How was the Code designed and who was involved?
The journey to create Canada’s first-ever Grocery Code of Conduct began over two years ago, with a proposal from FHCP and Empire, supported by Empire’s CEO, Michael Medline. This led to the formation of a 10-person multi-stakeholder steering committee co-chaired by FHCP CEO Michael Graydon and RCC President and CEO Diane Brisebois, tasked with developing an implementation framework.
A 25-person cross-industry working group, including executives from retail, manufacturing, and primary processing sectors, provided practical insights. Subsequently, the Code Design Team finalized the Code of Conduct provisions in November 2022. Key team members included:
- Serge Boulanger, Metro Inc.
- Errol Cerit, FHCP
- Ted Lawson, Nortera Foods
- Patrice Leger Bourgoin, APM Quebec
- Doug Nathanson, Empire/Sobeys
- Luc Prevost, Vegpro International
- Mark Taylor, Lactalis Canada
- Giancarlo Trimarchi, Vince’s Market
The Steering Committee also developed a governance model, presented in industry education sessions in April and May 2023.
Recent key developments
In late 2023, the Interim Board of Directors of the newly formed Office of the Adjudicator for the Grocery Code of Conduct presented the finalized Code and governance framework to Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Ministers. This milestone marked a significant phase in the ongoing effort to promote fair trading practices in the grocery sector, which began in fall 2021. The Code’s development was shaped by input from various sub-committees and the Industry Working Group, which convened in July 2022. Supported by a competition law specialist, this group ensured the Code’s fairness and relevance to the Canadian grocery market. Broad stakeholder contributions were crucial.
The success of the Code depends on the participation of all major grocery retailers. Concerns about market imbalances if key players do not participate were discussed in recent House of Commons Agriculture Committee hearings, and a Code was broadly supported in their recent report, A call to action: How government and industry can fight back against food price volatility. The Interim Board is committed to meaningful dialogue to address these challenges.
What are the next steps towards implementation?
In May, the industry engaged in education and consultation sessions. Ensuring all stakeholders understand the journey and provide feedback is essential. While no solution is perfect, it is crucial to move forward for the industry's and customers' benefit. Both the government and the public are eager for a Code, and we are committed to delivering one.