Canada’s long-anticipated grocery code of conduct comes into force on January 1, aiming to make the food supply chain fairer and more transparent — though shoppers should not expect immediate relief at the checkout.
The voluntary code sets standards for how major grocery retailers and suppliers do business, targeting practices such as unexpected fees, retroactive penalties, and one-sided contract changes that industry groups say can raise costs and limit competition. It was developed amid growing concern over rising food prices and the dominance of a few large grocery chains.
Supporters say the code could help stabilize the supply chain over time by reducing disputes and creating more predictable business relationships, potentially leading to better product availability and choice for consumers. However, it does not regulate food prices and was never designed as a direct affordability measure.
An independent adjudicator, Karen Proud, will oversee compliance through the Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct, with the authority to publicly name companies that fail to follow the rules. The office will begin accepting complaints on Jan. 1, with annual public reports starting in 2026.
Major retailers including Loblaw, Sobeys, Metro, Walmart, and Costco have signed on, along with key suppliers.
Industry leaders say the real impact will take time to assess, with success measured by fewer disputes and faster conflict resolution — not sudden price drops.
For shoppers, the message is clear: the code may improve fairness behind the scenes, but meaningful changes at the checkout, if any, will be gradual.