Grocery Code poll reveals split interest in membership

We recently held a poll to determine our readers’ interest in joining the Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct (OGSCC), which is currently welcoming member registrations.

The responses ended in a tie with 50 per cent intending to join the Office and the rest declining to become members.

Many years in the making, the grocery code has been developed in an effort to bring more transparency, fairness and predictability to the industry. It is intended to promote fair dealings between grocers and their suppliers including the application of penalties and fees.

Sobeys parent company Empire and Lactalis Canada have signed on as members. Loblaw, Metro, Walmart Canada and Costco are also expected to join OGSCC.

Reflecting on the poll results, Karen Proud, president and adjudicator of the Office if the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct, said, “The responses from the recent Food in Canada poll reflect the early stage of this important initiative, and we view it as a valuable opportunity to continue building awareness and engagement across the sector.

“As we move toward the fall, our focus will be on recruitment efforts and deepening conversations with stakeholders. We remain optimistic that interest will grow as more organizations gain a deeper understanding of the code and the role it plays in fostering fairness, transparency, and collaboration throughout the grocery supply chain.

We thank all those who have already expressed support, including those who have already signed on as members, and look forward to welcoming new members in the months ahead.”