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Canada’s Grocery Code of Conduct: What Shoppers Should Expect in 2026

Starting in 2026, Canada will officially implement its Grocery Code of Conduct , a landmark agreement designed to reshape the relationship between grocery retailers and their suppliers. While this initiative has been years in the making, many Canadians are wondering what it will mean for their weekly shopping trips. What Is the Grocery Code of Conduct? The code is essentially a set of rules agreed upon by major grocery retailers and suppliers . Its purpose is to ensure fairness, transparency, and predictability in the food supply chain. By establishing clear guidelines, the code aims to reduce disputes, foster collaboration, and strengthen Canada’s food system. Will Prices Go Down? One of the biggest questions for consumers is whether this code will lead to lower grocery bills. Experts caution against expecting dramatic price drops. Instead, the changes will likely be “invisible” to shoppers , focusing more on how retailers and suppliers interact behind the scenes. That said, by r...

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St. Patrick’s Day: History, Celebrations, and Fun Facts


 St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17, holds a rich history that intertwines religion, culture, and legend. Let’s delve into the fascinating origins of this festive day:

  1. Who Was St. Patrick?

    • Saint Patrick, born in Roman Britain during the fifth century, is the patron saint of Ireland and its national apostle.
    • At the age of 16, he was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave. After escaping, he returned to Ireland and is credited with bringing Christianity to its people.
    • One of the most well-known legends associated with St. Patrick is that he used the three leaves of a native Irish clover, the shamrock, to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
  2. Early Observance in Ireland:

    • For over 1,000 years, the Irish have observed St. Patrick’s Day as a religious holiday.
    • During the Christian season of Lent, Irish families traditionally attended church in the morning and celebrated in the afternoon.
    • Lenten prohibitions against meat consumption were waived, allowing people to dance, drink, and feast on the traditional meal of Irish bacon and cabbage.
  3. First St. Patrick’s Day Parade:

    • Surprisingly, the first St. Patrick’s Day parade did not take place in Ireland but in America.
    • Records show that a parade was held on March 17, 1601, in a Spanish colony in what is now St. Augustine, Florida.
    • Homesick Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched in New York City on March 17, 1772, to honor the Irish patron saint.
    • Enthusiasm for St. Patrick’s Day parades in New York City, Boston, and other American cities continued to grow.
  4. Growth of Celebrations:

    • Irish patriotism among American immigrants flourished, leading to the rise of “Irish Aid” societies.
    • These societies held annual parades featuring bagpipes and drums.
    • In 1848, several New York Irish Aid societies united their parades to form the world’s oldest civilian parade: the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which remains the largest in the United States with over 150,000 participants.

So, as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, let’s raise a glass to the enduring legacy of this beloved holiday! 

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