Developing a comprehensive strategy for the future of CAAR.

With a new year comes new opportunities for CAAR to better serve its membership, craft solutions to industry challenges and reach new stakeholders across the agri-retail industry. To accomplish that goal, CAAR is calling on all members to submit their feedback, priorities and ideas to shape the association’s focus in 2018.

As I’ve often heard said in our industry; it’s not enough to do a good job, you have to be seen doing a good job for it to really count. As a member-based association and advocate for the agri-retail sector, it’s part of CAAR’s role to share the news and stories of the good work being done by our members.

As I write this, snow is swirling outside my office windows and thoughts of agriculture and farming seem a long way off. In reality, agriculture and agri-retail do not rest and today is simply one stage in the production and planning process for our members and their customers.

Conference attendees have the invaluable opportunity to tap into the minds of their customers at the Understanding Farmers’ Needs and Expectations panel discussion.

Once again, the CAAR Conference coincides with Canada’s Agriculture Day, created last year by Agriculture More Than Ever to highlight the ag industry and strengthen connections between consumers and the food production chain. Join us at the Icebreaker Cocktail Reception to kick off the conference and raise a glass to celebrate agriculture in Canada – and we have a lot to celebrate!

The Agricultural Youth Green Jobs Initiative provides opportunities for agri-retailers by funding internships.

It wouldn’t be the CAAR Conference without CAAR’s Pro-Ag Investments Auction! Always a conference highlight, this annual event supports programming and advocacy, while helping to keep membership fees low.

Mitch Rezansoff has a love for agriculture, a strong personal drive and an innovative spirit.

Having spent significant early life on his family’s farm in the Swan River Valley, Man., Mitch Rezansoff began developing a passion for agriculture at a young age. “I love watching animals, crops and the industry itself develop,” he says.

This pre-conference session is a unique opportunity for CCAs and agronomists to become designated in the company of their peers.

CAAR board and staff members reflect on CAAR’s evolving role in the industry.

CAAR represented agri-retailers on a diverse range of issues in 2017.

In 2017, CAAR continued to focus on advocacy and created positive benefits for agri-retailers on numerous policy and compliance issues. Reflecting on the past year, CAAR is proud to have delivered on its mandate to advance and defend Canadian agri-retail.

“It is CAAR’s promise to you that we will continue working to ensure the collective voice of our membership is being heard and acted upon,” says Lynda Nicol, director of member services at CAAR.