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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 29/12/2025

From GLP-1s and cloned meat to tariffs and AI pricing ethics, 2025 was a defining year for food. The final @the-food-professor.bsky.social Podcast episode of the year covers the Top 10 Food Stories of 2025 + a deep dive with Mushrooms Canada on automation, sustainability, & workforce realities.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 29/12/2025

Relive 2025’s most unforgettable food moments! 🍽️ From Crown Royal theatrics to jaw-dropping supply chain antics, @the-food-professor.bsky.social counts down the Top 10 Food Stories of the Year—full of surprises, intrigue, and unexpected twists.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 27/12/2025

Food inflation isn’t going away—and neither are Canada’s food system challenges. On the latest @the-food-professor.bsky.social podcast, we review the Top 10 Food Stories of 2025, then go inside the mushroom sector with Ryan Koeslag & Janet Krayden on labour, immigration, and productivity.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 26/12/2025

Canada’s Grocery Code of Conduct is here—but is it strong enough? 🛒 On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we explore why the code reads more like a code of ethics, the gaps that could limit its impact, and what 2026 could hold for retailers, suppliers, and consumers.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 23/12/2025

2025 was action-packed for Canada’s food industry—but not all stories got the attention they deserved. 📰 On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, Sylvain and I explore the Top 10 food stories the media missed and the underlying trends that defined the year.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 23/12/2025

Ozempic is changing more than diets—it’s reshaping how we eat, drink, and spend. Alcohol sales are down, protein shakes are booming, and quick-service restaurants are cashing in. On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we dive into the surprising cultural and economic shifts at play.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for food. 🤖🍎 Front-of-package labeling rules kick in Jan 1, and AI is changing how we understand what’s in our pantry. On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we explore how companies are preparing for this new era.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

Canada’s mushroom industry is automated but still depends on skilled temporary foreign workers. 🍄 On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we chat with Ryan Koeslag & Janet Krayden of Mushrooms Canada about labour, immigration, and the future of Canadian agriculture.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

The final @the-food-professor.bsky.social episode of 2025 is live! Sylvain & I break down the Top 10 Food Stories of the year—from food inflation and tariffs to GLP-1s and labour policy—plus an in-depth conversation with Mushrooms Canada on workforce and automation. 🔗 loom.ly/qHyTnOs

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 18/12/2025

Chicken shortages are shaking Canada’s grocery aisles. Rising imports, production delays, and a fragile supply management system are creating uncertainty for retailers and consumers alike. 🐓 Listen in to the full analysis on @the-food-professor.bsky.social: loom.ly/rmyj984

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 17/12/2025

Trump’s $15B farm handout: relief for farmers or just a Band-Aid? @the-food-professor.bsky.social breaks down the economic and political impact, why some farmers want a competitive market, and what it means for U.S. agriculture.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 17/12/2025

53% of Canadians think turkey is overrated for Christmas. 🎄🦃 Are you team turkey, or ready to switch up your holiday feast? @the-food-professor.bsky.social dives into why some households are rethinking tradition this season.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 16/12/2025

Live at the Coffee Association of Canada conference, @the-food-professor.bsky.social sits down with Carman Allison, VP at NIQ Canada, to discuss how coffee inflation, shifting shopper behaviour, and financially vulnerable households are shaping emerging beverage and meal trends in Canada.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 16/12/2025

Canada’s chicken supply is under pressure. Farmers avoid transparency, 45M kilos of U.S. imports raise questions about freshness, and gaps in supply management could affect prices and availability. Dive into @the-food-professor.bsky.social for the latest insights.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

How did a small tax break send Canadian food prices on a rollercoaster? On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we explore the first anniversary of the GST holiday, its ripple effects on inflation, and why ending the GST could reshape the economy.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

Why tax 80% of U.S. fertilizer from Canada? @the-food-professor.bsky.social and I unpack Trump’s tariff plan, the potential fallout for farmers and supply chains, the impact on food prices, and whether this is strategy or politics. 🎧 Listen here: loom.ly/rmyj984

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

New episode of @the-food-professor.bsky.social is live! Canada’s chicken supply is under pressure, the GST holiday changed how Canadians view food prices, & Carman Allison, VP at NIQ Canada, shares insights on shopper behaviour and growth opportunities. 🎧 Don't miss it: loom.ly/rmyj984

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

Paying the same for less? Shrinkflation is quietly creeping into Canadian grocery aisles, affecting what you get for your money. Sylvain and I break down this hidden cost on @the-food-professor.bsky.social podcast. 🎙️ Find us on your favourite podcast platform! loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

What will food affordability look like in 2026? The latest @the-food-professor.bsky.social episode unpacks Canada’s Food Price Report, shifting shopper habits, and inflation drivers — plus an interview with Hugo Magnan of Groupe MAG. 🎧 loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Reposted by Michael E. LeBlanc

Steve Dennis @stevedennis.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

NEW EPISODE ALERT! We welcome Mark Zandi, Moody's Analytics' Chief Economist--and one of the most influential and trusted macroeconomic voices globally--to the pod. In addition to our interview @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social and I unpack a busy week in retail news. www.stevenpdennis.com/podcast

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

Quebec politics shaken: Minister Guilbeault resigns unexpectedly. Was it a misstep, controversy, or strategic move? Tune in to @the-food-professor.bsky.social to explore his departure and its impact on government, public opinion, and leadership. 🔗 loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 09/12/2025

Can carbon capture save our food? @the-food-professor.bsky.social dives into the debate on sustainable agriculture, exploring why experts see innovation—not taxation—as key to decarbonizing the agri-food sector. 🎧 Full episode here: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 09/12/2025

Get the inside scoop on one of Canada’s most flavour-forward food companies. Hugo Magnan of Groupe MAG joins @the-food-professor.bsky.social to talk bold condiments, the family story behind the brand, and how MAG grew from Quebec favourite to national standout. 🎧 loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 09/12/2025

Feeling post-COVID loneliness? Restaurants are becoming the new social hubs, offering connection and community—even for solo diners. On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we explore why dining out is about more than just food. 🎧 Don't miss it: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

Are self-checkouts really saving time, or just creating longer lines? @the-food-professor.bsky.social and I explore the quirks and conveniences of modern retail and how technology is reshaping the grocery experience. 🎧 Listen here: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

Are self-checkouts really saving time, or just creating longer lines at stores like Costco? @the-food-professor.bsky.social and I explore the quirks and conveniences of modern retail and how technology is reshaping the grocery experience. 🎧 Listen here: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

Coffee lovers, brace yourselves! Prices have jumped from $2.75 to over $4/lb, signaling a costly winter ahead. Learn what’s driving the spike and how to navigate higher costs. 🎧 Listen to the full episode of @the-food-professor.bsky.social here: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 05/12/2025

Can Canadians handle 4–6% inflation in 2026? @the-food-professor.bsky.social dives into how rising prices are changing spending habits, what lessons past cycles offer, and strategies households are using to stay ahead. 🎧 Hear the full discussion: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 05/12/2025

Food bank visits are rising in Canada as 2025 approaches. On the latest @the-food-professor.bsky.social episode, we explore the financial pressures families face, why current solutions aren’t enough, and what targeted aid could do. 🎧 Listen here: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 05/12/2025

Black Friday 2025 by the numbers! Sean McCormick, VP at Moneris, joins The Voice of Retail to break down how Canadians really shopped, what categories were hit hardest, and how retailers can use the insights to plan smarter. ▶️ Press play: loom.ly/-YLSarg

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 05/12/2025

Canada’s 2026 Food Price Report is out — and this week’s episode of @the-food-professor.bsky.social breaks it down. Plus, Hugo Magnan of Groupe MAG joins us to talk craft mayo, bold flavours, and scaling a Quebec success story nationwide. 🎙️ Listen here: loom.ly/HYzS8ZQ

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 04/12/2025

On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we remember Rodney Clark of Rodney’s Oysters, a true pioneer in food entertainment. From shucking at events to creating unforgettable dining experiences, his legacy continues through the restaurant and those he inspired. 🔗 loom.ly/PBEfaiY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 02/12/2025

AI is transforming industries—but how should food leaders approach it? The latest @the-food-professor.bsky.social episode explores opportunities, challenges, and why thoughtful adoption is key for product innovation, retail strategy, and consumer engagement. 🎧 Tune in: loom.ly/PBEfaiY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

The National Farmers Union is calling for grocery profit caps & guaranteed revenues—but they represent only a fraction of Canadian farmers. While they produce quality food, their claims don’t reflect the broader community. Discover more on @the-food-professor.bsky.social: loom.ly/PBEfaiY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

The latest on @the-food-professor.bsky.social explores AI’s growing influence on the food industry. After a Montreal AI conference with CIOs & tech leaders, the discussion covers AI’s impact on product innovation, grocery trends, & Canadian consumer experiences. 🎧 loom.ly/PBEfaiY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 28/11/2025

Are retailers focused on the wrong thing? 🤔 On The Voice of Retail, I sit down with Liza Amlani, Chief Merchant & author of Material Life, on how a materials-first approach in fashion can cut waste, speeds development, and boosts margins. Dive in: loom.ly/k_uCzMg

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 28/11/2025

AI is reshaping the food industry—but hype can’t replace human reasoning. @the-food-professor.bsky.social explores how AI, GLP-1 adoption, & shifting consumer habits are changing what Canadians eat, how they shop, & which products brands & retailers need to focus on. 🔗 loom.ly/PBEfaiY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 27/11/2025

New episode of @the-food-professor.bsky.social is live! GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic & Wegovy are reshaping how Canadians eat, shop & spend. We chat with Caddle CEO Ransom Hawley about rising GLP-1 use and what it means for groceries, restaurants & food trends. 🎙️ loom.ly/PBEfaiY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 27/11/2025

Retail This Week: 🏙️ Aritzia plots new Vancouver flagship 🎪 Nations Experience lands in Oakville 💵 Target puts $1B into catching Walmart 💰 SKIMS hits $5B valuation 🔧 DIY slows at Home Depot & Lowe's 📚 The CODA on Ruby’s retail saga More: loom.ly/AbGdceE

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 19/11/2025

On @the-food-professor.bsky.social podcast, Michael Medline shares candid insights in his final interview as CEO of Empire & Sobeys — from innovation and culture to acquisitions and navigating disruption. 🎙️ Part 2 drops tomorrow! Tune in to Part 1: loom.ly/gQZfqXs

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 19/11/2025

Trump’s meat industry theatrics are making waves — but what’s the impact in Canada? On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we break down how U.S. political stunts contrast with rising beef prices here, explore supply pressures, trade dynamics, and what it all means for Canadian consumers.

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

Retail This Week: 🛍️ Montreal’s Garage Clothing shows the Brits how it’s done 📉 Loblaw: Canadian brand demand levels out 🍁 Canadian Tire rolls out HBC goods 💰 SKIMS hits $5B valuation 🚪 Doug McMillon exits Walmart; John Furner steps up And more: loom.ly/MCJETtw

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

On @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we sit down with Michael Medline, former CEO of Empire & Sobeys, to explore his leadership journey, the transformation of one of Canada’s largest grocers, and how he navigated disruption in the retail landscape. 🎧 Don't miss it: loom.ly/gQZfqXs

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 15/11/2025

On the latest episode of TVOR, I chat with Eric Morris, Google Canada's Retail MD, about the 2025 Holiday Retail Insights Report. He shares how retailers can win this season—be discoverable early, create AI-ready content, and master omnichannel. 🔗 Tune in: loom.ly/otvuq8k

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 15/11/2025

🎙️ New episode of @the-food-professor.bsky.social podcast is live! We sit down with Michael Medline, former President & CEO of Empire/Sobeys, to explore his leadership journey, retail transformation, and navigating disruption in Canadian grocery. Listen now: loom.ly/gQZfqXs

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

🎙️New episode of TVOR! I sit down with Elisa Swern, National Consumer Markets Leader at PwC Canada, to unpack insights from PwC’s 2025 Canadian Holiday Outlook — how Canadians will shop, save & celebrate this season. Listen now: loom.ly/qlofW1g

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

Retail This Week: 🥬 Longo’s keeps its values fresh 📭 Canadian Tire & Lee Valley Tools face Canada Post flyer woes 🛍️ Chinese tourists set to return to Canada next year 🏢 Landlords get creative post-Ruby Liu 👚 France looks to ban Shein And more: loom.ly/DAsCY5A

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

Recorded live at the Coffee Association of Canada Conference! ☕️ In this special edition of @the-food-professor.bsky.social, we dive into Canada’s food economy, the future of coffee, & global forces shaping what we eat & drink — featuring BMO’s Chief Economist Doug Porter. Tune in: loom.ly/hSbEeeY

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 06/11/2025

Rob Sengotta, co-founder of Von Slick’s, shares the secrets behind their award-winning Manitoba butter. From farmers’ markets to creative flavours, discover how culinary innovation meets entrepreneurship on @the-food-professor.bsky.social. 🎧 loom.ly/9Vo7e_o

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Michael E. LeBlanc @thevoiceofretail.bsky.social · 06/11/2025

ICYMI, Martha McKimm (Hopson Grace) & Shelley Simpson (Mud Australia) join me on TVOR to share how authenticity, storytelling & craftsmanship build brands that last. 🎙️ Don’t miss their insights on connecting with customers and fostering loyalty: loom.ly/lnaub8o

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