Regina, Saskatchewan, May 5, 2025 – Canada’s food and beverage manufacturers face a year of uncertainty, with opportunities tempered by economic challenges, trade disruptions and shifting consumer habits, according to the latest FCC Food and Beverage Report.

FCC Economics forecasts a modest 0.6 per cent increase in food and beverage sales to $168.8 billion in 2025, but a 1.5 per cent decline in sales volume, reflecting ongoing adjustments to beverage manufacturing. Profit margins are expected to improve slightly, though they will remain below pre-2019 levels, with variation across sub-sectors.

“The food and beverage industry faces ongoing pressures from economic challenges and trade disruptions,” said Amanda Norris, senior economist at FCC. “While sales growth is projected to increase slightly, manufacturers will need to carefully navigate rising costs and shifting consumer habits to maintain profitability.”

For 2025, FCC Economics forecasts a further decline in beverage sales of -2.5 per cent and -2.6 per cent in volumes. The anticipated decline is driven by a continued shift away from alcoholic beverages, particularly beer, and a slight slowdown in non-alcoholic beverage sales after four years of strong growth.

While inflation has eased and labour market pressures have relaxed, consumer spending remains uncertain. Per capita consumption of food and non-alcoholic beverages declined for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, down 1.0 per cent from 2023 and 8.0 per cent since 2021, as household budgets remained tight. However, food and non-alcoholic beverages showed signs of recovery near the end of 2024, while alcohol consumption continued to weaken.

“Consumer behavior is shifting, with a growing emphasis on value and products that align with individual preferences,” said Norris. “In this environment, manufacturers who adapt to changing trends and focus on meeting diverse consumer needs will be better positioned to build brand loyalty and strengthen sales.”

Another strong year for dairy product manufacturing sales is expected for 2025. FCC Economics forecasts an 8.3 per cent increase in sales and a 6.0 per cent increase in volumes. Gross margins in the sector are expected to improve in 2025, to the highest level over the past two years, with support from higher sales and declining raw material costs.

Strong price growth has driven double-digit sales increases in the sugar and confectionery sector since 2021, and 2025 is expected to bring another 10 per cent increase in sales, with volumes rising by 6.7 per cent. While higher revenues helped offset rising expenses in 2024, margins remain under pressure from high cocoa prices and potential trade disruptions. With over 90 per cent of confectionery sales tied to exports, particularly to the U.S., the sector faces risks from shifting trade policies, though steady growth in non-U.S. markets suggests diversification opportunities.

In addition, Canada’s aging labour pool will continue to exert pressure on wages, this impact will be less pronounced than in previous years, with the decline in raw material costs helping to offset total expense.

“The food and beverage sector is at a crossroad, with both risks and opportunities ahead. Manufacturers must focus on innovation, strategic market diversification and cost management to stay competitive,” Norris noted.

The annual FCC Food and Beverage Report features insights and analysis on grain and oilseed milling; dairy, meat, sugar and confectionery, bakery and tortilla products; seafood preparation; and fruit, vegetable and specialty foods, as well as soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.

By sharing economic knowledge and forecasts, FCC provides insights and expertise to help those in the business of agriculture and food achieve their goals. For more economic insights and analysis, visit FCC Economics at fcc.ca/Economics.

April 19, 2025, Las Vegas, NV - NCC Automated Systems, a Pennsylvania-based conveyor manufacturer, is proud to announce its integration into the Paxiom Group of packaging automation companies. This strategic move brings together two industry leaders under the ATS umbrella, further solidifying our commitment to delivering the highest quality machines, exceptional customer care, and continuous investment in the future.

As part of the Paxiom Group, NCC Automated Systems will leverage its expertise in conveyor manufacturing to complement Paxiom's extensive range of automated packaging solutions. Together, we will offer a comprehensive suite of products designed to meet the diverse needs of our customers, from primary packaging to end-of-line automation.

We invite our customers to visit our Las Vegas Xperience Centers, where they can see our wide range of solutions in person, test their products, receive hands-on training, and receive consultation to ensure they find the right solution for their growing business. Our commitment to customer care extends beyond the sale, with dedicated support teams and personalized service to ensure the most positive experience.

Together, NCC Automated Systems and Paxiom Group are poised to lead the industry in packaging automation, delivering innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction. We look forward to continuing our journey of growth and excellence under ATS.

ROSEMONT, IL, April 30, 2025 — Anticipation is building for the 2025 , taking place May 12–15 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. There’s still time to register and join food safety professionals from every sector of the supply chain—including production, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and retail foodservice—for this premier industry event. Attendees can expect unmatched networking opportunities, hands-on learning, and direct access to some of the most influential thought leaders in food safety today. Below is a preview of eight key sessions among the Summit’s 27 expert-led presentations. These timely and technical discussions will be available in person and via livestream, with on-demand access following the event. All times are Central Time (CT).

1. Traceability Next Steps—Supply Chain Implementation (Tues, 5/13 – 8:30 – 11:30 am CT)

This in-depth workshop will guide attendees through the practical “how-to” of implementing and sustaining traceability across the food supply chain. Topics include plan development, cross-sector insights, supply chain implementation strategies, and updates on the regulatory timelines.

Moderators: Tim Jackson, Ph.D. (FDA); Kathleen O'Donnell (Wegmans)

Panelists Include: Christopher Waldrop (FDA); Michael Lookup (Wegmans); Patrick Guzzle (National Restaurant Association); Natasha Bangel-Askren (Taylor Farms); Hilary Thesmar, Ph.D. (FMI); Roberta Wagner (International Dairy Foods Association); Rosalind Zils (Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition); Mike Williams (The Wendy’s Company); Richard Ryan and Amy Behm (GS1)

Sponsored by: SafetyChain. .

2. Effective Sanitation Basics (Tues, 5/13 – 3:00 – 5:00 pm CT)

Sanitation is fundamental to food safety. This session will walk participants through the basics of effective sanitation practices, routine and non-routine cleaning protocols, monitoring systems, data stream utilization, and root cause analysis.

Speakers: Sharon Birkett, James Davis (OSI Group); Scott Oakland (Hormel); Eric Ewert (Kraft Heinz)

Sponsored by: Meritech.

3. Finished Product Testing Isn’t the Answer (Wed, 5/14 – 8:00 – 9:00 am CT)

Explore the limitations of finished product testing and learn why a proactive, systems-based approach is more effective. The session will cover environmental monitoring, microbial analysis, and strategies for setting practical specifications and engaging customers in meaningful safety conversations.

Speakers: Sharon Beals (SKKB); Peter Taormina, Ph.D. (Etna Consulting Group); Donna F. Schaffner (Food Safety and Training Consultant); Jennifer Williams, M.S. (JW Consulting LLC)

Sponsored by: LABPLAS

4. Leveraging AI for a Safer Today and Tomorrow (Wed, 5/14 – 2:45 – 4:15 pm CT)

Discover how artificial intelligence is already improving food safety—from farms to retail shelves. Learn how AI supports data-informed decisions, enhances FSMS programs, and contributes to safer produce and operational risk assessment.

Speakers: Steven A. Lyon, Ph.D.; Purni Wickramasinghe, Ph.D. (Chick-fil-A); Drew McDonald (Taylor Farms)

Sponsored by: Trustwell

5. Recall Modernization Initiatives with the Consumer in Mind (Wed, 5/14 – 2:45 – 4:15 pm CT)

This session examines how industry and regulatory leaders are accelerating the modernization of FDA’s recall system to better protect consumers.

Panelists: Darin Detwiler, Ph.D., LP.D., M.A.Ed. (Detwiler Consulting Group LLC); Donald A. Prater, D.V.M. (FDA); Hilary Thesmar, Ph.D. (FMI); Amy Philpott (Philpott PR Solutions LLC)

Sponsored by: Vector Solutions. .

6. Proven Practices for Allergen Management (Wed, 5/14 – 4:15 – 5:30 pm CT)

Learn practical, proven strategies for allergen control—covering raw material sourcing, cleaning validation, and labeling best practices to ensure product safety.

Panelists: Monica Khoury (Nestlé), Phil Johnson, Ph.D. (FARRP); Scott Hegenbart (Conagra)

Sponsored by: Hardy Diagnostics

7. Alarm Fatigue: Ensuring Food Safety Through Smart Alerts (Thurs 5/15 – 8:00 – 9:00 am CT)

This session addresses the risks of alarm fatigue in temperature monitoring systems and how to ensure alarms support—not hinder—food safety. Topics include optimal threshold settings, response protocols, and integrating technology with human oversight.

Speakers: Ben Chapman, Ph.D. (NC State); Robert Prevendar (Yum! Brands); Matt Jenkins (McDonald’s)

Sponsored by: Testo.

8. Town Hall: A Candid Dialogue on the Future of Food Safety (Thurs, 5/15 –9:15- 10:30 am CT)

Join senior leaders from FDA, USDA FSIS, AFDO, and CDC (invited) in a dynamic discussion on regulatory updates, innovation, and key challenges facing the future of food safety.

Moderator: Gillian Kelleher (Kelleher Consultants)

Panelists: Kyle Diamantas (FDA); Denise Eblen, Ph.D. (USDA-FSIS); Steven Mandernach (AFDO); Megin Nichols, D.V.M. (CDC, invited)

Sponsored by: MilliporeSigma

The Food Safety Summit is a comprehensive, solutions-focused event for the entire food industry. Join in person or via livestream to stay ahead of emerging risks, connect with peers and experts, and bring actionable insights back to your organization. Register for the in-person event and live streaming session at: .

Conference passes include access to half-day workshops, 27 in-depth sessions, the Keynote and Town Hall, networking receptions, lunch in the Exhibit Hall, over 200 solution providers, Solutions Stage and Tech Tent education, and NEHA continuing education credits.

The Food Safety Summit is owned and produced by Food Safety Magazine () and BNP Media (), a leading B2B media company serving professionals across more than 60 industries.

OTTAWA, ON, April 29, 2025 /CNW/ - Food Producers of Canada (FPC) extends its congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney, Agriculture, Agri-Food and Rural Economic Development Minister Kody Blois, and the entire Liberal Party of Canada on their election victory.

"Food Producers of Canada (FPC) recognizes the determination of the Canadian business community and our industry partners who worked tirelessly to ensure our voices remained strong during the electoral process, and our vision was fixed to the long term. We are eager to engage with government at all levels to realize the growth opportunities we have outlined in the form of new investment, improved interprovincial trade, regulatory reform, and tax relief" says Denise Allen, FPC's President & CEO. FPC's Chairman, Mr. Irv Teper, added his congratulations to the Liberal Party on their successful campaign and thanked its leadership for its focus on the agri-food sector as a key contributor to Canada's economy.

Allen continued, "We embrace the future with greater clarity having aligned the broader industry on our shared priorities which include expansion of our domestic economy through interprovincial trade while forging new and beneficial trade relationships throughout the free world. We will re-establish our path to prosperity and face our external threats, united, and as a sovereign nation. Canada's agri-food industry holds the potential to greatly enhance our food sovereignty and national security through food-based manufacturing jobs while we reach new markets with the commitment of Canadian quality and value in food production".

FPC looks forward to meeting with government officials, and Parliamentarians to begin advancing key priorities with the urgency needed to support Canadian leaders of food-based businesses through significant global trade uncertainty and the impacts of US tariffs.