The Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct identifies common concerns in first report

After five months of operation starting on January 1, 2026, the Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct (OGSCC) has released its first public report. The most common concerns involved unilateral changes to commercial arrangements, notice periods, disputed deductions, administrative fees, and questions relating to good-faith negotiations and communication between parties.

“This report provides the first public snapshot of the issues, concerns and implementation trends emerging under the Canada Grocery Code in the first five months,” said Karen Proud, president and adjudicator of the OGSCC. “While implementation remains in its early stages, the report also demonstrates the broad-based support that exists for the objectives of the Canada Grocery Code and provides encouraging early indications that the Code can be used to support constructive discussions and resolution of concerns between parties.” 

“The Canada Grocery Code is helping to build momentum toward greater trust and transparency within our grocery supply chain,” said the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “As awareness of the Code continues to grow, we look forward to seeing its positive impact for all those across the sector.”