Loblaw Companies Limited (TSX: L; “Loblaw”) has announced its endorsement of Canada’s Grocery Code of Conduct (the “Code”). This announcement, made at the company’s Supplier Summit attended by over 1,300 suppliers, underscores Loblaw’s ongoing commitment to fostering a fair and transparent grocery industry in Canada.
This decision comes after six months of discussions with the Code Interim Board and Working Group. The next step is for all major industry players to sign the Code.
“We have worked intensively and collaboratively with industry groups to ensure the Code is clearly drafted and fair for all participants,” said Per Bank, President and CEO of Loblaw Companies Limited. “We believe in the value of a code of conduct for the industry and are pleased with the progress made. The Code now needs the participation of all major retailers and suppliers to usher in a new era for Canada’s grocery industry, enhancing the relationship between retailers and suppliers, who both aim to best serve customers.”
The journey to the Code was initiated by the Federal-Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture as a voluntary, industry-led solution. Over two years of development, the Code has been a collaborative effort among organizations within the grocery industry—including retailers, processors, and manufacturers—to ensure support across the entire supply chain. The consultation process focused significantly on creating a code that works for small suppliers, consumers, and the industry, recognizing the complexities of the Canadian grocery market.
It is welcome news that Loblaw has agreed to participate in the Grocery Code of Conduct,” said Michael Graydon, Chair of the Interim Board for the Code of Conduct. “Within a very complex food system, the vision for the Code has always been based on a fully inclusive, voluntary Code, developed by the grocery industry and managed by its stakeholders across the supply chain. We are one step closer to implementing the Code as we continue to work with all industry partners to ensure maximum participation by all stakeholders.
Loblaw will continue to collaborate with the industry as the Code is finalized and implemented.
