ABOUT US
We represent over 6,900 independent, franchised, and specialty grocers across Canada — empowering them to succeed through advocacy, programs, and community.
What is cfig?
There are approximately 6900 independent grocers in Canada. CFIG is the strong and united voice for those independent retailers. We also provide insights, information and programs for our members that contribute to operational excellence while fostering meaningful and fair relationships between retailers and suppliers.
How We Help
CFIG drives the success of independent grocers by providing industry leadership, practical support, and a united voice on the issues that matter most. We connect retailers, suppliers, and partners through best-in-class events, timely research, and strategic resources that strengthen the entire grocery ecosystem.
We represent the interests of independent grocers at all levels of government—addressing issues like competition policy, food safety, sustainability, supply chain rules, and regulatory impacts. Our goal is to ensure independents have a strong, influential voice.
Members receive access to timely market intelligence, best-practice guides, research, and business tools that support strategic decision-making and operational excellence.
Through webinars, workshops, and learning programs, CFIG equips retailers and staff with the skills needed to evolve, innovate, and stay competitive.
Collaborative Partnership
At CFIG, collaboration is central to how we serve and advocate for independent grocers across Canada. We work closely with respected national and regional organizations to extend value to our members, strengthen industry standards, and advance shared priorities across the grocery and food sectors.
Through these partnerships, CFIG members gain access to preferred services, industry expertise, advocacy support, and initiatives that help businesses operate more efficiently and competitively in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
GS1 Canada sets industry standards for product identification, data synchronization, and digital commerce. CFIG representatives participate on GS1 Canada’s Strategic Board and support its Electronic Commerce Initiative (ECI). GS1 Canada also provides a dedicated portal for CFIG members, offering preferred pricing on imaging and data services.
ADA is CFIG’s Quebec counterpart, delivering French-language services to members in the province. Through a close exchange of information, position papers, and advocacy efforts, CFIG and ADA work together to represent the interests of independent grocers nationwide.
DCI is a national organization of independent grocers that fosters collaborative selling relationships among retailers, manufacturers, and key industry stakeholders. Several CFIG members serve on DCI’s Board, strengthening alignment across the independent grocery sector.
Food Banks Canada is the national charitable organization representing food banks across the country. CFIG and its members actively support the mission to eliminate hunger in Canada, donating more than 50,000 tonnes of food annually through Grocery Innovations Canada and Grocery & Specialty Food West.
Food, Health & Consumer Products of Canada (FHCP) is the national industry association representing food, health, and consumer product companies across Canada. CFIG collaborates closely with FHCP members through the Associate Members’ Council and supports initiatives such as the Nutritional Facts Education Initiative (NFEI), helping Canadian consumers make more informed choices.
Our Mission
CFIG’s mission is to champion and strengthen independent grocers across Canada. We bring together retailers, suppliers, and industry partners to provide leadership, advocacy, and practical resources that support growth, innovation, and long-term success within the grocery industry.
Mission AT CFIG
CFIG is the strong and united voice of independent grocery retailers to Industry, Governments and consumers across Canada. CFIG also provides programs for our members that support operational excellence while fostering meaningful and fair relationships among retailers, distributors, and suppliers to help enhance the strength of Canada’s agri-food industry.
Programs & Events
We unite the grocery industry through events like Grocery Innovations Canada, Grocery & Specialty Food West, and the CFIG Golf Classic. We also celebrate excellence through initiatives like the IGYA, Master Merchandiser Awards and Scholarship Program.
Mission AT CFIG
We act as a strong and united voice for over 6,900 independent grocery retailers across Canada — providing programs for operational excellence and fostering meaningful relationships between retailers and suppliers.
Membership
CFIG offers different membership types designed to support independent grocers and the businesses that serve them. Each membership provides access to advocacy, industry programs, and exclusive member benefits tailored to your role in the grocery ecosystem.
Retailer Membership
Small under 3500 sq. ft.
Large over 3500 sq. ft.
Retailer Membership is available to Independent Grocery Stores, Co-Operative Grocers, Active Independent Grocery Distribution Companies operating in Canada, Independently Managed Grocery Stores or Distribution Companies, and e-commerce/online retailers (developing category).
Associate Membership
For suppliers and other businesses providing services, goods, or products to Independent Grocery Stores.
Affiliate Membership
For individuals engaged in work allied to the grocery industry, including retired employees of Retail and Associate Members, professors, teachers, students, researchers, government officials and other grocery industry associations.
