Loblaw Companies Limited CSR

Loblaw Named One of Canada's Greenest Employers for Fourth Consecutive Year

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:59:00 -0400

BRAMPTON, ON, April 22, 2013 /CNW/ - (TSX:L) - Once again, Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) has been named one of Canada's Greenest Employers by Mediacorp Canada. The award commends Loblaw for creating a corporate culture committed to the development of industry-leading, environmentally conscious and sustainability focused initiatives. Respect the Environment is one of five corporate social responsibility (CSR) principles that drive the way the Company does business.

"Loblaw and its colleagues, employees and franchise owners are committed to being one of Canada's Greenest Employers," said Bob Chant , senior vice-president, corporate affairs and communication, Loblaw Companies Limited. "As Canada's largest grocery retailer, we take our responsibility seriously to continue to reduce the environmental impact of our operations through waste reduction and recycling, the sustainable sourcing of products and by reducing energy consumption."

Some of Loblaw's environmental accomplishments that the award committee considered were:

Reducing the use of plastic shopping bags: With the support of its customers, Loblaw reduced the number of plastic shopping bags in its stores nationally by more five billion since 2007. This is a testament to the success of the charge-for-plastic shopping bag program, which was implemented in 2009, with partial proceeds going to WWF-Canada to support conservation initiatives to mobilize Canadians to take positive action on the environment.
Increased waste diversion: Loblaw is committed to reducing waste throughout its supply chain. In 2012, the Company expanded organic waste diversion and multi-stream recycling programs in corporate stores, distribution centres and store support centres. Loblaw distribution centres diverted 81 per cent of waste from landfill while its store support centres diverted 76 per cent. In 2008, Loblaw introduced Canada's first and only national recycling program for gardeners where they can drop off their used plastic pots and flats which are not accepted by curbside recycling programs. The plastic products are then recycled to create new pots and flats for the next season. Through this unique program, Loblaw diverted 5.2 million pounds of plastic flower pots and flats from landfill.
Helping protect our oceans: In 2009, Loblaw committed to source all seafood sold in its stores from sustainable sources by the end of 2013. This affects all fresh, frozen and canned seafood along with products that contain seafood as an ingredient. To that end, in 2012, the Company focused its efforts on increasing the number of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified products in its stores and today sells the widest range of MSC certified products in Canada. It hosted a national MSC certified sustainable seafood in-store promotional event, the first of its kind in Canada. Loblaw also became the first and is the only retail member in the world to join the International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO), the trade association for the marine ingredients industry.

Fuel Efficiency - Over the past several years, Loblaw has undertaken a number of initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of its transport fleet. In 2012, the Company installed a fleet tracking system in all corporate trucks; reduced driver idle and reduced the number of empty trailers on the road by increasing the number of long-combination vehicles in its fleet and backhaul trips. The Company also added 57 new, more efficient trucks to its fleet - 195 new trucks in total.
Reduced energy consumption: Loblaw is committed to taking action on climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions primarily resulting from energy consumption and refrigerant leaks. In 2012, the Company completed lighting retrofits in 129 corporate stores and six distribution centres nationally to high-efficiency technology. Loblaw currently has four solar panel projects in commercial operation with 12 projects under construction.
Fostering green advocates: Loblaw supports several environmental initiatives for colleagues and their communities. Loblaw's Supply Chain Community Stewardship Program supports local environmental initiatives and programs by providing financial grants to local community projects, activities or charitable organizations with an environmental focus.
Widest range of green options: Loblaw's range of PC^® G.R.E.E.N^® products have the high performance and unbeatable value customers expect from the PC^® brand, along with green benefits that make them feel great about using them in their home. Loblaw's PC^® G.R.E.E.N^®product line spans a variety of categories including household cleaners, home, and baby to help customers reduce their environmental footprint.

Please visit www.loblaw-reports.ca to find out more information about Loblaw's CSR programs and achievements. The 2012 Loblaw CSR Report will be available as of May 2, 2013.

Launched in 2007, the Canada's Greenest Employers competition is organized by the editors of the Canada's Top 100 Employers project. This special designation recognizes the employers that lead the nation in creating a corporate culture of environmental awareness, have developed exceptional earth-friendly initiatives and attracting people to their organizations because of their environmental leadership.

Employers are evaluated based on the following criteria: (1) the unique environmental initiatives and programs they have developed; (2) the extent to which they have been successful in reducing the organization's own environmental footprint; (3) the degree to which their employees are involved in these programs and whether they contribute any unique skills; and (4) the extent to which these initiatives have become linked to the employer's public identity and whether they attract new people to the organization.

About Loblaw Companies Limited

Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 134,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^® and Joe Fresh ^® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^® points loyalty program.

Public Relations Department, Loblaw Companies Limited
(905) 459-2500 or pr@loblaw.ca

Loblaw takes another step forward on responsibly farmed seafood

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 09:59:00 -0400

Moving closer to meet its 100 per cent sustainably sourced seafood commitment by the end of 2013

BRAMPTON, ON, June 15, 2012 /CNW/ - (TSX: L) - Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) has become the first retail member of the International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO). Loblaw's commitment to responsibly farmed seafood is underscored by this move that will require all supplying farms to use only IFFO Responsible Supply standard fish meal and fish oil in their feeds.

Formed in 1959, the IFFO is the international non-profit organization which represents fishmeal and fish oil producers and related trades throughout the world. One of the key objectives of IFFO certification is a commitment to responsible fishery management, quality control and assurance, including the traceability of fishmeal and fish oil from the producer to the user. The commitment also includes transportation and storage to ensure safety and to avoid endangered and illegal unreported species.

"Responsible fish farming needs responsible feed," says Andrew Mallison , Director General, IFFO. "By supporting the IFFO Responsible Supply standard, Loblaw is giving their customers the assurance that the fishmeal and fish oil used as feed ingredients are from well managed fisheries and is produced in safe and well managed factories. We are also delighted to welcome them as our first retail member."

Members of the IFFO share a commitment to setting a standard for the aquaculture value chain through the promotion of high-quality, certified fish meal and fish oil into the diets of both aquatic and land animals. Loblaw joins producers and trade associations from around the world representing nearly two-thirds of the world's production of fish meal and fish oil.

"By becoming members of the IFFO, Loblaw has made strides in moving closer to our goal of sourcing 100 per cent of the seafood sold in our stores from sustainable sources by the end of 2013," says Paul Uys , vice-president, sustainable seafood, Loblaw Companies Limited. "As Canada's largest food retailer, Loblaw will play a key leadership role in bringing these responsibly farmed seafood practices to the wider marketplace."

"WWF recognizes the importance of engaging with multiple stakeholders to develop environmental and social standards and voluntary certification schemes for a range of commodities," says Dr. Robert Rangeley , vice-president, WWF-Canada, Atlantic Region. "We see Loblaw's membership in IFFO as an example of this and another important step in their commitment to responsible sourcing and traceability of seafood in Canada."

As one of its 2012 Sustainable Seafood Commitments, Loblaw has committed to begin the conversion to 100 per cent of fishmeal and fish oil used in feed to be certified against the IFFO Responsible Supply standard for all control brand responsibly farmed seafood programs. This commitment extends into Loblaw control brand products where there are feeding regimes, such as the PC® Free From products.

About Loblaw Companies Limited TSX: L

Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 135,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^®and Joe Fresh ^® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^®points loyalty program.

More information about Loblaw CSR strategies and performance along with the Company's sustainable seafood commitment can be found online at www.loblaw.ca/csr, www.loblaw.ca/seafood and www.oceansfortomorrow.ca.

Loblaw CSR Report outlines the Company's environmental and social achievements for 2011

Thu, 03 May 2012 15:02:00 -0400

BRAMPTON, ON, May 1, 2012 /CNW/ - In the evolution of its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) today announces the release of its 5^th annual CSR Report which outlines the Company's key environmental and social achievements in 2011 and targets for the coming year.

Two new components to the report include the Company's CSR long-range plan (LRP) and "Canadian First" commitment. Loblaw's CSR LRP focuses on issues that have an impact on customers, colleagues and the business in the areas of health and wellness, environmental footprint, responsible sourcing and food safety. Loblaw also introduced its very own "Canadian First" commitment - a testament to sourcing locally and supporting local vendors*.

"Loblaw is proud to lead by example on issues of importance to Canadians, and we embrace goal-setting as a means to keep us on track for success," said Galen G. Weston , executive chairman, Loblaw Companies Limited. "Our aspirations for positive change continue to generate excitement with our colleagues, customers and industry and fuel our desire to constantly challenge ourselves to have an impact where we can."

Loblaw's approach to business is guided by five corporate social responsibility principles: Respect the Environment, Source with Integrity, Make a Positive Difference in our Community, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and Be A Great Place to Work.

2011 CSR Highlights and Achievements:

Since 2007 reduced the number of plastic shopping bags from our stores by 3.8 billion
More than 250 control brand products packaged in a single plastic resin (PET) to improve recyclability.
Generated 222,780 kilowatt hours of clean carbon free energy with photovoltaic (PV) rooftop solar panels installed in four Ontario corporate stores
Converted more than 36,000 light fixtures to fluorescent technology resulting in energy savings sufficient to powering 4,700 homes for a year
Thirty per cent of the produce sold in our stores sourced from Canadian growers
Added more than 50 new Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified wild-caught seafood products in our stores
All control brand food vendors audited and certified compliant with applicable Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) recognized standards
Doubled the number of Ontario farmers supplying us with Ontario Corn Fed Beef to 500
Together with our colleagues, customers and vendors, we raised and granted more than $38 million to charities and non-profit organizations across Canada
Launched Guiding Stars nutrition scorecard in four stores in Ontario to help guide customers to healthier food options.
Reformulated 208 existing control brand processed products, reducing sodium by an average of 19 per cent
Added 11 in-store dietitians in 24 corporate stores
Increased the percentage of female store managers by 6.4 per cent over 2010 to 23 per cent
Launched the Loblaw Scholarship Program, making 200 scholarships of $1,500 each available to colleagues, family members, friends and customers for post-secondary diploma or degree programs
Named one of Canada's Top 100 Employers for the third year in a row, and one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People for the second consecutive year.

Loblaw's plans for 2012 include continuing to reduce waste within our supply chain; sourcing products responsibility with a focus on fresh products, seafood, palm oil and animal welfare; and finally, providing a health and wellness destination for Canadians.

"We're thinking more strategically and long term about CSR now and are always looking for ways Loblaw can continue to push the limits of what is possible," said Bob Chant , senior vice president of corporate affairs and communication, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We have made good progress in 2011 and are committed to moving further on our social responsible agenda in 2012."

The complete report can be found online at www.loblaw.ca/csr.

*At Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw), we are committed to buy Canadian first, placing a priority on local and regional fresh products when the safety, quality, availability and value are right for our customers. As the largest grocery retailer and food distributor in Canada, Loblaw is proud to offer safe and healthy foods from across the country. Since our inception in 1919, we have taken pride in working with local farmers, fishermen and producers, helping them grow their businesses and contributing to the growth of local economies. Loblaw enjoys long standing, deep relationships with a wide assortment of Canadian suppliers and we are proud to continue the tradition and commitment to buy Canadian first.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 135,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^® and Joe Fresh ^® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^® points loyalty program.

Price perceptions and food label confusion remain barriers to achieving healthier diets

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 06:59:00 -0500

Loblaw Companies livelivewell™ survey reports Albertans top the list of Canadians making healthier eating choices; other prairie provinces and Quebec rank lowest

BRAMPTON, ON, Feb. 27, 2012 /CNW/ - (TSX:L) - Two thirds of Canadians (67%) say they are making healthier eating choices than one year ago, reveals the Loblaw Companies Limited livelifewell™ survey, compiled from a national online poll conducted by Vision Critical for Loblaw Companies Limited. The survey results highlight where Canadians stand when it comes to making healthier eating choices, from nutritional attributes they seek most, to challenges they face and who they go to for support on adopting healthier lifestyles - and the results offer food for thought.

"While healthier eating behaviours and perspectives vary across the country, overall the survey reveals that Canadians are eating more fresh foods and trust dietitians and doctors for advice on healthy living. However, there is still progress to be made as price and food label confusion remain the top barriers to achieving healthier diets," says Alexis Williams , dietitian for Loblaw Companies Limited.

Healthy Bites From Across the Nation

Albertans have made the biggest change, with 81 per cent of respondents saying they are making healthier eating choices than they were one year ago.
In the Atlantic provinces, 70 per cent of respondents are making healthier eating choices now than they were one year ago.
British Columbia and Ontario were nearly tied with 68 per cent and 67 per cent of residents, respectively, making healthier eating choices over the past year.
In Quebec, 63 per cent of residents said they are making healthier eating choices over the last year.
Residents of Manitoba and Saskatchewan made the fewest changes to their eating habits over the past year with 58 per cent reporting that they are now making healthier eating choices compared to one year ago.
More British Columbia residents reduced their sugar intake than residents of any other province (41%).
Quebec residents reduced their fat intake more than any other province (37%).
Canadians over 55 years of age reduced the sodium and fat in their diets at the highest rate (both at 38%).
When looking for healthy lifestyle information, Canadians said family doctors (52%) and nutritionists/dietitians (46%) are their most trusted sources of healthy lifestyle information, yet less than one in 10 Canadians turned to a nutritionist or dietitian as a source of healthy living information and only one-quarter turned to their doctor in the past year.

"Many Canadians are unsure of where to go for advice on healthy living and nutrition, and may feel that individual guidance from a nutritionist or dietitian is inaccessible to them," says Williams. "That's what makes the in-store dietitian program at Loblaw banner stores so convenient - being able to pick up dinner and talk to a dietitian in one stop, under one roof is a unique offering for customers. With a few minutes of one-on-one time, we can help provide tools for healthier choices that will last a lifetime."

Men and women both report making healthier eating choices. Women are leading the charge at 70 per cent, compared to 64 per cent of men. Younger Canadians aged 18 to 34 are most likely to have made changes to their eating habits in the past year, reporting at 70 per cent compared to 67 per cent of Canadians aged 35-54 and 64 per cent of Canadians 55 years and older. At 39 per cent the most common change that Canadian report is adding more fresh foods

Almost one in three Canadians (32%) are also working to reduce the amount of fat (32%), sugar (31%) and sodium (30%) in their diet. But, while the majority of Canadians have improved their eating choices, some report frustrating barriers - the most common being the perception that healthier food is more expensive. In fact, 41 per cent of respondents reported price as a barrier to making healthier eating choices. Taste and knowledge about more nutritious options were also recognized as barriers (both 11%), demonstrating clear gaps in understanding the options and resources available to them.

Half of Canadians look to food labels for information to help them make healthy lifestyle choices and certain brands take a lot of the guesswork out of the decision making for customers. The newly-designed packaging of PC^® Blue Menu^® products, featuring new plus (+) and minus (-) symbols makes it easier for customers to identify nutritional attributes. Now customers can see what the products contain more of, or less of, right away.

Want to know more?

Alexis Williams , a registered dietitian who develops health and wellness services and programs for Loblaw, including the in-store dietitians program offered at selected Loblaw banner stores, is available to discuss the survey findings with media and offer:

Insight into survey results and trends in healthier lifestyles among Canadians
Tips to choose healthier foods and get around the most common barriers to healthy eating
Easy ways to increase fibre and omega-3 intake and decrease sodium, fat and sugar
Ingredient substitutions to pack more nutrition into family favourites
Ways to get the most out of your relationship with grocery store pharmacists and dietitians

*One-on-one counseling with dietitians is available in 18 Loblaws^® and Real Canadian Superstore^® locations across Ontario.

About the survey

Vision Critical conducted an online survey on February 1, 2012 among 1,004 randomly selected Canadian adults who are Angus Reid forum panelists. The margin of error—which measures sampling variability—is +/- 3.1%, 19 times out of 20. The results have been statistically weighted according to the most current education, age, gender and region Census data to ensure a sample representative of the entire adult population of Canada. Discrepancies in or between totals are due to rounding.

About Loblaw Companies Limited TSX: L

Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 135 000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

Product samples, regional versions of the President's Choice^®Insider's Report^®and high-resolution images are available.

Loblaw recognized as having one of Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:05:00 -0500

BRAMPTON, ON, Nov. 24, 2011 /CNW/ - TSX: L - Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) one of Canada's largest private sector employers, has been recognized as having one of Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures™ of 2011 by Waterstone Human Capital Inc. The only grocery retailer on the list, this honour recognizes Loblaw's outstanding cultural alignment and innovation that is connected to performance.

"We believe that achieving a culture that encourages communication, learning and colleague acknowledgement is an important driver of success," says Judy McCrie, executive vice president, Human Resources and Labour Relations, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We strive to promote a culture of close-knit, informed and engaged teams and with the acknowledgment as one of Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures, we know we're on the right track and will continue to foster this positive working environment for our colleagues."

From more than 400 nominations, Loblaw earned this award based on excellence in the areas of Vision and Leadership, Cultural Alignment, Measurement and Sustainability in relation to Vision, Rewards, Recognition and Innovative Business Achievement and, Corporate Performance and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Some of the initiatives that reflect Loblaw's unique culture and helped Loblaw earn its place on Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures™ of 2011 include:

Open Channels of Communication - Keeping the channels of communication open is important in ensuring a culture of colleague engagement. Loblaw's twice-yearly 'Tell it as it is' surveys, an 'Ask Galen' email service and the 'Let's Talk' program, which gives colleagues at a junior level an opportunity to meet with executives are some examples. Regular Town Halls and 'Road Shows', that bring store managers together for regular updates and feedback as well as Loblaw's own TV network, Business Television (BTV) give colleagues at all levels a strong and powerful voice. Daily corporate and store huddles, as well as bi-monthly newsletters, weekly email blasts, announcements and the company intranet also give groups a chance to meet and understand business updates and priorities that help create a culture of close-knit, informed and engaged teams.

Rewards and Recognition - Everyone likes to hear "job well done!" Loblaw's newest program, open to all colleagues, is the ABCD recognition program, standing for Above and Beyond the Call of Duty. This program provides various recognition opportunities for colleagues and nominations can be made by a fellow colleague, an immediate manager, a colleague in a different department or a customer. The program gives colleagues and customers a chance to say thank you for outstanding service and helps reinforce core values and behaviours. Service recognition awards are also a long-standing tradition at Loblaw.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) - CSR is embedded into Loblaw's business practices and is driven by five principles, respect the environment, source with integrity, making a positive difference in our community, reflect our nation's diversity and be a great place to work.

Loblaw has made great strides in the area of CSR, from an industry-leading commitment to source 100 per cent of its seafood from sustainable sources by year-end 2013, to charging for plastic bags which has led to a 73% reduction in plastic shopping bag use from our stores and has reduced the number of plastic bags from our stores by more than 2.5 billion since 2007.
Being a great place to work also helps shape the Company's approach to colleague engagement, creating a culture where colleagues can thrive, be inspired and have access to the tools needed to succeed in their workplace.
Colleagues support their communities by participating in such initiatives as seasonal food drives and various annual programs through the President's Choice^®Children's Charity. In 2010 alone, 12.6 million dollars was granted by the charity for various initiatives.
Loblaw also has several diversity initiatives to ensure diversity is reflected in the products offered, the people hired and the workplace culture created. Loblaw's unique Inclusion Toolkit helps leaders and recruitment specialists attract and hire a diverse workforce and to assist with efforts in attracting visible minorities and broadening our recruitment avenues beyond traditional streams. The Company has also partnered with community agencies. Through new hire orientation programs, new colleagues have the opportunity to partner with a 'colleague buddy' of similar backgrounds, to ensure comfort and ease of adaptation to Loblaw.

For more information about Loblaw's commitment to CSR, visit www.loblaw.ca/csr.

About Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures™: Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures is founded and presented by Waterstone Human Capital, a leading retained executive search firm specializing in recruiting for fit and in cultural assessment. This national program, now in its seventh year, annually recognizes best-in-class Canadian organizations for having a culture that has helped them enhance performance and sustain a competitive advantage. For more information, visit www.canadasmostadmired.com

About Loblaw Companies Limited

Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^®and Joe Fresh^® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^®points loyalty program.

Loblaw recognized as a Top Employer in the Greater Toronto Area

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

BRAMPTON, ON, Nov. 16, 2011 /CNW/ - TSX:L - For the third year in a row, Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw), has been named one of Greater Toronto's Top Employers by Mediacorp Canada Inc. The only grocery retailer on the list, Loblaw was given this honour for creating a great place to work that inspires colleagues to live a healthy lifestyle, engage with their community, and develop in their careers.

"We strive to create an exceptional work environment where colleagues feel connected and engaged," says Judy McCrie, executive vice president, Human Resources and Labour Relations, Loblaw Companies Limited. "It's an honour to be recognized as a top employer for Greater Toronto. At Loblaw, our colleagues are our greatest strength. Building a culture of excellence where people are passionate about their work is what enables us to recruit and retain the region's best talent."

Commitment to "be a great place to work" is one of Loblaw's five corporate social responsibility (CSR) principles, and helps shape the Company's approach to colleague engagement. Loblaw's business practices also integrate the CSR principles of; "respect the environment", "source with integrity", "making a positive difference in our community" and "reflect our nation's diversity".

From the corporate head office in Brampton, Ontario, to retail stores across the GTA under such banner names as Loblaws^®, Loblaw greatfood™ and Real Canadian Superstore^TM, Loblaw colleagues live the Company's values to create a positive experience internally and for customers.

Loblaw has earned its place on the list of Greater Toronto's Top Employers this year through the following initiatives:

Community involvement

In the Greater Toronto Area, Loblaw colleagues receive paid time off to volunteer with President's Choice^® Children's Charity, which focuses on childhood nutrition and supporting children with disabilities. In 2010 Loblaw provided disability grants to 228 children totaling $1.1 million in the 'M' postal code areas and an additional 196 children in the 'L' postal code area totaling another $1.35 million.
President's Choice^® Children's Charity is actively engaged in helping fund childhood nutrition programs and has provided 42 nutrition grants in Toronto, this past year totaling $54,400 and another 63 nutrition grants in the regions of Halton, York and Durham totaling $54,300.
As part of the Company's national Extra Helping™ food drive, GTA colleagues donate time and support in-store food drives with GTA food banks such as the Daily Bread Food Bank, North York Harvest Food Bank and the York Region Food Network.
Loblaw has partnered with Toronto Community Foundation for Beyond 3:30, providing a safe and stimulating place for middle school children to gather after school. Loblaw is also active in the Green CommUnity School Grants program, which supports school projects that connect students with nature, and fosters an understanding of environmental issues and solutions, stimulating environmental leadership amongst students and communities with WWF Canada.
Loblaw colleagues support programs aimed at helping to protect the environment such as National Sweater Day and The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup.
For more information about Loblaw's commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, visit www.loblaw.ca/csr.

Innovation in recruiting and career development

Loblaw provides an enriching and challenging program to help attract bright minds into retail, and provide a track to successful career development. grad@Loblaw is an 18-month program for recently graduated university and college students who are hired as full-time salaried staff, and given an opportunity to rotate through various roles in-store, central merchandising as well as the specific position they were hired to do. Since 2009, more than 250 post-secondary graduates in the GTA have been hired.
Loblaw features learning stores which focus on ensuring all store colleagues understand and have the required skills to effectively execute store processes. Such training results in improved store standards and productivity, while delivering a level of service that meets or exceeds customers' expectations.
Colleagues are given the opportunity to connect across the Loblaw network through special events and mentorship programs, such as the Women@Loblaw Network which provides women throughout the Company with an online networking site and events that focus on professional development.

Unique work environment

Each morning, teams across the company "huddle" for a short meeting to provide colleagues with the most up to date information that will help colleagues do their jobs. Huddles have been in use in Loblaw stores for some time and now also take place at the head office and regional distribution centres.
Loblaw's head office has a complete Goodlife Fitness facility and extensive sports facilities on the premises, a full service market-style cafeteria featuring an array of menu items using President's Choice^® products, an outdoor patio, fresh herb garden and state-of-the-art Test Kitchen.

"Loblaw has built an environment where people are excited about their work and challenged to do their best," says Katie Gardner, grad@Loblaw participant and current full time colleague. "We are given the opportunity to network internally and learn about the Company beyond our home departments so we feel connected to the broader business and its objectives."

To learn more about the Greater Toronto's Top Employers competition and Mediacorp's selection of this year's recipients, visit www.canadastop100.com/toronto/

About Loblaw Companies Limited

Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

Loblaw's Sustainable Seafood Commitment progress report reveals company on track

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 10:47:00 -0400

BRAMPTON, ON, July 7, 2011 /CNW/ - Increasing the number and availability of responsibly sourced seafood and products with seafood ingredients, consumer education and industry collaboration are the key drivers behind ensuring that Loblaw Companies Limited will achieve 100 per cent sustainable seafood by year-end 2013. Today the Company provides its annual sustainable seafood progress report and outlines its goals for the next 12 months.

"We are moving into an exciting point of our journey, marked with notable achievements including introducing WiseSource™ Salmon, a more responsibly farmed Atlantic Salmon, and altering our procurement practice for fresh swordfish to pole and line or harpoon to launching an education website oceansfortomorrow.ca," said Paul Uys, vice president, sustainable seafood, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We have a way to go, and it remains a daunting task, but we are on track to reach our goal of 100 per cent sustainable seafood by year-end 2013."

Quotes:

"Loblaw's progress report, showing they have nearly tripled the number of MSC-certified sustainable products available for sale in just one year, marks a major milestone in their commitment to reach 100 per cent certified sustainable seafood and fish products," said Kerry Coughlin, Marine Stewardship Council Regional Director, Americas. "We applaud their leadership and are proud to partner with Loblaw and its customers, who will have an impact on sustainability that extends far beyond Canada to help protect fish stocks and fishing livelihoods around the world for future generations."

"Loblaw is changing the face of the seafood industry through their commitment to sourcing 100 per cent of their seafood products sustainably," said Hadley Archer, Vice-President of Strategic Partnerships, WWF. "We're very proud to be a partner in this important initiative and congratulate Loblaw on successfully hitting key milestones and making significant advances in every area we have collaborated on."

"At True North Salmon Company, we are committed to environmental stewardship and providing our customers with high quality products," said Glenn Cooke, the company's CEO. "Our partnership with Loblaw and our joint commitment to sustainable farming methods has become a very important milestone in our company's culture of continuous improvement and ongoing investment in research and innovation."

"We applaud Loblaw for making progress towards their sustainable seafood commitment" said Rob Johnson, SeaChoice representative from Ecology Action Centre. "Their actions to increase sourcing of sustainably caught wild seafood is a commendable step towards healthier oceans."

"As a leader of conservation, the Toronto Zoo, Canada's premier Zoo, is committed to raising awareness about the importance of sustainable seafood and what is needed to help preserve our oceans," said John Tracogna, CEO Toronto Zoo. "We were very proud to have Loblaw as the presenting sponsor of the Seafood For Thought ™ event this year and congratulate them on their shared commitment to sustainability."

May 2010 to May 2011 Sustainable Seafood Progress Report:
During the reporting period of May 2010 to May 2011, Loblaw's achievements:

More responsible seafood options available for consumers

Exceeded goal to double the number of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified wild-caught seafood products available to customers. Loblaw has introduced 47 MSC-certified products; up from 16 in May 2010.
Worked with Canadian salmon farmers to introduce WiseSource™ Salmon, a more responsibly farmed Atlantic Salmon, at participating stores in Ontario and Quebec.
Altered our procurement practices for fresh swordfish - participating stores sell fresh swordfish caught by using pole and line or harpoon, which helps reduce the unintentional by-catch of other species.
Adopted a policy of selling 100 per cent International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) canned tuna to facilitate a transition by suppliers to adopt MSC certification. Currently, 95 per cent of the canned tuna we sell in our stores are supplied by vendors who are committed to the policy.

Industry Collaboration

Launched proprietary vendor questionnaire to effectively assess and manage our seafood buying process.
Continued to work towards appropriate solutions to manage "species at risk" in partnership with the fishing industry, WWF and our independent marine science advisor.
Engaged various levels of government, non-government organizations and other stakeholders to assist in the implementation of stated commitment.

Customer engagement

Educated and informed customers about our commitment by launching a national public awareness campaign in store, created a seafood website - www.oceansfortomorrow.ca and Loblaw Sustainable Seafood Facebook page, and offered secondary schools across Canada the opportunity to view End of the Line documentary.

May 2011 to May 2012 Sustainable Seafood Targets:
For the reporting period of May 2011 to May 2012, Loblaw will focus on:

Continuing to work with partners and suppliers to drive progress in new and meaningful ways

Increase number of MSC-certified products to 80 by expanding MSC-certified seafood offering at fresh seafood counters and encouraging national brand suppliers to provide additional MSC-certified products.
Support the transition to more responsible aquaculture by expanding availability of WiseSource™ Salmon in Eastern Canada stores, introducing Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certified farmed seafood and pursuing a viable solution for closed containment aquaculture.
Use data from our proprietary vendor questionnaire, identify and take steps to manage "high risk" species or stock, both wild and farmed, and vendors who are unable or unwilling to meet our criteria.

Continuing industry collaboration

With WWF, government and industry for a definitive recovery plan to rebuild and manage East Coast Atlantic cod.
With scientific advisors and environmental partners on a responsible procurement practice for tuna species, particularly, yellow fin tuna.

Continuing customer engagement

Engage and educate our customers through the oceansfortomorrow seafood website, Loblaw sustainable seafood Facebook page and in-store marketing materials.

Loblaw's sustainable seafood commitment is driven by its corporate social responsibility principle, Source with Integrity. A commitment to Source with Integrity is one of five Loblaw corporate social responsibility principles, including Respect the Environment, Make a Positive Difference in Our Community, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and Be a Great Place to Work.

For more information about Loblaw's commitment to source seafood from sustainable sources only by the end of 2013 please visit: www.loblaw.ca/seafood oceansfortomorrow.ca and www.facebook.com/LoblawSustainableSeafood.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

LOBLAW FIRST MAJOR CANADIAN RETAILER TO INTRODUCE FRESH CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:00:00 -0400

Select Loblaws grocery stores in GTA to offer fresh Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified seafood

BRAMPTON, ON, June 6, 2011 /CNW/ - Seafood lovers can now purchase Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified Pacific sockeye salmon, Pacific cod, Pacific halibut and Atlantic haddock at the fresh seafood counter at select Loblaws stores in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). To complement the new fresh MSC-certified seafood from Loblaw, select GTA area President's Choice® Cooking Schools will offer sustainable seafood focused cooking classes.

The MSC is the world's leading certification and ecolabelling program for sustainable wild caught seafood. The MSC ecolabel can only be used once there has been independent verification that the seafood product being sold originated from a certified sustainable fishery.

"We know that Loblaw customers will feel just as good as we do that sustainable seafood is now available from our fresh seafood counters," says Paul Uys, vice-president, sustainable seafood, Loblaw Companies Limited. "Despite this exciting progress there is a lot more work to be done - on our own and with others - to accelerate the pace at which we can make available more MSC-certified products in coming months - stay tuned!"

MSC certification is one of few global sustainable seafood standards that relies on third party validation. To gain MSC certification Loblaw was assessed by an independent certifier to ensure Loblaw met MSC chain of custody standards. These standards ensure MSC-certified fresh fish is kept separate from other seafood from the time it leaves the fishery to when it is purchased by a consumer. This includes transport, receiving, handling, storage and display.

"Loblaw's commitment to sell only certified sustainable seafood by year end 2013 puts them among top industry leaders whose policies translate into actions that will have a significant impact on preserving our oceans and seafood resources," said Kerry Coughlin, MSC Regional Director, Americas. "The Marine Stewardship Council applauds Loblaw for the introduction of fresh MSC-certified seafood in stores."

Customer Awareness Initiatives:

President's Choice® Cooking School Sustainable Seafood Classes
Loblaw is hosting sustainable seafood cooking classes at select President's Choice® Cooking School locations during the week of June 19, 2011. Please visit these individual stores for more information.

Loblaws Queens Quay
Loblaws Forest Hill
Loblaws Burnhamthorpe Market
Loblaws Bayview Village
Loblaws Glen Erin Market
Loblaws Richmond Hill (High Tech Road)
Loblaws Empress Market

For store addresses please visit www.loblaws.ca.

Toronto Zoo Seafood For Thought™ Sponsorship
Loblaw Companies is honoured to be presenting sponsor of the annual Toronto Zoo Seafood for Thought^TM Fundraiser on Wednesday, June 22, 2011. This culinary conservation event raises awareness of the importance of purchasing sustainable seafood. Toronto's top chefs will come together to prepare delicious tastings using sustainable seafood for event guests to sample. The unique and elegant outdoor setting, delicious tastings, wine and brewery pairings and of course some wild animal encounters makes Seafood for Thought^TM this year's fundraising event not to be missed. Proceeds from Seafood for Thought^TM support the Toronto Zoo's Conservation Fund for projects that protect wildlife and wild spaces. For more information or to purchase tickets please visit torontozoo.com

Loblaw continues to work to increase the number of MSC-certified products available in store and now offers MSC-certified no name® canned pink salmon and no name® canned sockeye salmon. In addition to working with MSC for wild-caught seafood, Loblaw continues to work with its suppliers to provide customers with seafood cultivated using the most sustainable methods available. For example, earlier this year Loblaw introduced WiseSource^TM Salmon in Ontario and Quebec, a more responsibly sourced farmed Atlantic salmon raised using the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) method. It is exclusive to Loblaw in Canada.

Loblaw retail store locations offering MSC-certified fresh seafood:
The following locations now offer fresh MSC-certified seafood:

Loblaws Queens Quay	Loblaws Richmond Hill (High Tech Road)
Loblaws Forest Hill	Loblaws Empress Market
Loblaws Burnhamthorpe Market	Loblaws Millwood & Laird
Loblaws Bayview Village	Loblaws Bayview & Moore
Loblaws Glen Erin Market	Loblaws Yonge & Yonge

For store addresses please visit www.loblaws.ca.

About Loblaw Seafood Sustainability Commitment
Loblaw's sustainable seafood commitment is driven by one of its corporate social responsibility principles, Source with Integrity. In May 2009, Loblaw made a commitment to source all seafood sold in its corporate and franchised locations from sustainable sources by the end of 2013. Affecting more than 50 per cent of in-store departments, this commitment covers all canned, frozen, fresh, wild and farmed seafood products, in all categories, across all brands.

Additional information about Loblaw's commitment to sustainable seafood can be found at www.oceansfortomorrow.ca, and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LoblawSustainableSeafood.

A commitment to Source with Integrity is one of five Loblaw corporate social responsibility principles, which also includes Respect the Environment, Make a Positive Difference in our Community, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and Be A Great Place to Work.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

ONTARIO CATTLE FARMERS BEEF IT UP SO THAT ONTARIO SHOPPERS CAN GET MORE BEEF SOURCED LOCALLY FROM ONTARIO

Wed, 25 May 2011 11:30:00 -0400

Zehrs Markets®, valu-mart®, Your Independent Grocer® and BloorStreet Market™ grocery stores increase Ontario beef offer

BRAMPTON, ON, May 25, 2011 /CNW/ - As long-time advocates of Ontario beef, Zehrs Markets®, valu-mart®, Your Independent Grocer® and BloorStreet Market™ grocery stores in Ontario - corporate and franchised retail stores of Loblaw Companies Limited - have taken their current partnership with Ontario Cattle Feeders Association (OCFA) to a new level by featuring a significantly increased Ontario beef offering.

This evolving relationship between Loblaw and OCFA means that an increase from 240 Ontario beef farmers to approximately 500 farmers will be supplying Ontario Corn Fed Beef, the OCFA's signature beef brand, to more than 150 stores. The beef is marked with a special logo making it easy for customers to find product grown in Ontario.

"We know our customers want to buy products that are sourced locally from Ontario, so we are thrilled to be able to advance our partnership with Ontario farmers to deliver products that can meet demand and our high standards," said Rodney Koning, vice-president of Meat and Seafood, Loblaw Companies Limited. "By featuring Ontario Corn Fed Beef in more than 150 corporate and franchised stores in Ontario, we've raised the bar on our commitment to Ontario cattle farmers and our customers - it's a win for everyone."

According to the Government of Ontario, 63 per cent of consumers said support for Ontario farmers was a reason for buying Ontario produced or processed foods.

"Having Ontario Corn Fed Beef featured in Zehrs Markets®, valu-mart®, BloorStreet Market™ and Your Independent Grocer® is a tremendous show of support for Ontario farmers and we are going to make sure we deliver on the commitment," said Dale Pallister, president, Ontario Cattle Feeders' Association and fifth generation beef farmer. "Nothing brings me more pride than knowing I'm feeding my neighbours across the province and that my grandson is the seventh generation of my family, since 1873, to enjoy life on the farm."

As Canada's second largest beef producing province, Ontario's cattle and beef sector supports more than 13,000 jobs and contributes approximately $4 billion dollars to the provincial economy.

"It is wonderful news that the Loblaws group will be carrying Ontario Corn Fed Beef in their stores. Not only does it support our cattle producers and our beef industry, but now families will be able to enjoy more of our province's delicious, nutritious, locally Ontario produced beef," said the Honourable Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

The announcement with OCFA represents one way Loblaw and its corporate and franchised stores demonstrate their commitment to support local, regional and national Canadian producers and to give customers fresh, wholesome food. In 2010, the Company ran its highly successful Grown Close to Home™ program for the third year in a row. In July and August of 2010, up to 40 per cent of produce in Loblaw stores was sourced from Canadian growers.

"We are encouraged by how our corporate social responsibility activities are positively impacting our customers, our business and the larger community," said Bob Chant, vice-president of corporate affairs, Loblaw Companies Limited. "As we look to the future, we continue to seek new ways to improve, and lead by example."

Among the innovative initiatives the Company believes will serve as building blocks for its long-term vision to improve the sustainability of our food, Loblaw granted a $3 million gift to the University of Guelph to establish the Loblaw Companies Limited Chair in Sustainable Food Production, and took a leading role in the development of the Conference Board of Canada's Centre for Food in Canada, which aims to develop a framework for a national food strategy.

Loblaw's approach to business is guided by five corporate social responsibility pillars: Respect the Environment, Source with Integrity, Make a Positive Difference in our Community, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and Be A Great Place to Work.

Loblaw's 2010 CSR report can be found online at loblaw.ca/csr.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

Western Canada nofrills® Stores Accepting Donations for Town of Slave Lake

Fri, 20 May 2011 11:40:00 -0400

CALGARY, May 20, 2011 /CNW/ - In support of the Town of Slave Lake residents that were forced from their homes after the devastating fire this past weekend, including the employees and franchise owner of Tim's nofrills^®, all nofrills^® store locations throughout Western Canada have joined together to raise funds for relief efforts.

Donations are now being accepted at all nofrills^® locations in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Northwestern Ontario. Franchise owners will also contribute to the total donation collected at their store. One hundred per cent of the money raised will go to the Canadian Red Cross Western Canada Severe Weather Fund.

"At nofrills^® we firmly believe in the importance of making a difference in the communities where we operate. We extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by the fire and we hope that by uniting across Western Canada, our customers and franchisees will help make a difference," said Craig Hodgkinson, vice-president operations, nofrills^®West.

Customers wishing to support the Red Cross Alberta Fires relief efforts can make a cash donation at their nearest nofrills^® store location until the end-of May. Visit www.nofrills.ca to find the store closest to you. Alternatively, donations can also be made to the Canadian Red Cross at www.redcross.ca, by calling toll free 1-800-418-1111 or at any Red Cross office. Please designate the donation to the Western Canada Severe Weather Fund.

LOBLAW ISSUES FOURTH ANNUAL CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY REPORT

Tue, 03 May 2011 16:44:00 -0400

Year marked by notable achievements and by the establishment of key building blocks for the future

BRAMPTON, ON, May 3 /CNW/ - Today, Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) issued its 2010 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report. The 2010 CSR Report: The Way We Do Business details Loblaw's social responsibility achievements and key areas of focus. Through its approach to CSR, Loblaw looks to meet the needs of today while laying the foundation to address potential future challenges.

"In 2010 we continued to make progress against CSR targets and I am particularly pleased with our efforts to reduce our environmental impact and improve the sustainability of our food supply," said Galen G. Weston, executive chairman, Loblaw Companies Limited. "Looking forward we recognize the increased importance Canadians are placing on making good diet, health and nutrition choices. We believe Loblaw can and should be a meaningful partner in addressing these concerns."

Among the innovative initiatives in 2010 that the Company believes will serve to be building blocks for its long-term vision, Loblaw granted a $3 million gift to the University of Guelph to establish the Loblaw Companies Limited Chair in Sustainable Food Production, and took a leading role in the development of the Conference Board of Canada's Centre for Food in Canada, which aims to develop a framework for a national food strategy.

2010 Highlights:
Respect the environment

Launched 37 new PC® G.R.E.E.N® products.
Improved fuel efficiency by 2.3 per cent.
Loblaw customers used 73 per cent fewer plastic shopping bags and since 2007, Loblaw customers used 2.5 billion fewer plastic shopping bags.
Reduced PC® product packaging by 2.3 million kilograms.
Achieved 70 per cent diversion of waste-to-landfill from Distribution Centres.
Commenced a project to simplify plastics packaging in order to improve recycling by municipal facilities.
Commenced renewable energy (photovoltaic/solar panels) pilot projects at two store locations.
Recognized as one of Canada's Greenest Employers by Mediacorp Canada Inc.

Source with Integrity

Continued driving our commitment to source 100 per cent sustainable seafood by achieving the next steps in one of the most aggressive, world-leading sustainable seafood commitments:

Increased the number of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified sustainable products on it shelves to 22 and removed four identified 'at risk' seafood species from shelves.
Launched a national public awareness campaign that included providing a documentary about the state of our oceans, End of the Line, to more than 700 Canadian schools across the country and the launch of a sustainable seafood Facebook site and website, www.oceansfortomorrow.com.

Sourced up to 40 per cent of produce in Loblaw stores in July and August from Canadian growers, and featured up to 180 products from Canadian growers as part of Loblaw's Grown Close to Home™ program.
Became the first national Canadian grocery retailer to require Loblaw private brand suppliers to comply with safety standards under the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).

Make a positive difference in our community

Donated more than $12.6 million to local charities across Canada and Loblaw colleagues, employees, customers and vendors donated more than $22.4 million to local charities through in-store fundraising initiatives to help benefit Canadians nationally.

Reflect our nation's diversity

Increased the percentage of female store managers to 21.7 per cent.
Dedicated space for culturally diverse merchandise in 74 per cent of Loblaw corporate and franchise stores.

Be a great place to work

Recognized as a top Canadian employer for a second consecutive year and a top employer for young people by Mediacorp Canada Inc.
Introduced a new program called Above and Beyond the Call of Duty (ABCD) to recognize colleagues for outstanding effort and customer service.

"We are encouraged by the progress we continue to make against our CSR targets and how our activities are positively impacting our business and the larger community. As we look to the future, we continue to seek new ways to improve, and lead by example," said Bob Chant, vice-president of corporate affairs, Loblaw Companies Limited.

Loblaw's 2010 CSR report can be found online on the recently redesigned Loblaw Corporate website at loblaw.ca/csr.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian customers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh Style® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to customers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program

LOBLAW NAMED ONE OF CANADA'S GREENEST EMPLOYERS FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 12:56:00 -0400

BRAMPTON, ON, April 22 /CNW/ - Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw), one of Canada's largest private sector employers, has been named one of Canada's Top Greenest Employers, by Mediacorp Canada Inc, for the second consecutive year. Loblaw achieved this notable recognition for its industry leading green initiatives and its success in integrating environmental values into its corporate culture.

"At Loblaw, we are proud of the way our colleagues, employees and franchise owners have supported our efforts to be more environmentally conscious," said Bob Chant, vice-president, corporate affairs, Loblaw Companies Limited. "Whether it's sourcing our products sustainably; encouraging use of reusable bags in place of plastic bags; improving our energy use and fuel efficiency or inspiring our customers to make environmentally friendly purchasing decisions, we have a responsibility as Canada's leading grocery retailer to reduce the environmental impact of our day-to-day operations."

Some of Loblaw's environmental accomplishments in 2010 include:

Helping protect our oceans: In 2009 Loblaw announced a commitment to source all seafood sold in its retail locations from sustainable sources by the end of 2013. Last year's achievements include increasing the number of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified sustainable seafood products available to customers and represents the most of any Canadian retailer and adopting a policy of selling 100 per cent International Seafood Sustainability Foundation canned tuna to facilitate the transition to more MSC-certified products. Loblaw also launched a public awareness campaign that included providing a documentary about the state of our oceans, The End of the Line, to more than 700 Canadian schools across the country and the launch of a sustainable seafood Facebook site and website, www.oceansfortomorrow.com.
Reducing the use of plastic shopping bags: In 2010, Loblaw customers used 73 per cent fewer plastic shopping bags, which means 2.5 billion fewer bags were used by Loblaw customers since 2007. Loblaw also introduced two new bagless stores where plastic shopping bags are not available, bringing the total number of bagless stores across Canada to seven.
Reduced energy consumption: Through store renovations Loblaw achieved a 3.2 per cent reduction in electricity use per square foot relative to 2009. Loblaw continues to investigate opportunities to reduce energy consumption through technology advancements. This includes incorporating alternative refrigeration design systems to help reduce refrigerant leaks; installing automated energy management systems in select stores to reduce lighting and energy use; and installing photovoltaic solar panels on some store rooftops.
Improved fuel efficiency: In 2010, Loblaw improved fleet fuel efficiency by 2.3 per cent, which is equivalent to 18 trips around the world in a Class 8 transport truck. Loblaw continues to upgrade its fleet with low emission trucks, and was the first Canadian grocery retailer to test a Class 8 transport truck run by hybrid technology.
Increased waste diversion: In 2010 Loblaw saw a reduction of 2.3 million kilograms of packaging contained in Loblaw control brand products, moving the Company closer to achieving a five per cent reduction in the packaging used in Loblaw control brand products by the end of 2014.
Fostering green advocates: Partial proceeds from the purchase of the $0.05 plastic shopping bags have been donated by Loblaw to WWF to support a number of environmental initiatives such as the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup™, National Sweater Day™ and the WWF Green CommUnity Grants program that awarded grants totaling $600,000 to Canadian schools for environmental projects.
Increasing our greener options: In 2010 we introduced 37 new PC® G.R.E.E.N® products ranging from hypoallergenic diapers, lawn and garden, stationery, pet accessories to household cleaning products to help encourage customers to reduce their environmental footprints.

"Loblaw continues to be a corporate leader in sustainability," says Hadley Archer, WWF's Vice-President of Strategic Partnerships. "Thanks to their dedication, we are seeing responsible changes happening in the global seafood industry. Loblaw doesn't stop there. The Company also generously supports WWF campaigns that motivate Canadians to make small changes that will have a global environmental impact. Congratulations to everyone at Loblaw on this achievement."

Next month, Loblaw will be releasing its 2010 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, which will provide updated information on the full range of Loblaw's CSR commitments and achievements. Please visit the responsibility page at loblaw.ca for more information.

Launched in 2007, the Canada's Greenest Employers competition is organized by the editors of the Canada's Top 100 Employers project. This special designation recognizes the employers that lead the nation in creating a corporate culture of environmental awareness, have developed exceptional earth-friendly initiatives and attracting people to their organizations because of their environmental leadership.

LOBLAW 2011 EXTRA HELPING™ SPRING NATIONAL FOOD DRIVE AIMS TO HELP FIGHT HUNGER IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 06:59:00 -0400

BRAMPTON, ON, April 8 /CNW/ - The arrival of spring is marked by a period of need for food and funds at food banks across Canada. To help stock the shelves, Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) and its banner stores today kicked off its 2011 Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive. Nationally, Loblaw's goal is to raise $1.2 million and 1.2 million pounds of food in 2011.

In Ontario, grocery shoppers are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items or make a cash donation next time they visit their local Loblaws^®, Loblaw Great Food™, Fortinos^®, Zehrs Markets^®, Zehrs Great Food™, Your Independent Grocer^®, valu-mart^®, No Frills^® and Real Canadian Superstore^® store locations. The campaign runs from Friday April 8 to Thursday April 28.

"More than 402,000 Ontarians each month need our assistance to help provide nutritious meals for their families," says Ed Borkowski, executive director, Ontario Association of Food Banks. "Programs like the Loblaw 2011 Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive help us to stock our shelves year-round, and continue to serve families across Ontario that otherwise would go hungry."

One hundred per cent of food donated, and 70 per cent of the cash donated, go to local Ontario food banks. The remaining 30 per cent of donated cash goes to the Ontario Association of Food Banks in support of provincial food bank programs.

According to the Ontario Association of Food Banks, the most needed non-perishable items include: pasta products, rice, canned meat and fish, dry and canned soups and stews, canned fruit and vegetables, flour, breakfast cereal, peanut butter, canned/powdered milk, fruit juices, pasta sauce, beans and legumes, infant formula and baby food.

"As Canada's largest grocery retailer, we take seriously the responsibility to support the communities we serve with locally focused efforts like the Loblaw Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive," says Peggy Hornell, senior director, Community Investment, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We appreciate the efforts of our customers and their support for local food drives can help those in need."

Loblaw corporate and participating franchise stores taking part in the 2011 Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive across the country are: Loblaws^®, Loblaw Great Food™, Fortinos^®, Zehrs Markets^®, Zehrs Great Food™, Your Independent Grocer^®, valu-mart^®, No Frills^®, Extra Foods^®, Dominion^® (Newfoundland and Labrador), SaveEasy^®, Provigo^®, Maxi^®, Maxi & Cie^®, Wholesale Club™(West), Atlantic Superstore^® and Real Canadian Superstore^®. A second national food drive is scheduled for December 2011.

Loblaw is committed to being active in communities at the local, regional and national levels where it operates, and the Company views this as an integral component to the success of its business. The Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive is one of Loblaw's corporate social responsibility pillars to Make a Positive Difference in Our Community. The other Loblaw corporate social responsibility pillars include Respect the Environment, Source with Integrity, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and Be a Great Place to Work.

About the Ontario Association of Food Banks
The Ontario Association of Food Banks (OAFB) is a network of 20 regional food banks and over 100 community food banks across the province from Windsor to Ottawa and Niagara Falls to Thunder Bay working towards a hunger-free Ontario. It is our mission to provide food, funding, and solutions to reduce hunger in the province. For more information about OAFB as well as hunger and poverty in Ontario, please visit www.oafb.ca.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^® and Joe Fresh Style^® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^® points loyalty program.

LOBLAW 2011 EXTRA HELPING™ SPRING NATIONAL FOOD DRIVE AIMS TO HELP FIGHT HUNGER IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN NEED

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 06:59:00 -0400

CALGARY, April 8 /CNW/ - The arrival of spring is marked by a period of need for food and funds at food banks across Canada. To help stock the shelves, Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) and its banner stores today kicked off its 2011 Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive. Nationally, Loblaw's goal is to raise $1.2 million and 1.2 million pounds of food in 2011.

In Alberta, grocery shoppers are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items or make a cash donation next time they visit their local No Frills^®, Extra Foods^®, Wholesale Club™ and Real Canadian Superstore^®store locations. The campaign runs from Friday April 8 to Thursday April 28.

"More than 59,311 Albertans each month need our assistance to help provide nutritious meals for their families," says Suzan Krecsy, board chair, Alberta Food Banks. "Programs like the Loblaw 2011 Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive help us to stock our shelves year-round, and continue to serve families across Alberta that otherwise would go hungry."

One hundred per cent of food donated, and 70 per cent of the cash donated, go to local Alberta food banks. The remaining 30 per cent of donated cash goes to Alberta Food Banks in support of provincial food bank programs.

According to Alberta Food Banks, the most needed non-perishable items include: juice or powdered milk, baby formula with iron and jarred baby food, pasta and pasta sauce, canned tomatoes, peanut butter, processed cheese spread, canned beans in tomato sauce, cereal, rice, canned and dry soup, canned fish and meat, macaroni and cheese, and canned vegetables and fruit.

"As Canada's largest grocery retailer, we take seriously the responsibility to support the communities we serve with locally focused efforts like the Loblaw Extra Helping™ Spring National Food Drive," says Peggy Hornell, senior director, Community Investment, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We appreciate the efforts of our customers and their support for local food drives can help those in need."

About Alberta Food Banks
Alberta Food Banks is the provincial charitable organization representing the food bank community across Alberta. Our member food banks, and their respective agencies, serve over 80% of people accessing emergency food programs province wide. Our mission is to provide support and leadership to food banks in Alberta in their efforts to provide short-term relief in the area of food insecurity while working on long-term solutions for hunger and poverty.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^® and Joe Fresh Style^® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^® points loyalty program.

LOBLAW AND THE UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH ANNOUNCE INAUGURAL CHAIR IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 06:55:00 -0400

BRAMPTON, ON and GUELPH, ON, March 25 /CNW/ - A leader in building agricultural research and knowledge networks, Professor Ralph Martin has been appointed the Loblaw Companies Limited Chair in Sustainable Food Production at the University of Guelph (U of G), following a year-long international search. Martin, a plant and animal sciences professor at Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC), will begin advancing sustainable food production education and practices this month.

"This is a very important and distinctive position, and far from a traditional academic chair," said Alastair Summerlee, president, University of Guelph. "It was designed to be a portal for knowledge on the complex and diverse topic of sustainable food. U of G's Ontario Agricultural College is ideally suited to host this initiative, given our history in agriculture, food and food sciences research."

The chair — funded by a $3-million gift from Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) — will form the foundation of U of G research on strengthening food production systems. A Canadian first, this position will lead change in food production systems through education, research, practice and outreach within the context of the essential elements of sustainability, the environment, communities and the economy.

"Our goal is to establish a global centre of excellence, bringing the best ideas and minds together to make Canada a world leader in sustainable food production," said Galen G. Weston, executive chairman, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We are excited by Ralph's appointment as we continue to support partnerships like this, in order to develop long term solutions to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for Canadians."

Martin has been a professor at NSAC since 1990 and is director of the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada. Founded in 2001 and the only institution of its kind in the country, it is a leader in organic research and education. In 2010 he launched Canada's Organic Science Cluster, the first federally funded program of its type. The program is part of the Canadian Agri-Science Clusters Initiative of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Growing Forward Policy Framework and is supported by industry partners. Martin was selected for this position based on his expertise in the discipline, his networking skills, and his ability to work with diverse scientists and scholars.

Rob Gordon, dean of U of G's Ontario Agricultural College, added: "We are enormously pleased to partner with Loblaw in this new initiative. It will provide benefits to consumers, to Canada's food industry and to the environment that we all share. We welcome the opportunity to apply our expertise, influence and experience to develop new solutions for existing and emerging challenges."

As the chair, Martin will guide the development of food and agriculture policy, with the end goal of improving the sustainability of agriculture and food production in Canada. He will lead a national program in sustainable local food production, organize roundtables on the topic and create an industry advisory group to guide novel curriculum development. He will also co-ordinate researchers in agriculture and food production, and lead public and private-sector collaborations.

"I am honoured by this appointment," Martin said. "I welcome the challenge of conversing with key players to develop and strengthen ties among the University of Guelph and other institutions, consumers, industry and other groups to advance sustainable food production education and practices."

To date, Martin's research has been focused on integrated plant production systems and applied environmental science. He has written numerous journal articles and book chapters, and has addressed conferences around the world. He earned a PhD in plant science from McGill University, and a master's degree in biology and a bachelor of arts degree from Carleton University.

About the University of Guelph
The University of Guelph is ranked as one of Canada's top comprehensive universities because of its commitment to student learning and innovative research. U of G is dedicated to cultivating the essentials for quality of life — water, food, environment, animal and human health, community, commerce, culture and learning. The University community also shares a profound sense of social responsibility, an obligation to address global issues and a concern for international development. The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) is one of seven colleges at U of G, and the largest and most comprehensive institution in Canada devoted to teaching, research and outreach in food, agriculture, rural communities and the environment. This gift and the chair position are part of the University of Guelph's BetterPlanet Project campaign [www.thebetterplanetproject.ca]

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 136,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian customers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh Style® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to customers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

LOBLAW SELECTED AS ONE OF CANADA'S BEST DIVERSITY EMPLOYERS FOR 2011

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 11:50:00 -0500

BRAMPTON, ON, Feb. 22 /CNW/ - Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) has been named one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers for 2011 by Mediacorp Canada Inc, based on its efforts to honour the diversity of its colleagues, customers and the communities around them. Loblaw's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principle Reflect the Nation's Diversity is central to its inclusive workplace culture.

"Being recognized as one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers is a testament to the value the Company places on reflecting the diverse make-up of the communities we serve in all parts of our business," said Judy McCrie, executive vice president, human resources and labour relations, Loblaw Companies Limited. "We recognize there is still more work to be done and we remain committed to placing importance on diversity initiatives."

Loblaw's diversity efforts are spearheaded by its Inclusion Council, made up of senior leaders across the organization. The Council's mandate is to ensure Loblaw stores reflect the ethnicity of the communities in which they serve, to increase the percentage of women store managers and hire more individuals with disabilities in stores and store support offices. In 2009, the Council launched an Inclusion Toolkit to support managers in recruiting and hiring more diverse candidates.

Following are some of the initiatives that helped Loblaw earn its place on Canada's Best Diversity Employers list:

Development opportunities for women: Loblaw continues to work to increase the number of women in senior positions by promoting from within the organization. To date, Loblaw has achieved a 53.7 per cent increase in women store managers from when the Company first started measuring progress in 2008. Also, Loblaw launched a series of Women@Loblaw initiatives aimed at connecting women leaders for professional development and networking.
Recruitment: In addition to traditional recruitment channels Loblaw also partners with a number of not-for-profit organizations, including Career Edge Organization and ACCES Employment, to give hiring managers more exposure to a broad range of candidates. This includes newcomers to Canada, visible minorities, women, Aboriginal Canadians, persons with disabilities, the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community, and youth and mature workers. A partnership with Social Capital Partners enables Loblaw to enhance recruitment and retention outcomes for these diverse groups. Loblaw also reaches out to diverse candidates online through TalentOyster.com, Canada's first all-inclusive job board available in 11 languages, and diversityworking.ca.
Expanding stores and in-store products: In 2009, Loblaw took a step forward to better serve Canada's largest growing customer segment by acquiring T&T Supermarket Inc. (T&T), one of Canada's leading Asian food retailers. As well, Loblaw's goal is to offer the most authentic products from first-generation manufacturers so that new Canadians and their families can find the tastes of home at their local store. To help customers navigate inside the stores, Loblaw's product selection is tailored accordingly and items are stocked in dedicated aisles, with signage to promote them. Multicultural offerings are highlighted in local cultural newspapers.

Launched in 2008, Canada's Best Diversity Employers competition recognizes employers across Canada that have exceptional workplace diversity and inclusiveness programs. Employers are examined based on a range of diversity initiatives covering five major employee groups: (a) Women; (b) Members of visible minorities; (c) Persons with disabilities; (d) Aboriginal peoples; and (e) Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered/Transsexual (LGBT) peoples.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ over 138,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian customers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh Style® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to customers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.

PRESIDENT'S CHOICE® CHILDREN'S CHARITY AWARDS $270,500 TO BREAKFAST FOR LEARNING IN ATLANTIC CANADA

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 06:00:00 -0500

HALIFAX, Feb. 1 /CNW/ - President's Choice^® Children's Charity is pleased to announce a donation of $270,500 to Breakfast for Learning's school nutrition programs across the four Atlantic Provinces, including funds to support Breakfast for Learning's partner Kids Eat Smart Foundation in Newfoundland and Labrador. Across the Atlantic region, 277 nutrition programs will receive funding for the 2010-2011 school year, ensuring that local children in need will get more out of their school day with nutritious breakfasts, lunches and snacks. Loblaw Companies Limited stores including Atlantic Superstore stores, its participating franchised SaveEasy and nofrills stores and Dominion stores in Newfoundland and Labrador have partnered with schools in their local community to assist with their nutrition programs in the region.

"Loblaw and its stores in the Atlantic Provinces are committed to making a positive difference in our communities," says Jane Abery, President's Choice^® Children's Charity Board Member, Atlantic Market. "On behalf of President's Choice^® Children's Charity, we are pleased to present these schools and others throughout the region with funds and resources to ensure that children in need receive healthy breakfasts, lunches and snacks throughout the school day."

As part of a $7.2 million donation to Breakfast for Learning announced last year, President's Choice^® Children's Charity has awarded $2.6 million in 2010 to the organization to support 5,000 programs across Canada for the 2010-2011 school year and the Atlantic Canada donation is included in last year's donation. The funds will support 2,700 education and research programs and 2,300 nutrition grants that aim to give students access to healthy breakfasts, lunches and snacks.

Research shows that well-nourished students show improved memory, problem-solving skills and creative abilities - overall, they perform better in school. With the help of generous supporters like President's Choice^® Children's Charity, Breakfast for Learning assists more than 267,000 children across the country each year. In Newfoundland and Labrador, Breakfast for Learning works in partnership with Kids Eat Smart Foundation and in Quebec, Breakfast for Learning provides funding to Club des petits déjeuners, in addition to providing direct program funding in both provinces.

"President's Choice^® Children's Charity's generous support is so critical to our overall goal of providing children with a healthy start to life by supporting programs that make sure students do not go to school hungry," said Wendy Wong, president and CEO of Breakfast for Learning. "By providing nutritious food for breakfast, lunch and snacks, and by teaching children about the importance of nutrition, together we will help them establish the building blocks for a healthy lifestyle that will last throughout their lives."

President's Choice^® Children's Charity's support for Breakfast for Learning is just one part of the Charity's vision of helping kids live life well across Canada, with a focus on children with disabilities and childhood nutrition. Families can receive individual grants of up to $20,000 to assist with the costs of equipment, home accessibility, respite care, developmental and physical therapy and accessible vehicles. In 2010, President's Choice^® Children's Charity granted $10 million to more than 1,900 families across Canada.

Loblaw is committed to being active in communities at the local, regional and national levels and the Company views this as an integral component to the success of its business. A commitment to Make a Positive Difference in Our Communities is one of five Loblaw corporate social responsibility principles that shape Loblaw's approach to business. The other social responsibility principles include Respect the Environment, Source with Integrity, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and Be a Great Place to Work.

About Breakfast for Learning
Breakfast for Learning was founded in 1992 as the first and most comprehensive national organization in Canada dedicated to the direct support of school nutrition programs and the healthy development of children and youth. Having served over 300 million meals to date, Breakfast for Learning continues to utilize a community development model with over 30,000 volunteers who deliver breakfast, lunch and/or snack programs across the country. For more information about Breakfast for Learning and its partnership with President's Choice^® Children's Charity visit www.breakfastforlearning.ca.

About President's Choice^® Children's Charity
President's Choice^® Children's Charity is committed to helping kids live life well across Canada, with a focus on children with disabilities and childhood nutrition. The Charity supports children with disabilities directly through financial grants and as the National Premier Sponsor of Breakfast for Learning shares a vision dedicated to improving the lives of children. The cost of administration and operations of the Charity is funded by Loblaw Companies Limited, ensuring that 100 per cent of every dollar donated goes directly to helping kids and their families. The Charity offers funding across Canada and dollars are granted in the region in which they are raised. Since 1989, the charity has awarded more than $58.6 million, reaching more than 8,400 families. For more information on the President's Choice^® Children's Charity or to donate online, visit www.pc.ca/charity.

About Loblaw Companies Limited
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ over 138,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice^®, no name^® and Joe Fresh Style^® brands. In addition, the company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^® points loyalty program.

LOBLAW OFFERS WISESOURCE™ SALMON: A NEW OPTION AND THE NEXT STEP FORWARD IN THE JOURNEY TOWARD 100 PER CENT SUSTAINABLE SALMON

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:35:00 -0500

BRAMPTON, ON, Jan. 27 /CNW/ - Exclusive to Loblaws® and Loblaw greatfoods™ stores in Ontario and Loblaws® stores in Quebec, WiseSource™ Salmon is farmed Atlantic salmon raised in Canadian waters using a method called Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). IMTA is a method of growing multiple and complementary organisms in proximity to provide healthier waters through a balanced ecosystem management approach.

"Fresh farmed Atlantic salmon is the most popular fresh fish we sell," said Paul Uys, vice-president, sustainable seafood, Loblaw Companies Limited. "As we work towards our 100 per cent sustainable seafood goal we understand that success requires collaboration with our vendors and partners to ensure we make the most sustainable seafood available to our customers based on current methods, existing standards, and innovative practices such as IMTA."

Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) has committed to selling only sustainably sourced seafood products in all its stores by the end of 2013. This commitment covers all canned, frozen, fresh, wild and farmed seafood products and products containing seafood as an ingredient, in all categories, across all brands. Loblaw is working with vendors to review the wild and farmed sources of the seafood it sells to ensure, where possible, the most responsible methods currently available are being used.

Dr. Thierry Chopin, a professor of marine biology at the University of New Brunswick, who leads a research team studying the IMTA approach to fish farming says, "When Loblaw, the biggest buyer and seller of seafood in the country, supports innovative farming and fishing procurement methods, this means that our research is relevant to society. This also provides us with confidence the industry will continue to make progress in making sustainable seafood a reality."

WiseSource™ Salmon is an example of how Loblaw is working with researchers and its suppliers, such as True North Salmon Company who has adopted IMTA, to provide customers with seafood farmed using leading aquaculture practices.

"At True North Salmon Company, we are committed to environmental stewardship and providing our customers with high quality products," said Glenn Cooke, CEO of True North Salmon Company. "Our commitment to sustainable farming methods is a journey that requires innovation, ongoing investment in research and a culture of continuous improvement."

Loblaw continues to make progress towards its 100 per cent sustainable seafood goal. Loblaw now only sells fresh swordfish at participating corporate and franchise stores that is caught using pole and line or harpooning. When compared to the traditional long line catch method, pole and line and harpooning reduce the bycatch of species like seabirds, sharks and turtles. As Loblaw suppliers continue to work towards becoming certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), the Company is now pleased to offer 22 MSC-certified products, the most of any Canadian grocery retailer. Loblaw aims to offer more than 32 MSC-certified products by May 2011, including fresh seafood products.

About Loblaw Seafood Sustainability Commitment

Loblaw's sustainable seafood commitment is driven by one of its corporate social responsibility principles, Source with Integrity. In May 2009, Loblaw made a commitment to source all seafood sold in its corporate and participating franchise locations from sustainable sources by the end of 2013. Affecting more than 50 per cent of in-store departments, this commitment covers all canned, frozen, fresh, wild and farmed seafood products, in all categories, across all brands.

Additional information about WiseSource™ Salmon and a copy of the Loblaw sustainable seafood commitment can be found at www.oceansfortomorrow.ca, www.loblaw.ca/seafood and Facebook www.facebook.com/LoblawSustainableSeafood.

Loblaw corporate social responsibility principles are: Respect the Environment, Source with Integrity, Make a Positive Difference in our Community, Reflect our Nation's Diversity and be A Great Place to Work.

About Loblaw Companies Limited

Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food distributor and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ over 138,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian customers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh Style® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to customers President's Choice Financial® services and offers the PC® points loyalty program.