Loblaw Launch Looks to Empower and Support New and Existing Small Suppliers; Per Bank and Ron Lemaire Comment
BRAMPTON, ONTARIO, CANADA - Canadian growers and suppliers are gaining a boost in the market thanks to Loblaw Companies Ltd’s newest program. The retailer is introducing a new Small Supplier Program, providing additional support and resources to more than a thousand existing Canadian suppliers.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and the path to this country’s successful future,” said Per Bank, Loblaw’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Every day, we experience the terrific power of innovation in many family-owned, traditional, and local producers, and we want to assist their ability to develop new products and generate a truly diverse and inspirational range. By making the onboarding and retailing process easier for small businesses, our goal is to reduce their time and costs, to the benefit of all Canadian customers.”
Launching in January 2024, this program is designed to empower and support new and existing small suppliers, helping their businesses thrive and reach more customers. The program makes running a small business simpler, a press release explained. Loblaw is affording suppliers the opportunity to grow their businesses and ultimately provide consumers with greater choice.
Key highlights of Loblaw's Small Supplier Program include:
- Faster Payments
- Dedicated Small Supplier Support
- Assistance for Small Suppliers
- Six-month guaranteed listing period for new small suppliers
“The fresh fruit and vegetable industry is a fast-paced business environment which represents many small local growers and business owners,” said Ron Lemaire, President, Canadian Produce Marketing Association. “Providing these small businesses with the opportunity to access the market using this program can be a catalyst to their success.”
Loblaw has an existing roster of over 1,000 small businesses. This includes growers, vintners, and product creators who fulfill customer demand for local favorites and freshness.
“Running and developing a small business includes plenty of hard work and lots of administration. Our Small Supplier Program provides a constructive, meaningful, and simple way for small suppliers who need it the most to get their products onto our shelves in order to thrive and flourish,” continued Bank.
Cheers to this impactful new program!
