Dave Powell of Powell Group of Companies to Receive Life Member Designation from CFIG

TORONTO — October 20, 2020… Ron Welke, Chair of the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG), Thomas Shurrie, President and CEO, and the CFIG Board of Directors are pleased to announce Dave Powell of Powell Group of Companies, Bay Roberts, N.L., as the 2020 recipient of CFIG’s prestigious Life Member Award in the Independent Grocer category.

In 1948, Dave Powell’s father Herbert opened Newfoundland’s first supermarket in a tiny store in the small town of Carbonear. In 1987, the family decided to focus solely on full-service retailing, opening supermarkets in Carbonear and Harbour Grace. By 1990, Dave decided that in order to prosper, the company needed a guaranteed source of supply, rather than relying on wholesalers who owned competing outlets.  And so the Wholesale Division was born.

Today, Dave is very proud of the fact that the Powells operate the largest wholesaler to independents in Newfoundland and Labrador. He oversees a business that is one-third retail, one-third wholesale to other customers, and one third foodservice.

And when asked about CFIG, Dave says, “It’s the best move I ever made in regard to running a business.  I’ve made life-long friends, and the opportunities to learn from others and exchange ideas have been invaluable.” 

CFIG’s Life Member designation honours those individuals who have made a significant contribution to the food industry. Their experience, accomplishments and commitment are at the foundation of today’s grocery retailing business.

Dave Powell will be officially recognized at the Celebration of Grocers event on Wednesday, November 25 at 6pm, at GIC LIVE @ HOME, Canada’s premier virtual grocery exposition and conference taking place Nov. 24, 25, 26, 2020 at  www.GroceryInnovations.com

The Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG) — CFIG is a non-profit trade association founded in 1962, which continues to be a collaborative community, equipping and enabling independent, franchised and specialty grocers for sustainable success. CFIG is the strong and united voice for the independent grocery retailers to Industry and Government across Canada.  CFIG also provides programs that support operational excellence while fostering solid relationships among retailers, distributors, and suppliers. www.cfig.ca