The term “biometrics” is often used to refer generally to data from fingerprints, facial scans, keystrokes, gait and physical characteristics. When it comes to guidance, more detailed and precise terms are useful (e.g. raw data, biometric system, biometric templates). Biometric information means the data generated by automated technologies for identifying and verifying unique human morphological, behavioural and biological characteristics. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) consulted earlier in 2024 on draft guidance for biometrics. While proactive guidance is important and ..read more

Retailers can be both users of generative AI and authors and/or owners of copyright-protected works. RCC commented on a federal consultation in this area earlier in 2024. We suggested that the following principles be kept in mind when considering potential amendments to Canadian copyright legislation. Balance: Any changes to Canadian copyright legislation to deal with generative AI must maintain a reasonable, fair balance between copyright author and/or owner rights and generative AI user rights, effectively facilitating innovation – and incentives to innovate – while protecting copyrighted wo ..read more

Attention retail industry leaders and stakeholders invested in safety and security initiatives.  RCC’s relentless dedication to retail safety, notably leading the Manitoba Retail Crime Task Force, earned it an invitation from Premier Wab Kinew to the April 30, 2024, Public Safety Summit. This event signifies the Manitoba Government’s commitment to crafting a comprehensive Public Safety Strategy, a cause championed by RCC and its provincial Loss Prevention working group since 2021. The post RCC Earns Role in Manitoba’s Public Safety Summit appeared first on Retail Council of Canada ..read more

Attention Miramichi retailers, consumers, and stakeholders invested in local business growth: In a crucial move, the Greater Miramichi Chamber of Commerce has thrown its weight behind RCC’s campaign for retailer flexibility in Sunday opening hours. With RCC and the Chamber united, there’s hope for change in Miramichi’s bylaws. For retailers and consumers in Miramichi, this is a game-changer. Updates to follow as this story unfolds. The post Chamber Supports RCC Push for Retail Choice in Sunday Hours  appeared first on Retail Council of Canada ..read more

Attention retailers who sell natural health products: Following pressure from RCC and other industry groups, the Natural and Non-Prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) of Health Canada has extended the comment period on Revisions to the Proposed Fees for Natural Health Products until May 25, 2024. RCC will continue to stress the importance of a cohesive cadence to changes across the self-care framework, and strongly urges members who sell natural health products to review the proposed fees and provide comment.  The post RCC Influence Extends Deadline for Natu ..read more

Attention retailers, quick service restaurants adapting to sustainability regulations: Environment and Climate Change Canada on Friday April 19, 2024 unveiled a critical notice in the Canada Gazette, Part 1, impacting plastic reporting requirements for 2024-2026. This mandate will reshape how plastics are managed, directly affecting your operations. RCC is diving deep into the details, will be engaging with ECCC, and will present the final notice to members for any questions. The post Federal Plastics Registry Mandate Released appeared first on Retail Council of Canada ..read more

Attention retailers who import goods into Canada: The Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system, slated to transform duty and tax collection imports on commercial goods imported into Canada with more stringent requirements, has been delayed until October 2024. CARM was initially scheduled to take effect on May 13, 2024. This last-minute delay is good news and comes after months of intense pressure from the business and importer community. RCC and its partners have long been involved in these advocacy efforts and welcome the delay. See full ..read more

Attention to retailers who secure product through West Coast ports: Get ready for disruption. Dock Foremen in Vancouver and Prince Rupert ports are on the brink of a potential strike from May 10, 2024. Talks between BC Maritime Employers’ Association and International Longshore and Warehouse Union are slated for May 8, 2024. RCC will continue to monitor the dispute and update members.  The post Labour Dispute Threatens West Coast Port Operations appeared first on Retail Council of Canada ..read more

Attention retailers who sell products that contain or are packaged in plastic: This week, Ottawa becomes the epicenter of a groundbreaking mission at the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC-4). Delegations, partners, and advocates will converge to craft a pivotal treaty combatting plastic waste. RCC, representing members as a UN Environmental Programme (UNEP) accredited body, will ensures the retail voice in Canada resonates in shaping a sustainable future. Stay tuned for insights post-INC-4.   The post RCC and Global Leaders Conver ..read more

We represent thousands of businesses, manufacturers, creators of wealth who meet the essential needs of Quebec population on a daily basis. In the face of challenges such as labor shortages, strained supply chains, rising operational costs, continuous innovations, and evolving needs, we are committed to maintaining high quality across all of our operations. We also share a strong commitment to the protection and promotion of French as the language of business and communications in Quebec. Over the past few years, our organizations have constantly strived to develop various initiatives aimed no ..read more