CIGBA/CFIG Charity Golf Classic 2026

June 3, 2026 | Royal Woodbine Golf Club, Etobicoke, ON

The 2026 CIGBA/CFIG Charity Golf Classic welcomed members and partners for another successful day of networking, camaraderie, and charitable giving. Bringing together participants from across the grocery industry, the tournament combined friendly competition with opportunities to connect both on and off the course. Golfers enjoyed product sampling stations, on-course contests, raffle prizes, and a silent auction, all while supporting an important cause. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and participants, the event raised $15,000 in support of Food Banks Canada, continuing CIGBA's longstanding commitment to giving back to communities across the country.

CIGBA/DCI Star Awards 2026

June 2, 2026 | Pearson Convention Centre, Mississauga, ON

The 2026 Star Awards Gala celebrated the outstanding achievements of DCI and CIGBA members and partners, recognizing excellence and leadership across Canada's independent grocery industry. The event brought together retailers, supplier partners, and industry professionals for an evening dedicated to honouring those who continue to drive innovation, growth, and success within the independent channel. Awards were presented across a variety of categories, celebrating exceptional contributions by retailers, partners, and industry leaders. The Gala continues to serve as a highlight of the annual conference, recognizing the individuals and organizations whose dedication strengthens the independent grocery community.

DCI Business Summit 2026

June 2, 2026 | Pearson Convention Centre, Mississauga, ON

The 2026 Business Summit, hosted by CIGBA/DCI, brought together independent grocers and supplier partners from across Canada for a day of networking, collaboration, and industry engagement. The Summit served as a valuable platform for members to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities within the evolving grocery landscape.

Throughout the event, attendees participated in DBX business meetings, explored new products and innovations during the Product Showcase, and gained valuable insights through industry presentations and a member panel discussion. The Summit also featured a Cocktail Mix & Mingle, providing additional opportunities for networking and collaboration among industry peers.

SIAL Canada 2026

April 29 - May 1, 2026 | Montreal, QC

DCI attended SIAL Canada, hosted in Montreal this year, a leading international trade show for the agri-food industry. With more than 1,000 exhibitors and thousands of industry professionals from around the world, the event serves as a key platform for innovation, networking, and global food trends. The DCI team was pleased to engage with partners, discover emerging products, and continue building connections across the industry.

GSF West 2026

April 21 – 22, 2026 | Vancouver, BC

Distribution Canada Inc. (DCI) recently attended Grocery & Specialty Food West in Vancouver, one of Western Canada’s premier trade shows for the grocery and specialty food industry. The event brings together retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the country to explore new products, share insights, and strengthen industry partnerships. DCI was proud to connect with partners and industry leaders while exploring the latest innovations shaping the future of grocery.

NGA Show 2026

February 1 – 3, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV

Hosted by the National Grocers Association (NGA), NGA Show 2026 took place at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas, bringing together independent grocery retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and suppliers from across North America. Recognized as the premier event for the independent grocery industry, the show focused on innovation, operational strategies, and building strong industry relationships.

The event featured educational sessions and workshops designed to deliver actionable insights across all areas of the business, along with extensive networking opportunities and special events. Attendees also explored more than 350 exhibits showcasing new products, technologies, and solutions spanning fresh, CPG, dairy, and retail technology—helping independent grocers stay competitive and better serve their communities.

DCI Celebrates 45 Years of Supporting Independent Grocers

2026 | Burlington, ON

In 2026, Distribution Canada Inc. (DCI) celebrates 45 years of supporting Canada’s independent grocery sector, recognizing a legacy that began in 1981. Over four decades, DCI has grown into one of the country’s leading buying and marketing organizations, representing more than 100 independent grocers and supplier partners nationwide while remaining firmly rooted in collaboration and independence.

As the grocery industry continues to evolve amid rising costs, consolidation, and changing consumer expectations, DCI has remained focused on delivering value through collective buying power, trusted partnerships, and access to resources that help independents compete at scale—without sacrificing autonomy. Recent years have reflected this relevance, with DCI experiencing its strongest period of growth and continued expansion of its national membership.

Looking ahead, DCI’s focus remains on growth, technology, and connectivity, guided by a strategic plan designed to meet today’s grocery realities. As DCI celebrates 45 years, the organization continues to demonstrate that independent grocers are stronger together, and that collaboration remains key to long-term success in a changing marketplace.

Grocery Innovations Canada (GIC) 2025

October 28 – 29, 2025 | Toronto, ON

Hosted by the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG), GIC 2025 was held at the Toronto Congress Centre. The event served as a key platform for Canada’s grocery industry, featuring new product showcases, service solutions, and networking opportunities for retailers, manufacturers, and industry partners. The event provided valuable networking opportunities and insights into trends influencing the Canadian grocery landscape.

Groceryshop 2025

September 28 – October 1, 2025 | Las Vegas, NV

Groceryshop 2025, hosted by Shoptalk, took place at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The event brought together senior leaders from grocery, CPG, and technology sectors to explore digital transformation, e-commerce, data, and the evolving consumer experience shaping the future of grocery retail. The event emphasized innovation, data-driven strategies, and collaboration shaping the next era of grocery retail.

Star Women in Grocery Awards 2025

September 25, 2025 | Mississauga, ON

The Star Women in Grocery Awards 2025, hosted by Canadian Grocer, took place on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at The International Centre in Mississauga. The event celebrated the achievements and leadership of women across the grocery industry. DCI was proud to attend, joining industry peers in recognizing outstanding contributions and supporting the continued advancement of women in grocery.

CIGBA Charity Golf Classic 2025

June 4, 2025 | Royal Woodbine Golf Club, Etobicoke, ON

The DCI Charity Golf Classic 2025, hosted by CIGBA/CFIG/DCI, took place at the Royal Woodbine Golf Club, located at 195 Galaxy Blvd., Etobicoke, ON. The annual event welcomed retailers, suppliers, and industry partners for a full day of golf, networking, and community engagement in a relaxed and collaborative setting.
The Charity Golf Classic continues to be a signature DCI event, combining friendly competition with opportunities to strengthen professional relationships while supporting charitable initiatives. The event remains a highly anticipated gathering within the grocery community and reflects DCI’s ongoing commitment to connection and giving back.

https://cigba.ca/golf-25-recap

DCI Star Awards 2025

June 3, 2025 | Pearson Convention Centre, Mississauga, ON

The DCI Star Awards 2025, hosted by CIGBA/DCI, were presented during the evening gala of the DCI Business Summit at the Pearson Convention Centre. The awards program celebrated excellence, leadership, and innovation across Canada’s independent grocery sector, recognizing retailers, partners, and initiatives that have made a meaningful impact on the industry.
The Star Awards evening served as a highlight of the Summit, bringing the grocery community together to honour outstanding achievements and contributions. The celebration underscored DCI’s commitment to recognizing industry excellence and inspiring continued growth and innovation.

DCI Business Summit 2025

June 3, 2025 | Pearson Convention Centre, Mississauga, ON

The DCI Business Summit 2025, hosted by CIGBA/DCI, was held at the Pearson Convention Centre and brought together leaders from across Canada’s independent grocery industry. The Summit served as a premier forum for retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and service providers to connect, collaborate, and exchange insights on the evolving grocery landscape.
Over the course of the event, attendees participated in a comprehensive program featuring keynote presentations, panel discussions, and educational sessions focused on innovation, leadership, operational excellence, and future-forward strategies. In addition to thought leadership, the Summit offered valuable networking opportunities, reinforcing partnerships and fostering meaningful industry relationships.

SIAL Canada 2025

April 29 – May 1, 2025 | Enercare Centre, Toronto, ON

Hosted by SIAL Canada (Comexposium), SIAL Canada 2025 was held at the Enercare Centre in Toronto. The international food and grocery trade show highlighted global innovation, emerging consumer trends, and new product development, welcoming exhibitors and buyers from Canada and around the world. The show featured new product launches, international pavilions, and thought leadership sessions focused on the future of food and grocery.

GSF West 2025

April 14 – 15, 2025 | Vancouver, BC

Grocery & Specialty Food West 2025, hosted by the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG), was held at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The event showcased the strength and innovation of Western Canada’s grocery industry. Retailers, suppliers, and service providers gathered in Vancouver to connect, share insights, and explore new products and solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the regional market.

https://gsfshow.com/numbers/2025/

NGA Show 2025

February 23 – 25, 2025 | Las Vegas, NV

Hosted by the National Grocers Association (NGA), NGA Show 2025 took place at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas and brought together independent grocers, wholesalers, and industry partners from across North America to explore emerging trends, new technologies, and strategies supporting the future of independent retail. The event featured educational programming, networking opportunities, and a large trade show floor focused on innovation, technology, and the future of independent grocery retail.

CONGRATULATIONS to Star Women in Grocery 2024 Winners!

The awards night was hosted by emcee and host, Mike Kerr.

On September 26, DCI team attended the 2024 Star Women in Grocery Awards at The International Centre in Toronto, where around 700 industry leaders celebrated 60 exceptional women in the grocery sector. The event featured an inspiring keynote by Sandra Sanderson of Empire Company Limited and a panel discussion led by Canadian Grocer's Shellee Fitzgerald, highlighting insights from current winners on leadership and career development.

Since 2012, Canadian Grocer has recognized women who are transforming the grocery industry through their expertise and innovation, underscoring the vital role they play in shaping the future of food retail.

Visit the official Site for full coverage

CIGBA/DCI Announces New Board of Directors for 2024

The Canadian Independent Grocery Buyers Alliance (CIGBA) and Distribution Canada Inc. (DCI) have announced their 2024 board of directors.

CIGBA executive board members/DCI board of directors include:

Gordon Dean of Mike Dean Local Grocer (Ontario), chair of the board;
Mike Sharpe of Sharpe’s Food Market (Ontario), vice-chair;
Adam Powell of Powell’s Supermarket (AGD; Newfoundland and Labrador), treasurer;
Nigel Oliver of Vince’s Market (Ontario), past chair of the board.

Additional CIGBA board members include:

Gabriele Torchetti of Lady York Foods (Ontario), director of the board
Tarik Zeid of Food Fare (Manitoba), director of the board
Matthew Rogge of Summerhill Market (Ontario), director of the board
Rima Rabba of Rabba Fine Foods (Ontario), director of the board
Ofure Osifo of Supermache Idia (Quebec), director of the board.

If you have any questions, please contact the CIGBA/DCI office.

Recipients Announced for the 2024 CIGBA/DCI Star Awards

The awards night was hosted by emcee and host, Mike Kerr.

The 2024 CIGBA/DCI Star Awards were announced during the June 4th, 2024 Business Summit!
Please join us in congratulating the 2024 recipients!

Partner of the Year – Diamond Packaging Supplies Ltd., accepted by Jacob Edwin

Retailer of the Year – Sharpe’s Food Market accepted by Mike Sharpe

Social Responsibility – Fiesta Farms accepted by Keven Umana and Joe Furfaro

Innovation – Chapman’s Ice Cream with its Super Premium Plus Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream accepted by Bob Brema of William M. Dunne and Associates

Leader of the Year – Kacee Kudrinko of Kudrinko’s 

Lifetime Achievement – awarded Posthumously to Ingrid Willemsen of SUNRIPE Freshmarket, accepted by husband Will Wilemsen, her son Ryall, and her son in law, Joe Grosso.

Globe POS Systems Inc. Joins the CIGBA/DCI Business Summit as WiFi Sponsor!

Globe POS Systems Inc. has officially joined the CIGBA/DCI 2024 events and will be present for the June 4th, 2024 CIGBA/DCI Business Summit! We would like to thank them for their continuous support to our events and our Members!

As well, Globe POS Systems Inc. secured event sponsorship for the Business Summit and will present the WiFi.

If you would like to get into contact with Globe POS Systems Inc., the CIGBA/DCI office would be more than happy to facilitate a connection. Please contact us.

About Globe POS Systems Inc: Globe POS Systems has been providing system solutions since 1970. Our goal is to exceed expectations by offering outstanding products and services. We offer many easy-to-use, easy-to-manage Point of Sale systems, Scales, Printers and more with an extensive array of administrative tools enabling you to effectively manage your product, your customer and your cash flow.

Globe POS is an RSPA Certified Reseller which makes us your obvious choice for guiding you in every aspect of your business that impacts the function of your POS system. We are also very pleased to announce that we are a PCI Qualified Organization who is licensed to assess and validate merchant’s compliance to successfully implement PCI standards and solutions.

At Globe POS, our team members are distinguished by functional and technical expertise combined with hands-on experience, thereby ensuring that our customers receive the most effective and professional service.

Our commitment to you is to deliver quality solutions that will provide your business with a competitive edge and help it grow.

View website for Globe POS Systems Inc here.

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Not yet registered for CIGBA/DCI Events 2024?
Register for the Business Summit here.
Register for the Charity Golf Classic here.