T: (905) 564-6881

E: info@webermarking.ca www.weberpackaging.com/canada

Weber Marking Systems Canada is a leading manufacturer and supplier of highquality, innovative labelling systems, and reliable coding products to the Canadian marketplace. Booth #1726

WEST COAST KITCHEN

3880 Telegraph Road Cobble Hill, BC V8H 0E5

T: (250) 217-9899

E: nfo@westcoastkitchen.ca www.westcoastkitchen.ca

Made in BC–Gourmet freeze-dried meals and snacks serving outdoor recreation and emergency preparedness across Canada. Booth #1515B

WESTERN GROCER MAGAZINE

675 Berry Street, Unit L Winnipeg, MB R3H 1A7

T: (204) 954-2085

E: rbradley@mercurypublications.ca www.westerngrocer.com

Serving the grocery industry since 1916! Drop by our booth and tell us about your business and what makes it so special. Booth #8

WESTMOUNT STORE FIXTURES

8520-106A Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T5H 0S4

T: (800) 561-1961

E: trisha.naidoo@westmountstorefixtures.com www.westmountstorefixtures.com

Westmount Store Fixtures is your source for POP Display/Store Fixture needs from steel shelving, slat wall, gondola systems, snap frames, hooks, to custom acrylics. Booth #1414

✪ WILDCRAFT ORGANIC LTD.

#2-46001 5th Avenue

Chilliwack, BC V2P 1M6

T: (604) 217-0830

E: wildcraftorganic@gmail.com www.wildcraftbc.ca

Certified Canadian Organic mustard since 2014. Our mustards include options like traditional German-style mustard, raspberry mustard, horseradish mustard, honey mustard, etc. Booth #304B

✪ WOW FOOD

104 – 5570 268th Street

Langley, BC V4X 3X4

T: (604) 381-2555

E: info@wowfood.ca www.wowfood.ca

Wow Food showcases authentic Brazilian Coalho cheese, crafted in Canada with premium ingredients. Perfect for grilling, appetizers, and gourmet dishes. Vegetarian-friendly, high-protein, and delicious! Booth #1506A

✪ WUFERS

2345 Discovery Drive

London, ON N6M 0C6

T: (888) 423-0038

E: amanda@boscoandroxys.com www.wufers.com

Wufers makes gourmet, decorated dog cookies so pups and their paw-rents can celebrate all of life’s special moments together. Booth #503

YOPLAIT LIBERTE CANADA COMPANY

1741 Lower Water Street, Unit 600 Halifax, NS B3J 0J2

T: (450) 251-1306

E: communication@yoplaitliberte.ca www.liberte.ca

Showcasing & sampling our wonderful Liberte and Yoplait yogurt brands. Booth #1407

✪ YP FOODS

13753 Hale Road

Pitt Meadows, BC V3Y 1Z1

T: (778) 814-2386

E: ypimports.inc@gmail.com www.smotiram.com

Indian frozen food products made with clean ingredients – no preservatives yet providing real taste of Indian roots. Distribution network presence all over Canada. Booth #301

XEROWASTE SOLUTIONS–V-MOVE LOAD MOVERS

1146 Pacific Boulevard, Unit 88 Vancouver, BC V6Z 2X7

T: (844) 674-8414

E: info@xerowaste.ca www.xerowaste.ca

Premium quality Grocery cart pusher machine/shopping cart retriever. Three models. Up to 70 carts and 30% upgrade. Also, Ecosafe and plastic recycling bags. Booth #420

ZWICK’S PRETZELS

14811 134 Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T5L 4V5

T: (780) 908-6975

E: hello@zwickspretzels.com www.zwickspretzels.com

Sweet & savoury pretzel snacks so good, they'll make a pretzel lover out of any pretzel doubter! Private label & comanufacturing services available. Booth #421

WIFI SPONSORED BY: MOBILE APP SPONSORED BY:

EXHIBITORS BY BOOTH

619 Jack Links

620 True North Nutrition

704 Hobart Canada

707 Intercity Packers Meat & Seafood

715 Kraft Heinz

718 SIHE International Group

720 Cavendish Farms

800 Procter & Gamble Inc.

801 Tree of Life Canada

804 Arbutus Foods

805 Don Chendo Products Inc.

808 Danone

809 Sobeys Wholesale

815 Kruger Products

819 Kellanova Canada

823 Ishida Canada Inc.

901 ...................Coca-Cola Canada

904 King Retail Solutions

905 Unilever Canada

906 ...................Okanagan Frozen Dough

908 FMS Solutions

909 Affiliated Independent–Loblaw Inc. 910 ...................DIGI Canada Inc.

914 Conagra Brands 915 Advantage Solutions

920 ...................Pacific Coast Distribution 923 Horizonte Imports Inc.

1001 Azuma Foods (Canada) Co., Ltd.

1003.................Old Dutch Foods LTD.

1004 Conglom

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La Fournée Dorée 515....................Mariposa Dairy

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...................Arneg Canada 602 Moneris 605 Boxmaster 606...................Federated Insurance 607 AIR MILES Reward Program 608 Bimbo Canada 609 ...................Saputo Dairy Products Canada GP

614 Shan Foods

615 Nestlé Canada Inc.

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1411 Spectank Ultimate Cleaning Solutions

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1422 Eat Well Ethnic Foods Inc.

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1500A..............Chasers Fresh Juice LTD.

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Royal Caviar Club Limited

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Howelings Home Harvest

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Avafina Organics Inc

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DIGI Canada Inc.

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to strength From strength

Pattison Food Group is a force in grocery retail today and, with a sharp focus on its customers and its team, is setting itself up for the future

By Shellee Fitzgerald

IF ONE WERE to write a playbook on how to achieve sustained success in Canada’s competitive grocery landscape, the folks at Pattison Food Group (PFG) could provide some pointers.

From humble beginnings—a single storefront in New Westminister, B.C., which opened in 1915—the company has grown into a powerhouse in Western Canada with 30,000 employees across 300 retail locations. Under the company’s umbrella are popular grocery banners such as

Save-On-Foods, Buy-Low Foods, Choices Market and Quality Foods, as well as drug and specialty stores and a thriving wholesale business to boot.

When asked what’s behind PFG’s success, Jamie Nelson, the company’s new president (he took the helm from Darrell Jones on March 1) points to several factors: delivering extra value, an “always customer-first” approach, constant innovation, a strong company culture and community connection.

(Pictured PFG Executive Team L to R) BRENDA KIRK (SVP, Specialty Banners); CHRIS ALLEN (VP, Information Technology); BOB MEHR (SVP, Pharmaceutical Distribution & Specialty Pharmacies); PAUL COPE (SVP, Save-On-Foods Operations); MIKE OLSON (SVP, Supply Chain & Wholesale); JAMIE NELSON (President); PAUL HAZRA (CFO); HEIDI FERRIMAN (SVP, People, Marketing & Corporate Affairs); BEN HARRACK (SVP, Merchandising)

C�gratulati�s

“Our banners are deeply rooted in their communities,” Nelson adds, “we are 100% Canadian-owned and always have been.”

As the company marks its 110 years in business, Canadian Grocer caught up with Nelson to get his take on what sets PFG apart, and the challenges and opportunities ahead for the business. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

One hundred and ten years is an incredible milestone. What’s the key to the company’s longevity?

Since 1915, we have been providing our customers with a little extra. Our founder [R.C. Kidd] started this 110 years ago when he gave his customers 18 ounces of tea for the price of 16 and the name “Overweight-tea” stuck and became Overwaitea. Fast-forward more than a century and our company name has changed, but our commitment to delivering extra value is as strong as ever. While this commitment looks a little different in each of our grocery banners and in each community we serve, all 30,000 team members at PFG share the same dedication to giving extra. To us, extra encompasses exceptional grocery stores, competitive pricing and a strong commitment to our customers and communities, demonstrated through our support of hospitals, food banks and local growers, producers and suppliers.

Has there been a defining moment in PFG’s history that has shaped what it is today?

Over more than a century in business, our company has evolved significantly. One of the pivotal moments in our history occurred in 1968 when Jim Pattison acquired the company, injecting crucial capital that propelled us beyond the borders of British Columbia and laid the foundation of our current success. Another milestone in our company’s history was in 1983, when then-president Clarence Heppell introduced the SaveOn-Foods banner to the market. Today, Save-On-Foods is PFG’s largest and [its] signature banner, with stores as far as Winnipeg, currently. And another milestone was more recent. In 2021, we formed the Pattison Food Group, uniting all of Jimmy Pattison’s food and health companies under a single umbrella, further solidifying our position as a true competitor in the Canadian food retail market.

PFG is one of Western Canada’s largest employers. What is the company’s approach to attracting and retaining talent?

We identify applicants who exhibit the key behaviours [that are] crucial for success in our company: exceptional customer service and a strong, team-oriented approach. PFG and all our banners have such strong cultures and these two attributes are fundamental. At every level and at every location, we hire people we believe will be a strong fit for our culture and we promote from within whenever possible. It’s our goal to provide opportunities for long, rewarding careers to those who take initiative to explore their potential.

You mention culture—how would you describe your company’s culture? What steps are taken to ensure it’s a strong one?

The unique culture we’ve grown … truly puts people at the centre. Our culture is characterized by teamwork, collaboration, innovation, community and a growth mindset. Many of our most senior leaders started their careers as clerks—our

Snapshot

Pattison Food Group

HQ: Langley, B.C.

Ownership: Jim Pattison Group

Banners: Save-On-Foods, Buy-Low Foods, Nesters Market, Quality Foods, PriceSmart Foods, Urban Fare, Choices Market, Nature’s Fare Markets, Meinhardt Fine Foods, Everything Wine, Pure Integrative Pharmacy

Brands: Western Family, Only Goodness

Wholesale: Associated Grocers, Van-Whole Produce, Canadian Choice Wholesale, Bulkley Valley Wholesale

Size: 30,000 team members across 300 food and drug retail locations

Reach: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon

1st store: Opened in New Westminister, B.C. in 1915

Birthday Celebration Birthday Celebration

★ Extra Service

Wow–with 110 years in the grocery business, we know our customers are our number one focus. Our friendly team members are always ready to help you with the same service that we’ve offered from day one because, we love to go the extra mile.

★ Extra Savings

And every week we go the extra mile offering over 2,000 flyer items on sale and over 5,000 in-store specials. It doesn’t end there either! Our More Rewards program offers you FREE groceries, travel, electronics and much more.

entry-level position at the store—myself and [former] president Darrell Jones included. It is also common to find team members throughout the organization who have worked here for 40, 45, 50 years. People spend their whole careers with us because there are so many avenues for them to learn, grow and develop. Recognition is a cornerstone of our culture and has been for decades. Our Service Awards tradition goes back more than 30 years at our office and at SaveOn-Foods, and each one of our banners has its own program to recognize team members who are reaching new milestones in their careers. This year alone, we will celebrate 95 team members at retail and at the office who have achieved 40 years of service with the company!

What is the company’s approach to vendor/supplier relationships?

We firmly believe our suppliers are an integral extension of our company. We recognize the importance of strong relationships with our customers, team members and the communities we serve. Our people-first culture doesn’t just mean for internal people, it extends to our supplier and vendor community, too. We are not a transactional organization and understand that relationships with our business partners are critical to our long-term, mutual success.

On March 1, you became president of PFG. What are your priorities in the months/years ahead? What is your vision for the business?

We all know the grocery business is very competitive. Our economy is challenged, our dollar is weak, and our customers are feeling the high cost of living. Our No. 1 priority is, and always has been, the customer and we need to be laser focused on ensuring that we are delivering on their needs.

At the same time, we have 30,000 team members and we are responsible for ensuring they have rewarding jobs and opportunities to grow ... and we have strong plans to continue to move our company forward. We have amazing people on our team; they think outside the box. Innovation is who we are, and every day we strive to be a little bit better than the day before.

Are there expansion plans or big investments that you can talk about?

We are investing in data and technology to ensure we are doing what’s right for our consumer. We have a solid strategy and the right banner to suit any market. We have plans to expand and are always looking for opportunities to grow.

Save-On-Foods consistently ranks among B.C.’s “Most Loved Brands” and is a company that supports its communities. Can you talk about some of the most meaningful ways Save-On-Foods gives back and why this is a priority for the company?

Our stores are deeply embedded in every community we

serve, prioritizing support for local growers, producers, suppliers and the entire community. We are committed to giving back, supporting everything from local youth organizations like Girl Guides and hockey teams to vital community institutions such as hospitals and schools. This philanthropic spirit is deeply rooted in our owner, Jimmy Pattison, whose foundation has generously supported hospitals and schools across Western Canada. Our commitment to children’s hospitals spans more than three decades, with contributions of almost $50 million. Furthermore, through our food diversion programs, we have provided over 70 million meals to those in need since 2016. To help team members and their dependents on their academic journeys, each year we offer a variety of scholarships valued at up to $3,000. In 2024, we awarded 18 scholarships to deserving students pursuing post-secondary education. Supporting local in every way is just part of Save-OnFoods’ DNA.

As the company grows, how do you ensure the level of service that Save-On-Foods is known for is carried across all stores?

We invest in our people in terms of succession planning, training, education and sponsored university programs, but customer service is really at our core and goes beyond training. It’s a company philosophy. Our peoplefirst culture is based on giving our customers more than they expect every day, and we live and breathe our mission of “Always Customer First.” To us, that means our internal customers—our team members— as well. Our team members are part of something bigger than their store or the transactions that happen [each] day. They are part of a longstanding Canadian company that supports our communities, providing the essential food and medicine that people need, and the kind of community support that makes us Canadian. Outstanding customer service is what this company was built on; it’s the foundation our company stands on today, and it lays the groundwork for our future growth.

How

do you keep up with ever-changing

consumer behaviour?

Innovation has been a part of our success since the start—no other tea seller was doing what our founder was doing way back in 1915. Our customers are very different depending on the market, and we empower our store teams to focus locally, [to] get to know their customers and support what matters most to their communities. We support our stores with learnings about our customers from our robust loyalty program, More Rewards, and are using that program to roll out personalized offers to our customers. Our teams are committed to continuously learning, growing and adapting to the unique needs of the market—whether that’s [a] big urban centre in the West like Vancouver, smaller cities in the Prairies like Yorkton, or unique markets like Whitehorse, which serves a large outlying population—or anywhere in-between.

Learn more about our partnership at rbc.com/morerewards

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What consumer trends are you excited about?

Consumers are smart. They know what they want and they educate themselves on what they are eating, where it comes from and how it is produced or manufactured. They want this information and we need to give it to them. We have a longstanding practice of sourcing local products whenever possible, and our strong relationships with local suppliers, growers and producers is helping us meet our customers’ needs when it comes to Canadian items in our stores.

What would you say are the opportunities ahead for the business?

The opportunities are endless! What makes this business so exciting is that there are always opportunities. Understanding the consumer and then delivering on their expectations is always our goal. Today’s customer is so diverse, and that makes our business a lot of fun. It’s our job to deliver on their needs and their different priorities—whether that’s health and wellness, authentic international offerings, fresh local products, or a seamless brand experience when they are shopping online. We’re always exploring opportunities to grow our business, and we plan to do that by delivering on our promise of “Always Customer First” service.

So far, 2025 is shaping up to be a tough year. What do you see as the big challenges ahead?

I agree, I think we are in for a tough 12 to 24 months. But, we are not going to worry about things we do not have control over. We’ll focus on what we do best: providing our customers with great quality products, great customer service and pricing, promotions and value that our customers deserve.

What do you want PFG to be known for?

Top of everyone’s list since 1915

We pride ourselves in looking after our customers, no matter what banner they choose. We want to be known as a company customers can trust, as a company with integrity, and as the local store that is always there to support the community.

Speaking at his retirement party in January, outgoing president Darrell Jones said to you: “I have so much faith in you and your ability to run this company and make it more successful.” What do those words mean to you? Does it feel like a big responsibility leading a 110-year-old business?

I am humbled and honoured to take on this role. It is a huge responsibility that I take very seriously. We have 30,000 team members who are counting on me and the Pattison Food Group executive team to make the right decisions to ensure our continued success. I have 45 years of experience with this company and I have seen it overcome many, many challenges in my time. I have a strong vision for the journey we’re on and I’m confident in our people to get us there. If we continue to focus on our customers and our teams, we will be successful for another 110 years. CG

Congratulations for 110 years of grocery excellence across Western Canada.

As your long-standing technology partner, TELUS is proud of your unwavering commitment to communities and our decades of successful collaboration.

From secure networks to food safety and quality, TELUS offers solutions that help retailers, suppliers, and producers thrive.

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Kruger Products is the leading manufacturer of quality tissue products, all designed to make everyday life more comfortable for Canadians. Our core brands, including Cashmere, Purex, SpongeTowels, Bonterra and Scotties, are made by Canadians for Canadians, with over 2,300 employees in Canada and nine manufacturing plants across the country. Not all tissue products on Canadian shelves are made in Canada, so we are making it easier for Canadians to check the label and buy with confidence. The words ‘Made in Canada’ are right on our packaging to showcase our pride in manufacturing our products locally.

Winning in the new age of health and wellness

Grocers are evolving from food purveyors to health partners, offering personalized products and services to support consumers’ complete wellness journeys

By Rebecca Harris

“YOU HAVE A million problems until you have a health problem. Then you have one problem.”

This saying captures a hard-hitting truth: nothing is more important than our health. As health and wellness takes centre stage, it’s no longer about chasing the latest diet craze, juice cleanse or fitness fad. Now, consumers of all ages are embracing a more holistic approach to well-being—one that spans everything from gut health and muscle building to mental health and weight loss. This shift presents a significant opportunity for grocery retailers. After all, what better place for products and services that support overall health than the grocery store?

The numbers reflect the growing importance of this trend. Globally, the health and wellness market was estimated at US$6.8 trillion in 2024 and is expected to increase to nearly $9 trillion by 2028, according to Statista. A 2024 report by Dunnhumby, Better for You (Customer), You (Brand) and You (Retailer), reveals that health-conscious shoppers account for about 20% of the $1.7-trillion grocery industry in the United States. Previous research from Dunnhumby found nearly two-thirds (64%) of U.S. consumers rank physical health as their most important need—ahead of mental health (46%) and their long-term financial future (32%). In Canadian Grocer ’s 2025 GroceryIQ Study , 73% of Canadian shoppers identified as being healthconscious—a five-point increase from the previous year.

“Health and wellness is definitely a growing opportunity and likely a faster-growing need state for consumers compared to the general grocery market,” says Erich Kahner, director of competitive strategy and insights at Dunnhumby. “So, it’s a [key area] for growth. That’s true in the U.S., Canada and globally, but the growth rates in the Americas are even higher than in other countries.”

Generation Next thinking

Damon Tanzola, senior vice-president, real estate and health & wellness at Calgary Co-op, notes that people of all ages are embarking on health and wellness journeys at different stages of their lives. “That’s partly because there is so much education available, whether people are getting it online, through shopping at stores or speaking with nutritionists,” he says. As consumers become more educated about health and wellness, Tanzola adds, “the focus isn’t just on nutrition and supplements—there’s a massive movement towards mental and physical health.”

Retailers aiming to lead in this space must embrace every aspect of the health and wellness journey. “The rules have changed,” says Patrick Rodmell, partner and president at retail consultancy and creative agency Rodmell & Company. “Grocers have to stop thinking of themselves as just a warehouse of sustenance and indulgence. You want to own the knowledge and solutions for customers because food is such a key part.” Leaders in this space, he adds, will be retailers that “develop a comprehensive strategy that includes products, services and solutions for people to get healthy and stay healthy—both physically and mentally.”

The evolving health-product landscape

As the demand for holistic health and wellness grows, the grocery sector is seeing both the continuation of established trends and a shift toward addressing emerging health needs. According to Dunnhumby’s Kahner, these longstanding priorities remain: “Eating food that is less processed, more natural and organic because consumers recognize it’s better for the body and better for the planet. That’s been a trend for a while.”

development that will make it easier for shoppers to identify healthier options: Canada’s upcoming front-of-pack nutrition labelling requirements. Under the new rules—taking effect in January 2026—prepackaged foods and beverages high in sugar, sodium and/or saturated fats must display a clear and concise nutrition symbol on the front of the package. “The baseline for retailers is going to be to have a better range of products that address specific dietary needs—for example, gluten-free, lowsodium and low-sugar items,” he says. “Many of these products are already in stores, but they need to showcase them much more, obviously, in this new environment.”

Getting a boost with supplements

In the world of supplements, people are discovering ways to elevate their physical and mental well-being. Calgary Co-op, which offers more than 5,000 natural health products in its Natural Choice store-within-a-store, is seeing rising demand for creatine—a substance naturally found in muscle cells and known for enhancing exercise performance and boosting muscle mass. While creatine was once primarily associated with bodybuilders, Tanzola says new research shows it can support cognitive function as well. This has sparked greater interest among women, who naturally produce less creatine than men.

Generation Zers are already prioritizing wellness-focused products, despite having relatively limited disposable income

Ran Goel is CEO of Mama Earth, an independent online grocer that focuses on local, sustainable, organic groceries. He started out in the urban farm and delivery space 15 years ago with Fresh City Farms, which acquired Mama Earth in 2022. One major shift Goel has noticed over the years is there is much broader consciousness and knowledge around what is truly healthy.

“The idea that we need to eat more whole foods, real foods and less processed foods, I think people really understand that now,” Goel says. “It’s less of an education for the customer now and more about how we can help them act on that knowledge.”

Another trend he has observed is a focus on functional foods. “People are becoming more sophisticated in drawing specific connections between food and gut health, food and brain health, and food and muscle building,” says Goel. “There is much more of a focus on getting specific kinds of foods for specific kinds of objectives. There’s always been a niche market for that, but it’s becoming more mainstream.”

For gut health, for example, Mama Earth customers are buying products such as raw turmeric, sourdough and other fermented foods. Goel notes, however, that there is one aspect of healthy eating that hasn’t changed: “It’s always good to eat your fruits and vegetables,” he says, noting that fresh produce accounts for more than half of Mama Earth’s revenue.

On the packaged-food front, Rodmell points to a new

Alongside creatine, protein powders are seeing an uptick, which Tanzola attributes to more options featuring cleaner ingredient decks, less sugar, fewer fake ingredients and more plant-based options. “People are supplementing more because they understand what they’re missing throughout the day—whether they missed a meal or didn’t get all the nutrients they needed in that last meal,” he says. “Again, it comes down to being educated. They understand how many milligrams they had of something per day. And that’s exciting—it’s almost like a little science test every day. Did I get enough carbs and proteins and all the other things that I need?”

This includes young consumers, who are jumping on the macro-tracking bandwagon. “Even my teenagers are now questioning what we’re serving for dinner, asking, ‘What’s the carb and protein ratio? I have to go to the gym later and I need to fuel up,’” says Tanzola. “When we were growing up, it was consumption for pleasure more than consumption for fuel.”

Gen Z: No to artificial colours, yes to healthy guts

While their gen-X parents may have grown up on sugary cereals and processed foods, generation Z is much more mindful about what they put in their bodies.

Sherry Frey, vice-president of total wellness at NIQ, points out that generation Z’s buying habits are evolving in fascinating ways. The demographic, who are currently 12 to 27 years old (NIQ tracks 18 to 27), index high on attributes such as no artificial colours, flavours and ingredients, along with being humane and cruelty-free. “We have also seen them index high on health-related products with claims around the microbiome, eye health and mental health,” Frey notes.

For Frey, that generation Zers are already prioritizing

wellness-focused products, despite having relatively limited disposable income, speaks volumes, especially as they will continue to move into their peak earning years.

“We’re hypothesizing that there is a higher level of awareness than any other demographic ever had,” she says. “They’re already thinking about aging and they’re aware of rising cancer rates among young people, especially colorectal cancers. They’re asking, ‘What can I do today, proactively and preventatively?’ We think this will continue to grow dramatically as they start earning more and have more discretionary income to spend where their priorities are in health.”

Jo-Ann McArthur, president of Nourish Food Marketing, notes there is an opportunity for food and beverage manufacturers to develop products aimed at gen-Z women’s health. “Generation Z is just not accepting of their needs not being met, so they’re demanding more,” says McArthur. “They’re also the tech-first generation, so they’ve got the wearables, the continuous glucose monitors, the Apple watches. They know where they’re at in their menstrual cycles. So, they’re expecting food and beverage companies to support them in those journeys as well. And they’re going to be more demanding than boomers who went through menopause unassisted.”

GLP-1 drugs: Grocers must do more with consumers eating less

A major trend reshaping consumer behaviour is the rising popularity of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) drugs. Originally developed to treat diabetes, these medications are gaining attention for their appetite-suppressing effects and ability to aid weight loss.

A 2024 survey by Dalhousie University’s Agri-Food Analytics Lab and Caddle, found about 10% of the adult population in Canada uses a GLP-1 drug, or between 900,000 to 1.4 million people. Of those, 45.5% said they are eating less, 22% claimed to eat at restaurants less often, and 16% reported buying fewer groceries. Among the items they’re cutting out are sweet bakery goods, packaged cookies, chocolate and candy, salty snacks, carbonated soft drinks and alcohol.

NIQ has also observed declines in consumption; however, Frey spots opportunity for grocers. “The initial reaction [to GLP-1 drugs] was ‘this is terrible because these people are eating less,’” Frey says. Now, retailers understand these are valuable shoppers with a household of people. “You want to support them on their journey. You want them in your stores. So, how do you help them?”

One way is to offer more products that support their digestive health, as many consumers on GLP-1 drugs have digestive challenges such as nausea and constipation. McArthur says soothing teas are one example. “Hydration is also a huge issue with this group, but consumers find water on its own boring,” she adds. An opportunity here is enhanced hydration—adding functional benefits such as adaptogens and electrolytes. “[People on GLP-1 drugs] don’t want juice or soda, so how can you elevate water a bit?” says McArthur.

Grocers can also capitalize on GLP-1 users’ shift away from restaurants, with McArthur highlighting an untapped opportunity in the home meal replacement (HMR) area. “If one person is on the drug, it affects the whole family—and food is where we connect and socialize,” she says. “People who are on

these drugs are eating at home more, but they’re eating a lot less. How do you have an experience where you’re sharing food and connecting through food in a way that works for couples and families? How do you bring the joy back into that? So, there could be an HMR strategy where a retailer comes up with family meals and small plates—something that’s going to work for everybody.”

Another avenue is supporting consumers when they stop taking GLP-1 drugs. Frey explains that people on these medications tend to lose muscle mass so, if they gain weight, they’re adding fat to that deficit. Whether it’s through in-store dietitians or pharmacists, she recommends retailers “talk about what’s important as part of their weight loss and GLP-1 journey … and help them through the whole process.”

Beyond the aisle: How grocers can tailor health and wellness services

As consumers prioritize health in all aspects of their lives, grocers are recognizing the growing importance of personalized services that go beyond the products on their shelves. Dunnhumby’s report notes retailers are investing in services such as personalized coaching, nutrition, healthcare and fitness classes. In the United States, for example, the retailer Hy-Vee and healthcare technology provider Soda Health launched Smart Benefits, allowing customers to receive personalized benefits in areas such as fresh produce, over-the-counter pharmacy items, clinical services and nutritional counselling. They also receive personalized health support, including reminders about health screenings and prescription refills.

Even smaller retailers and those without pharmacies can offer personalized health advice. “They have a lot of customer data, so they’re able to look at the types of food products people are purchasing … and through personalized offers and communications, they can help people understand what the next best, healthiest product is,” says Dunnhumby’s Kahner.

Calgary Co-op is putting additional resources behind personalized advice. The retailer has long had Natural Choice advisors in dedicated areas of the stores who educate customers on natural health products. “Natural Choice advisors are solely focused on the Natural Choice area and the products and services we provide there,” explains Tanzola. Now, Calgary Co-op is developing plans to have either nutritionists or dietitians in its stores who can educate customers and create personalized menus and food plans for members, which will span the grocer’s full product offering.

As people are no longer just seeking advice from doctors and pharmacists, Rodmell advises grocers to broaden their view of health and wellness consultation. For grocers, he envisions an app that invites customers to create a health profile by answering a few basic questions. The app would help them choose a food plan and create a shopping list that’s tailored to their health needs. “Grocers can tap into people’s profiles and provide meaningful advice, counsel and even promotions on certain items that align with their health needs,” says Rodmell. “The personalization of health advice combined with the integration of technology ... that’s the Holy Grail for grocers. CG

Generation Next Thinking is an ongoing series that explores the cutting-edge topics that are impacting grocery retail today and in the future.

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Made in Canada from delicious Brazilian oranges.

Canadian to the core

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Produce operations survey

the quality of product we are receiving from our suppliers,” said one respondent. “We have seen a significant decline in product quality over the last two years.”

Joe D’Addario, CEO of Nature’s Emporium, says weather-related disruptions and global supply chain challenges continue to impact produce availability. “This year, unpredictable growing conditions, particularly in key U.S. regions, have made it more difficult to ensure consistency,” he says. This supply chain volatility combined with inflation-driven price sensitivity is necessitating greater agility in sourcing and merchandising. “While we prioritize high-quality organic and local produce, we must balance that with competitive pricing and strong value messaging,” he says.

Our survey digs into the challenges and opportunities of selling fresh fruit and vegetables in turbulent times

By Rosalind Stefanac

WITH ONGOING SUPPLY issues and current U.S. tariff threats expected to prompt further price hikes in grocery, the outlook could be quite bleak for produce departments across the country. But, as the Canadian Grocer Produce Operations Survey reveals, there is still hope and opportunity amidst these challenging times. In fact, when it comes to produce, some industry experts and retailers are optimistic about the year ahead, provided grocers can balance customer needs and preferences with turbulent market conditions. The consensus is that being agile and innovative will be more crucial this year than ever.

Here’s a look at some key challenges and opportunities as revealed through our sixth-annual survey, plus insights on what will make the pain points more tolerable in 2025 and beyond.

Produce department challenges?

Overall, the produce department was a growth leader in 2024, according to the Food Industry Association’s (FMI) just released Power of Produce 2025 report,

and most Canadian Grocer survey respondents (67%) expect same-store produce sales will continue to increase this year. But, price perception of fresh produce and wholesale pricing are “extremely” or “very” serious concerns for most Canadian grocers surveyed, along with inconsistent quality of product. “Our most serious challenge is

Also topping the list of concerns in Canadian produce departments these days is labour shortages and employee training. “Produce takes a long time to learn and things are always changing with the seasons, so there are a lot of decisions to be made every day just stocking the product,” says Will Willemsen, founder and owner of Sunripe markets in Ontario. With many of his long-time employees now retiring, he is expecting it will be particularly hard to replace them. “I think the No. 1 challenge is always finding longterm, reliable staff.”

Willemsen says having a good profit-sharing plan in place has been a good way to retain staff over the years, as has providing opportunities for newcomers to Canada seeking consistent work. “My daughter ensures we do a lot of fun social

SHOPPER BEHAVIOUR

What behaviours have you observed in the produce department as shoppers cope with rising prices?

Shoppers are switching to less expensive produce items

Shoppers are buying more discounted items or items on promotion

Shoppers are buying less produce, overall

Have observed no changes in shopper purchasing behaviour

Other

events for staff, too, be it pie-eating contests or regular potlucks in the lunchroom for different occasions,” he says.

What’s the impact of trade wars on produce?

At the time this survey was fielded, the U.S. threat of 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico was still uncertain, but some Canadian grocers surveyed still voiced concern about its potential impact on food costs and future supply and demand.

Ron Lemaire, president of Ottawabased Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA), says grocers can expect 2025 to be an especially politically driven year in Canada and globally. While we have a dynamic domestic produce industry here already, he points out that 75% of fruits and vegetables purchased by Canadians are still being imported. “We also grow enough to be able to service the U.S. market, which enables us to continually service Canada at the right price and volumes necessary to meet demand,” he adds.

Not only will a new tariff framework mean a change in trading patterns that could affect supply and demand, but Lemaire warns it could stall investment in capital growth and innovation at a time when the food industry is starting to finally emerge from the challenges wrought by the pandemic.

From a fresh fruit and vegetable perspective, Lemaire says Canada has a solid track record of working with more than 150 countries to bring in commodities to meet the country’s cultural mosaic of preferences. But, ramping up volume to access production that may already be earmarked for another market could be challenging. “If we are going to grab some of that pie, it’s going to cost more, and then that’s assuming there are no weather issues that could change production and purchasing patterns,” he explains.

In the short-term, Lemaire says planning is key to ensure grocers have the right contingency plans in place to be able to diversify purchasing strategies from multiple countries. Longer term, he says it’s important to remember the U.S. is still one of Canada’s most valuable trading partners due to proximity. “A lot of the U.S. growers, packers and shippers are not in favour of these trade strategies,” he says. “We need to make

Produce operations survey

sure that we continue working with these partners, because when this is all over that five-day window of importing products will still be there.”

Where’s the opportunity in challenging times?

Meanwhile, grocers such as Freson Bros., which has 16 locations across Alberta, are finding new ways to drive local produce production year-round. Every fall for the last few years, the grocer has set aside time to meet with different producers in the province to determine ways to fill gaps in home-grown produce offerings.

The grocer is currently working with a producer crafting a new romaine heart product that is expected to launch in Freson Bros. stores by the end of March.

“There could not be a better time to launch something like this,” says director of produce Daniel Pazder, noting that his team has also collaborated on a Canadian strawberry program in years prior. “There are a lot of field growers we work with throughout the summer, too.”

For Eastern Canada, the Ontario Food Terminal continues to be a coveted place to find a well-stocked variety of fresh produce at competitive prices. “They’re already sourcing from all over the world and have the transportation ability to bring product in, so I think we’re going to really benefit from their expertise now,” says Giancarlo Trimarchi, president of Vince’s Market in Ontario.

As food prices continue to creep up, he says ensuring consistency in quality is also

PAIN POINTS

On a scale of “not serious at all” to “extremely serious,” rate the seriousness of the issues facing your produce department

Wholesale

Call for nominations!

Canada’s grocery industry is filled with examples of companies making a positive impact whether it is improving the planet, supporting employees or helping local communities.

Canadian Grocer is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Impact Awards to recognize the initiatives introduced by retailers, suppliers and solution providers that are making a meaningful difference in five categories:

SUSTAINABILITY

(food waste, ethical sourcing, energy efficiency initiatives etc.)

Pepsico

Nestlé

Fortinos

Metro

Pattison

key. “From an operating standpoint, it’s making sure the produce we’re bringing in and selling is of the right quality and at the right price point,” he says.

In addition to diversifying trading sources, offering quality products and putting greater focus on Canadian-grown produce this year, our Produce Operations Survey respondents cited added value, convenience and creative merchandising as some of the biggest opportunities to grow sales in their produce departments in the next six months.

“This year, we sold more seeded pomegranate than whole, showing us that some customers don’t know [how to] or want to clean a pomegranate and are willing to pay more for the pre-seeded kind,” says Trimarchi. “There is still more opportunity in the right kind of valueadded produce programs and it’s on us to identify those for the customers and give them the offerings.”

What’s influencing produce preferences?

FMI’s Power of Produce report shows 40% of shoppers are putting effort into making healthy and nutritious food choices. Rick Stein, vice-president, fresh foods at FMI, says grocers can leverage sciencebased nutrition information, including MyPlate (or Canada’s Food Guide), to educate shoppers about fruit and vegetable portion sizes and offer recipes and cooking preparation techniques to help shoppers meet their health and wellbeing needs. “It’s really about being a resource for produce shoppers with meal ideas and solutions,” he says.

The report also revealed nearly half of shoppers are discovering new ways on social media to enjoy or prepare produce. Frozen grapes that started trending on TikTok several years ago are one such example, with consumers still showcasing flavours to coat them in. “Food retailers can either react to social media trends by monitoring and fine tuning their merchandising strategy or lean into social media trends by creating new twists with education about unique produce offerings, recipes, cooking techniques and more,” says Stein.

Sunripe’s Willemsen, who has been in the industry for more than 40 years, says it has been amazing to witness new trends in produce year after year. “I remember when all the watermelons

Produce operations

were seeded and pineapples were white,” he says. “Consumers want fresh, new products now and so there is constant innovation happening in produce all the time that makes it fun for them and fun for me to be in the business.”

Where are grocers investing next?

According to our Produce Operations Survey , more than half of respondents have recently invested in energy-efficient lighting and 35% have opted for more energy-efficient chill cases in their produce departments. Improving signage in produce is also on grocers’ radars, with 30% investing in signage and 40% planning to do so within the next one to two years.

Longo’s vice-president, merchandising Joe Fusco says his company continues to make key investments in signage and merchandising in produce departments to ensure guests are informed when making purchases. “This includes clear labelling of fair trade and organic items, as well as our locally grown products and the farms they come from,” he says. Longo’s is also working to drive greater awareness of Canadian products in-store through shelf tags, flyers, digital advertising and emails.

More and more, Canadian grocers are looking to technology to improve efficiencies in their produce departments, whether that be to reduce shrinkage or for better forecasting of supply.

Fusco says technology has a big role

to play in Longo’s 41 stores. “It makes our inventory tracking and forecasting more efficient, which is significant in supporting our sustainability goals to minimize waste and divert waste from landfills,” he says. “We expect the tools we use to continue to increase efficiencies and bring greater value to our guests when they shop with us.”

FMI’s Stein says food retailers will continue to leverage technology in produce for fresh inventory planning, online ordering, product traceability and even customer service. As staffing and training continue to challenge retailers, he says many are finding technology solutions that create efficiencies and allow staff to offer enhanced customer service.

Online produce sales are another area expected to keep growing. “We know from the research FMI conducted with [global marketing research company] NIQ that 55% of consumers make online purchases directly via social media or live-streaming platforms,” says Stein. “As shoppers continue to value convenience and seek technology solutions, we are likely to see online produce sales increase.”

Grocers can also expect artificial intelligence (AI) to become more prominent in Canada’s produce sector, says CPMA’s Lemaire. “In food, we still don’t know how best to leverage AI … but, it is the new horizon,” he says. “The simplest way is to use AI to improve efficiencies, but the potential for forecasting is something we need to leverage more.” CG

INVESTMENT PLANS

Tell us about your investment plans for your produce department

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Add the Verified Canadian Pork™ label to let your customers know that you offer premium quality Canadian pork.

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Fresh

MEAT TRENDS

MEATY SELECTIONS

As prices rise and tastes evolve, grocers must find new ways to keep the meat case appealing

By Rebecca Harris

Despite rising prices and shifting dietary trends, people still love their meat. According to Statista, revenue in Canada’s fresh meat market will reach US$12.15 billion in 2025, with the market expected to grow by more than 4% annually through 2030.

The challenge for retailers is finding ways to keep their meat cases appealing while adapting to the changing tastes and tighter budgets of today’s shoppers. Here’s a look at key trends in the fresh meat category and how grocers can keep it sizzling.

MAXIMIZING MEAT PURCHASES WITH SMART SHOPPING AND BULK DEALS

Let’s get right to the meat of the matter: costs are on the rise. According to Canada’s Food Price Report 2025 , meat prices are expected to rise by 4% to 6%, outpacing increases in all other categories measured. Beef prices have reached

new highs—for example, one kilogram of ground beef now averages $13 compared to $10 in 2020, according to Statistics Canada. Pork and chicken prices are also trending upwards.

Ipsos FIVE data (December 2024 versus December 2023) shows economic pressures are influencing consumer behaviour in the category. Jenny Thompson, director, market strategy & understanding at Ipsos, notes that fresh meat consumers are more likely to buy fewer prepared foods and are increasingly planning less expensive meals. “We can see this translated in a decline in premium cuts of meat at dinner, such as chicken breasts, while more value-oriented ones like pork are on the rise.”

With their budgets squeezed, consumers are seeking ways to maximize their meat purchases, and grocers must find ways to deliver value. “When people think

of value, they think of price first and foremost but, with a category like meat, it’s also about how to get the most out of what you’re buying,” says Joel Gregoire, associate director, food & drink at Mintel.

He gives the example of Farm Boy, which sells its own brand of vacuum-sealed bacon that’s divided into individual sections. “When you make bacon, if you wrap up unused portions, usually you forget about it and then it goes bad,” he says. “But there’s value in reducing food waste— instead of paying $8 for bacon and having half of it go in the composter.”

Ontario Pork also highlights how consumers are adjusting their meal-planning strategies. “We’re seeing more shoppers looking for fast, affordable and flexible meals—and pork checks all those boxes,” says Brett Leslie, digital marketing lead at Ontario Pork. With more people cooking in bulk to save money and simplify meal

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SWEET & HEAT

prep, pork is a versatile option. Leslie notes, for example, that pork tenderloin can be cooked once and used in various meals throughout the week. “For grocers, positioning pork as the go-to protein for budget-friendly meal prep can drive more sales, while helping shoppers get the most out of their grocery budget,” he says.

One strategy grocers can employ in the beef category is offering larger-format products such as vacuum-packed sub-primal cuts, suggests Shelby VanSickle, senior director, channel marketing at Canada Beef. “The price per kilogram is often lower on these larger items, leading to overall savings per meal,” she says.

THE RISE OF READY-TO-COOK MEAT OPTIONS

While consumers look for ways to make their meat purchases go further, they also want more convenience in their cooking routines. In their search for easy meal solutions, value-added meats are gaining popularity.

“At dinner, Canadians are increasingly preparing meals from scratch, in general; however, there is still room for convenience-oriented solutions as younger generations like gen Z and millennials with kids tend to lean into meal kits or partially made ingredients to speed up prep times,” says Thompson.

Ready-to-cook options are also a great way to tap into growing demand for ethnic foods. Ontario Pork’s Leslie notes younger consumers are craving bolder flavours, international influences and meal-ready options that offer something different from the everyday. He says Filipino cuisine, especially pork adobo, is gaining traction and there’s a growing appetite for heat, including spicy marinades, chili-infused sauces and global seasonings.

“Grocers who offer pork cuts and marinades tailored to these shifting preferences—whether it’s pre-marinated Korean BBQ, pork shoulder for carnitas, or char siu-style options—are well positioned to meet demand,” says Leslie.

Denninger’s, a specialty grocer based in Hamilton, Ont., has seen continuous growth in value-added fresh meat, says Nathalie Coutayar, merchandising & marketing senior manager at Denninger’s, which produces all its own meats and prepared foods in a local manufacturing facility. “Value-added is a very big percentage of our sales and we offer

this using every type of protein, including beef, pork, chicken and veal, as well as lamb during the holidays,” she says. “People want something ready to cook, so [items such as] stuffed chicken breast, stuffed pork, gourmet burgers and schnitzel are big sellers.”

Beyond its ready-to-cook options, Denninger’s also aims to make cooking different cuts of meat easier for customers. On its product labels, there are easy cooking instructions. For example, “if you buy a pot roast, it will tell you on the label how to cook it and how long to cook it,” explains Coutayar. She adds that fresh meat is an educational-driven department; however, it can be a challenge to attract and retain well-trained and educated staff who can help customers.

As technology plays an important role in everyday life, there are even more ways for grocers to assist consumers with cooking different cuts of meat. Mintel’s Gregoire suggests adding QR codes to packaging that link to instructional videos could be a big help, especially for less common meats such as duck, which can be hard to get right. “Dry duck is terrible; well-cooked duck is amazing,” he says. “It wouldn’t be very hard to have a QR code that links to a video with step-by-step instructions on how to cook duck and what to pair it with.”

Cooking instructions would also be useful on pork cuts, as many consumers still find cooking pork intimidating, says Leslie. “Many are more familiar with beef or chicken and may hesitate simply because they’re unsure about proper cooking methods—especially internal temperatures. This is an easy barrier for retailers to remove.”

Leslie suggests retailers feature stepby-step instructions and clearly displayed internal temperature guidelines. “Adding recipe cards or meal inspiration near the pork case not only educates shoppers, but also drives impulse purchases,” he adds. “Ontario Pork offers how-to-cook guides and recipe cards to brand partners, making it easy for retailers to provide shoppers with the right information at the right time.”

HOW HEALTH, SUSTAINABILITY AND SOURCING LABELS SHAPE PURCHASES

Today’s consumers are also looking for products that align with their values, particularly when it comes to health and

sustainability. “While price and deals still outpace other in-store drivers, fresh meat consumers are also increasingly driven to purchase meats in the natural/organic section,” notes Thompson of Ipsos.

Canada Beef’s VanSickle says health and wellness continue to be major drivers of consumer purchase behaviour. “Consumers are seeking healthier choices; whether it’s food high in protein, minimally processed, low-carb, gluten free, or a good source of iron, Canadian beef fits the bill.” To educate consumers, the organization has online resources such as the Canadian Beef Information Gateway, which features detailed nutrition information for each beef cut along with easyto-follow recipes.

With claims, Fresh meat consumers rank made-in-Canada, all natural, organic, premium, free from antibiotics/hormones, and grass-fed meat as the most important, Thompson says. Younger generations—generation Z and millennials with kids—prefer “free from” claims as well as grass-fed meats.

While terms such as “grass-fed” may resonate with some consumers, the taste and texture may not always be what they expect. “People are interested in the concept of grass-fed; however, it is a different product than what consumers are used to,” says Denninger’s Coutayar. Canadian beef, she explains, is well-marbled due to cows’ grain-fed diets. That doesn’t happen with grass-fed meat. “You’re not generating fat and you’re creating a product that is very earthy, it tastes very different and you have a much tougher meat. We tried it in the store, but we were not successful.”

Beyond health and sustainability, sourcing is another key area for fresh meat. Since U.S. President Donald Trump announced tariffs on Canadian imports, consumers are more focused than ever on where their food comes from. “Since February, we’ve seen a real shift in how Canadian consumers think about their food,” says Leslie. “The ‘Buy Canadian’ movement is stronger than ever. Shoppers want to know where their food comes from and are looking for locally sourced options they can trust.”

For retailers carrying Ontario-raised pork products, Leslie says, “having the Ontario Pork checkmark logo clearly visible at the point of sale is a simple but powerful way to show customers they’re choosing local.” CG

Aisles

PRODUCTS

CREAM OF THE CROP

Dairy and dairy alternatives continue to evolve as innovation keeps pace with changing consumer preferences

By Matt Semansky

While trie D -an D -true formats for fluid milk, yogurt and ice cream will always have a place in refrigerators and freezers, Canadian consumers are increasingly demanding more—and more variety—from dairy products. This wish list, which ranges from health benefits to bold new flavours to plant-based alternatives, is driving innovation and changing the dairy shopping experience.

Research from the IMARC Group indicates Canada’s dairy market was worth US$15.4 billion in 2024 and projects a rise to $22.9 billion in 2033, suggesting strong continued growth in the category overall. Dig inside the world of dairy, however, and the situation is more complicated than it might appear.

“Many of the dairy categories are in the top 10 to 20 categories across the entire store,” says Ray Hepworth, vice-president, grocery merchandising at Metro. “There has been some modest dollar

growth, but we’ve seen some softness from a tonnage standpoint—and tonnage is the engine of a lot of our models from the point of view of labour efficiency and supply chain networks.”

Still, as consumer behaviour evolves, new flavours, formats and health attributes continue to flood into dairy sections at grocery stores across the country—not to mention other areas of the store where grocers may shelve non-dairy alternatives. Even in an environment where, in the words of Scott Prygiel, category manager, grocery, frozen and dairy for Farm Boy, “consumers are becoming more selective,” there is good reason to believe the category will remain a retail flagship.

To ensure this is the case, grocers and manufacturers must be attuned to the ever-changing needs and tastes of their customers, and they must also do so in an uncertain economic environment. With all of this in mind, here are the dairy trends shaping the marketplace in 2025.

FOCUS ON HEALTH

Whether it be fluid milk or yogurt, today’s consumer is after a broader range of health benefits from their dairy consumption than ever before. According to global research from Innova Market Insights, “Consumers are seeking products with a high nutritional value, including those high in protein. This trend could lead to a shift in dairy product demand towards more functional and nutrient-rich options.”

Jo-Ann McArthur, president of Nourish Food Marketing in Toronto, says that trend has already arrived and, as is the case in many other categories, protein is the name of the game for dairy. “That’s driven by consumers’ fixation on getting enough protein, especially with an aging population,” she says.

McArthur notes Canadian brands such as Natrel, Neilson and Dairyland are following the path set out by Coca-Cola’s Fairlife brand in producing fluid milk options that offer a protein boost.

“Protein was of interest to many consumers in the past, but has really been

put at the forefront more recently,” says Brad Knight, director insights & strategy, Saputo Dairy Products Canada, producer of the Neilson and Dairyland brands, among others. He says customers are looking for extra protein in both large (Neilson’s 1.89-litre cartons with 18 grams of protein per serving) and small (310-millilitre Milk2Go) formats.

The protein craze is also finding its way to yogurt—but it’s only one of many health benefits Canadians are looking for in the category. While acknowledging the value of protein for muscle building and recovery, Geneviève Bolduc, head of yogurt at Danone Canada, points out that gut health and reduced sugar remain paramount.

“Consumers are looking for probiotics—products containing live and active cultures to support digestive health and enhance gut microbiota,” explains Bolduc. “Additionally, there is a growing preference for products with lower sugar content to manage calorie intake and support overall health.”

Bolduc cites Danone’s Activia brand and Oikos Pro, a new offering that promises high protein and no added sugar, as examples of her company’s efforts to meet consumers’ health demands.

Some dairy products remain comfortably in the realm of not-so-guilty pleasure. While various ice cream innovations have resulted in products with less sugar or even added protein, McArthur is skeptical of their impact. “When people buy ice cream, the job they’re hiring it for is indulgence,” she says.

PLANT-BASED DAIRY ALTERNATIVES

Innova’s research reveals at least 48% of global consumers are willing or very willing to buy dairy alternatives based on ingredients such as oats, coconut, almonds or rice. The firm attributes this finding to the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, as well as health and environmental concerns.

“Consumers are, increasingly, adding plant-based items to their shopping lists alongside traditional dairy,” says Farm Boy’s Prygiel.

Indeed, plant-based dairy consumers are not necessarily foregoing traditional milk and yogurt—it’s more a matter of diversifying their diet. As vice-president, marketing at Burnaby, B.C.-based Earth’s Own, Brittany Hull is focused on opening the gate to all customers who

want to dabble or dive into the world of plant-based milk. “Ninety per cent of our consumers also consume dairy,” Hull says. “They’re trying more plant-based options, but don’t want to give up the things they love.”

Earth’s Own recently launched The Alt, which better mimics the taste and texture of dairy milk for consumers who prefer it to the distinctive flavours of oat, soy and almond. “It’s a more natural taste that reflects dairy and works as a one-to-one swap,” she says. “A lot of consumers do like the flavour of plant-based milk, but there’s a segment of the population that isn’t looking for that, and now we’ve got more options specifically designed for them.”

Hull says plant-based barista-inspired products, such as her company’s line of flavoured creamers and milk alternatives designed specifically for coffee, are having a major moment.

“Coffee tends to be either the first or the last bastion as far as where people enter the plant-based milk category,” says Hull. “There’s a ton of people that are experimenting with adding flavour into their coffee.”

FLAVOURS IN FASHION

Canada’s changing population and evolving consumer tastes have resulted in a wave of new flavours within the dairy

category. This trend is particularly strong in yogurt and ice cream, where the influence of diverse ethnic cuisines is increasingly on display.

“We’re seeing all sorts of interesting things in terms of flavours,” says McArthur, citing Maison Riviera’s Mango Cardamom Yogurt with 9% milk fat, from the brand’s Versailles Bouquet collection, as an example. She adds that flavours such as matcha are also showing up in ice cream SKUs, including plant-based ice cream.

Kayvan Mahbod, president at Demetres—which operates scoop shops and bakeries and sells pints of ice cream at retail partners such as Longo’s, Bruno’s Fine Foods and Pusateri’s—says these kinds of products often outsell more traditional ice cream flavours. “The matcha, the saffron, the cajeta (a goat’s milk dulce de leche),” he says, rhyming off his company’s hot-trending varieties. “We introduced ube ice cream and it’s on fire.”

Mahbod says the rising popularity of these flavours may reflect a consumer base that is only now catching up to innovation. “We’ve introduced matcha to our menu multiple times over the past 10 to 15 years and it’s doing so much better today than it ever has. Our take is that the rise of diversity and multiculturalism means that these flavours are … becoming a little bit more mainstream.”

PROMOTING PATRIOTISM

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 25% tariffs on products entering the United States from Canada and Mexico, which is likely to impact supply chains and consumer behaviour on both sides of the border—not to mention the way products are marketed and merchandised.

Fortunately for dairy producers, the category is among the most insulated from these effects—and among the best positioned to take advantage of a Canadafirst rallying cry. Nourish Marketing’s Jo-Ann McArthur notes that dairy is almost exclusively produced locally. “But, the industry could maybe do a little more storytelling, because I’m not sure all consumers understand how local their milk is.”

Retailers such as Metro are doing their best to tell that story. “We’re putting a maple leaf flag on items and putting signage in place to help customers understand what the difference is between made-in-Canada (more than half the costs of production incurred by Canadians) or product of Canada (98% of costs or more), explains Metro’s Ray Hepworth. “We’ll just continue to remind customers of the importance of dairy to the Canadian economy, and we’ll see where things land.”

Food and beverage company Danone Canada also proudly touts its Canadian roots. Geneviève Bolduc says recent events have only catalyzed a long-held sentiment. “The support of buying Canadian has always been there, but brands must now adapt to it becoming a key consideration with consumers.”

Plant-based producers such as Earth’s Own also expect to foreground their Canadian identity more robustly. “We’ve been fairly fortunate because our strategy has always been to source locally,” says Brittany Hull. “We’re letting consumers know that if they’re looking for a Canadian brand, we fit the bill.”

HIGH PROTEIN NO ADDED SUGAR

1 RISING TO THE OCCASION

Gut health has gained attention for its impact on well-being. With fermentation breaking down gluten into smaller peptides, sourdough is easier to digest than traditional yeast-leavened bread. The benefits don’t end there. Fermentation also increases sourdough’s vitamin content levels and enhances mineral absorption, including iron, magnesium and calcium.

But what sells sourdough isn’t only the health benefits—it’s also the flavour! Bimbo Canada’s research finds that while consumers make diet choices with health in mind, “flavour remains supreme,” says Maryna Shcherbyna, senior marketing manager, elevated brands (Villaggio, Stonemill and Natural Bakery) at Bimbo Canada.

Sourdough’s sour notes come from lactobacillus, a bacteria also found in yogurt. But, fermentation also brings out a touch of sweetness. “Sourdough’s distinct tangy flavour has won over many fans,” says Shcherbyna.

3 BEYOND THE BOULE

Sourdough starters aren’t limited to bread; they can be incorporated into any recipe that uses a flour base, including pastries, pasta, pizza dough, crackers, brownies and more. For this reason, Whole Foods Market forecast it as a trend to watch in 2025.

Kaslo Sourdough, a family business based in British Columbia’s West Kootenays,

Sourdough Four things to know

By Chris Daniels

2 FRESH START

Sourdough begins with flour and water (the “starter”), which ferment into a live culture of wild yeast and bacteria that helps the dough rise. “All bread was sourdough before the advent of commercial yeast,” says Natasha Tatton, co-director of BReD, a plant-based bakery and café in Whistler, B.C.

proudly claims to have invented the world’s first commercially fermented sourdough pasta.

Kaslo Sourdough, available in whole wheat, quinoa and hemp, and in shapes such as spaghetti, rotini and macaroni, is sold in grocery stores nationwide.

“Twelve years ago, it was a big decision for our family to expand our business from baking sourdough bread,” says Kaslo Sourdough owner Silvio

Lettrari. “But, the growth and success we’ve seen with the sourdough pasta really speaks to how many people are interested in eating healthy.”

Jo-Ann McArthur, president, Nourish Food Marketing, warns grocers that some products aren’t made from sourdough and don’t have a bacterial culture, but have a “sourdough flavour” made using vinegar or citric acid.

4 KNEADING PROFITS

Sourdough’s popularity soared during the pandemic baking boom. “It fostered community—people shared starters and tips online,” says Nourish’s McArthur. “As life got busier, people broke up with their starters and looked to stores and bakeries instead.”

Valued at US$2.45 billion in 2023, the global sourdough market is expected to reach $4.27 billion by 2033, a CAGR of 6.1%, according to research from Data Insights Market. “The demand for sourdough is at an all-time high,” explains Bimbo Canada’s Shcherbyna. “We use our own unique sourdough starter, which we fly in from Germany regularly.” This applies to the company’s Stonemill sourdough sliced breads, including Multigrain Rye and San Francisco Style. The starter produces a “springy texture,” while honouring “100-year-old family baking traditions.”

Shcherbyna advises retailers to educate store staff on sourdough’s benefits, provide ample shelf space and facilitate in-store sampling to boost sales.

Vince’s Market, with four Ontario locations, offers homemade sourdough bread crafted by Kristen Ferlisi Trimarchi, who is also the wife of Vince’s president Giancarlo Trimarchi. The sourdough is available up to three days a week and is promoted on social media. “Most is pre-ordered, so we bake nearly exactly what’s needed—about 15 loaves per store weekly,” says Trimarchi. Over the past year, Ferlisi Trimarchi has hosted six sold-out sourdoughmaking workshops, sponsored by Bob’s Red Mill, at $95 per participant. Additionally, Vince’s offers sourdough pizza dough, also made by Ferlisi Trimarchi. Meanwhile, BReD launched its Organic Sourdough Starter (dehydrated wild yeast and bacteria) on Amazon at Christmas. “We’re selling nearly 200 a month online and a similar amount in local stores, including our own,” says Tatton.

New on shelf!

1 BEAN ME UP

Packed with crunchy peas, fava beans, almonds and edamame, Bean Me Up from Prana Foods delivers a protein-packed (12 grams per serving), fibre-rich (five grams per serving), vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO snack option in three flavours: Spicy Dill Pickle, Sriracha and Cheddar Jalapeño.

2 DOVE MEN+CARE WHOLE BODY DEODORANT

Designed to provide 72-hour odour protection for “pits, privates, feet and more,” Dove Men+Care Whole Body Deodorant is dermatologist-tested, aluminum and paraben free and available in a spray or stick format.

3 OREO CAKESTERS

Oreo has gone soft. In a twist on the classic cookie, Mondelēz Canada has taken the brand’s famous crème filling and sandwiched it between two soft-baked cakes. Each box of Oreo Cakesters contains five packs of two cakes, which can be eaten at home or on the go. They’re available in Original and Golden varieties.

4 A LITTLE HOT HONEY MICROWAVE READY KIT

Adding to its line of microwaveready kits, The Little Potato Company has launched a side dish that offers a balance of sweet and heat. Customers simply heat the potatoes in the microwavable tray for five minutes, sprinkle on the included hot honey seasoning pack and they’re ready to eat!

5 MAISON RIVIERA UPCYCLED DRINKABLE YOGURT

Made using imperfect fruits and repurposed milk permeate, this smooth and creamy lactose-free drinkable yogurt is also a source of probiotics and is free from preservatives, artificial colours and flavours. The drinkable yogurt is Upcycled certified and available in Tropical Fruits and StrawberryBanana flavours. CG

The latest products hitting shelves 1 5 2

Express Lane

TAXING TIMES

Tariff threats are causing confusion and uncertainty. How can grocers prepare?

By Kristin Laird

ONCE AGAIN, TARIFFS are on pause. As of press time, U.S. President Donald Trump delayed tariffs on products from Mexico and Canada covered by the USMCA treaty. Yet, a great deal of uncertainty remains. Potential tariffs could disrupt established supply chains, put pressure on economic growth, hinder innovation and drive declines in consumer confidence. We recently spoke with Fraser Johnson, the Leenders Supply Chain Management Association Chair at the Ivey Business School, about this and more. The interview has been edited for clarity and length.

How should the Canadian grocery industry adjust to a prolonged period of tariff uncertainty?

Well, this is part of the problem. Things like steel, aluminum and oil, potentially, affects packaging. So, containers, canned foods, beverage containers, plastic containers—a lot of that stuff tends to go back and forth across the border. The steel may come from Canada, be processed in the U.S. and then shipped back into Canada to be used in a manufacturing process. One of the things people need to keep an eye on is not just the raw inputs in terms of food, but also the associated materials. And what tends to get lost here is the effect on the exchange rate. Today, the Canadian dollar is [worth] a little over [U.S.] 70 cents. What that obviously does is makes Canadian goods more attractive to Americans, but makes imports—the fruits and vegetables and other products

coming from the U.S.—more expensive. That’s not a tariff, but it is an effect of the tariffs. The reason the Canadian dollar has been devalued is that threat of tariffs and the potential effect on the Canadian economy and the effect on our interest rates relative to the U.S.

How can grocers deal with potential disruptions to the supply chain?

We talked about the effect of the exchange rate. So, hedging—using the futures markets to minimize the risk in terms of further devaluation of the Canadian dollar—would be one way of protecting yourself. A lot of prices for food are, ultimately, set in U.S. dollars. So, I think looking at the exchange rate risk is part of it and looking for alternative sources to supply. But these things take time, and they have a cost associated with them. And it’s hard to make long-term commitments for a short-term problem so, to what extent do you say, “Well, we’re going to tinker around the edges as opposed to making major structural changes”? You’ve got this period of uncertainty and I think a lot of businesses may just decide to wait it out, adjust prices and make strategic purchases where they can.

Tariffs, no tariffs. What lessons can grocers take away from this?

I think depending upon the size of the organization, having a war room and dedicated resources to monitor what’s going on so you understand what parts of your businesses are being affected [is beneficial]. So, it involves sourcing,

it involves logistics and it involves your operations. Rather than just reacting, I think there are opportunities, even for a small organization, to be proactive in terms of monitoring what’s happening and collecting data. I think from an industry standpoint, lobbying the government at all levels is important. And one of the things we haven’t talked about is interprovincial trade barriers. To me, that’s a completely independent issue from tariffs, but it’s under the spotlight again. I’m not sure, specifically, how it affects the grocery industry, but I’m sure it does because there’s a lot of east-west movement of food products in Canada.

Is there a silver lining?

It may force companies to make changes and examine alternatives that were uncomfortable before in terms of sourcing options and logistics. At the end of the day, they may find alternative sources of supply in different parts of the world, but supply chains in North America tend to be pretty well-oiled machines with a lot of the dominant players. I’m hoping cooler heads will prevail … I thought the U.S. president would have other things to worry about than the tariffs on Canada and calling our Prime Minister Governor Trudeau—apparently he doesn’t. So, I’m hoping the momentum will shift to other important policy issues. But, let’s wait and see. CG