In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.
Associations
Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for your business plan. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.
National Association for the Specialty Food Trade | The largest specialty food association in North America. The NASFT sponsors an annual trade show, a database of news resources, and an online community space.
Food and Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC) | The FCPC is the largest industry association in Canada representing the food and consumer products industry.
Retail Council of Canada (RCC) | RCC is a not-for-profit, industry-funded association representing more than 43,000 store fronts of all retail formats across Canada, including department, specialty, discount, and independent stores, and online merchants. Check out their resources for Education, Tools, and Industry Research.
TIP: Use ASAE Gateway to Associations Directory to search for an association by name, interest area, or international geographic location (including Canada and BC). You can also search using a combination of various fields.
Magazines & Trade Journals
Trade journals (often called magazines or trade publications) can be very useful in helping you find current articles relating to business research. Contact your local research library to determine which trade journal subscriptions they have. There are also free trade publications that you can access online.
Canadian Grocer | The top grocery industry magazine covering Canada. Subscribe to their print magazine or view online content.
Gourmet Retailer | Offers print and digital magazines, as well as extensive information available free online. Use the website to research industry trends and products, get the latest news, and connect with other specialty foods business owners.
Specialty Food Magazine | A publication of the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, this monthly journal contains product and buying information, trends, and forecasts. Browse back issues for free online.
TIP: Try searching Ulrichs Periodical Directory to develop a list of important trade publications in your industry.
Blogs
MySpecialtyFood | A collection of news and updates from both the users and writers of Specialty Food.com, a gateway created by the United States National Association for the Specialty Food Trade Inc.
Consultant & Other Websites
MarketWatch - Industry Analyzer | The Industries section contains current data on Dow Jones Industry Sectors. Aggregate data as well as company-specific data is available.
PriceWaterhouse Coopers Canada (PwC) | Global consultancy firm that produces reports on the state of various industries.
Firsthand | A free source of industry information. Use the Industry Profiles to research growing industries and best industries by major, and Company Rankings and Profiles to find news, company information, and industry-specific sample professions. Basic monthly membership is free and offers access to blogs, discussion forums, and job listings.
TIP: As with all sources, news articles and blogs should be carefully evaluated. For information on how to evaluate your information, watch video tutorial Module Five: Using Information Responsibly.