THE REAL SECRETS OF SUCCESS-50TH ISSUE OF MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 50 | JUNE / JULY 2019

th ISSUE Article

Higher Wages, Cheaper Gas & Effective Loyalty Programs Make for a Stable Tobacco Consumer Pg 22

article

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Business with Strategic Menu Modeling Pg 37

THIS MONTH FOCUSING ON How C-stores Can Ward Off the Infiltration of Amazon

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CONTENTS 06

Secret of Success.

08

How Important Is Passion When Starting a Business

09

NIGHT OWL BECOME A ‘MORNING PERSON’

12

Big Business, Big Government and the ‘Marginalized’ Electorate Part Two

15

Super Visa Insurance

18

MB Business Magazine 50th Issue Article

20

Event Calendar

I will give you an advice, when you are busy in life you always think...

Punjab Insurance Canada

JUNE - JULY 2019

22

24

Businesses will carry most of carbon tax load

27

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

28

Canada Day Article

30

Curb appeal and promotions drive fuel-only

1st JULY 2019...

customers inside a C-store: Study...

33

Current

EXHIBITIONS & CONFERENCES in Canada

Higher Wages, Cheaper Gas & Effective Loyalty Programs Make for a Stable Tobacco Consumer

37

Grow Your Foodservice Business with Strategic Menu Modeling

EDITOR'S LETTER This is the 50th issue of MB Business Magazine!

This issue is special for us as it marks the achievement of a milestone in our journey, as you leaf through the pages of this issue you’ll find a special feature that covers the story of our magazine and shares our vision for the future of this magazine with our reader.

Continuing with tradition, we have included the latest business news, market insights, forecasts and all events, exhibitions & conferences set to be held across Canada in June & July 2019. We have also included the latest and most relevant business news from around the world.

As always, we hope this issue will be an informative and entertaining experience for all our readers and that it will live up to your expectations. Our team continues to work tirelessly to improve and refine our business magazine.

Your feedback is highly valuable to us, if you have suggestions or comments feel free to call us at 1-866-667-1377 or email us at info@mbeforyou.com to tell us what you think about this issue.

For ad placements and marketing related queries, please email us at mbe-marketing@mbeforyou.com Thank you, Aurora Zabala, Editor In Chief.

Publisher MB Enterprises Editor-in-chief Aurora Zabala Senior Editor Peter Z. Vaisey Managing Editors Steve Montgomery Mahmood Naqvi Design Cynthia Tolson A. Khan S. Saad Production, Technology & Print Simon Wilson R.J Advertising S. Hassan Shoeib Kamal Administration Alamdar Hussein Erum Asghar R. Adil HOW TO REACH US Website: www.mbeforyou.com Feed-back: 1-866-667-1377 E-mail: info@mbeforyou.com Mail: 100 Dynamic Drive, Unit 104, Scarborough, ON, M1V 5C4.

Fax: 1-866-204-6888 MBE Business Magazine is a monthly issue business magazine published by MBE. Inc. Ontario, Canada.

Printed by Vision Printers Contents Š Copyrights 2017 by MBE, may not be reprinted without written permission.

Subscribe / Unsubscribe or Advertise by emailing us at mbe-marketing@mbeforyou.com

Secret of Success

Syed mANSOOR Naqvi

PRESIDENT MBE

I will give you an advice, When you are busy in life you always

Let's go back to the topic as to what I did in Canada and how

think that you are doing well but you do not know what you

I achieved my goals in life. Before I shared the journey, my

are leaving behind. You are just doing one thing in one

friends asked me how you became so successful in life. We

direction and you think you cannot do any other thing. Today I

came together to Canada, but you achieved a lot, which we

will share my experience in Canada during the migration

did not share the idea so we can follow the path and see

process.

where we went wrong. I told everyone not to ask me this question because once I will give you the answer you will not

I was very settled in Pakistan, teaching and becoming a

like it. My friends kept asking me, at last I told them that

scientist; It was almost impossible to get these two jobs but

during the journey of the migration how many times did you

due to hard work and the support of my family all was

think about your family. Of course, not your wife and kids

possible. Let me share my story of migration to Canada. I

because even animals take care of their wife and kids. So first

landed in Canada on April 09,1996.

you have to come out of that category. It means your mother, father, brothers and sisters. The answer I got from them was,

I brought nothing but only education. It was very hard to find a

how can we help them since we do not have bread for our

job and make money in Canada. Within my first week in

wives and children. Once we have something, then we can

Canada, I decided to move to the USA. I went there and tried

think about the rest.

to find a job and on the 10th day I found a job in pharmacy on minimum wages, which was around six dollars. On that night,

Brothers and sisters be responsible and God will give you

I thought I was born in Pakistan and worked hard 25 years,

more success in life.

got my MPhil degree and got two Jobs, which were to me my dream jobs, and are almost impossible to get in Pakistan.

If you want to achieve your goals take responsibility that is the secret of my life..

Luckily I got my immigration to Canada and stayed there for 7 days and ran away to the US.

Today my message to all of my readers is helping your family, friends and relatives and you will achieve your goal

Having No status in the States, the bottom line was I did not

eventually.

work hard enough in Canada. On that night, I decided to go back to Canada. remove which was a lovely night

06

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE

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YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PASSION

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Biography Syed Mansoor Naqvi

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How Important Is Passion When Starting a Business

SYED MAHMOOD NAQVI Vice President | MB Enterprises

Passion is the underlying key to success to do anything,

In any field or occupation, focus allows you to achieve

especially when you are starting a business. Most people

complex tasks. When you are able to achieve complex tasks,

believe that in order to start a successful business one needs

your passion is fuelled by the success that you achieve.

major capital and money, however more important than

Passion is your drive, ambition and the love of what you do

capital, one must have the true passion and desire to

and who you serve. It provides you with a very special view of

succeed.

the world and gives you a daily purpose in your life.

Passion fuels resilience and provides you with the ambition to

Stop and ask yourself: What is your true passion? What

learn and strive to become more competent at what you do.

makes you excited about what you are doing? The difference

More importantly than anything else, it gives you the ability to

between those who push through difficult times and those

focus.

who fail and give up - is Passion!

My father was a teacher. Growing up, our basic necessities were always taken care of however my father had to take additional jobs to earn extra money to supplement his teacher’s salary. As I became a business man, I knew that I wanted to ensure I had a career which enabled me to go beyond providing for my family’s basic needs, but to give us a lifestyle where money was not an issue the only way was business but I learned from my father, when you do anything, you have to have passion.

08

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

NIGHT OWL BECOME A ‘MORNING PERSON’ SYED ALAMDAR HUSSAIN Country Head - MB Enterprises

In many ways the world is split along the lines of Morning

can be up before you even know it has begun.

people and everyone else. Generally, a “morning person” can be said to be one of those lucky few who are happy, full of

Taking a few minutes at night to put together the things you

pep, and productive in the early hours of the day while you’re

will need to do the next day, will reduce the rush in the

still wrestling your snooze button.

morning. It also gives your subconscious mind ample time to work on those tasks, and give you ideas on how to go about

Many people will do anything just to make that transition. One

them. Most importantly, it will give you time to get your act

of my close friends for instance, has been battling with the

together before leaving the house.

seemingly tedious task of transitioning from being a “night owl” to a morning person since last year.

Get your gym bag together. Ready your bike. Pack your office suitcase, and pick out your attire. This way you can devote the

Like I always say; “the night was made for rest, the day for

morning to exercise, meditation and prayers, time with the

work, and the morning for blessings, creativity and health”.

family at the breakfast table, and even catch a TV show before

Does that make me a morning person? You could say that.

the rat race begins.

Maybe I am not. But I am one of those people who usually completes fifty percent of their tasks while many people are

2. Use the Night for its true Purpose

still tossing on the bed and rubbing their eyes.

“Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy

I will share a few simple tips that anyone can follow to make

and wise” – Ben Franklin

that vital transition. With them, you can change from being a

Sleep at any time has a great deal of benefits. But the

night owl, or just a heavy sleeper to becoming a person who

benefits of a good night’s sleep cannot be overemphasized.

maximizes his/her mornings.

The night was made for only one purpose and that is to rest.

The day winds down into darkness, and expects you to follow.

1. Plan Your Morning before the Day

On the average, an adult needs between 7.5 and 8 hours of

The Morning is the most beautiful time of the day. It is a

sleep per night. “But many people can function with 6 hours’

serene and peaceful time. It can also be a very profitable time,

sleep, and there also some who need 9 hours or more,” says

but at the very best it is still just time. Time by nature flies and

Sudhansu Chokroverty, MD, professor and co-chair sleep medicine at the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute at JFK Medical Center in Edison, N.J.

3. Handle Hangovers the Proper Way Early morning hangovers can be very distressing. The best way to handle them is to avoid them altogether. Don’t drink so much alcohol late at night. Better still; keep away from it as much as you can.

If for some reason however, you consume enough alcohol to cause you a hangover in those precious hours of the morning, don’t panic. The smart thing to do is to explore potent medicinal ways of dealing with hangovers, so you can get on with your day on time.

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

09

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Big Business, Big Government and the ‘Marginalized’ Electorate – Part Two

DAVID RALPH MACKERETH

As G. K. Chesterton observes, “The poor have sometimes

affirmatively with, “We in the industrialized world have solved

objected to being governed badly; the rich have always

the fantastic intellectual challenges of technological productivi-

objected to being governed at all.” Obviously we have to

ty, but have ignored the much simpler problem of equitable

abolish money from electoral proceedings, or Chesterton’s

income distribution.” (2) Shellie Karabell reports in Forbes on

observation will continue. Lewis Lapham directs our attention

February 14, 2018, “Management guru Peter Drucker

to, “We have more to fear from fatwas issued in Washington

believed the proper ratio between a chief executive’s pay and

than from those drifting across the deserts of Central Asia …

that of the average worker should be around 20-to-1. CEO

Possibly because Congress represents the constituency of

pay in the US peaked in 2000 at $20.7 million (in 2016

the frightened rich.” (1) Really, what do the frightened rich

dollars), 376 times the pay of the typical worker.” Notable

legitimately have to fear?

economist John Kenneth Galbraith pointed out in his ‘Annals

dmackereth@canimac.com

of an Abiding Liberal’, published in 1979, “The salary of the As the 1 % has been comfortably flourishing in material

chief executive of the large corporation is not a market reward

wealth and political power over the past thirty or so years,

for achievement. It is frequently in the nature of a warm

there will be a natural resistance towards an equitable

personal gesture by the individual to himself.”

environment. The satirical genius Jonathan Swift may have described Elites best with, “Laws are like cobwebs, which

We have allowed business and the economy to become the

may catch small flies, but let wasps and hornets break

defining feature and focal point of Developed societies.

through.” Not only do Big Governments and Big Businesses

Calvin Coolidge, the U.S. President during the ‘Roaring

control what becomes law, they can also afford prodigious

Twenties’, believed “Civilization and Profits go hand in hand.”

legal representation when contesting legal obstacles against

To create balance however, we need to be cognizant of

their underrepresented public.

business affairs versus humanity’s well-being.

Larceny type preferences by Big Businesses and Big

One must become circumspect, when Big Business and Big

Government have left Americans with debt of 21 to 22

Government is in fact the same thing. Benito Mussolini, the

TRILLION dollars, an amount that can never be repaid using

first European Fascist dictator, acknowledged, “Fascism

conventional methods (under extreme inflation, sure). It

should more properly be called corporatism, since it is the

would appear most people do not have a grasp of what a

merger of state and corporate power.” Dwight D. Eisenhower

trillion actually represents which lessens their ability to

clearly warned us of the collaboration of military and business

envision the new Financial Reality. To help visualize a trillion,

with his ‘Military-Industrial Complex’ speech in 1961, highlight-

the Endowment for Human Development website explains,

ing “This conjunction of an immense military establishment

“The length of one trillion one dollar bills laid end-to-end

and a large arms industry is new in the American experience.

measures 96,906,656 miles. This would exceed the distance

The total influence – economic, political, and even spiritual –

from the earth to the sun.” This distance, MULTIPLIED BY

is felt in every city, every State house, and every office of the

TWENTY PLUS, represents what the Americans owe. Such

Federal government. We recognize the imperative need for

mind-boggling reflection is not only troublesome to compre-

this development. Yet we must not fail to comprehend its

hend, but makes knowledgeable voting problematic.

grave implications.”

Frank Capon covers the period up to the 1984 Orwellian year

Internationally, it is alarming to realize the current Permanent

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

Members of the United Nations Security Council (China,

The U.S. President earns an annual salary of US $400,000

France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the

and the Canadian Prime Minister receives CDN $347,400,

United States) consists of the world’s leading arms exporters.

which appears to be reasonable compensation. In a New

From 1950 to 2017, the leading arms exporters were 1) the

York Times article on May 26, 2017, Jon Huang and Karl

United States, 2) Russia, 3) the United Kingdom, 4) France ,

Russell reported on the highest-paid chief executives in

6) China – Germany occupied the fifth spot, but does not

American business with Thomas M. Rutledge of Charter

have a seat on the Council. Moreover, we learn from

Communications coming in on top with $98 million, followed

Rickards, “China does not have a fleet of state-of-the-art

by Leslie Moonves of CBS at $68.6 million. It is acknowl-

aircraft carriers, but it does have cash and computers, and it

edged the President of the United States of America has the

will choose its own battlespace.” (3)

most important / influential appointment on the planet, and yet, in a money worshiping world, he is paid a small fraction

Even in 1984 we note, “the majority of voters, having no real

of Big Business CEOs. Logic suggests this may indicate a

comprehension of the facts or the implications of change,

systemic phenomenon.

seek simplistic answers to incredibly complex problems….technology does not create work, it destroys

The question remains: ‘How can we balance the human

work”, according to Frank Capon. (2) The fact that Volkswa-

desire to acquire more wealth and power, while preserving

gen has approximately 642,000 employees, while Microsoft,

life on Earth?’

Google, Facebook, and Apple (The Big Four) have a

1. Age of Folly by Lewis H. Lapham

COMBINED worldwide workforce of roughly 350,000, should

2. Profit by Frank S. Capon

indicate a problematic direction that Big Governments should

3. The Death of Money by James Rickard

earnestly address.

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

13

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W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

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Our business magazine started as a humble effort when we published the first issue in NOV 2014. As we look back at our journey from the First to the 50th issue, it’s only fitting that we dedicate a special feature to our magazine’s story.

Today, we tell you about our progress and the accomplishments we have had so far and our vision for the future of this magazine, but most importantly we take this opportunity to thank our readers, our top contributors & writers, our staff and all our advertising partners as we wouldn’t have reached this milestone without their continued support.

Today, we share the story of an incredible journey with you.

Journey, Achievements & Milestones Back when we started, we aimed to create a magazine for our readers based mainly in Ontario that covered news and articles on the economy, the recent developments in Canadian business, current entrepreneurship advice, insightful interviews with entrepreneurs and CEOs, changing market trends, tax advice and everything else you would expect from a business periodical.

As our reader base & popularity grew, we engaged with our readers to get feedback and improve our reader experience. Based on the feedback we received the scope of our content grew to include topics such as science, technology, health, fitness, travel & tourism. We added these new topics based on reader feedback because we wanted to give our readers a diverse range of topics to read and not just focus solely on business.

We also looked at opportunities to offer an affordable marketing channel to small businesses that don’t operate on a huge marketing budget. Connecting with small businesses within and outside Ontario we were able to foster long-term relationships and provide value in the form of an advertising medium that comes with low advertising spend but a high return on investment.

CELEBRATING

TH

I S S U E

We’ve certainly come a long way and it’s been an amazing

 Ali Ehsaasi – MP Liberal Party Canada

four years for us, from a very nascent endeavor to a promis-

 Karim Hakimi – Canadian Entrepreneur, founder of Hakim

ing magazine with marketing partners such as Etihad Airways and Choice Hotels, we have a lot to be proud of.

Opticals, largest privately owned optical chain in Canada.  Shaun Chen – MP Liberal Party Canada  Peter Zahakos - CEO of Associated Toronto Taxicab

Top Contributors

Co-operative Limited.

The success we look back at today would never have been

 Jim Karygiannis - Canadian Politician and former MP

possible without the creative patronage of our top contribu-

 Mori Tersigni – Founder and CEO of Mtrex Networks

tors.

 Salma Zahid –MP Liberal Party Canada  Jeremy Diamond – Award Winning Canadian Lawyer and

Some of our contributors are individuals who have deep expertise in areas such as economy, law, politics or taxation

Managing Partner at Diamond & Diamond Lawyers  Tony Elenis – President & CEO, Ontario Restaurant Hotel

and others are Canadian businesses who contribute content

Motel Association.

related to their industry.

 Louis Carnevale –President, Northern Financial Group Inc.

We thank these contributors for their time and efforts. Their

Top Advertising Partners

support helped us create relevant and current content that

Some of our top advertising partners that grace the pages of

included rich industry knowledge, in depth market analysis

our magazine and share in our vision are:

and accurate forecasts.



Etihad airways



Industrial Alliance



Choice Hotels



Interac Association of Canada



Insurance Tiger



Inhaam Law

 David Ralph Mackereth President of Canimac Management Services Ltd.  Michael Lebovic President of Canadian Corporate Legal Services.  Paul Wearing Canadian Lawyer and Expert on Employment & Labor Law

The Focus, the Future, the Reader

 Deluxe Neb's (Office Supplies) www.www.deluxe.ca

Our commitment is always first and foremost to exceed the

 eShipper (Logistics) www.www.eshipper.com

expectations of the reader.

 ETech (Hosting & IT Services Provider) www.etechcomputing.com  Northern Financial Group (Health Plans & Insurance) www.northernfinancialgroup.ca

We are excited about the possibilities in 2019 and our team is working closely with our contributors to find ways to further improve our content and the look & feel of the magazine.

 Cubeler Canada (A platform that connects business owners with lenders) www.www.cubeler.com

Our vision is to grow the size of our audience to encompass

 Falcon Retail (Retail Solutions) www.falconretail.net

all of Canada and to create a reading experience that satiates

 Federated Insurance (Insurance)

the reading appetite of all kinds of readers.

www.federatedinsurance.com  TruRating (Customer Feedback Solutions) www.trurating.com  Raedan Freight Services (Freight & Logistics)

Moreover, our aim for the future of this magazine is that it will continue to provide increasing value to our marketing partners.

www.raedanfreightservices.com Our continued efforts to nurture existing and cultivate new Top Interviews & Profiles Covered

relationships and provide value to small businesses is a

Over the years, we had the unique opportunity to sit down

cornerstone of our strategy and remains our focus for the

with a number of distinguished Business Leaders, CEOs,

future.

Lawyers, Politicians, Entrepreneurs, and Industry Experts and have exclusive one-on-one talks with them.

Subscribe for a free copy to be mailed out to you every month by emailing us your business name and address at

These people were gracious enough to take the time out and

info@mbeforyou.com.

share the stories of their careers, their growth, their struggles

For feedback or comments, email us at

and their experiences with us so that our readers can benefit

mbe-marketing@mbeforyou.com

from their wisdom and insights.

For advertising opportunities, call us at 866-667-1377.

JUNE - JULY

EVENT 2019 CALENDAR JUNE 5

WEDNESDAY

Eid ul Fitr in Canada Many Muslims in Canada celebrate Eid al-Fitr (also known as Id al-Fitr or Eid ul-Fitr) on the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan and the start of a feast that lasts up to three days in some countries.

JUNE 9

SUNDAY

Pentecost in Canada Pentecost is a Christian observance commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit on Jesus Christ’s disciples, according to the Bible.

Many Christians in Canada celebrate Pentecost, which is also known as Pentecost Sunday, Whitsunday, or Whit Sunday.

JUNE 16

SUNDAY

Father's Day in Canada Father's Day is not a public holiday. It falls on Sunday, 16 June 2019 and most businesses follow regular Sunday opening hours in Canada.

JUNE 21

FRIDAY

June Solstice: Longest and Shortest Day of the Year The June solstice is the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.

20

JUNE 21

FRIDAY

National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada

JUNE 24

MONDAY

St. Jean Baptiste Day in Canada

JUNE 24

MONDAY

Discovery Day in Canada

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

Canada’s National Indigenous Peoples Day, formerly called National Aboriginal Day, is annually held on June 21 to celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements of the nation’s Aboriginal peoples. There are three Aboriginal groups in Canada – the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

Saint Jean Baptiste Day, held annually on June 24, is the feast day of St John the Baptist, a Jewish preacher who baptized Jesus in the River Jordan. It is a day of celebration in Quebec and other areas of French Canada. Saint Jean Baptiste Day is also known as "la Saint-Jean", "St John the Baptist Day", "Fête nationale du Québec" and "Quebec's National Holiday".

Discovery Day is celebrated in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador on the nearest Monday to June 24. It is also known as Cabot 500 Day and remembers Giovanni Caboto’s (also known as John Cabot) discovery of the province’s island portion. This day is not to be confused with Yukon’s Discovery Day, which is also known as Klondike Gold Discovery Day.

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

JULY 1

MONDAY

Canada Day in Canada

JULY 9

TUESDAY

Nunavut Day in Canada

On July 1, 1867, Canada became a self-governing dominion of Great Britain and a federation of four provinces: Nova Scotia; New Brunswick; Ontario; and Quebec. The anniversary of this date was called Dominion Day until 1982. Since 1983, July 1 has been officially known as Canada Day.

Nunavut Day, which is annually celebrated on July 9, commemorates passing of two Nunavut acts. The Canadian Parliament passed the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act and the Nunavut Act on July 9, 1993. Nunavut officially split from the Northwest Territories and became a Canadian territory on April 1, 1999.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SOLUTION

MONTH APR - MAY

C A V A

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Q A T A R

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A N I L

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R E G A R A N D R E S A W R I A S P T H E R N C U O L N O B M U R E D I M I G B E E S R T 31

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A L I C I A

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R L I L O A N O N I N S U A N G E L A U R A D O T T O R S E S S U N A N A P A G A R P E N T A P N Y C L T Y C E A P R B A I U G U T T A E L A L M A I N T H E N O W A Y I N A W E

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S U N K N O A D N T S E L E T R I D A M N T I E S N A P P E R Y E H L O N O F N O L S R E P U C E S E R C H L A O W C A I D D L S A L E E D I C

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

21

Higher Wages, Cheaper Gas & Effective Loyalty Programs Make for a Stable Tobacco Consumer

NEW YORK — Despite numerous

programs," said Bonnie Herzog,

Other key takeaways from Tobacco

unknowns swirling around federal

managing director of tobacco,

Talk include:

tobacco regulations, Wells Fargo

beverage and convenience store

• Price gaps have widened as

Securities LLC's latest tobacco survey

research at Wells Fargo Securities.

consumers continue downtrading to

finds an accelerating nicotine pool.

fourth-tier cigarettes and e-cigarettes; As for vapor products, the survey

and

According to the fourth-quarter

noted that Juul Labs is introducing

• Retailers see cannabis as a huge

Tobacco Talk, the adult tobacco

new users to the category — account-

potential opportunity and broadly view

consumer is stable given effective

ing for roughly 20 percent of its share

Altria's stake in Canada's Cronos

loyalty programs and promotions,

source — and sourcing most of its

Group as a prescient move especially

cheaper prices at the pump, and

share from electronic cigarette and

with its stake in Juul.

higher wages.

vapor competitors.

Herzog acknowledged there are

Tobacco Talk surveys retailers

In addition, according to Herzog, there

concerns around increased FDA

representing approximately 55,000

has been no real slowdown in Juul

regulation including additional

convenience stores, or about one-third

uptake since the Food and Drug

potential actions against Juul and

of the channel.

Administration announced its

other vapor companies, and

crackdown on flavors this past fall

menthol/nicotine in combustible

The results also found that cigarette

despite some volume moving online.

products. "However, we continue to

manufacturers' pricing power remains

In fact, one survey respondent noted

believe Commissioner [Scott]

intact with "Altria Group Inc. able to

that "customers are willing to switch

Gottlieb's bark is worse than his bite

command higher levels of pricing

flavors to continuing using Juul," she

given his ultimate goal is to save

while shielding its most loyal custom-

said.

lives," she said.

ers via more effective promos/loyalty

22

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

Three Simple Ways to Book

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Businesses will carry most of carbon tax load Nathan Denette THE CANADIAN PRESS

People in Manitoba, Ontario,

exemptions may be available to them,

tax on fuel. Instead, they’ll be subject

Saskatchewan and New Brunswick

if any.

to a carbon tax on emissions that

will be paying more for gasoline and

exceed certain annual limits. Smaller

heating fuel when the federal

Unlike individuals who are eligible for

firms that emit 10,000 megatonnes or

government's carbon tax begins in

annual rebates from Ottawa’s

more will be able to apply for the

provinces that refused to impose their

“climate action incentive payment,”

same exemption.

own emissions pricing. Individuals

businesses aren’t expected to be

and families will be getting some

compensated in the same way,

But most other businesses, including

money back from the federal govern-

perhaps not at all.

smaller ones, have no such exemp-

ment under the new carbon tax scheme that began April 1.

tion. There are exemptions for Large companies with certain types

farmers, some fishers and green-

of operations, especially those that

house operators. But the vast

But businesses, especially small and

are “trade-exposed,” that emit 50,000

majority of small and medium sized

medium-sized ones, are still left in

megatonnes or more of greenhouse

businesses are expected to pay the

the dark about what rebates or

gas emissions won’t pay the carbon

tax with little to no rebates or

24

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

exemptions from Ottawa.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business says they’re still trying to get answers from the federal government on what kinds of rebates, exemptions or tax credits may be available to their members, if any.

“We still don’t know what these rebates or exemptions are going to look like,” said Jonathan Alward, the CFIB’s director of provincial affairs for Manitoba. “It’s definitely concerning that residents know exactly what’s coming back to them, and even though businesses are footing the bulk of the carbon tax bill and getting pennies on the dollar back, they still don’t know what’s in it for them and largely don’t even know how the carbon tax is going to be applied, or how their exemptions are going to work.”

It appears small businesses will in large part be subsidizing the rebates handed out to individuals. About 90% of the money raised from the tax will be returned to individuals in rebates. The remaining 10% has been earmarked mostly to help municipalities, universities, public schools, hospitals and small businesses pay for costs like building upgrades to help them become more energy efficient. However, whatever does trickle their way will be far less than what they pay out in carbon taxes.

The CFIB estimates small businesses and the public sector will together pay about 50% of the carbon tax bill but will receive only 7% back in grants and rebates.

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

25

YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR PAYMENT PROCESSING

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Address: 104-100 Dynamic Drive, Toronto, ON M1V 5C4 Call: 1-866-667-1377 | Fax: 1-866-204-6888 Email: info@mbeforyou.com | Web: www.mbeforyou.com

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FIVE FOR FIVE ACROSS 1 Prepare to swallow 5 Actor Cronyn 9 Holy text 14 Karl of Politics 15 Banned apple spray l6 Soap that’s 56/100ths % impure 17 Dentist’s request 18 Back 19 Cass and Michelle, in60’s pop 20 South-of-the-border holiday 23 Actor Vigoda 24 “C’___ la vie!”

25 Smelled awful 27 South-of-the border snoozes 31 Microscopic swimmers 35 The trojans of the N.C.A.A. 36 Decoreted, as a cake 38 Fly, e.g.

39 “I chose not to incriminate myself 44 Afternoon socials 45 Aria, e.g.

46 Anger 47 Subjects of wills 51 Sirius, Familiarly 53 Wasy wins 55 Sine ____ non 56 Flipper 59 The most famous of these were the Dionne sister 64 ”Here’s looking ____, kid” 55 Apple leftover 67 One of the Aleutians 68 About 1., cubic yards 69 “___ Brockovich” 70 Long, for short 71 Carryalls 72 Fall mo.

73 Pocker player’s decleration

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DOWN 1 Gator’s cousin 2 Arizona Indian 3 Fifty-fifty 4 Senor of the Ed Sullivan show 5 Biscuit-like food staple used on long voyages and by civil war soldier 6 Peter Fonda title role 7 Sirs’ counterparts 8 Typos 9 Geisha’s garment 10 Egg cells 11 Arrivederci ____ 12 Saudi, e.g.

13 Financial page inits.

21 Old Roman port

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22 Starchy tuber 26 Visored cap 27 Hotel offering 28 British ____ 29 Bravura 30 “Comprende?”

32 Suit 33 Opel model 34 It’s a Knockout 37 Cause of some shaking 40 Russian leader before 1917 41 Coal carrier 42 Like President-elect- Obama 43 Mist over, as glasses or a windshield

See previous issue answers on page # 21

48 Chef toppers 49 Australian runner 50 Seasons 52 Deli offering 54 Those taking 27-Accresses may do this 57 “Leave ____ Beaver” 58 Putin’s refusal 60 Excursion 61 Subway alternative 63 It’s got you covered 65 Load from a lode

MBE

inc.

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PASSION

CELEBRATING

CANADA DAY 1st July

MBE SERVING CANADA SINCE 1995

CANADA DAY 1st JULY 2019 Canada Day 1st July, formerly known as

Canada Day is a time to celebrate

operated by an experienced manage-

Dominion Day, marks the historical

the heritage passed down to us

ment team that is envisioned to offer

event in which Canada gained their

through the works of our authors,

forward-thinking solutions to commer-

independence from Great Britain in

poets, artists and performers. It is a

cial & residential sectors of North

1867. This important holiday

time to rejoice in the discoveries of

America, Middle East & Asia.

celebrates the birth of Canada as an

our scientific researchers, in the

independent nation and is celebrated

success of our entrepreneurs, and to

As one of the largest electronic

each year on July 1st, MBE giving

commemorate our history – a history

processing service providers for

Top 50 benefits on Canada Day to

in which each new chapter reveals

POS/ATM in North America, MB

the MBE Membership holder.

itself to be more touching, more

Enterprises is fully equipped with

fascinating than the last.

advanced technologies. A strong infrastructure that ensures reliability

This is an opportunity to gather in our

in services, strong support for

and to proudly celebrate all we have

How MBE Contribute in serving Canadians?

in common. It is an opportunity to

MB Enterprises is an independent

relationship with our clients has been

celebrate our achievements, which

Canadian based business solutions &

our core focus.

were born in the audacious vision

Services Providing Group, incorporat-

and shared values of our ancestors,

ed in 1995 under the Laws of the

and which are voiced in nearly all of

province of Ontario Canada. MB

Want to know about our Chairman & Founder?

the languages of the world through

Enterprises operates globally with its

MBE setup more than 20 years ago

the contribution of New Canadians.

various units based in Asia, Australia

in Canada. The MBE Group initially

and the Middle East. The Group is

operated as an enterprise for ATM

communities, from coast to coast,

28

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

customers and a collaborative

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

and POS services in Canada. Through Mr.

keting and Credit Counseling.

Mansoor’s vision, strategic direction and unwavering commitments, the MBE group has emerged as

Under Mr. Mansoor Naqvi’s vision, MBE launched

Canada’s premium conglomerate with a diversified

an Independent Payment Switch (Cashwave) in

international business portfolio. From its humble

Canada that has the current portfolio of operating

origins in payment services, the MBE Group

40,000+ POS Terminals and 5,000+ ATM Machines.

business interest today span the globe and encom-

Mr. Mansoor has broaden the horizons with

passes information technology, investments, real

expanded businesses and established MBE

estate, mortgage, Insurance, Accounting, Tele-mar-

Pakistan in 2009. He continues to promote the causes of financial inclusion by unbundling traditional banking services and digitizing all 6 verticals to financially include the 80% of the unbanked population of Pakistan.

The Retail Merchants Association of Canada (RMA), now RMA Canada as a result of its merger with MBBP, has been serving the Independent industry since 1910.

The objective of RMA/MBBP is to assist its members to prosper by offering an array of cost saving programs designed to keep them strong and profitable.

"As we look ahead, we have every reason to show our pride in being Canadian and to face the future with confidence and enthusiasm."

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

29

Curb appeal and promotions drive fuel-only customers inside a C-store: Study CONVENIENCE STORE NEWS The majority of fuel sold in North

GasBuddy found that conversion

inside a store if they perceive it as

America is sold at convenience

depends on a c-store operator’s

dirty, boring or unexceptional.

stores. However, getting motorists to

ability to meet consumer needs of

Reputation matters as well.

come inside the store after filling up

safety, cleanliness and hospitality.

has been an ongoing challenge for

Additionally, consumers show “a

Frequent customers cite the following

the convenience channel.

strong interest” in specific strategies

factors as having a strong or moder-

and promos that can move them from

ate influence in their opinion of a

the pumps to the store.

store before stepping inside:

Citing State of the Industry data from NACS, the US-based association for

• Store design and upkeep (82.54

First impressions count: Think curb appeal

percent)

GasBuddy noted that a convenience store’s inside sales generate almost

GasBuddy released a report summa-

percent)

three-quarters of all gross profit

rizing the findings from its surveys

• Quality of lighting (79.6 percent)

dollars. Yet, some estimate that a

conducted in July 2018 and Decem-

• Brand reputation (58.6 percent)

similar number of consumers fill up

ber 2018. Chief among its findings:

• Opinions of friends and family

and drive away — never coming

Curb appeal matters.

(55.12 percent)

convenience and fuel retailing,

inside to make additional purchases.

30

• Cleanliness of the fuel area (79.7

Moving inside, GasBuddy found that Calling the forecourt “the first

restrooms matter. According to the

Converting those forecourt customers

handshake that welcomes customers

survey results, 22.6 percent of

to inside customers is not impossible.

to the store,” GasBuddy explained

consumers said they frequently make

In a new study, Canopy to the Store,

that consumers are unlikely to go

a purchase after using the restrooms

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

at a c-store. Another 56 percent said

wander inside the store. Unfortunately,

convenience store brand, consumers

they occasionally make a purchase.

retailers who provide outdated, dirty,

said:

or poorly maintained facilities are not

• Healthy food options;

However, the restrooms must be

equipped to leverage this opportunity,”

• Redeemable coupons for conveni-

clean. Nearly two-thirds of consumers

GasBuddy stated, calling restrooms “a

ence store products;

said they have visited a gas station’s

litmus test for overall store quality.”

• Loyalty rewards for convenience

c-store with the intention of using the

store products; and

restroom, but decided to leave and go

Offers and promotions drive sales

elsewhere.

Beyond the look and feel of a store,

• Loyalty rewards for fuel savings.

convenience store retailers need to

The Canopy to the Store report also

Top reasons for avoiding a c-store’s

reach fuel-only consumers where they

found that nearly 71 percent of

restroom are:

are — on their phones. According to

consumers surveyed belong to a

• Restrooms were dirty;

GasBuddy, more than half of consum-

rewards program for a c-store or gas

• Restrooms were outdated and/or

ers look at their smartphone while

station. Of those, 48.78 percent use a

poorly maintained;

refueling and, more notably, nearly

rewards program very frequently, 34.2

• C-store was outdated and/or poorly

three our of four consumers aged 18

percent somewhat frequently, 12.84

maintained;

to 34.

percent somewhat rarely, and only

• Restroom required a key or an

4.17 percent very rarely.

access code; and

“This opens many opportunities to

• Customer did not feel safe.

drive in-store sales through relevant

Minimal savings and discounts on

offers and promotions,” the report

products consumers don’t purchase

noted.

are among the reasons why they

GasBuddy’s report also revealed that knowing that a convenience retailer

rarely use a rewards program.

was committed to clean, quality

Fuel discounts can hit the spot. In a

restrooms would probably influence

recent GasBuddy study, 65 percent of

A c-store retailer can change consum-

nearly 42 percent of consumers and

consumers said gas prices impact

ers’ minds, however, if the program

definitely influence 27.19 percent.

their ability to spend money on other

offers consumers the ability to: build

items and services.

up points to spend on what they

“Every restroom visit is a sales

choose; earn discounts on fuel for

opportunity. It’s a chance to connect

Relevant orders also deliver results.

in-store purchases; and get discounts

with fuel-only customers who would

When asked which kinds of mobile

on products they purchase daily or

otherwise rarely — or never —

ads influence their decision to visit a

weekly.

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

31

MAHMOOD NAQVI

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3 4 11

A new destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment is coming soon to Pickering. DLIVE (Durham Live) will include a massive casino, hotel, film studio, theatre, waterpark, big box retail, luxury stores, golf course, performance hall, and gourmet dining.

1.

Casino and Five Star Hotel

2.

Restaurant Plaza

3.

Cinema Entertainment Complex

4.

Fitness Centre and Spa

5.

Waterpark & Waterpark Hotel

6.

Landmark Office Building

7.

Performing Arts Centre

8.

Convention Centre

9.

Amphitheatre

DURHAM’S NEXT BIG DE STINATION

10. Film Studio 11. Office Buildings

Source: dlive.ca I All illustration is artist’s concept. E. & O.E.

104-100 Dynamic Drive, Toronto, ON M1V 5C4 200 Consumers Road, Suite 100, Toronto, ON M2J 4R4 (416) 939-9378 (416) 497-5949 www.mansoornaqviteam.com

Helping you is what we do.

Current

EXHIBITIONS & CONFERENCES Toronto Military Show Mississauga 01 Jun 2019

Etobicoke Olympium, Toronto, Canada

Toronto Military Show Mississauga is a platform to see medals, badges, insignia, antique muskets and pistols, military weaponry until 1945, inert ordnance, swords, daggers, bayonets, uniforms, field equipment, flying gear, helmets, Japanese samurai swords, and accessories, books, prints, war souvenirs, trench art, models soldiers, military toys and other related items.

BookFest Windsor 01 Jun 2019

Windsor, Canada

BookFest event is dedicated to education, understanding, and appreciation of the literary arts by providing performances of an artistic and literary nature in public places, senior citizens homes, performance areas, theatres, and educational institutions. We also provide seminars on topics relating to such performances.

Pride Winnipeg Festival 24 May - 02 Jun 2019

Winnipeg, Canada

Pride Winnipeg Festival is a multi-day celebration with many events for all segments of the diverse community all leading up to the main Pride Day celebrations including the Rally at the Legislative Building, Parade through Downtown, Festival at The Forks and Official Dance Party, the steps of the Manitoba Legislature for entertaining speakers and music to raise your spirits, incredible live entertainment, the PrideMart, and Queer Beer Beverage Tent and Liquor Mart Patio etc.

Fredericton Job Fair 03 Jun 2019

Crowne Plaza Fredericton-Lord Beaverbrook, Fredericton, Canada

Fredericton Job Fair provides the job seeking candidates with the opportunity to meet top employers and to interview for several positions during the course of the day and get hired in various companies and organizations.The Fredericton Job Fair connects hiring companies with job seekers (professional adults,newcomers, temporary/permanent foreign workers, skilled workers, landed immigrants andlocal & international students) from the greater Fredericton area including Oromocto, Hampton,Saint John, Sussex, Houlton, Saint Stephen, Saint Andrews, Plaster Rock, Salisbury,Presque Isle, ME, Moncton, Caribou, ME, Miramichi, Grand Falls, Lincoln.

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

33

SMTA Ontario Chapter Expo & Tech Forum 05 Jun 2019

VentureLAB, Markham, Canada

SMTA Ontario Chapter Expo & Tech Forum will feature the globally leading provider of high precision cleaning products, services and training solutions in the electronics manufacturing and semiconductor industries, will be promoting the latest in pH neutral cleaning solutions at the SMTA Ontario Chapter Expo and Tech Forum.

Gartner Symposium ITxp 03-06 Jun 2019

Allstream Centre, Toronto, Canada

The Gartner Symposium ITxpo is the World’s Most Important Gathering of CIOs and Senior IT Executives. It will explore the strategic trends and technologies that are driving digital transformation and shaping the future of IT and business. Through a mix of Gartner analysts, industry experts, and cutting-edge solution providers, you’ll uncover innovative ways to approach challenges, make decisions with confidence and become an even more effective leader.

Western Manufacturing Technology Show (WMTS) 04-06 Jun 2019

Edmonton Expo Centre, Edmonton, Canada

"Providing the business opportunities" Western Manufacturing Technology Show (WMTS) is the illustration for manufacturers of products ranging from machine tools, welding equipment's, design engineering, and plant maintenance to process control and automation. This event is the major forum for manufacturing professionals to source machinery, equipment, supplies & services for all aspects of their operations

Halifax Spirit Expo 08 Jun 2019

Halifax Forum, Halifax, Canada

Halifax Spirit Expo features a display of the products such as fitness products, food and beverage products for a fit and healthy lifestyle, product sampling, and demonstrations etc.

Barrie Automotive Flea Market 06-09 Jun 2019

Barrie Automotive Flea Market, Oro-Medonte, Canada

The Barrie Automotive Flea Market offers everything from collectibles & classic cars to those hard to find car parts. If you can not find it here, you can not find it anywhere. It’s a Car Lovers Dream Car Sales Corral, Show & Shine and thousands of vendors. You won’t Believe Your Eyes. Bring your friends & family and stay in our convenient campground.

Guelph And District Multicultural Festival 07-09 Jun 2019

Riverside Park, Guelph, Canada

The Guelph & District Multicultural Festival is a free, three-day event held at Riverside Park in Guelph. Each year we welcome local craft vendors, performers and food vendors to share their passion for art, culture, and cuisine. Our Festival is 100% sponsored by local businesses and grants.

Each year, we rely on the generous support from our community to keep our Festival alive and free to the public. This approach ensures that everyone who comes to the Festival can discover and share in the tastes, sights, and sounds of the city’s diverse population.

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

Retro Design & Antiques Fair 09 Jun 2019

Croatian Cultural Centre, Vancouver, Canada

"Exhibition for Mid-century Modernist decor, Vintage & estate jewelry, Pop culture classics, French country collectibles items" The Retro Design & Antiques Fair will display products like mid-century modernist decor, vintage & estate jewelry, pop culture classics , boho & shabby chic accents , french country collectibles, old dolls & toys, retro glam accessories , decorative art pottery and glass, art decor and art nouveau, space age design, paintings & prints, antiquarian books, advertising and memorabilia, and much more.

Kite Festival 09 Jun 2019

Chippewa Park, Thunder Bay, Canada

Kite Festival has been held annually since 1981. Along with kite workshops, demonstrations and activities, you will experience the flying skills of kite experts from renowned Kite Clubs. People of all ages will be impressed and inspired by their spectacular demonstrations of colourful high-flying kites.

Toronto Career Education and Settlement Immigrant Fair 10 Jun 2019

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, Canada

Toronto Career Education and Settlement Immigrant Fair will showcase products like a small business, Education, leadership development and safety, College and Career Fair, international students language etc.

BC Seafood Expo 12-13 Jun 2019

Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenay, Canada

BC Seafood Expo, the countdown is on for one of the largest seafood industry trade events in the pacific northwest attracting suppliers, qualified domestic and international buyers, distributors, producers, industry leaders and government representatives to network, meet and grow the seafood.

Toronto Vintage Boat show 06 Jul 2019

Residence Inn by Marriott Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst, Canada

Toronto Vintage Boat show focuses on a wide range of topics of interest to our members as well as carrying very helpful advertising by companies supplying goods and services which apply to antique and classic boats and boating etc.

Burlington Downtown Car Show 06 Jul 2019

Burlington City Hall, Burlington, Canada

"A celebration of the automobile. A wide selction of makes and models on display" The Burlington Downtown Car Show taking place on Brant Street in the heart of the city. Vehicles of all ages, classes and types will be on display.

See the museum quality cars displayed at City Hall and take a walk on the red carpet to view the Super Cars on display on Elgin street. New for this year our Main stage and music will be located on the terrace of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre.

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Northern Lights Festival Boreal 04-07 Jul 2019

Bell Park, Sudbury, Canada

Northern Lights Festival Boreal features a weekend in the park, listening to music that touches your soul, and enjoying good food and drink with family and friends, A roots music festival that loves modern music, or a modern music festival that loves it's roots and more etc.

Cavendish Beach Music Festival 05-07 Jul 2019

Cavendish Beach Music Festival, Toronto, Canada

Cavendish Beach Music Festival features a variety of interactive song-writers circles, sampling sessions and food demos round out the vibrant side-stage experience, a General Admission Beer Gardens, LOTTO MAX Hayloft, Copper Moon Saloon, VIP SunRoof, Licensed VIP area, Corporate Suites, Food and Merchandise Vendors, and country-themed programming throughout the site etc.

Summer Festival 13 Jul 2019

SFU West Gym, Burnaby, Canada

Summer Festival, This event showcases products like Anime, pop culture, toys, video games, comic books, photography, cosplay and much more.

Enology & Viticulture Conference & TradeShow 15-17 Jul 2019

Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, Penticton, Canada

Enology & Viticulture Conference & TradeShow features a display of the products such as Enology, wine, business, wine technology and etc.

Timmins Job Fair 17 Jul 2019

Senator Hotel & Conference Centre, Timmins, Canada

Timmins Job Fair is the opportunity to meet face to face in sit-down interviews with decision makers from a wide range of nationally recognized companies. It welcomes any job seekers searching for job opportunities in different industries like Health Care, Mining, Engineering, Finance, Administration, Accounting, Collections, Advertising, Marketing, Media, Telecommunications, Technology, Oil, Tourism, and much more.

International Cyber Security and Intelligence Conference & Exhibition 16-18 Jul 2019

Ontario College of Management and Technology, Toronto, Canada

Announcing 2019 International Cyber Security and Intelligence Conference!!! A 3-day event that starts on 17th of July and ends on 19th of July, 2019 at the beautiful City of Toronto. This event provides rare opportunities for global experts in Cybersecurity, Intelligence, Counter-Terrorism, National Infrastructure, Industry, Cyber Operations research, Law enforcement, and Legal Practitioners to proffer unified ideas and best practices on cyber safety, attack prevention and secured cyber world. The event is a unique cyber security and intelligence conference that features high profile speakers from cybersecurity, privacy, intelligence, national critical infrastructure, and counter-terrorism.

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Grow Your Foodservice Business with Strategic Menu Modeling TOM COOK, KING-CASEY & MARK KUPERMAN Most convenience stores have made huge strides in foodser-

brand? For example, new U.S. menu-labeling requirements

vice but are uncertain of the "next step."

may create a need to develop lower calorie menu options.

Do you have a menu strategy? Be careful how you answer

Review technology: What technology do you need to positively

this question. Many QSR brands (even some of the really

impact quality, cost, speed and customer convenience?

smart ones) will quickly say, "Sure, we have a menu strategy."

But, in fact, they don't. You don’t have a menu strategy unless

Consider operations: Operations are a key but often overlooked

you score 100 percent on this simple test:

factor. Staff? Delivery? Drive-thru? Do you know how to set

• Has each menu item been prioritized based on its impor-

up a production line?

tance to the brand?

• Do you have a specific action plan for how each key menu

Conduct consumer research: Consumer research can help

item and/or category will contribute to the brand's business

determine your brand's "elasticity" with respect to its menu.

performance?

For example, a TURF (Total Unduplicated Reach and

• Do you have the details in place to actually execute the

Frequency) analysis can identify the relative interest and

plan?

purchase intent consumers would place on various menu

• Do you have specific goals and measures in place to

concepts and or specific menu items.

evaluate results?

• Has the menu strategy been shared and understood

Creating a menu strategy is not about price: it’s about value. You

throughout the organization?

create your pricing and menu strategy based on your value

• Have all significant stakeholders bought into it?

equation (i.e., atmosphere, service, quality, etc.).

CREATING A MENU STRATEGY

Here’s a framework to follow:

Creating a menu strategy begins with doing your homework.

Understand how customers view your brand

A team approach is helpful here. First, review your current

• Value is determined by your customers. With that said, it’s

menu strategy and results, if you have one. This is your

important to see through customer data to understand what

starting point. Then, determine market needs. What's trending

customers value, what customers need and what they are

in foodservice overall and c-stores specifically

thinking while entering to your store.

• Understand changes in your operational scores, such as

Understand the competition: That includes QSRs, fast-casual

cleanliness, order accuracy, wait time, staff friendliness, menu

and casual-dining restaurants and supermarkets, as well as

quality and variety, and overall impression of the restaurant.

other c-stores.

Lower scores may indicate an out-of-balance equation with prices not reflecting the amount of service or the quality

Identify economic factors: What is the current economic

customers receive in exchange.

climate? What’s the outlook for the next two to three years?

• Customers are not interested in how much the cost of

Develop a pricing strategy accordingly.

chicken rose this month. If the value remains the same, so should the item's price (unless the item is showing signs of

Understand regulations: What legislation will impact your W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

pricing opportunities based on elasticity to price and margin).

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

37

Understand how customers use your brand

2. Identify/prioritize your food platforms: Are beverage sales

• What customers say or think they prefer is not always

more important than sandwiches? Are sides more important

reflected in their purchasing behaviors. It is important for the

than desserts?

brand to keep track of purchasing behaviors and their evolution through menu changes.

3. Identify/prioritize "key opportunities." Provide a specific

• Is your brand geared toward all-day snacking and coffee

tactical example of how you will accomplish a stated business

drinkers or is it more geared toward a specific meal period or

objective. Examples might include: establish a new range of

type of purchase?

beverage sizes to increase beverage sales; develop a snack menu to increase afternoon sales; or develop a "large-com-

It's important to recognize that not all stores are created

bo" offering to grow average check.

equal. To maximize profits and minimize traffic erosion simultaneously, you need to determine brand usage on a

4. Leverage critical success factors: This includes the menu

store-by-store basis. Customers may use and view your

strengths, characteristics and signature products that

brand in different ways throughout your system.

differentiate your brand from the competition.

It is suggested to divide your stores into groups based on

5. Understand critical weaknesses: Your menu strategy helps

similar usage to help increase operational efficiency and

you circumvent or correct them.

enhance each store’s customer experiences. In return, this will generate greater customer spend and frequency. Also,

6. Identify threats and risks: An example might be a competitor

update the offering and menu strategy based on what your

with similar or better products and menu offerings. A sound

customers perceive as best practices in each store group.

menu strategy recognizes and deals with threats.

KEY ELEMENTS OF A MENU STRATEGY

It's not uncommon in an organization to have individuals with

Once you've done your homework, you’re ready to create

their own ideas about what importance should be given to

your c-store's menu strategy by following these six steps:

different menu items. With a published strategy in place, these conflicting priorities can be intense and counterproduc-

1. Establish business objectives: Examples might include:

tive. A menu strategy shared and understood across the

increase beverage incidence to grow profitability, or increase

organization trumps any individual’s opinion towards success.

sales between the lunch and dinner daypart. Prioritize your objectives and establish specific targets and metrics for each.

38

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

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How C-stores Can Ward Off the Infiltration of Amazon TAMMY MASTROBERTE Convenience Store News.

Debuting its cashierless store concept in December 2016,

at most of the assortment they offer, it’s grab-and-go and

Amazon entered the convenience space with Amazon Go.

prepackaged items,” he noted.

Now, with 10 locations open in Seattle, Chicago and San Francisco, the e-commerce giant is looking to possibly open

Even those not in direct competition with Amazon Go in terms

as many as 3,000 Amazon Go locations over the next few

of location should be paying attention to what the company is

years, with as many as 50 locations in major metropolitan

doing in the space and understand it will still have an effect

areas by the end of 2019, according to recent news reports.

on them and their stores. Amazon is already offering two-hour delivery in big cities for e-commerce orders and free delivery

What does this mean for convenience stores? Should c-store

to customer vehicles in 37 cities.

operators be concerned about this affecting their own stores and sales?

“Change is coming, and it’s coming fast,” said Kevin Struthers, senior consultant at W. Capra Consulting Group, based in

The short answer is “yes.”

Chicago. “When you look at what Amazon is accomplishing, it doesn’t paint a pretty picture for the c-store industry. Don’t

“Right now, it’s not an immediate problem, but if they can

mock this. Study this and become a student of it. To defend

accomplish opening 3,000 stores in the next couple of years,

yourself, you have to learn. You can’t defend yourself until you

that is definitely something to worry about,” Kimberly Otocki,

know what they are doing.”

c-store content marketing specialist at Paytronix, a provider of loyalty and customer engagement solutions for restaurants,

How to Compete

retail chains and convenience stores, based in Newton,

Despite its deep pockets and innovative technology, there are

Mass., told Convenience Store News.

things Amazon and Amazon Go can’t offer that c-stores can — and these advantages should be highlighted and celebrat-

Since the Amazon Go concept is going after foot traffic in

ed. They include community, unique loyalty and rewards

urban areas, highway and local neighborhood stores won’t

programs, and the employee/customer connection.

necessarily be in direct competition — but those with locations in urban, walk-up neighborhoods could find one

“C-stores are part of the local community and connect more

opening in their area down the line.

with the local customers than Amazon Go,” Otocki of Paytronix pointed out. “They can partner with local businesses to

“The stores are in densely populated, urban markets and the

provide more offerings, which is a great way for them to

traffic drawn into the stores is foot traffic from pedestrians

remain a big part of their communities.”

walking by or in close proximity on their way to work,” said David Bishop, partner at consultancy Brick Meets Click,

Additionally, Amazon Go offers prepacked, commissary-deliv-

based in Barrington, Ill. He believes the Amazon Go stores

ered and pre-portioned food products, which is their way of

are “absolutely a threat” to the c-store industry.

delivering fresh food. Conversely, c-stores with robust

“For c-stores, it targets the on-the-go shopper and if you look

foodservice programs can stand out by focusing on the

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

quality and freshness of their made-to-order items and other

relevant offers and more, a c-store will be in a better place to

unique foodservice offerings, said Bishop. This also includes

compete.”

hot and cold dispensed beverages, which Amazon Go stores

Technology is another area where Amazon and Amazon Go

don’t currently offer.

excels, using cameras and shelf sensors, along with an app, to offer a frictionless shopping experience with no need to

While c-stores should definitely find ways to differentiate

checkout with a cashier. While some c-stores are offering

themselves from Amazon Go, there are some aspects of both

self-checkout options, there are other ways they can utilize

Amazon as a company and Amazon Go that should be

technology to create “an experience” in their stores.

studied and applied throughout the convenience channel.

“C-stores have to get their mind around digitally interacting One of these is Amazon’s use of data, which is an advantage

with customers. Amazon is already there because they

it gained from starting online and growing its Amazon Prime

started off in e-commerce,” Struthers said. “Look at how to

loyalty program. The company knows who is buying what and

digitally engage because this is where the sticky relationship

where they are located, and can tailor assortments and

comes from — to draw them in and engage them to visit the

testing of products accordingly.

store.”

“Loyalty programs are a great way to get customers identified, but this can also be done through mobile payment and tokenization of credit cards, as well as phone SMS and email programs,” Otocki said. “If you can get the data on your customers like Amazon does and then harness it through

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

41

Horoscope for JUNE- JULY 19 GEMINI - CANCER GEMINI The horoscope for Gemini is an interesting one, because you never know what to expect from these

means they can instantly see what

horoscope characteristic for Gemini

people are like and can reflect those

is their cleverness. When you're

characteristics themselves.

playing a game with this sign, you'll be treated to clever and sophisticated

Gemini are extremely impulsive and

ways of questions being answered.

rarely do they think things through. A

They are very witty and are often

horoscope characteristic for them is

how that adaption will turn out.

entertainers and comedians. They will

impulsive because if something

keep the crowds laughing all night

sounds good to them, then they're

The Strengths of Gemini

with their humor and energy.

likely just going to do it. Rarely do

clever folks. They can adapt to almost any situation, but they're so indecisive and devious that you never know

A very noticeable horoscope personality for Gemini is their energy. These are indeed very energetic people who are always ready to take the day by storm. They are often very physically active, and we often see them as

they spend any time soul searching The Weaknesses of Gemini

to decide what the right decision is.

The biggest negative horoscope

Their lives are often the result of

personality for Gemini is their

which way the wind was blowing on a

superficiality. While it can be great

particular day.

that they're so adaptable, it can also translate to them simply not be real.

Indeed, they are very restless and

They often only share a part of

they want constant change in their

themselves with people they meet -

lives. Their horoscope personality for

gable.

and usually this is whatever part

Gemini gets quite bored if they see

they've deemed the person wants to

the same things day in and day out.

They're also quite clever, and one of

see. They are master apers, which

They want adventure, they want

fitness instructors or professional athletes, but their energy is also emotional. They are virtually indefati-

42

the most positive examples of a

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

excitement - and they likely don't want

Cancer is the fact that when they get

it with the same people every day.

Some loyal signs are loyal when it's

close to people, they tend to want

While they can be good partners,

convenient, but a horoscope personali-

them around at all times. They simply

many Gemini will never truly settle

ty for Cancer proves they're also very

can't understand why their new love

down because they want change on a

dependable. This is a sign that's going

interest doesn't want to see them

daily basis.

to do what they say they're going to

every night, or why a friend doesn't

do. Their loyalty knows no bounds,

want to become best friends immedi-

and they can be counted on. They

ately.

CANCER A horoscope for Cancer will show that

make great employees because you

these adaptive and responsive folks

know they'll show up for work on time,

When things don't go their way, a

are some of the most caring and

every time, and they'll be loyal to the

Cancer can be quite self-pitying. They

sweet people around. However, one

company.

can frequently let this horoscope

thing that's quickly apparent about

personality for Cancer get the best of

these signs is that they are a mass of

Weaknesses of Cancer

them and become quite self-ab-

contradictions. Wherever you see a

The positive horoscope personality for

sorbed. When they've been slighted,

strength in a horoscope for Cancer,

Cancer certainly paints a lovely

the world is out to get them and they

you're likely to see a weakness

picture, but they can be as bad as

can't think of anything else. This can

reflected.

they are good. One of the biggest

be frustrating for people in their lives

issues is their moodiness. They are

who have their own issues to deal

The Strengths of Cancer

such empathetic creatures that when

with, because the Cancer often things

Those in search of a loyal friend or

they begin to feel something deeply, it

that their lives and their problems are

partner will do well to choose a

takes over their entire being. They can

more important than the lives of

cancer. This horoscope characteristic

frequently change from enthusiastical-

everyone else.

for Cancer makes them excellent

ly happy to so sad they can't get out of

allies in any situation, whether it's a

bed.

team mate, a co-worker or a romantic partner. They are there for the people

They're also quite clingy at times. One

they love, and they love those people

of the most aggravating examples of a

very deeply.

negative horoscope characteristic for

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43

Save on Energy: Ten Tips to Save on Electricity IMTIAZ KERMAL e-shipper We all know why we should save

for foodservice operators looking to

how much your power costs, but also

electricity: to lower our energy costs,

reduce their energy use. Well worth

how much power you use. When you

help reduce harmful emissions and

exploring, the site offers concrete

know how and when you use power,

improve our operating performance.

advice and inspirational examples of

you can plan your strategy. Time of

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find

how businesses like yours can

use is also important: shifting

the time to research and choose from

benefit from energy efficient practices

non-urgent tasks to off-peak hours

the most energy-efficient options, not

and upgrades.

can provide immediate results.

Saving on energy doesn’t have to be dramatic: it can be incremental and part of your daily routine.

2. Switch from regular light bulbs to LED

to mention find room in the budget.

The Save on Energy efficiency programs, offered by the Independent Electricity Systems Operator in

From decoding your power bill to suggestions for seasonal holiday

Small reductions can add up to savings in both cost and power use, which is good for you, your bottom line and the envisronment.

bulbs in fridges, stoves and hot food holding units and can be switched to LED.

(https://saveonenergy.ca/) has many

1. Study your current electricity use

3. Keep light fixtures clean and free of dust

excellent suggestions and resources

Examine your bills to learn not just

Install dimmer switches on fixtures,

savings, the Save on Energy website

44

power than regular incandescent bulbs, and last much longer. Even

conjunction with local hydro companies, can help.

LED bulbs use up to 75 per cent less

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

and timers to automatically shut off

program provided by Save on Energy

unwelcoming, but keeping the cool

lights in rooms that aren’t being used.

can provide financial incentives to

inside during the summer and outside

Take advantage of natural light

improve and fine-tune your system.

during the winter is a simple and easy way to lighten the HVAC load. If you

wherever possible. Remember, every small step helps.

7. Frozen food no longer needs to be stowed at -18 degrees Celsius or lower

need to retrofit from residential-style

4. Check out the Small Business Lighting program through Save on Energy

A recent study proved that storing

set up, the Save on Energy Heating

frozen food at -15 degrees Celsius

and Cooling program might be able to

This program provides assistance with

had no impact on food safety or

help.

assessment, installation, and financial

quality. That three degree difference

incentives towards your energy-effi-

can add up to substantial energy

cient lighting upgrades.

savings.

5. Refrigeration efficiency

8. Keep up with regular maintenance

meet strict technical specifications for

Refrigeration can be one of the largest

Ventilation and space cooling is of

energy performance and are the best

single consumers of energy in

major concern to foodservice opera-

energy performers on the market.

foodservice, accounting for up to 40

tors. Balancing the needs of comfort

They can help you save energy

per cent of electricity use. Efficiency is

and cooking can be tricky. A cooler

without compromising performance in

key when it comes to reducing costs

ambient temperature makes refrigera-

any way.

and energy. Keep coils and fans clean

tion more efficient, which can be

and dust-free, and ensure they’re kept

challenging during the hot summer

Make your changes and upgrades

away from heat and direct sunlight.

months. Doors and windows that are

part of your story. Not only will you

The lower the ambient temperature

properly caulked and sealed waste

save both energy and money, but you

near the motors, the less power they’ll

less energy. Awnings, blinds and

will also connect with customers who

need to use.

tinted window coverings can also help

want to support environmentally

reduce indoor temperatures.

responsible and sustainable business

HVAC to a more efficient commercial

10. Look for ENERGY STAR® certification Appliances ENERGY STAR® certified products

6. Add plastic strip curtains and automatic door closers to walk-in units

9. Close your front doors

The Small Business Refrigeration

It may seem counter-intuitive or

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

practices.

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

45

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E-Commerce

Sprouting Reasons to Stock Plant-Based Foods & Beverages Renée M. Covino Plant protein isn’t just for vegetarians

Gravitation toward plant-based diets

lessitarian, meaning they’ve cut back

and vegans anymore.

in general, along with interest in

on their consumption of

vegan, vegetarian and flexitarian

animal-based foods and beverages,”

From plant-based meat and dairy

lifestyles and concerns over animal

said David Sprinkle, research director

alternatives, to energy bars and

welfare, are contributing factors.

for Packaged Facts. “It is this group

beverages boasting plant protein, the

that is most responsible for the

“plant power” trend is growing among

Four in 10 U.S. consumers increased

significant and ongoing shift from

consumers at-large, which means the

their consumption of meat substi-

dairy milk to plant-based milk.”

trend is growing among convenience

tutes/alternatives during 2017,

store shoppers.

according to market researcher The

There’s Much to Milk

NPD Group. And plant-based dairy

In recent years, the plant-based dairy

Do you have a “green” merchandising

alternatives are expected to comprise

beverage alternatives category has

thumb?

40 percent of the total dairy/dairy

expanded beyond nut- and

alternatives market by 2021, reports

legume-based milk alternatives like

If not, here are some reasons why

market research firm Packaged

soy, rice, coconut and almond. The

you should start cultivating one:

Facts.

category now includes options made from cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia

Plant-Based Innovation Is Flourishing

“Vegetarians and vegans together

nuts, peanuts, pecans and tiger nuts.

Growing consumer interest in health,

account for less than 15 percent of all

Additionally, there are non-dairy milks

sustainability and ethics is propelling

consumers and their numbers do not

being offered that are sourced from

plant-derived ingredients and

grow very rapidly, but a growing

bananas, cassava, oats, potatoes

products into high popularity,

number of consumers identify

and more.

according to Innova Market Insights.

themselves as flexitarian and

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

47

And the innovation is far from over. Looking ahead, Packaged Facts expects several other new and novel non-dairy milks to find a wider audience, including barley milk, flax milk, hemp milk, pea milk and quinoa milk.

Convenience Is Playing a Role In-home consumption of plant-based proteins has grown by 24 percent since 2015, according to NPD. The heaviest users of plant-based foods are more convenience-oriented than others, the global information company found.

Other attributes of the heaviest users include: • Those who are more likely to be on a diet; • Consumers who have a medical condition; • Consumers who tend to think of food as fuel; and • Those who are less confident in their cooking skills.

Gone From Niche to Mainstream “The plant-based foods industry has gone from being a relatively niche market to fully mainstream,” said Michele Simon, executive director of the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA), which represents plant-based food companies.

2018 marked the second year that PBFA released Nielsen retail sales data. In July, the trade association that represents 114 of the nation’s leading plant-based food companies released new data showing robust sales in the plant-based foods industry, with dollar sales growth of 20 percent over the last year and sales now topping $3.3 billion. Comparatively, overall food sales growth is around just 2 percent.

“The new data confirms what we are hearing and seeing every day from our members: sales are up, investment is increasing and new jobs are being created in the plant-based foods industry,” said Simon.

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Home, Auto, Health, Dental and Life Insurance

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Cineplex Discount

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Northern Financial Group

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MBE Business Magazine

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W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

49

50

Choice Hotels

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Avis Preferred Services

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Budget

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MBE Technologies

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Weston Bakeries

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South Cove Foods LP.

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Canadian Corporate Legal Services

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

SPUD launches delivery for small food businesses New platform lets local food brands and grocers sell online Rebecca Harris Sustainable Produce Urban Delivery

warehouse, Food-X Urban Delivery,

online,” says Peter van Stolk, CEO at

(SPUD) has launched Be Fresh

to consolidate orders and deliver to

SPUD.ca. “Food X allows us to work

Marketplace, a digital platform for

customers. The 74,000 square feet

with a large retailer like Walmart, but

local food shops, artisanal brands

facility opened in Burnaby, B.C. last

it also has the ability to work with

and small, independent grocers. The

year, with Walmart Canada coming

small retailers in an online market-

service is currently available in

on board to offer delivery through

place.”

Calgary (where a test recently took

Food-X to customers in Metro

place) and Vancouver.

Vancouver.

Van Stolk also says the consolidation aspect of Be Fresh Marketplace is

Be Fresh Marketplace allows local

“It’s important to support small

key. “If you look at Foodora, for

sellers to set up an online store. The

retailers and small, independent

example, Foodora can’t deliver five

Marketplace uses SPUD’s proprietary

vendors in this digital age because

restaurant at once in one order. You

fresh food delivery platform and

they don’t have the means to go

get five at different times. We’ve

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

51

actually changed that, and that’s what we think customers want.”

Customers can hop between various local shops in the Marketplace as well as SPUD.ca, which sells local and organic produce. The difference between the two platforms is that Marketplace retailers and brands essentially create and control their own online shop. “They put products that they want to on the site, so it’s not necessarily that we are selecting it for them, that’s giving them the power, just like any marketplace.” says Van Stolk.

SPUD charges vendors a small setup fee, a monthly fee based on the number of items in the brand’s marketplace, and a commission, which, says van Stolk, is a similar model to existing services in Canada such as Etsy and Shopify.

The local shops currently signed up in Vancouver are Les Amis du Fromage, Terra Breads, Uprising Breads Bakery, Siegel’s Bagels and Studio Full Bloom, a boutique flower and plant shop. In Calgary, there are four businesses on board: Italian Centre Shop, Made By Marcus Ice Cream, gelato company Fiasco and Empire Provisions, an artisanal bakery and charcuterie.

Van Stolk is aiming to team up with 500 businesses between the two cities by the end of this year, and eventually expand into different markets.

52

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

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53

Tomorrow’s shopper

Five consumer trends that will shape grocery in the future, and how retailers can respond to these shifts today REBECCA HARRIS The grocery store of the future will look a lot different than it

point where you can imagine your home assistant making a

does today. Here’s a look at the big trends predicted to

shopping list for you,” says BDO Canada’s Matusiak.

influence future grocery shoppers, along with strategies that can help retailers to future-proof their businesses.

Consumers also want convenience on the food front, which will continue to be a focus for retailers. “As lifestyles become

1 THEY’LL WANT AN EXPERIENCE

increasingly hurried, CPG manufacturers and retailers have

With more consumers shopping online, grocery retailers will

an opportunity to reach consumers who are increasingly

need to give customers a compelling reason to shop in-store.

looking for fast and easy solutions,” says Isabel Morales,

“If you want them to invest their time in a shopping experi-

consumer insights manager at Nielsen. “These may include

ence, it’d better be an experience,” says Eric Matusiak,

anything from easy-to-prepare meal kits, grab-and-go

partner, IT solutions & national retail leader at BDO Canada.

snacking solutions or ready-to-serve meal solutions”

“Otherwise, they can just click and have it show up at their door.”

3 TECH WILL INFLUENCE THEIR SHOPPING TRIPS Whether it’s in-store or online, technology is going to make

The “grocerant” trend will also continue to proliferate. Mike

shopping much more seamless. Even though in some

Lee, founder of futurist food lab The Future Market, gives the

respects it feels kind of seamless today, it will essentially be a

example of Whole Foods, which is adding wine bars and

more accelerated version of what we’re already starting to

sports bars to some locations, complete with televisions and

experience.

a range of food options. Rather than being a place to grab a quick bite when you’re shopping, “they’re trying to turn it into

And while it’s easy to get excited about shiny new things, one

a place where people can come, watch a game, and get a

important consideration for retailers is the human factor.

beer and a pizza,” says Lee.

“People still have to use these technologies, so people are actually the toughest part of technology change,” says

It’s also important for retailers to go even deeper into data

Matusiak. There’s getting your own staff used to a particular

collection and analysis. “That will enable retailers to under-

technology and how it works, then there are customers

stand their shoppers better than ever before,” says IGD’s

themselves. As much as we like to feel like we’re in a world of

Pickard. “Data has been the heart of the industry for a long

constant change, some people’s habits don’t change that

time, but as we get more data about shoppers, it will be an

quickly.

important part of improving the shopping experience.”

4 THEY’LL BE FOCUSED ON THEIR HEALTH 2 THEY’LL WANT SPEED & CONVENIENCE

While the health trend has been going strong for years,

Busy consumers won’t need every trip to the supermarket to

there’s a coming shift towards eating healthy not only to feel

be an adventure: there’s still the need for speed and conveni-

better physically, but also for emotional and mental health.

ence. Much of this will be enabled by technology.

Consumers will seek a balance between all three areas. We

In the future, retailers will also leverage technology to

will start to see more products that support mental wellness,

automate both in-store and online purchases. “This is

help people get the energy they need, and help manage the

somewhat related to speed, but it’s also related to the hassle

stress around day-to-day activities.

factor. More routine things are going to get automated, to the

54

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

The key strategy for grocers will be to optimize their product

of sustainability is rising and it’s touching every corner of the

portfolio across these areas, says Bowden. “They can

world.

demonstrate that they are connected to the physical and emotional side of what wellness now means to consumers.”

Grocers will need to ramp up their efforts to reduce waste and communicate their efforts to customers. “Consumers will

In addition to the right product mix, grocers can offer personal-

patron the types of businesses where they know that there is

ized services to help people live healthier lifestyles. IGD’s

a focus on minimizing food waste,” says The Hartman

Pickard points to U.K. grocer Tesco, which partnered with

Group’s Bowden.

Spoon Guru, a food tech platform, to help customers with specific diets and food preferences quickly find relevant food

Morales says the more companies embrace sustainability, the

choices.

more they will change the product and retail landscape.

Consumers are constantly reacting to and evolving in this

And Netherlands grocery retailer Albert Heijn launched My

space, and growing more sophisticated. To stay relevant,

Nutritional Value, which is an online service that gives

companies will need to ensure they are putting consumer

customers the nutritional values of products they have

needs at the center and doubling down on their marketing

purchased and recommends products for specific health and

and execution strategies.

dietary needs. Retailers are tailoring the shopper journey based on the nutritional requirements of the shopper.

5 THEY’LL BE MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS As environmental issues continue to get attention, tomorrow’s shoppers will be very serious about eating green. A new era W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

55

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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

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Top 3 challenges to overcome when implementing self-scanning CARL VON SYDOW

The brick-and-mortar retail industry is undergoing seismic

basket sizes and, on average, a 10 percent increase in overall

shifts driven by digital enablement and intense online

revenues since deploying hand-held self-scanning solutions.

competition. As part of a larger trend to offer consumers more

The ROI for self-scanning projects typically is achieved within

convenience and more control as they shop — and also to

18 to 24 months. Shoppers who use self-scanning are more

counter Amazon’s cashier less stores — retailers are

likely to buy extra items when they’re alerted via hand

increasingly adopting self-scanning checkout solutions in their

scanner that an item is on sale. Moreover, recommendations

stores. Not surprisingly, the expected annual growth rate for

can be made in real time, like “This wine goes well with your

self-scanning software tops 14 percent, according to research

meat, and is on sale right now.”

agency VDC.

Adoption rates One of the reasons that self-scanning is gaining popularity

In areas where self-scanning was introduced 10 to 20 years

fast is that it reduces the length of checkout lines and

ago, we see a substantial share of consumers using it. In

checkout times. Any retailer knows that long checkout times

countries like Sweden, Switzerland, Belgium and the Nether-

are a deal-breaker. Forrester (2018) found that checkout (the

lands, self-scanning is broadly adopted, with up to 35 percent

line length and experience) is, after location and price, the

of consumers having used hand-held self-scanners to

most important factor to prompt consumers to head

purchase products as they shop (Nielsen, 2017).

somewhere else for groceries if it takes too long. In fact, 18 percent claim that they’d rather shop elsewhere if length of

U.S. grocers are quickly ramping up self-scanning capabili-

lines and checkout time would be shorter.

ties, moving from 8.5 percent availability in 2017 to 24.3 percent in 2018 (Progressive Grocer’s 85th Annual Report).

Benefits of self-scanning

Here in Canada, grocery giant Loblaw launched its

Consumers perceive self-scanning as a way to save consider-

phone-based “shop and scan” offering at five Loblaws

able amounts of time, especially when checking out. It allows

locations and three Real Canadian Superstores in the

them to touch an item only once as they “scan, bag and go.”

Greater Toronto Area in November.

Shoppers can scan their own items in store using a dedicated scanning device or their smartphone (“bring your own device,”

Challenges of self-scanning

or BYOD), bag their items while shopping, pay at a designat-

As a proven solution for more than two decades, the real

ed area, and leave the store without any cashier involvement.

challenges of self-scanning are no longer in the hardware

This improves the consumer experience, makes everyday

and software solutions. Rather, they’re in adoption by the

shopping a more innovative experience and provides retailers

consumer. The successful adoption of new ways to shop is

with the tools to establish a “store for one” using personalized

dependent on overcoming three primary challenges:

interactions — visible on the hand scanner — while shopping.

1. Selling the concept. Consumers and staff need time to Self-scanning not only improves the consumer experience, it

experiment and learn about new shopping processes, with

also improves bottom-line results for retailers. According to a

technology simply acting as the vehicle to get the process

VDC Research, European retailers have observed greater

accomplished. As any psychologist can tell you, learning new

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

57

habits is a task not to be underestimated. Ease of use is

explaining that a first-time user is always checked. With the

crucial, as is a crisp and clear explanation of how to use it,

right mathematical algorithms and business knowledge in

and sufficient staff in the trial period to help consumers who

place, random checks can be reduced to an absolute

may get stuck somewhere in the checkout process.

minimum. Various self-scanning projects show that — if properly implemented, communicated and executed — the

2. Visibility and availability. It’s not only the devices themselves

effect on shrinkage is marginal.

that are required; a lot of services supporting the devices are needed, such as multiple bag racks, cart brackets and

The winners in retail will be the ones that smartly innovate

dedicated pay stations. There should also be a surplus of

their stores to let shoppers conduct their journeys how they

devices clearly visible at the entry, and a surplus of brackets

want. Self-scanning may be just the innovation needed to

at the exit. Retailers should think about how to support items

achieve this goal.

that need to be scanned efficiently: for example, how to enable self-scanning for fresh produce or any other non-barcoded items priced by weight. This often requires a new store process with weighing sales and barcode printers in the store to be set up in advance. Retailers must also think about how to enable loyalty programs and special discounted items for self-scanning shoppers.

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3. Consumer acceptance of security measures. Customers have to accept that they’ll be monitored and sometimes exposed to security checks, such as a partial re-scan by a staff member.

This can be softened by not “incriminating” them upfront, but rather by helping them scan items properly, and clearly

58

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

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Circle K Rebranding Efforts Near 5,000 Stores Across North America MELISSA KRESS

LAVAL, Quebec — More than three years after launching its

what we want to become and the journey we are on."

new global Circle K brand, Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. has brought the new banner to more than 6,800 convenience

Looking specifically at the c-stores the company acquired

stores around the world.

from CST Brands Inc., Couche-Tard "saw positive momentum in the regions where the former CST locations have been

In North America alone, more than 4,900 locations now carry

rebranded and that certainly shows the strength of the Circle

the new brand and in Europe, the number of newly rebranded

K brand and the Couche-Tard programs and operations and

sites top 1,900, according to Couche-Tard President and

their ability to drive sales and traffic," he explained.

CEO Brian Hannasch.

Couche-Tard is also rolling out a newly designed Circle K "In Ireland, our last remaining market in Europe, we rebrand-

layout to nearly 50 locations in Europe this fiscal year. Its

ed nearly 300 locations and are progressing nicely on the

target is to have more than 90 open by the end of the year.

plan to have 360 completed by the end of this fiscal year," Hannasch said during the company's third-quarter fiscal year

"These are newly remodeled stores and are a big step up in

2019 earnings call.

terms of the look and feel of the offers. They feature wide aisles, inviting dĂŠcor, attractive lighting and provide new

Turning to the United States, roughly 120 sites have been

customer experiences to grow traffic and basket size,"

rebranded in the retailer's Arizona Business Unit this fiscal

Hannasch said.

year and the goal is to reach more than 200 by the end of the fiscal year. In the Rocky Mountain Business Unit,

"In many of these locations, we also have our food-to-go offer.

Couche-Tard has rebranded 240 locations with a target of

Our prepared on-site sandwiches are particularly popular with

finishing 300 sites by the end of the year.

the customers," he added.

"Texas is moving forward to meeting its goal of 400, so we

Circle K Fuel

are making some great progress inside that CST network,"

As part of its global rebranding initiative, the retailer

Hannasch noted.

introduced Top Tier Circle K fuel in April 2018, beginning in Florida, as Convenience Store News previously reported. The

The chief executive also reported that the trends in these

number of Circle K Fuel locations has grown from the first 20

newly rebranded stores are strong and lifting results across

to now nearly an additional 250 locations across North

the company's divisions.

America as of the third quarter.

"The key learning is: I should have done it a decade ago.

The expansion, according to Hannasch, is part of the

There are just a lot of wins in this space," Hannasch said. "I

company's journey "to provide an easier customer experience

will start with culture. That's what I have always said was our

both at the fuel forecourt and inside our stores."

secret sauce. Having one brand gives us a platform to communicate across 135,000 employees what we stand for, W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

In the third quarter, the company brought the Circle K Fuel MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

59

brand to its Heartland Business Unit at more than 120 new

covering all 10 provinces. In addition, through CrossAmerica

sites in Missouri and Illinois. In Europe, the conversion is

Partners LP, Couche-Tard supplies road transportation fuel

"basically completed" at Couche-Tard's former Statoil Fuel &

under various brands to approximately 1,300 locations in the

Retail ASA sites, all the former Topaz locations in Ireland, as

United States.

well its former Shell locations in Europe.

In Europe, Couche-Tard operates a broad retail network By the end of fiscal 2019, approximately 1,000 sites in the

across Scandinavia, Ireland, Poland, the Baltics and Russia

Midwest, Rocky Mountain, Southwest, Gulf Coast and

through 10 business units. As of Feb. 3, its European network

Ontario Business Units will get the fuel brand, according to

comprised 2,709 stores, the majority of which offer fuel and

Hannasch, adding that the company is more than halfway

convenience products, while the others are unmanned

toward that goal.

automated fuel stations that only offer road transportation fuel.

"Unifying the Circle K brand inside our stores and on our fuel islands is improving the customer experience and making our

In addition, under licensing agreements, more than 2,100

customers' lives just a little bit easier every day," the CEO

stores are operated under the Circle K banner in 14 other

remarked.

countries.

Alimentation Couche-Tard is based in Laval. As of Feb. 3, its network comprised 9,933 convenience stores throughout North America, including 8,662 stores with fuel. Its North American network consists of 19 business units, including 15 in the United States covering 48 states and four in Canada

60

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

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61

Dollarama watching prices as it looks to grow foot traffic The Canadian Press Dollarama Inc. is closely monitoring

“When you take a business from a

the end of the day, in bricks and

prices in its stores as it looks to boost

pure $1 store, and you evolve over

mortar, that’s the bread and butter.”

foot traffic and generate growth in an

the years to multi-price points, while

increasingly competitive retail

being very successful in doing so,

The attention on prices come as the

environment.

you’ll learn things,” he said.

retail sector is in a very competitive retail environment with rising operat-

The company is focusing its

The company is also constantly

ing costs, noted RBC Dominion

lower-priced items to generate that

assessing prices on merchandise,

Securities analyst Irene Nattel.

traffic after putting too much empha-

with item prices assessed at least

sis on higher priced items up to $4,

every three weeks during restocking,

She said the company delivered

said CEO Neil Rossy on a confer-

said Rossy.

“solid” results despite the challenges.

He said the rebalance of price levels

Canaccord Genuity analyst Derek

“I think you know quite honestly, that

and items would help drive sales

Dley, however, downgraded his rating

we did lose sight of it, on making sure

going forward.

on the company from buy to hold and

ence call.

we had all the traffic drivers needed to balance our higher price points.”

62

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

lowered his price target after the “We have to refocus on traffic

company released lower than

generating and unit sales, because at

expected growth expectations for W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

fiscal 2020.

The company said it expected same-store sales growth of 2.5% to 3.5% for the year, which is below its historical average same-stores sales growth target of 4% to 5%.

“In our view, the next few quarters are likely to represent a ‘show-me-story’ to many investors and as a result we are comfortable moving to the sidelines for the time being, as we await a more positive pricing environment and same-store sales acceleration.”

Sales for the fourth quarter totalled $1.06 billion, up from $938.1 million, while comparable store sales grew 2.6%.

Analysts on average had expected a profit of 55 cents per share and revenue of $1.07 billion, according to Thomson Reuters Eikon.

In its outlook for the coming year, Dollarama said it expected to add 60 to 70 new stores as part of its goal of having 1,700 stores by 2027.

The company also launched its online store in January, where it has about a thousand items for sale in bulk only.

Rossy said it would take some time for the online sales to have an overall impact, but that it would fill a customer need.

“Small businesses will find it more interesting to buy their stationary there, or what have you, and people having parties or conferences or whatever it is, will use it because it’s a practical way to get the best price.”

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

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63

Federal carbon tax could send N.B. motorists across borders for gas, expert says THE CANADIAN PRESS FREDERICTON—New Brunswick

Gas prices rose 4.42 cents per litre

gas prices jumped by more than four

plus HST. Diesel jumped 5.37 cents

cents a litre recently, with one expert

per litre, and home heating fuel

Carol Montreuil of the Canadian

predicting the federal carbon tax

jumped 5.37 cents per litre.

Fuels Association said the patchwork

could push motorists across the

Atlantic Canada.”

system of carbon pricing plans

province’s borders looking for

The New Brunswick government said

across the country is especially

cheaper gas.

P.E.I. is paying just a penny more per

pronounced in the Atlantic region

litre of gas in carbon tax, and it’s less

given the relatively low increases in

New Brunswick is among four

than half that in Newfoundland and

the provinces that neighbour New

provinces that refused to impose their

Labrador. Nova Scotia is also

Brunswick.

own emissions pricing, so Ottawa

estimated to face an extra penny per

imposed a tax.

litre.

New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs’

“This carbon tax is like a very bad

consumers over nearby provincial

Tory government argues the tax will

April Fool’s joke,” Jeff Carr, provincial

borders for cheaper fuel.

punish the many rural New Brunswick-

minister of environment, said in a

ers who can’t ditch their vehicles for

statement. “But unfortunately, the fact

“People are very, very sensitive to

public transit. (Michael Bell / THE

is that New Brunswickers are being

retail prices,” Montreuil said from

CANADIAN PRESS)

hit with the highest carbon gas tax in

Montreal.

Montreuil said rising costs in New Brunswick could potentially drive

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“To what extent will consumers drive

against the carbon levy.

be taking it very seriously.”

difference of four to five cents? No

Liberal MLA Andrew Harvey, a former

In a visit to the province, Prime

one knows, but it is an important

environment minister, said his party

Minister Justin Trudeau criticized

number,” he said.

encourages Higgs to negotiate with

Higgs’ Tories and other Conservative

the federal government rather than

provincial governments who “don’t

take the issue to court.

think that fighting climate change is a

long distances to take advantage of a

Truck drivers, he noted, could choose to fuel up in other provinces along their route.

priority.”

Residents of the four provinces will be getting rebates as well on their

“I regret that the government of New

Premier Blaine Higgs’ Tory govern-

income tax returns. The rebates start

Brunswick doesn’t think that putting a

ment argues the tax will punish the

at $128 annually, vary between

price on pollution is important,”

many rural New Brunswickers who

provinces and increase for people with

Trudeau said. “It’s the 21st century.

can’t ditch their vehicles for public

spouses or dependants at home.

We know climate change is real. We

transit.

know that one of the challenges we David Coon, leader of the provincial

have is that pollution has been free.

Carr said in an interview New

Greens, said the federal government

We need to put a price on it.”

Brunswick can fight climate change

has failed to properly educate

without raising taxes.

Canadians on climate change and

The federal government says the

said the carbon tax lacks an effective

carbon tax is a sensible way to protect

“This is a global issue and we’re not

outlet that would use the revenue to

the environment — put a price on

opposed to taking our precautions

help individuals reduce their carbon

activities that pollute to discourage

here in New Brunswick and doing

footprints.

emissions, and give back most or all

what we can and doing our part, but

of the money through income taxes.

we don’t need a tax to do that here,”

“This has been, botched, in my view,

Carr said.

provincially and federally,” said Coon.

The federal tax is $20 a tonne for this

“I don’t see much cause for optimism

year and is set to increase by $10

New Brunswick is an intervener in

with the two old parties in terms of

annually until it reaches $50 a tonne

legal challenges launched by

how they’re approaching the climate

in April 2022.

Saskatchewan and Ontario in its fight

emergency, neither of them seem to

W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

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65

New Canada Food Guide highlights lifestyle choices, nixes portion sizes The Canadian Press Canada’s new food guide does away

emphasizes that healthy eating is

“Dietary risks are one of the top three

with food groups and portion sizes,

more than the food you eat,” Hutchin-

leading risk factors for chronic

focusing instead on broader

son says.

disease burden in Canada, however

guidelines that include eating more

nutrition science is complex and often

plant-based protein and drinking

Canadians should eat vegetables,

results in conflicting messages. This

more water.

fruits, whole grains and should

is why Canadians need credible

choose plant-based proteins–such as

healthy-eating information to guide

The food-guide facelift unveiled today

legumes, nuts and tofu–more

their food choices,” Hutchinson says.

reflects a new approach by Health

regularly, the guide says.

“These are the reasons for which it

Canada aimed at promoting healthier

was necessary to revise Canada’s

eating and lifestyle choices, rather

It also stresses that Canadians

than emphasizing serving sizes and

should make water their beverage of

specific foods.

choice as a way to stay hydrated

In eliminating specific food and

without consuming calories.

portion recommendations, the guide

Hasan Hutchinson, director-general

Food Guide.”

no longer lists milk and dairy

of nutritional policy and promotion at

Updated recommendations also

products as a distinct food group.

Health Canada, says an online,

highlight foods that undermine

Hutchinson says the intent was not to

mobile-friendly suite of resources has

healthy eating and lead to higher risk

eliminate dairy from the guide and

been developed to meet the needs of

of chronic disease. Processed and

points to examples where low-fat,

different users including the public,

prepared foods that are high in sugar,

low-sodium and unsweetened dairy

policy makers and health profession-

salt and saturated fat should not be

products are listed within other

als.

consumed regularly, the new guide

recommended food categories,

says, with a special emphasis on the

including suggested healthy proteins

risks associated with alcohol.

and beverages.

“The guide continues to provide advice on what to eat, but now it also

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Early indications the guide would promote eating more plant-based protein sparked concern among dairy and beef farmers, who are worried about the long-term impacts the change in messaging could have on their livelihoods.

In a statement, the national policy and lobby organization representing Canada’s dairy farmers warned the decision could have a detrimental impact on future generations and harm a sector that continues to be “negatively impacted by the concessions granted in recent trade agreements.”

The new Food Guide was developed with input from science and health experts and excluded the input of industry to avoid past concerns about political interference.

“We really needed to keep that distance for any perceived or real conflict of interest,” Hutchinson said. “We felt very strongly about that because in the 2007 Food Guide there was a fair amount of criticism about the influence of industry and we think, to make sure we keep the confidence of Canadians and health professionals and other stakeholders, it was necessary to stay quite strict on that.”

New messages are also included in the new guide that promote healthy behaviours involving food, such as reminding people to be mindful while eating and to eat meals with others.

The document released is only part of Health Canada’s new healthy-eating recommendations. A report directed at health professionals and policymakers is to be released later this year, which will include more details on amounts and types of foods for hospitals, schools and seniors’ facilities to use to create menus or diets in clinical or institutional settings.

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67

Low-Calorie Ice Cream Craze Hits Canada

Low-calorie ice cream brands are banking on Canadians' appetite for healthier sweet treat options

THE CANADIAN PRESS

An influx of low-calorie, low-sugar ice cream hit Canadian

trend,” said marketing director and co-founder Benjamin

grocery store shelves last year in bright packages that put the

Outmezguine.

calorie count front and centre as producers try a new strategy for the beloved guilty pleasure.

There’s an overall decline in the Canadian ice cream market.

Revenue for the production industry fell at an annualized rate

While the ice cream industry may be declining in this country,

of 0.1% between 2013 and 2018, according to estimates from

experts and industry insiders believe companies serving less

a report by IBISWorld, a market-research firm. It anticipates

sinful scoops may have found a niche product that appeals to

0.1% growth between 2018 and 2023.

health-conscious consumers Low-sugar treats “absolutely” present an opportunity, said In March, the first pints from Los Angeles-based Halo Top

Joel Gregoire, an analyst with market research firm Mintel.

Creamery went on sale in Canada. The company brought only half of the 24 dairy flavours it sells in the U.S., including

Creating an ice cream that is a bit more permissible to eat

birthday cake, and pancakes and waffles. A few months later

any time during the day, not just in the evening when tired

it introduced four of its 14 American dairy-free pints. In

adults look for a reward from a tough day, can be a way to

September, it added a limited edition pumpkin pie–the

drive sales, he said.

company’s first seasonal flavour in Canada.

The products’ health claims can also alleviate people’s guilt “With the demand that we had and the proximity, we thought it

about consuming snacks, he said, pointing to CoolWay’s 28

made a lot of sense to start in Canada as we look to expand

grams of protein per pint.

internationally,” said president Doug Bouton, adding a Canadian expansion was the no. 1 consumer demand.

People are also increasingly looking for healthier options.

Seventeen percent of Canadians find low or reduced calories

Also in March, Montreal-based CoolWay started selling its

an important factor when choosing ice cream and 23% want

rebranded low-calorie ice cream in grocery stores. The

to try one high in protein, according to findings from an online

company, previously named CoolWhey, sold high-protein ice

survey in the company’s 2016 report on the country’s ice

cream in gyms and supplement stores before realizing more

cream and frozen novelties market.

opportunity lay outside the gym rat niche. It created a recipe and plastered the calorie content on its bright blue pints. The

“If you were to capture 17% or 23% of a market, you’d be

eight flavours range between 280 calories at the lowest for

doing pretty well for most companies,” said Gregoire.

vanilla bean and 390 at the highest for the seasonal special gingerbread cookie.

He compares the niche to plant-based food offerings. The number of consumers interested in alternative protein may

“It didn’t make sense to be in grocery stores for just a few

appear low, but big companies are watching the space as an

people who really look for protein. So, in order to capitalize on

emerging opportunity.

a bigger market, our only option was to go after the calorie

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Ice cream for the health-conscious crowd is not necessarily

pint–all with more than 20 grams of protein.

new. Skinny Cow, for example, has been selling low-calorie ice cream in various forms since the ’90s.

Both Halo Top and CoolWay see room for expansion in Canada and beyond.

But those products were targeted more as a diet ice cream for women, he said. The company’s logo once featured a

Halo Top’s Bouton wants to get the pints into even more

cartoon cow in a seductive position with a tape measure

grocery stores, as well as other channels, like convenience

loosely wrapped around its trim waist.

stores.

What makes companies like Halo Top and Cool Way stand

The company runs three scoop shops in Los Angeles, and

out is their focus on quality ingredients and indulgent flavours,

depending on their success is open to testing the model in

while still managing to limit calorie and sugar intake, said

Canada.

Gregoire.

CoolWay’s founders, meanwhile, also have plans for retail “The one thing that I think ice cream makers will never be

stores, said Outmezguine, as well as overseas expansion

able to sell is that this is purely a health food,” he said. “If you

and new flavours.

want to eat healthy, you’re probably going to look for kale or other foods.”

“We have a lot of plans and we want to expand much more and we want to make CoolWay into a much bigger thing.”

Even big, international brands are entering the space. Nestlé recently launched its Goodnorth brand which is available in four flavours ranging between 360 and 380 calories per W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE JUNE / JULY 2019

69

Good Morning, Sunshine

(Healthy, flavourful and convenient breakfast foods serve up opportunities for grocers)

CAROLYN COOPER

Not everyone considers breakfast to be the most important

Canadians are driving this interest in all-day breakfast: Ipsos

meal of the day. But ask anyone to name their favourite

notes millennials are the demographic most often choosing

comfort foods, and breakfast items are likely on the list. After

traditional breakfast foods like toast, bacon and eggs as a

all, traditional breakfast choices such as oatmeal, bacon and

cheap and cheerful, family-friendly dinner.

eggs, or pancakes with maple syrup are filling and comforting, while new favourites like egg wraps make for the perfect

Not surprisingly, bacon and eggs top Nielsen’s list of growing

portable meal. As eating occasions for breakfast items

breakfast staples. According to Neilsen MarketTrack, dollar

continue to grow, grocers can make the most of the breakfast

sales of both proteins jumped 5% in the 52 weeks ending

food sales by meeting consumer demand for healthy, flavour-

Mar. 31, 2018, followed by increases in fruit and hot cereals

ful and convenient alternatives.

(4%), breakfast/cereal bars (3%), frozen breakfasts (2%), and packaged sausages (1%). Meanwhile, sales of packaged

In the May 2018 Insights article “Canadians Favour Healthy

bread fell 2%, and both yogurt and pancake and waffle mix

Breakfasts,” Nielsen discovered that although only 18% of

fell 1%.

consumers skip breakfast, 65% are “finding it challenging to eat right.” And the firm’s Panelviews survey of almost 6,000

Manufacturers are taking note and developing a variety of

Canadians revealed consumers want breakfast foods that

convenient, protein-packed breakfast foods. Burnbrae Farms’

are: flavourful (53%); filling (52%); high in protein (50%); high

new Egg Bakes! Egg Patties and Egg White Patties, for

in fibre (47%); low in sugar (40%); made with whole grains

instance, make for easy microwaved breakfast sandwiches in

(33%); low in sodium (31%); low in fat (28%); made with

just 75 seconds, offering six grams of protein per patty. And

healthy fats like avocado, coconut, nuts or seeds (26%); and

the Lyn, Ont.- based company’s new Egg Bakes! Crustless

can be eaten any time of day, such as pancakes or eggs

Quiche provides between nine and 13-grams of protein per

(22%). At the same time, Nielsen says 54% of Canadians

quiche, available in five flavours including Cheddar,

spend just “ five minutes or less on breakfast preparation,”

Mushroom and Bacon, as well as Spinach, Ricotta and

meaning they’re more likely to look for grab-and-go items

Carmelized Onion.

such as fruit and cereal bars.

Mann Packing Company also recently expanded its popular “Consumers are looking for satiating breakfast options that

Nourish Bowls line to include Nourish Bowls Breakfast. The

include protein and fibre,” agrees packaged foods specialist

new packs allow consumers to create a home-cooked

Birgit Blain, principal at Toronto’s Birgit Blain & Associates.

breakfast in just four minutes by combining eggs with the mix

“Convenience— speed and ease of preparation—is a main

of pre-cut vegetables and toppings inspired by global

driver, together with taste, value, portability, nutrition and food

flavours.

sensitivities and allergies.”

“The breakfast items consumers most identify as healthy As the boundaries between meal occasions continue to

include fruits, vegetables, milk, oatmeal, eggs and yogurt,”

blend, breakfast items are also coming out on top as a

says Loree Dowse, director of creative marketing for Mann

favourite for lunch, dinner and all-day snacking. Ipsos

Packing, who notes that the new bowls are low-calorie and

Marketing found that 42% of eating occasions for breakfast

high-protein. They’re available in two varieties: Denver

foods are now consumed at other times of the day. Younger

Scramble (kale, sweet potato, cauliflower and broccoli, with a

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W W W. M B E F O RYOU. C O M

bell pepper sauce with diced ham and onion and a cheddar

dise and cross-promote fresh and dry grocery pairings.”

cheese topping), and Fiesta Scramble (kale, cauliflower, kohlrabi and butternut squash, with a pico de gallo salsa with

The Big Carrot offers a juice bar to catch busy morning

chicken chorizo and a Mexican cheese blend topping).

shoppers, which Dobec says is “busy in the morning making hearty smoothies,” and its Beach location offers its own

At The Big Carrot Community Market in Toronto, marketing

grab-and-go breakfast wraps “often paired with an organic,

manager Sarah Dobec says when it comes to breakfast, “our

fair trade, bird-friendly coffee.” Breakfast items “are in a

customer base is motivated by healthy choices, so we see an

beautiful display so that customers can easily add to their

interest in fresh, organic ingredients.” As for traditional

order,” says Dobec. “Our customers are on the go, so we are

proteins such as eggs and bacon, she says, “we have seen

targeting the busy but healthy commuter.”

an increased interest in organic options as well as meat raised humanely.”

Health Addict does both in-store demonstrations and sampling, something that helps shoppers connect with innovative products that are redefining the breakfast category.

Nielsen also recommends boosting sales of breakfast items by “communicating health characteristics to consumers via shelf talkers or point-of-purchase material about desirable attributes like high in protein and fibre.”

To “lure shoppers away from visiting quick-service restaurants for their daily breakfast,” Blain suggests that grocers “promote the wide variety of options to ‘start your day’ in all depart-

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