Implications of the FDA Suspending Food Safety Quality Control Testing

Implications of the FDA Suspending Food Safety Quality Control Testing The suspension of the FDA’s proficiency testing program for its Food Emergency Response Network (FERN) laboratories has significant implications for the U.S. food system: Reduced Consistency and Accuracy: The FERN proficiency testing program ensures that approximately 170 labs across the U.S. maintain consistent and accurate […]
The Sweet Revolution: How Gummies Are Transforming the North American Market

In recent years, the North American confectionery and supplement markets have experienced a remarkable shift, with gummy products emerging as a dominant force across multiple categories. This transformation reflects changing consumer preferences and innovative responses from manufacturers to meet evolving health-conscious demands. The Sugar-Free Gummy Boom According to the US Non-Chocolate Confections Market Report 2024, […]
Canada at a Crossroads: Insights from the Global Agri-Food Most Influential Nations Ranking

April 16, 2025 Our Culture Advisory Group team had the opportunity to attend a compelling presentation by Food and Beverage Ontario this morning, showcasing the results of groundbreaking research conducted by MNP in partnership with Dalhousie University’s Agri-Food Analytics Lab. The research presents the first-ever Global Agri-Food Most Influential Nations Ranking, offering critical insights into […]
Ottawa’s counter-tariffs, not Trump, are hurting Canada’s food economy

Ottawa’s counter-tariffs, not Trump, are hurting Canada’s food economy Recently, in Canadian Grocer, Sylvain Charlebois wrote an article that raises important questions about the effectiveness and consequences of Ottawa’s counter-tariff measures in response to U.S. protectionism. While taking a stand against unfair trade practices may seem necessary, the strategy behind such actions—and their impact on […]
CanExport: Opening Global Markets for Canadian Food & Beverage Brands

CanExport: Opening Global Markets for Canadian Food & Beverage Brands In today’s competitive global marketplace, expanding internationally can be a game-changer for Canadian food and beverage companies. However, the costs associated with international market development often present significant barriers to entry, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This is where CanExport comes in. […]
Canadian Entrepreneurs: Turning Trade Uncertainty into Opportunity with Culture at the Table

Canadian Entrepreneurs: Turning Trade Uncertainty into Opportunity with Culture at the Table In a recent Toronto Star article, economist Jim Stanford highlighted a crucial insight about Canada’s economic resilience: while export markets matter, nearly 80% of what we produce is created by Canadians, for Canadians, and never crosses a border. This revelation couldn’t come at […]
Insurgent Brands: Disrupting Markets and Reshaping Industries

In today’s rapidly evolving marketplace, insurgent brands are making waves and capturing significant market share from well-established industry giants. These relatively young, fast-growing companies are challenging the status quo by addressing unmet consumer needs and introducing innovative approaches to existing product categories. What Defines an Insurgent Brand? Insurgent brands stand out through several distinctive characteristics: […]
Connection Intelligence: The Hidden Advantage of Peer Group Mentorship

In today’s interconnected professional landscape, we often discuss emotional intelligence as a critical skill for workplace success. However, there’s another form of intelligence that deserves equal attention: connection intelligence. This capability extends beyond maintaining relationships to understanding which connections create value in specific contexts and how to leverage them appropriately. What Is Connection Intelligence? Connection […]
Unlocking the Power of Shared Experiences: How Peer Groups Transform Business Leadership

At Culture Advisory Group we believe in the transformative power of peer groups for business owners. One of the most significant benefits of participating in a peer group is the wealth of shared experiences that members bring to the table. Each member’s unique perspective, shaped by their own challenges and successes, creates a rich tapestry […]
The Power of Peer Groups: Elevating Your CPG Business Through Collaborative Support

In the dynamic and often tumultuous world of consumer-packaged goods (CPG), leading a business can be both exhilarating and challenging. As business leaders, you might find yourself navigating through a maze of product development, market trends, regulatory landscapes, and consumer preferences. While you might have a clear vision and a dedicated team, the journey can […]