The Current Canada's grocery sector has been plagued by in-fighting. Now it has a referee
Jan 2, 2026
Karen Proud, the President and adjudicator of the Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct, discusses her vital role in bridging the growing rift between grocery suppliers and retailers exacerbated during the pandemic. She outlines the new voluntary code designed to address disputes, using transparency and public accountability as key deterrents. Critics suggest she needs stronger enforcement powers, such as fines. Proud also highlights how improved supplier relations could enhance transparency and investment, even though the code won't directly control prices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Independent Referee For Grocery Deals
- Canada now has an independent Office to oversee a Grocery Sector Code of Conduct and act like a referee between suppliers and retailers.
- Karen Proud will provide guidance, education and oversight to improve transparency and fairness in trade agreements.
Pandemic Exposed Broken Supplier Rules
- During the pandemic suppliers complained agreements changed overnight and fees or deductions appeared without notice.
- Suppliers also raised concerns about delisting without notification and unilateral retailer decisions that harmed smaller suppliers.
Put All Terms In Writing
- Suppliers and retailers should put full commercial terms into written agreements to avoid unilateral changes.
- If issues arise outside agreements, parties can confidentially bring complaints to the Office for investigation or formal dispute resolution.