This week in grocery news: Loblaw’s Q1 call, a new Food Basics for Ontario and more
Get up to speed with our rundown of the biggest news stories of the past week.
Loblaw execs discuss fuel surcharges, discount and more on Q1 call
Loblaw Companies said high fuel costs are not yet affecting prices in its stores. Per Bank, chief executive officer, said the food and pharmacy retailer is “fighting back on price increases from suppliers.” Read more
Food Basics opens 154th store in Ontario
The Metro Inc.-owned discount grocer welcomed shoppers to its Grand Bend location Thursday (May 7). Spanning 32,000 square feet, the contemporary supermarket features Irrésistible and Selection products, locally sourced products, fresh meat and produce and fresh BBQ chicken. Read more
Costco reports April results
The club reported net sales of $23.92 billion for the retail month of April, up from $21.18 billion last year. Comparable sales increased 11.5% in Canada. Read more
PepsiCo talks Bubly’s expansion into soda category
Last month, PepsiCo Canada uncapped Bubly POP, the sparkling water brand’s first-ever expansion into a new category. Canadian Grocer caught up with Sean Cauterman, marketing director, growth brands, PepsiCo Canada, to discuss the launch. Read more
Flashfood fills CFO and chief revenue officer roles
Rob Levy has joined the company as chief financial officer and Steve Towarnicki has taken on the newly created position of chief revenue officer. Read more
Maple Leaf Foods adds freight surcharges
The company is passing on fuel price increases to its customers as the conflict in the Middle East remains volatile. Read more
Experts say government-run grocery stores won't fix food affordability
Industry association leaders, a leading food and supply chain expert and an independent grocer tell Canadian Grocer the idea is misguided, arguing it oversimplifies a complex affordability issue and risks turning the debate into a blame game. Read more
