Join us for an interactive think tank where participants will come together to tackle real challenges shaping the future of inclusive workplaces and businesses. From navigating difficult conversations to building authentic connections and designing for diverse communities, this session is all about action.

Blending real-world insights with guided conversation and collaborative idea-sharing, this session will explore how organizations across the NOW industry are approaching complex, real-world challenges.

With over 30 years of international experience as a senior manager, board member, and entrepreneur, Serge helps organizations chart a course toward sustainable performance. Rooted in well-being, resilience, and engagement, his approach enables leaders and their teams to harness their full potential and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

Inès has been helping executives and their teams transform their vision into sustainable drivers of performance and engagement for over 20 years. At the intersection of leadership, strategy, human capital, and good governance, her career as an executive, entrepreneur, speaker, educator, and executive coach has led her to work in a range of business environments across four continents. Her systemic and inclusive approach places people at the heart of organizational transformation because she believes that clear purpose, shared vision, and aligned leadership are the building blocks of sustainable performance.

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What if your biggest growth opportunity isn't a new product, but better merchandising?

Join moderator Amanda Kenny and panelists Brenda Kirk and Charles Buhagiar for a candid conversation on the strategies that drive product discovery, shopper engagement, and sales growth in today's retail environment.

Drawing on decades of experience across retail, merchandising, category management, and brand partnerships, this panel will explore what separates high-performing products from those that struggle to gain traction. Learn how shoppers actually navigate the store, what influences purchasing decisions, and where retailers and brands most often miss opportunities to work together.

From secondary displays and cross-merchandising to in-store activations, shelf placement, and retailer-brand collaboration, our panelists will share examples, lessons learned, and practical advice on how to create merchandising strategies that deliver results.

Whether you're a retailer looking to maximize every square foot of selling space or a brand seeking stronger visibility and sell-through, you'll leave with actionable insights from industry leaders who have spent their careers shaping what succeeds on shelf.

Because great merchandising doesn't just fill shelves—it drives growth.

With more than 45 years in the grocery industry, Brenda Kirk is a highly respected leader whose career has helped shape the Pattison Food Group. Starting as a cashier in 1980, she advanced through store operations, merchandising, and executive leadership, driving innovation across multiple banners and categories. Today, as Senior Vice President of Health & Wellness, she leads the company's pharmacy, health, and health food retail businesses.

Brenda has received numerous industry honours, including Save-On-Foods' Business Leader of the Year, the Star Women in Grocery Award, a Special Achievement Award from the Jim Pattison Group, and induction into the Grocery Business Hall of Fame. She also serves on the boards of GS1 Canada and the Canadian Health Food Association and champions inclusion as executive sponsor of the TogetHER Network. Her leadership is defined by empathy, innovation, and a commitment to creating meaningful impact for both customers and communities.

Amanda Kenny is the Founder and CEO of Hive Retail Solutions, a national merchandising agency serving leading food, beverage, health, and beauty brands across Canada. Since founding Hive in 2022, Amanda has grown the company from four merchandisers to more than 120 team members operating in seven provinces. Known for her people-first leadership and focus on building strong retail relationships, Amanda was named BC Business Woman of the Year – Rising Star in 2025.

Charles Buhagiar is a Senior Category Manager at Metro, currently entering his 41st year with the organization. With more than 20 years of category management experience, he is deeply passionate about Health and Wellness and advancing “better-for-you” products in the marketplace. Charles oversees all Health and Wellness categories, as well as the Pharmacy Wellness department at Metro.

Charles is especially motivated by partnering with emerging brands, helping them launch and grow as they begin their wellness journey.

Peter Weicker is the Fortinos Supermarkets Banner Head and Senior Vice President at Loblaw Companies Limited, overseeing banner performance across sales, merchandising, operations and profitability. With extensive experience in grocery retail, Peter has led merchandising and marketing strategies spanning assortment, pricing, promotions and category planning. He is known for building strong relationships with franchisees and vendors while driving market-focused strategies and high standards across the Fortinos banner.

Chris Siabanis is the creative force behind Longo’s Mega Display Program, transforming traditional grocery merchandising into bold, immersive brand experiences. Since launching the program two years ago, Chris has expanded it from eight to 18 stores, creating 51 custom displays each month across dry and refrigerated categories. His innovative approach has earned him four Joe Longo Sr. Awards for Creativity, the 2025 CHFA Excellence in Retail Award, and a place in Longo’s Hall of Fame. For Chris, a great display is more than a place for product—it’s a billboard for the brand, an experience for the customer, and a tool to drive results.

Canada’s organic sector is entering a new era of uncertainty and opportunity. As global demand rises, changing trade dynamics, evolving standards, and threats to organic are redefining how organic products move across borders. Meanwhile, questions about the future stewardship and location of Canada’s organic standards have added a new layer of uncertainty, making this a critical moment to explore how the sector can protect its foundations while positioning itself for growth.

Join industry leaders for a forward-looking conversation on the trends shaping Canada’s place in the global organic marketplace, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for brands and the broader industry.

Tia has been the Executive Director of the Canada Organic Trade Association since 2016. With extensive experience working in the organic food industry, Tia co-founded Camino chocolate (La Siembra Co-operative) as the first Fairtrade and organic certified cocoa and sugar company and went on to hold senior roles with Fairtrade International in Canada and the United States. She sits on the Technical Committee for the Canadian Organic Standards review, the Aquaculture Standards Interpretation Committee, chairs the Technical Committee for Organic Equivalencies and is the North American ambassador for IFOAM International.

TJ Walsh is Senior Director of Sales & Business Development at One Degree Organics, where he heads North America retail and club along with the company's international business. He has spent his career working across premium CPG channels throughout North America, with a focus on building retail and club partnerships and expanding into new global markets. His work is rooted in a belief that natural and organic products deserve a place in mainstream retail, and he has dedicated his career to making that a reality at scale.

Ashley Cornell is Director of Regulatory Affairs & Policy at the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), where she leads initiatives focused on food policy, regulatory modernization, innovation support, and consumer transparency. With almost two decades of experience across the food and health industries, she brings expertise in food regulation, food science, processing, quality assurance, and nutrition. Her work focuses on advancing science-based policies that strengthen consumer trust and support the future of healthier food systems.

Brand School
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The conversation about women's health has been happening in doctor's offices, in Facebook groups, and in living rooms across the country. Now it is time for it to happen on the retail floor.

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is no longer a whisper. Women are walking into your stores informed, asking questions, and looking for guidance. The question is, are you ready to meet them?

Join us for an intimate and powerful panel moderated by Jules Gorham of CHFA, featuring Dr. Natalie Perkins of Pauz Health, Julie Drapeau, Senior VP of Innovation at Purity Life, and Aeryon Ashlie, Founder and CEO of Aeryon Wellness, as we tackle the conversations retailers can no longer afford to avoid.

From understanding what menopausal hormone therapy actually means to exploring how natural health fits into this rapidly evolving landscape, this session will leave you with the knowledge, language, and confidence to show up for every woman who walks through your door.

This is not a trend. This is half your customer base. And they are ready for you to show up.

Natalie Perkins is a public health expert, behavioural scientist, and the founder of PAUZ Health—a women's wellness platform reimagining how midlife and menopause care is delivered. With over 20 years of leadership experience across healthcare, data, and innovation—including executive roles at Teladoc Health —Natalie blends science, strategy, and empathy to help women thrive through perimenopause and beyond.

She has been featured in Talent Canada, NY Weekly, and Women Leaders in Health. A passionate advocate for evidence-based care, Natalie is redefining the conversation around aging, hormones, and what it means to live fully—at every stage.

Julie Drapeau is Purity Life’s Senior VP of Innovation and a recognized expert in the natural personal care category. With 29 years of experience in the Natural Health industry, she brings passion, insight, and leadership to the field. Julie was honored with the CHFA NOW Toronto 2022 Woman of Influence Award, celebrating her impact as a female leader driving industry progress. Outside of work, she’s dedicated to CrossFit and bodybuilding, constantly striving to be a healthier, stronger version of herself, and inspiring others to do the same.

Aeryon Ashlie is a nutritionist, wellness expert, keynote speaker, bestselling author and the founder of Aeryon Wellness Supplements, a 100% women-owned Canadian brand redefining women’s health through science-backed, transparent innovation. With nearly two decades of experience, she has built a trusted platform spanning product innovation, national media, and a highly engaged digital community where she inspires women to lift heavier, age powerfully, and take ownership of their health.

Jules Gorham is the Senior Director of Quebec Affairs and Government Relations at CHFA. After a successful career in the natural health products industry, she joined CHFA to champion entrepreneurship, small businesses, and Canada's health and wellness sector. She is passionate about bringing together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, regulators, and government to foster meaningful collaboration and dialogue.

A lifelong athlete and advocate for women's health, Jules is also a strong supporter of women-led businesses. In 2025, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her leadership in advancing women-owned businesses within Canada's natural health products industry.

Brand School
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Food and beverage brands are constantly innovating—but many are leaving valuable SR&ED funding on the table. Join MNP for an engaging session focused on how better for you and emerging brands can identify, capture, and maximize funding opportunities tied to their day-to-day operations. Through real case studies and practical examples, we’ll break down what actually qualifies, where companies commonly miss out, and how to implement simple best practices to support successful claims. Whether you’re scaling or refining your operations, this session will provide actionable insights to help turn innovation into measurable value.

Nazanin is a Partner with MNP, bringing 10+ years of experience helping businesses access SR&ED tax incentives and other funding. She supports organizations across industries including technology, manufacturing, and agri-food, providing guidance on claims, audits, and funding strategies.

Shawna is a Manager specializing in SR&ED tax credits for food and beverage businesses. She supports claim preparation, eligibility assessments, documentation, and audit defense, drawing on her background in food science, nutrition, recipe development, and regulatory compliance.

Brand School
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From Seed to Shelf is a practical session designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners understand what it takes to successfully enter and grow within retail. Participants will explore the journey from building strong foundations—including GS1, certifications and retail requirements—to determining when they are ready to scale. The session covers smart investment decisions, logistics, true cost considerations, product differentiation and how to think through the lens of a retail buyer. Finally, participants will learn what happens after receiving a listing and how to prepare operationally and commercially to succeed on shelf, turning a retail opportunity into sustainable, long-term growth.

Sherrilynn Chisholm has built a career creating great relationships. A passionate connector, strategist, and problem-solver, she brings people and ideas together to make things happen.

As Director, Supplier Engagement, Sherrilynn leads the Loblaw Small Supplier Program, supporting an ambitious goal: making Loblaw the best retail partner in Canada for small suppliers. She helps suppliers navigate retail, build relationships, and grow their businesses—believing the best partnerships start with listening, removing barriers, and building trust.

Brand School
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Women’s lives, health needs and expectations of wellness are evolving—and the supplement aisle needs to evolve with them. Today’s female consumer is looking beyond bottles and complicated routines toward solutions that feel more simple, personalized, enjoyable and designed around her real life. Presented by a panel of Naturopathic Doctors and wellness entrepreneurs, this session explores the forces reshaping women’s wellness, from pill and decision fatigue to life-stage personalization and the rise of wellness as a daily ritual. Through clinical insights and the HER dailys journey, we’ll explore what the next generation of women’s wellness could look like.

Naturopathic Doctors, moms, and wellness entrepreneurs, Dr. Marlee Guy, ND, Dr. Ania Graczyk, ND, Dr. Michèle Webb, ND, and Alexandra Zini Azouri, bring together clinical expertise and lived experience to redefine women’s wellness through comprehensive, evidence-based drinkable formulas designed for every stage of womanhood. Born from years of supporting women in practice and navigating pregnancy, motherhood, and hormonal change firsthand, their mission is to make daily wellness more simple, effective, and enjoyable, with support designed to fit effortlessly into everyday life.

Brand School
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Consumers are no longer focused solely on lifespan—they want to maximize health span. As interest in longevity medicine, biological age testing, GLP-1 therapies, hormone optimization, wearable technology, and personalized wellness continues to grow, retailers are increasingly being asked questions that did not exist a decade ago. In this session, Dr. Kathryn Dundas, MD, CCFP, explores the trends shaping the future of consumer health, separating evidence from hype and highlighting practical opportunities for retailers. Attendees will gain insight into emerging longevity strategies, evolving consumer expectations, and how to support healthy aging through evidence-based wellness solutions.

Dr. Kathryn Dundas is a fourth-generation physician, founder of Primary MD, and CEO of Sublime Life, a longevity-focused wellness centre that integrates conventional medicine, lifestyle medicine, diagnostics, recovery therapies, and evidence-based wellness interventions. With more than 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Dundas is passionate about helping individuals optimize vitality, healthspan, and quality of life through a science-with-soul approach to preventive medicine.

Brand School
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Join Victor and Irene from Sea Tales as they share how they're building a brand around one bold idea: you can enjoy delicious seafood while saving the ocean and changing the industry for the better. This story-led session traces the origin story, the mission behind the fishery partnerships, and the proof it's working in market. This is a masterclass on how we've turned a mission into brands that resonates with conscious and conventional shoppers—showing that it is possible to scale a brand the right way, where mission becomes momentum on shelf.

Irene Kranendonk is Head of Impact at Fish Tales, the Amsterdam-based sustainable seafood company behind Sea Tales. Since 2021, she has led the company's sustainability agenda - fron establishing leading procurement criteria to driving their Fair Trade program, B Corp certification and fisheries treaceability work. Irene previously worked as fisheries researcher at the Dutch sefaood rating program and holds a MSc degree in Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management from Wageningen University.

Brand School
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Join Dr. Thalia for an insight-packed session that will transform how you think about amino acids, far beyond their reputation as mere protein-building blocks. In truth, if you know one amino acid, you know just one amino acid; each has unique and diverse roles in the body. With compounds like taurine and glycine gaining attention for their exciting and emerging applications, now is the perfect time to deepen your expertise. In this dynamic session, Dr. Thalia will deliver a sweeping, practical review of amino acids in health, covering key players such as taurine, glycine, citrulline, lysine, NAC, TMG, arginine, glutamine, and more. This session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to better serve and inspire your customers. Come away with a superb takeaway sales tool and a free sample.

Dr. Thalia is the Nutrition and Health Education Manager for the NOW® Brand. She has three decades of experience in the health industry as a practitioner and health educator. She is also the author of three health-focused books. Her nuanced, digestible, topical, and immersive training style draws thousands of retailers each year to in-person and online training events.

Brand School
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A Canadian Natural Health Product (NHP) Licence is not only a requirement for accessing the Canadian market – it can also provide strategic advantages for global expansion. This session will explore how companies can leverage Canadian NHP regulatory approvals and scientific substantiation to support product registration and market entry in Australia, Singapore, and China’s cross-border e-commerce market. Through practical examples, attendees will learn how regulatory dossiers can help reduce barriers, streamline international strategies, and address key considerations when expanding NHP portfolios into global markets.

Aarsh Shah is a Senior Associate within Intertek’s Health Claims and Clinical Trials team and leads the Natural Health Products division. Aarsh supports clients with scientific and regulatory requirements for market entry in Canada and global markets, including claim feasibility assessments and regulatory strategies for supplements.

Patricia Pham is an Associate within the team, supporting clients with claim feasibility assessments and regulatory health claim reviews for foods, supplements, and Natural Health Products.

Brand School
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Most Canadians don’t get enough fibre. Learn how the right fibre approach can support digestion, healthy gut function, boost GLP-1 efficacy, weight loss/management, comfort, steadier blood sugar, cholesterol support, and long-term cardiometabolic health.

You’ll learn:

• Soluble vs. insoluble fibre—what they do and why it matters
• Why multi-source, whole-food fibre can be more effective than single-fibre isolates
• How fibre relates to GLP-1 signalling (satiety and metabolic support)
• Why protein + fibre is a powerful pairing for fullness and consistency
• How fibre + EFAs + probiotics can work together in a simple daily routine

Nelson Narciso is a leading voice in holistic wellness with over 30 years of experience in nutrition, herbalism, Reiki, and auricular medicine. His training gives him a deep understanding of how body, mind, and lifestyle connect. A member of the Examining Board of Natural Medicine Practitioners and Canadian Society for Orthomolecular Medicine, he is also a respected product formulator, educator, and speaker who shares practical wellness insights at conferences and through television and radio appearances.

Brand School
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Growing children have unique nutritional needs, and parents are looking to retailers they trust for guidance. Join us as we explore the science behind healthy growth and development and discover how the Orange Naturals Kids supplement line can help support children's everyday wellness.

This engaging session will highlight our two new children’s formulas: Kids Iron and Kids Calcium with Magnesium, D3 + K2. We’ll also explore the key nutrients that support healthy growth, energy, bone development, and overall wellness, and how the Orange Naturals Kids supplement line can help address common nutritional gaps in children’s daily health.

Caroline Farquhar, Medical Advisor at Orange Naturals, is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist with over 20 years of experience in health education. Her insights have been featured across Canada in health publications, media, and broadcasts. Caroline holds certifications as an Energy Medicine Practitioner, Reiki Master, and a Psychology degree, allowing her to take a holistic approach to well-being by integrating the mind, body, and spirit.

Brand School
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There is no set RDI for Omega-3s, therefore dosing can be highly individual; what supports one individual’s needs may be different for the next. Nordic Naturals is one of the few brands chosen by independent researchers for clinical studies, with over 100 publications, bringing science from lab to real-life. This helps guide the right dose, ratio, and form, across both high-potency and regular strength options. It's important to understand why more isn't always better, and why consistency matters. Join Nicole Gitlin to learn what the research says for health across our lifespan, and what makes Nordic so unique.

Nicole is the International Educator for Nordic Naturals. Her passion for teaching others about health & wellness was inspired by her own health journey - a personal mission which drove her to become a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner (H.H.P), Certified Herbalist (C.C.M.H), and Certified Nutrition Consultant (C.N.C). Nicole delivers complex science in an easy to understand & retainable way to retailers and consumers both domestically & internationally. In her leisure time, Nicole loves to garden, cook & explore the outdoors.

Brand School
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Today's cognitive health shoppers are done with generic formulas. They want targeted, science-backed solutions that actually connect the dots. Mental clarity, calm, and emotional balance aren't separate wins; they're deeply linked, and it's time your shelf reflected that. In this session, discover a bold new approach to cognitive support, built on complementary products designed to work together across energy, sleep, mineral cofactors, and emotional balance. Get an exclusive first look at the newest formulation in our lineup, the breakthrough research behind it, and why it's set to redefine what a modern cognitive health category can deliver. Don't miss it.

Mark Vasil is Provita Nutrition's National Educator, bringing over 20 years of experience in the natural health industry. Since joining Provita in 2023, he has driven product innovation, education, and research, translating complex science into practical, actionable insight. Drawing on a background in sales, education, research, and technical writing for leading nutraceutical brands, Mark delivers engaging presentations that equip audiences to make confident, informed decisions about natural health.

Brand School
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Join Purity Life's Julie, Cassandra, and Shannen as they explore the latest trends shaping the natural health and grocery industries.

Through expert insights, emerging consumer behaviours, category performance, and market intelligence, this engaging discussion will explore what's driving the marketplace today and what's on the horizon. Whether you're a retailer, vendor, or broker, you'll gain practical insights, fresh perspectives, and actionable strategies to identify new opportunities, strengthen your business, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

Julie Drapeau is a respected leader with more than 20 years of experience in the natural health industry. She serves on the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) Board of Directors and has previously contributed to several CHFA advisory councils. A recognized author, speaker, and recipient of CHFA's Women of Influence Award, Julie is passionate about advancing the industry and driving business growth.

Shannen Lohnes brings extensive experience in the grocery industry and sales leadership. With expertise in customer strategy, commercial operations, and building strong retail partnerships, she provides valuable insight into the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping today's grocery and natural health landscape.

Cassandra Bois works closely with retailers and brands across Canada, bringing firsthand knowledge of consumer trends, category performance, and product innovation. Her relationship-driven approach and market expertise help partners identify new opportunities and stay ahead in an evolving marketplace.

Join CHFA’s Government Relations team for an essential update on the advocacy work shaping the future of Canada’s natural, organic and wellness sectors. This session will cover the latest developments in regulatory modernization, efforts to reduce red tape, and CHFA’s ongoing advocacy to support the Canadian NHP industry, and all small and medium-sized businesses in the NOW industry.

Attendees will also receive timely insights into evolving trade issues, market access challenges, and what these changes could mean for the industry. Stay informed, ask questions, and learn how CHFA is working to protect and advance your business interests.

Ann brings decades of comprehensive experience in the development and implementation of trade legislation, regulations, and policies at both domestic and international levels. During her time with the Government of Canada, Ann represented the country at the World Trade Organization (WTO), the United Nations (UN), and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Most recently, she served for over six years as a Permanent Member of the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT), where she presided over complex cases in trade remedies, procurement, customs, and excise appeals.

Prior to joining Wellington Advocacy, Ann worked as a strategic consultant for numerous high-profile clients on matters related to international trade policy and strategic communications. She holds a PhD in Canadian Politics from Carleton University and has taught upper-year and graduate-level courses in international trade law, trade negotiations, Canadian law, and public policy at two Canadian universities.

Canadians are becoming increasingly skeptical of product claims, certifications, and information sources—especially in food, health, and wellness. At the same time, brands are navigating inflation pressures, promotion-heavy environments, and shifting consumer expectations.

This session combines new CHFA consumer research with practical brand strategy insights from Pigeon to explore what drives trust, credibility, and sustainable growth today.

CHFA will share key findings from Triple Exposure: Trust, Transparency and Tradeoffs, a national study examining how Canadians evaluate claims, certifications, and the sources of information they consult when making purchase decisions.

Building on these insights, Pigeon will explore how brands can balance short-term demand with long-term brand building using the 60/40 framework. Through real-world examples, they will demonstrate how aligning brand strategy, packaging, retail and e-commerce execution, activation, and communications can strengthen trust, protect margins, and drive sustainable growth.

With over 30 years of experience in brand strategy and marketing in Canada and the United States, Stéphane Crevier supports organizations in evolving and improving brand performance in highly competitive CPG markets. Recognized as an expert in the “moment of truth,” he excels at aligning brands with consumer insights, market realities, and cultural context to drive sustainable growth. He has led numerous revitalization and repositioning mandates for local and national brands in the agri-food and retail sectors. His approach is strategic, human-centred, and resolutely results-driven.

With a career combining leadership roles in agencies and on the client side, he has led strategic mandates for brands such as Danone, Perdue Farms, Metro (private labels), Krispy Kernels, Del Monte, Dainty, Famille Fontaine, O Sole Mio, Epik Eats, Adrien Gagnon and Nutrinor.

With over 20 years of experience in integrated marketing, Brandi is a strategist known for turning complex consumer, market, and cultural signals into clear opportunities for growth. Her expertise spans brand strategy, research, and integrated communications, with deep experience across shopper marketing, digital, social, and experiential channels. She excels at finding the intersection of behaviour, data, and business objectives that others miss.

Brandi has led strategic mandates for brands across the CPG, QSR, retail, and not-for-profit sectors, including Edo Japan, Coca-Cola, Hershey, Labatt, Tim Hortons (retail), Best Buy, Royale, Montana's, Green Giant, Petro-Canada CareMakers, and The UPS Store.

Brand School
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Artificial intelligence is transforming both the way consumers make purchasing decisions and the way businesses operate. As shoppers increasingly turn to AI powered tools to recommend, compare and evaluate products, brands must rethink how they build trust and remain visible. In this session, Butterly will explore how AI is reshaping consumer behaviour and why authentic consumer content has become essential for discovery and credibility. LCG Foods Distribution will demonstrate practical ways businesses are using AI to improve efficiency, streamline operations and make smarter decisions. Leave with actionable insights to help your brand grow and compete in an AI driven marketplace.

Ali de Bold is the Founder & CEO of Butterly, a consumer advocacy platform that has helped brands build trust and drive sales for 20 years. A pioneer in authentic consumer marketing, Ali helps brands understand how AI, consumer reviews, and social content are reshaping product discovery and purchase decisions.

Paul Yip is the Founder of LCG Foods Distribution and a 3x CPG founder with more than 20 years of experience building and scaling consumer brands. He is passionate about helping emerging food and beverage companies grow through strategic distribution, retail partnerships, and innovative go-to-market strategies.

Brand School
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Join us for a presentation by David Foreman, The Herbal Pharmacist, exploring three research-backed ingredients designed to support health across every stage of life. Discover what makes NSK-SD® Nattokinase a trusted cardiovascular ingredient, backed by more than 50 studies supporting its efficacy and safety. The session will also introduce SCP-II®, undenatured salmon Type II collagen and proteoglycan complex for joint and skin health, and SloIron®, a plant-based ferritin-iron ingredient with a unique absorption mechanism that offers gentle absorption and controlled release. These innovative ingredients offer science-backed solutions for cardiovascular health, healthy aging, joint health, and innovative iron supplementation.

David Foreman is a pharmacist, author, speaker, and media personality known internationally as “The Herbal Pharmacist®.” His background in pharmacy and natural medicine places Foreman among an elite class of health experts. A graduate of the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Foreman currently consults with leading ingredient suppliers, helping them translate their clinical studies into digestible content through papers, webinars, seminars, and books.

Brand School
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Protein may dominate the wellness conversation, but many consumers still fall short of meeting one of their most important nutritional needs: fiber. This session explores the gap between wellness trends and nutritional fundamentals, highlighting fiber’s essential role in digestive health, metabolic wellness, satiety, and long-term health. As consumers navigate a crowded marketplace of functional foods and supplements, many are seeking simpler, evidence-based nutrition rooted in whole foods and healthy habits. Attendees will gain practical insights into the importance of closing the fiber gap, fiber’s role in today's key health conversations, and how education and ingredient transparency support informed wellness choices.

Selina Rose is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, and Registered Holistic Nutritionist with over 12 years of experience in the wellness industry. She is the founder of Bloat Babes, a brand dedicated to helping women resolve bloating and improve gut health through evidence-based nutrition. Selina is also the author of the Everyday Eats cookbook and a Brand Educator for Brightside Organics, and is regularly featured on CTV and wellness podcasts.

Brand School
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When AquaOmega set out to build a better omega-3, sustainability wasn't part of the business plan; it was the result of relentlessly pursuing quality, transparency, and doing what was right. In this session, Maxim Marion shares how challenging industry norms, building direct relationships across the supply chain, and staying true to your values can naturally evolve into a purpose that customers and retailers genuinely believe in. Discover how authentic purpose is earned, not created, and how building a better product can become the foundation for stronger brands, deeper customer loyalty, and meaningful environmental impact.

Maxim Marion is the Founder of AquaOmega, one of Canada's fastest-growing premium omega-3 brands. Driven by a passion for innovation and doing what's right, Max and his team have built AquaOmega by challenging industry norms, forging direct partnerships throughout the global supply chain, and redefining quality in the category. His belief that purpose should be discovered, not manufactured,led to AquaOmega's One Health Initiative, proving that building a better business can also create a better world.

Brand School
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Many of your customers are using GLP-1 medications and noticing changes in digestion, such as slower gastric emptying, occasional bloating, or heartburn. These changes can make it harder for the body to absorb nutrients efficiently and can lead to other health issues. Supporting gut health is a meaningful part of the wellness picture, and a real opportunity to serve your customers better. Join Julia Craven for a practical deep dive into digestive enzymes and heartburn support, what makes Enzymedica Thera-Blend® enzymes so unique throughout the entire digestive process, and how to match the right product for your customers' needs.

As the Vice President of Education for Enzymedica, Julia Craven is a recognized expert in digestive health and enzyme therapy.  Known as “The Holistic Enzymologist”, Julia is passionately spreading valuable information about healing the digestive health epidemic using an integrative, easy to understand enzyme focused approach that is accessible to all and empowers people to find their personal path to wellness.

Brand School
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There is now a growing understanding of the connection between the gut, immune health, and the role of probiotics in regulating immune response. When it comes to probiotics, strain specificity matters. Many of us are aware that taking antibiotics can disrupt our microbiota but there is often confusion as to the best way to take probiotics alongside antibacterial treatment. Join Rebecca Edwards, Director of Education at Activated Probiotics, for a deep dive into the topic of supporting the microbiome during antibiotic treatment and beyond. Rebecca will present research on using probiotics alongside antibiotics. Bust some myths around timing and dosage.

Rebecca Edwards, Director of Education at Activated Probiotics, is a speaker, writer, educator, and qualified naturopath. She has over 20 years of experience educating on all aspects of complementary and integrative health. A passionate and inspiring speaker, Rebecca has lectured to undergraduate students in Australia, the UK, and the US, and delivered naturopathic education to healthcare practitioners around the world.

Brand School
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Stay after Industry Trends: Natural Health & Grocery and take the conversation one step further. Connect with featured trending brands as they share the stories, innovations, and opportunities behind their products in an engaging networking environment. Julie Drapeau will also spotlight insights from her new book, Level Up.

This is your opportunity to connect directly with the speakers and brands, ask questions, explore the trends in greater depth, and discover how emerging ideas are coming to life in the natural health marketplace.

Come curious and leave inspired, with new ideas and meaningful connections to help you level up your business.

Julie Drapeau is a respected leader with more than 20 years of experience in the natural health industry. She serves on the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) Board of Directors and has previously contributed to several CHFA advisory councils. A recognized author, speaker, and recipient of CHFA's Women of Influence Award, Julie is passionate about advancing the industry and driving business growth.

Shannen Lohnes brings extensive experience in the grocery industry and sales leadership. With expertise in customer strategy, commercial operations, and building strong retail partnerships, she provides valuable insight into the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping today's grocery and natural health landscape.

Cassandra Bois works closely with retailers and brands across Canada, bringing firsthand knowledge of consumer trends, category performance, and product innovation. Her relationship-driven approach and market expertise help partners identify new opportunities and stay ahead in an evolving marketplace.

Hosted by CHFA and MAPAQ

A unique opportunity to connect directly with one of Canada's most dynamic food regions. Presented in partnership with the Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) and the Quebec Office in Toronto, this French-language session puts Quebec-based brands face-to-face with retail and distribution buyers, ready to pitch their products and grow their business.

The session opens with Quebec's Food DNA: A Competitive Advantage Across Canada, presented by Guillaume Mathieu (ILOT) and Francis Parisien (NielsenIQ). Quebec is more than a distinct society, it's a distinct food culture, and this fast-paced session reveals the cultural and consumer forces, including French heritage, Latin joie de vivre, Nordic resilience, North American ambition, and Canada's wellness mindset, that made Quebec one of North America's most dynamic hubs for food innovation. Discover why products developed here resonate far beyond the province, and how Quebec brands can turn their distinct identity into a real competitive advantage across Ontario and the rest of Canada.

From there, the energy continues with a series of brand presentations, followed by a networking session designed to spark new connections and real business conversations.

Whether you're a buyer looking to discover standout Quebec-based suppliers or a brand ready to expand your reach, this is a can't-miss forum for learning, networking, and relationship building within Canada's natural, organic, and wellness industry.

Quebec brands interested in pitching, and buyers interested in attending, are encouraged to contact jgorham@chfa.ca

Guillaume has been strategically supporting agri-food companies in Québec and beyond for nearly 20 years, helping them navigate business strategy, innovation, and marketing. He is also the Editor-in-Chief of Bouillon, a media dedicated to agri-food professionals, and a frequent contributor and commentator across various media outlets.

With more than two decades of experience at NIQ, Francis brings deep expertise in navigating the impacts, challenges and opportunities of an evolving marketplace and shifting consumer trends. Francis leads a nationwide team that supports start-ups, emerging suppliers, established manufacturers, government agencies and non-governmental organizations seeking market and consumer insights. Collaborating closely with his team, Francis’ primary objective is to forge partnerships across the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, ensuring NIQ’s Canadian initiatives remain aligned with client needs and market dynamics.

As consumer awareness of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) accelerates, the food industry is entering a new phase of scrutiny, one that shifts focus from how food is grown to how it is made.

This session will explore what UPFs are, why they matter, and how evolving consumer expectations are beginning to reshape product development, branding, and retail strategies. Drawing on the latest market research and real-world category data, we’ll examine where shoppers are most sensitive to processing, and where brands face the greatest risk and opportunity.

Importantly, this conversation challenges the assumption that ultra-processing is only a “big food” issue. Even within the natural and organic sector, many products fall short of emerging consumer expectations, creating both vulnerability and a powerful opportunity for differentiation.

Attendees will gain:

• A clear, practical understanding of ultra-processed foods and the challenges in defining them
• Insights into shifting consumer attitudes and purchasing behavior
• Category-level perspectives on where UPF concerns are most impactful
• An overview of emerging standards, certifications, and industry approaches
• Actionable strategies for reformulation, transparency, and continuous improvement

Designed as an interactive discussion rather than a technical deep dive, this session will meet attendees where they are. Whether they are new to the topic or already exploring solutions, this session will provide a roadmap for navigating one of the most important emerging trends in food.

Hans Eisenbeis is Director of Mission & Messaging at the Non-GMO Project, where he helps lead national conversations around food transparency, ingredient integrity, and the future of human health. He is a key voice behind the organization’s new Non-UPF Verified initiative, a groundbreaking certification program designed to help consumers identify foods made without the hallmarks of ultra-processing and restore trust in the modern food system. Developed under the Non-GMO Project’s Food Integrity Collective, the initiative expands the organization’s mission beyond GMO avoidance to address the growing public health concerns surrounding ultra-processed foods.

Previously, Hans served as a communications executive at Organic Valley, where he worked at the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and consumer education. He brings a deep understanding of how mission-driven brands can shape healthier, more transparent food systems. Hans lives in the North Cascade Mountains of Washington.

Ashley Cornell is Director of Regulatory Affairs & Policy at the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), where she leads initiatives focused on food policy, regulatory modernization, innovation support, and consumer transparency. With almost two decades of experience across the food and health industries, she brings expertise in food regulation, food science, processing, quality assurance, and nutrition. Her work focuses on advancing science-based policies that strengthen consumer trust and support the future of healthier food systems.

Brand School
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4,000 years ago in ancient India, someone discovered that simmering butter until it became richer, deeper, and shelf-stable wasn’t just cooking — it was alchemy. Today, that same ancient fat is fading under fluorescent lights, buried on top shelves, and sandwiched between imposters on Canadian retail shelves. In this session, Vreshin dismantles the myths buyers repeat daily: why ghee is not clarified butter, why “healthier than butter” is a lie, why organic or A2 claims don't tell the full story, and how much labeled ghee isn’t made from butter at all. Then we look at fixing the category in your stores.

Vreshin Naga is the founder of Vresh Foods and the driving force behind OG GHEE, Canada’s fastest-growing ghee brand. Built from scratch in 2022, OG GHEE is now available in over 1,000 stores nationwide, including Costco, Loblaws, and Whole Foods. Born in India and raised on real food, Vreshin left corporate life during the pandemic to return to his roots. Today, he’s challenging seed oils, nutrition myths, and what the industry gets wrong about ghee.

Brand School
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Economic uncertainty has traditionally led consumers to pull back on health-focused spending. Today, that relationship is changing. Driven by advances in technology, the rise of GLP-1 medications, evolving regulations, and a broader cultural shift toward proactive well-being, wellness is becoming a non-negotiable priority for many consumers. Even as households juggle rising costs, affordability concerns, and ongoing financial pressure, many are finding ways to keep health and wellness at the center of their purchasing decisions. This presentation explores the forces reshaping health-conscious behavior and why wellness continues to gain momentum, even in challenging economic conditions.

Nick Gibson has worked at NielsenIQ for over ten years on various clients (large and small), across various issues ranging from consumer insights to pricing, online to physical retail, and much more. Today, he helps the grocery industry evolve towards consumer desires for health & wellness, sustainability, and other important product attributes using innovative data. This has been a passion area for many years, and now he finds himself doing this everyday with brands, retailers, and others in the industry. If he is not crunching data on these trends, you will find him researching the latest personal health insights, being active at the gym or sports, or pondering about the world and how to make it better.

Chelsea Connelly is an Associate Director at NielsenIQ with 15 years of experience across Operations, Analytics, and Account Management. She currently partners with emerging brands on NielsenIQ's Small and Medium Business team, helping clients leverage data and insights to inform decisions around brand health, pricing, market performance, and growth opportunities. Chelsea is passionate about turning data into actionable strategies that drive business success.

Brand School
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Botanicals are having a moment—but sustainable growth requires more than consumer demand. It requires trust, transparency, and a commitment to quality. Join St. Francis Herb Farm for an engaging Brand School session exploring why the future remains bright for herbal medicine and how retailers can foster lasting consumer confidence in an increasingly informed marketplace. We'll discuss key market trends, regulatory realities, and the unique role that transparency—from seed to shelf—plays in building trust and driving growth.

Paul Rivett-Carnac is President & CEO of St. Francis Herb Farm, where he leads the company’s strategic vision, operations, and continued commitment to herbal medicine. A passionate advocate for quality, transparency, and sustainable growth, Paul works closely with teams across farming, manufacturing, innovation, and sales to ensure St. Francis remains a trusted leader in herbs. He is dedicated to advancing herbal medicine while staying true to the company's farm-to-bottle roots.

Brand School
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Canada’s Natural Products retail channel is growing in importance, yet it remains one of the least measured channels in our market. Limited market visibility can leave our Natural Products Retailers making decisions with incomplete information. But that same gap can also create opportunities. In this Brand School session, we’ll explore how retailers can leverage available market intelligence to buy smarter, improve turns, strengthen execution, and uncover more profitable paths to growth. This session is being jointly sponsored by BritOn Solutions Group and Lebeau Excel.

Chris Rodkin brings more than 30 years of senior CPG, retail, market research, and natural health experience to Canada’s health food sector. Through leadership roles with leading CPG organizations and the establishment of his advisory firm, BritOn Solutions Group, Chris has helped retailers, manufacturers, brokers, start-ups, and investors turn strategy into measurable results—building stronger categories, better partnerships, and sustainable growth in an evolving retail market.

Brand School
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Join Tony's Chocolonely for an eye-opening and thought-provoking journey into the world of chocolate. Learn about the systemic challenges facing the chocolate industry, and how 20 years ago, Tony's Chocolonely was born with the sole purpose to end exploitation in cocoa. You'll hear all about the brand's unusual origin story and discuss the role businesses can play in driving industry-wide change. Through honest storytelling, we show how purpose-led companies can create industry-wide impact while building a successful brand.

Vlora Salihi is the Commercial VP for Canada at Tony's Chocolonely, the mission-driven chocolate company working to end exploitation in the cocoa industry. In her role, she leads the company's commercial strategy and growth across Canada. She has been part of the team that successfully launched the brand in the UK & Ireland and previously served as UK & Ireland Sales Director. She is passionate about scaling purpose-driven brands and creating positive change through business.

Brand School
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From the pasture to your table, Land Promise brings you pure, Canadian grass-fed organ nutrition made with care. Simple, natural, and trusted, our supplements are crafted to support your family’s health the way nature intended.

Nigel O’Quinn is a Functional Diagnostic Nutritionist and founder of Land Promise. His mission is to restore health and optimize wellbeing through traditional whole food diets and high quality unadulterated supplements sourced from Canadian farmer.