In Memoriam: Peter Hann – Western Grocer

On December 19, 2023, Peter Hann passed away peacefully at Peace Arch Hospital, White Rock, B.C. Peter was born in Portsmouth, UK, on August 9, 1942, 

Upon leaving Portsmouth Grammar School Peter embarked on his lifelong career in the food industry.  As a Sales Representative for Clarnico, a British confectionery company, Peter navigated his territory through the streets of London selling their famous Mint Creams and popular candies. 

Peter emigrated to Noth America and in the mid 60’s made his way to Canada becoming a proud Canadian Citizen in August 1972.  His first job was as a Sales Rep for Lifesavers Canada based in Vancouver. This sales position required him to travel the Province of BC calling on retail outlets as far north as Prince George.  With a station wagon packed with cases of the 30 + flavours of Lifesavers he mastered the challenges of selling, promoting and in-store displays.  An additional bonus for Peter was meeting other travelling Sales Reps and discovering Beautiful British Columbia along the way. 

In 1974 Peter was transferred to Toronto and promoted to National Sales Manager for Lifesavers Canada and thus began his management career.  A few years later returning to Vancouver Peter became the Western Sales Manager for Beecham Canada. 

The world of Specialty Food Imports began in 1985 as Peter took on the roll as Western Sales Manager for Koffman Foods based in Richmond, B.C.  Over the following years, he was employed by several food importers and brokers. Attending many Trade Shows both in Europe and the US, Peter gained insight into food manufacturing, logistics and importing, acquiring many friends and business contacts on his travels.   

In September 2000 Peter and wife Alison founded Cross Country Marketing. Working with Husky Food Importers and Distributers and representing several smaller Importers Peter worked closely with the buying team at London Drugs. Over subsequent years an extensive range of everyday and seasonal European imported products were introduced to consumers. 

It was a regular question to Peter “when are you going to retire”.  He would always say that for the most part his work was like a hobby. He enjoyed the challenges and working from home allowed for a good work/life balance.  

TRADE ASSOCIATIONS:  Northwest Travellers Association, Sales & Marketing Club of Vancouver, Food Brokers Association of Vancouver, Phoenix Food and Drug Group, President 2016 to 2021.