April Express Checkout
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The Voice of Independent Grocers
A Message from CFIG President & CEO
I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at Grocery Specialty Foods (GSF) in Vancouver on April 20th – 22nd.
Attending GSF is a great opportunity to network with your pears, participate in retail store tours and take part in Category Connect (our version of speed dating between retailers and supplier partners). I’m happy to report that our trade show floor is our largest ever for GSF, it is now sold out and is filled with innovative new products and services. Our conference agenda is full of industry leading speakers and panelists including NielsenIQ’s VP of Thought Leadership, Carman Allison, IGD Stewart Samuel, Patrick Rodmell from Rodmell & Company and Dan Chuparkoff who will provide a keynote address on AI & The Future of Retail Innovation. We will also hear from EnsembleIQ and their recent GroceryIQ study, and how to attract top talent from Eric Termuende.
There will also be an opportunity to hear Calgary Co-op, The Village Grocer and Rudy’s Markets talk about their customer experience imperatives. Gary Sands will moderate a panel with Stong’s Markets and Vince’s Market where they will share their experiences on how they are getting value from Canada’s Grocery Code of Conduct. Speaking of the Grocery Code, congratulations to CFIG retail members Giancarlo Trimarchi of Vince’s Market and John Pritchard from Powell’s Supermarket who have recently been appointed to the Board of Directors. CFIG would like to congratulate all the new Grocery Code board members and thank them for their service to the industry.
At GSF, we will also be celebrating the careers and contributions of four new Life Members of CFIG, Doug Lovsin from Freson Brothers, Jamie Nelson from the Pattison Food Group and Brooke and Linda Kynoch from Scotch Creek Market and Safety Mart Foods
While our business climate and geopolitical environment remain uncertain, Independent Grocers remain resilient and nimble. During this time of uncertainty, CFIG will continue to inform, advocate for and advance the interests of members across our great Country.
Thank you for all that you do to provide outstanding service to the communities you serve!
Ron Welke
President & CEO
New Grocery Code Board members
The newly elected Grocery Code Board members, Class E representatives, are: Giancarlo Trimarchi, Vince’s Market; and John Pritchett, Powell’s Supermarket.
Industry stakeholders who are members of Canada’s Grocery Code of Conduct voted to elect who they wish to represent them on the Board of Directors of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct in March.
Independent retailers are for the most part, are designated as Class E.
Class A:
Ian Mcruvie – Burnbrae Farms
Steve Roosdahl – BC Fresh Vegetables
Class B:
Pierre Morin – Boulangerie Humanité
John Danyluk – Earth’s Own
Class C:
Martin Payant – Unilever
Rhonda Mitchell – Clorox
Class D:
Stacey Kravitz – UNFI
Class E:
Giancarlo Trimarchi – Vince’s Food Market
John Pritchett – Powell’s Supermarket
Class F:
Rob Allsop – Sobeys
Jodat Husssain – Lob law
Marc-Andre Bally – Costco
In case you missed it
2026 Membership Renewal
Have you seen the 2026 membership renewal automated email sent out in December and reminder in January if you missed it, please contact membership@cfig.ca
Scan Accuracy Code
Did you know that as of May 2025 the Scanner Accuracy Sticker were updated with a QR code instead of a phone number for your customers to file a complaint.
We would like to thank all our retail members who are taking part in this year’s IGYA program. Participation was strong, and we appreciate the commitment from every store involved.
Our jurors will be conducting their store visits from April through June, and we wish all participants a successful and rewarding season.This year, a total of 236 stores took part.
We have room to grow next year and look forward to expanding participation even further. To learn more about this program and others, please contact membership@cfig.ca
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Watch your mailbox for your 2026 Scholarship poster
Program Closes: July 13, 2026
Have you received the Scholarship Poster in the mail make sure to post in your staff room. The Scholarship Award is open to all members staff and family members.
One National essay/video winner receives $15,000.
Four regional essay/video awards of $3,250 each are awarded as follows:
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(1) university/college (East)
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(1) university/college (West)
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(1) high school (East)
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(1) high school (West)
To be eligible for the awards:
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Applicants must be Canadian residents studying in Canada.
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Applicants must be enrolled or expected to enroll in a post-secondary program of at least 2 years.
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All Graduating High School Students
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College/University students must be enrolled in at least one more year of study as of the current year.
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Applicants must be working for a current CFIG member (retail, associate, affiliate) or be a family member of an employee of a current CFIG member.
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Only complete applications containing full and accurate information will be considered.
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Plagiarism is an infringement of copyright laws. All essays must be properly referenced.
Members in the news
Calgary Co-op unveils new North Hill Food Centre
Addition of Hammy’s Kettle Valley to the AG family!
Sungiven Foods-One Park Grand Opening
Pattison Food Group banner Nature’s Fare Markets unveils major revamped B.C. store
“Our members are On the Air”
For any podcast enthusiasts, tune in to Dr. Sylvain Charlebois’ The Food Professor podcast, where our very own Mr. Jamie Nelson pops on to talk shop.
Rabba Fine Foods donates over 2,000 pounds of food to support Food Banks Mississauga this Easter
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New Retail Member
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Helping independent grocers thrive in a changing payments landscape
As a CFIG member you gain access to exclusive preferred payment processing rates and modern, Canadian-built commerce solutions from Moneris®. Trusted by businesses across the country, Moneris delivers secure, reliable technology designed to support how you sell today and as you grow.
Canada’s Payment Revolution: What It Means for Independent Grocers
Canada’s payments landscape is evolving quickly and independent grocers are on the front lines of that change. As tap-to-pay, mobile wallets and digital checkout options become the norm, customers increasingly expect transactions to be fast, seamless and secure.
In its blog “From coins to contactless: Canada’s payment revolution”, Moneris explores how shifting consumer preferences are reshaping commerce and how Canadian businesses can stay competitive.
What this means for your business
- Faster checkout, happier customers. Quick, simple payments help reduce lineups, especially during peak hours.
- More choice builds loyalty. Shoppers want the flexibility to pay how they prefer, be it tap, mobile wallet, or secure online options.
- Payments unlock insights. Modern solutions provide data that can inform inventory decisions and promotions.
- Future-ready operations. Up-to-date payment technology helps your business adapt as expectations continue to change.
As a proudly Canadian company, Moneris understands the unique needs of independent grocers and offers payment solutions designed to support both today’s operations and tomorrow’s growth. Take advantage of your CFIG membership to receive preferred rates from Moneris. Call 1-888-552-0341 and reference chain # 0030600059638 or learn more at moneris.com/associations .
Read now: From coins to contactless: Canada’s payment revolution
Aider les épiciers indépendants à prospérer dans l’industrie des paiements en pleine évolution
En tant que membre de la Fédération canadienne des épiciers indépendants (FCEI), vous avez accès à des taux préférentiels exclusifs pour le traitement des transactions ainsi qu’à des solutions de commerce modernes développées au Canada par MonerisMD. Reconnue par les entreprises de tout le pays, Moneris offre une technologie sécuritaire et fiable conçue pour soutenir vos activités commerciales actuelles et vous accompagner sur le chemin de la croissance.
Révolution des modes de paiement au Canada : ce que cela signifie pour les épiciers indépendants
L’industrie des paiements au Canada est en pleine mutation, et les épiciers indépendants sont à l’avant-garde de cette transformation. À mesure que les paiements sans contact, les portefeuilles mobiles et les options de paiement en ligne deviennent la norme, la clientèle s’attend de plus en plus à ce que les transactions soient rapides, fluides et sécuritaires.
Dans son article de blogue intitulé « Des pièces de monnaie sonnantes et trébuchantes aux transactions sans contact : la révolution des modes de paiement au Canada », Moneris examine comment l’évolution des préférences des consommatrices et consommateurs redéfinit le commerce et comment les entreprises canadiennes peuvent rester concurrentielles.
Voici ce que cela signifie pour votre entreprise.
- Un passage à la caisse plus rapide qui accroît la satisfaction de la clientèle : des paiements rapides et simples permettent de réduire les files d’attente, surtout durant les heures de pointe.
- Une clientèle plus fidèle grâce à une gamme de choix étendue : les gens veulent pouvoir choisir leur mode de paiement, qu’il s’agisse de payer sans contact, avec un portefeuille mobile ou au moyen d’options en ligne sécuritaires.
- De précieux renseignements sur les paiements : les solutions modernes fournissent des données qui permettent de prendre des décisions éclairées concernant les stocks et les promotions.
- Des opérations tournées vers l’avenir : les technologies de paiement de pointe aident votre entreprise à s’adapter aux attentes changeantes.
En tant qu’entreprise fièrement canadienne, Moneris comprend les besoins précis des épiciers indépendants et propose des solutions de paiement conçues pour soutenir à la fois leurs activités actuelles et leur croissance future. Tirez profit de votre adhésion à la FCEI afin d’obtenir des tarifs préférentiels avec Moneris. Composez le 1 888 552-0341 et mentionnez le numéro de chaîne 0030600059638 ou consultez la page moneris.com/associations .
Lire maintenant : La révolution des modes de paiement au Canada
New Affiliate Member
The MARC Group is a full-service marketing and advertising agency specializing in in-store media solutions and community engagement initiatives that deliver meaningful brand visibility for independent and regional grocery retailers. Their innovative Bagvertising™ program, along with other campaigns, is completely free and designed to support operators while strengthening connections not only with their shoppers, but with their broader communities.
Through this partnership, The MARC Group will help extend valuable marketing support to independent grocers across North America, delivering programs that enhance the in-store experience and champion local businesses.
New programs are putting money back into refrigeration upgrades
Therm is excited to join CFIG and continue bringing value to our food supply chain partners. We work directly with grocers to access new payments tied to refrigeration upgrades.
Very simply: if your stores recently upgraded or built refrigeration systems using low-GWP refrigerants, there are federally-recognized programs that enable payments to retailers on an annual basis.
Therm has already completed projects across nearly 90 grocery sites in four provinces, securing more than $1 million back into operators’ businesses.
What this means for CFIG members:
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Turn refrigeration from a cost centre into a revenue stream
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Payments can continue for up to 10 years
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Many upgrades completed in the last 5 years may qualify
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Single-store operators can participate—we aggregate sites to make projects viable
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Therm handles the process end-to-end with no internal lift
We can quickly determine whether your store(s) qualify.
Concept Store Fixture (CSF) provides aftermarket solutions designed to enhance, protect, and restore retail displays already in use. CSF manufactures cosmetic and functional components that allow retailers to refresh the appearance of their fixtures, extend their lifespan, and maintain a consistent instore look—without replacing entire displays. All CSF parts are engineered to be compatible with all major OEM display manufacturers, making them ideal for multistore rollouts and standardized upgrades across existing environments.
For display restoration, CSF ReStore is a solution focused on revitalizing worn or damaged fixtures and bringing them back to a clean, likenew appearance. To further protect displays from daily wear and impact, CSF DeFend is a fixture protection solution designed to reduce damage, maintenance costs, and downtime in hightraffic retail settings.
In addition, CSF supplies glass doors for commercial refrigerated merchandisers, manufactured by its sister company, Energy Door Company. These glass doors combine durability, clarity, and OEM compatibility to improve efficiency and presentation. Together, CSF’s solutions help retailers modernize stores, protect existing investments, and maintain strong shelf presence with minimal disruption.
New Associate Member
MTY Food Group is a Montreal-based global franchisor and operator of 80+ restaurant brands, spanning quick-service to casual dining, with thousands of locations worldwide. Growth has been driven largely through acquisitions, creating a diversified portfolio across North America and beyond. Beyond restaurants, MTY also operates food processing, distribution, and retail channels, extending its brands into consumer packaged goods.
Launched in 2018, Grocery Collection is MTY’s retail division, bringing restaurant-quality products into grocery stores. Based in Quebec, it offers ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat items from MTY brands, bridging foodservice and retail while leveraging brand equity to deliver convenient, high-quality at-home experiences.
Sponsored Content
Canada’s Leading distributor of natural health products Since 1884
At Purity Life, we believe that passion and purpose are the driving forces behind success. We are committed to fostering an environment where every team member, regardless of their role, feels inspired and excited about the work they do. When people love what they do, it creates a positive ripple effect—energized employees, exceptional work, and satisfied customers.
Innovation and adaptability are at the core of what makes Purity Life thrive. We embrace these principles through our Vision, Mission, and Values to ensure sustainable growth and a lasting impact as a leader in the natural health industry.
Today, Purity Life proudly represents a diverse portfolio spanning Natural Health, Wellness, and Grocery. Expanding into the grocery channel strengthens our commitment to offering Canadians access to high-quality, better-for-you products that support healthier living.
While the culture at Purity Life and within the natural products industry is refreshingly approachable, we take our business and relationships seriously. Our team is always looking for creative and meaningful ways to deliver value to every partner. Whether you’re an employee, broker, vendor, or retailer, we strive to be a trusted and integral part of your journey to success.
Sponsored Content
Review your insurance coverage to ensure your business is protected
In today’s unpredictable business landscape, resilience is the key to success. With industry disruptions and shifting market demands, protecting your business starts with having the right insurance in place. By partnering with a trusted insurance provider and regularly reviewing your coverage, you can have the peace of mind needed to tackle unexpected challenges with confidence.
At Federated Insurance, we take pride in being 100% Canadian. We understand the unique risks that businesses like yours face, and as a strong, stable partner, we’re committed to your long-term success. Whether you’re navigating new uncertainties or re-evaluating current needs, our dedicated agents are here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Now is a great time to review your coverage to ensure your business is insured to its full value. For more insights, explore our guide on how Canadian insurance providers, like Federated Insurance, can help safeguard your business.
Read now: How insurance companies in Canada help protect your business
As a 100% Canadian-owned insurer, Federated Insurance is here to support you and your business. To learn more, visit federated.ca or if you’re a Federated customer, you can contact your Commercial Insurance Specialist with any questions.
Federated Insurance Company of Canada (FICC) is rated “A” (good) by DBRS, and the combined group of companies which FICC forms a part of are rated “A+” (superior) by A.M Best and “A” (strong) by S&P.
Passez en revue votre assurance afin de vous assurer que votre entreprise est bien protégée
Dans le contexte économique imprévisible d’aujourd’hui, la résilience est la clé du succès. Face aux perturbations sectorielles et à l’évolution des demandes du marché, la protection de votre entreprise passe avant tout par une assurance adéquate. En vous associant à un fournisseur d’assurance de confiance et en réévaluant régulièrement vos garanties, vous aurez la tranquillité d’esprit nécessaire pour relever les défis inattendus avec aplomb.
Aux Assurances Federated, nous sommes fiers d’être une société canadienne à 100 %. Nous comprenons les risques uniques auxquels les entreprises comme la vôtre sont exposées au quotidien, et à titre de partenaire fort et stable, nous avons à cœur votre réussite. Que vous deviez faire face à de nouvelles incertitudes ou réévaluer vos besoins courants, nos agents en assurance de dommages sont là pour vous guider et vous soutenir à chaque étape du processus.
C’est le moment de réévaluer vos garanties pour vous assurer que votre entreprise est assurée selon sa pleine valeur. Pour mieux comprendre comment les compagnies d’assurance canadiennes comme Les assurances Federated peuvent vous aider à favoriser la résilience de votre entreprise, consultez notre guide.
Lire maintenant : L’assurance des entreprises au Canada
Une société canadienne à 100 %, Les assurances Federated est là pour vous soutenir, vous et votre entreprise. Pour en savoir plus, visitez le federated.ca/fr ou, si vous êtes déjà client des Assurances Federated, communiquez vos questions à votre agent en assurance de dommages des entreprises.
L’agence DBRS a accordé la note « A » (bonne) à La Federated, Compagnie d’assurance du Canada, et les agences de notation A.M. Best et Standard and Poor’s ont accordé respectivement les notes « A+ » (supérieure) et « A » (solide) au groupe de sociétés dont Les assurances Federated fait partie.
