The organization seeks to empower young men, ages 14 to 17, through hands-on agricultural training, creating future leaders in the industry.

The brands say the new structure is designed to maximize efficiencies as they work in partnership.

Seven new members join the commission’s board as producer members, handler members and alternates for the new two-year term.

Through the partnership, retailers can integrate Flashfood’s digital platform into IGA stores to sell fresh items including meat, produce, dairy, bakery and center-store goods at significant discounts to shoppers via the Flashfood app.

A highlight of the partnership will grant IGA member stores access to the SHOPtoCOOK kiosk, which facilitates easy-to-use, in-store accessibility to a retailer’s digital media platform.

The group has proposed an Environmental Charter to potentially address the “audit fatigue” that follows the proliferation of sustainability assurance efforts in Canada.