The foodservice and hospitality world in Canada is changing fast. In 2026, operators face higher food costs, supply chain risks, and rising guest expectations. What worked last year may not work this year.

So ask yourself:

Are your procurement strategies changing too?

If not, you may be spending more than you need to.

Across Canada, smart operators are rethinking how they buy food and supplies. They are using better data, stronger partners, and modern tools to stay ahead. One of the most effective ways to adapt is by working with a GPO, a group purchasing organization.

A GPO helps businesses buy smarter, not harder. By joining a Canada buying group, you gain access to better pricing, trusted suppliers, and real market insight.

In simple terms: you can save on food procurement and more while gaining more control in a changing market.

Why 2026 Feels Different

Costs are still rising. Menus are under pressure. Labour is tight. And supply chains remain unpredictable.

At the same time, guests expect more:

• Better quality
• More local products
• Sustainable choices
• Fair pricing

Operators must balance all of this without hurting margins.

Procurement is no longer just about “finding the lowest price.” It is now about:

• Knowing Inflation rates
• Choosing the right products at the right time
• Building flexible menus
• Protecting profit

Many operators still buy the way they did five years ago. They react after. They change menus too late. They don’t have clear market data.

In 2026, that approach is risky.

You need insight. You need support. You need a plan.

That is where a GPO and a Canada buying group like Entegra make a real difference.

What a GPO Really Does

Some people think a GPO is only about discounts. While savings matter, a modern GPO does much more.

A strong GPO helps you:

• Track food and supply trends
• Find trusted local and national suppliers
• Reduce admin and paperwork
• Make smarter buying decisions

You are no longer buying alone. You are part of a larger network. That shared power helps you save on food procurement and reduce risk.

For independents and small groups, this levels the playing field. You gain the same advantages as large chains without losing control.

5 Ways to Keep Up in 2026

Here are practical ways to stay ahead this year:

1. Use Real Market Data

Stop relying on last year’s numbers. Markets move fast. With a GPO like Entegra, you can track trends and cost outlook [SH1] in meat, dairy, produce, and dry goods before they hit your budget.

When beef rises or dairy softens, you see it early.

2. Plan Before Change

Smart buyers act early. When you see costs rising, you can:

• Adjust menus
• Swap items
• Lock in pricing
• Run limited-time offers

You move from reacting to planning.

3. Lean on Supplier Expertise

A strong Canada buying group connects you with trusted local and national suppliers. You get more choice, better service, and backup options when issues arise.

This matters when products are short or delayed.

4. Simplify Your Buying

One partner. One platform. Less admin. More time to run your business.

Many operators spend hours each week on invoices and calls. A GPO streamlines this so you can focus on guests and teams.

5. Save on Procurement

Better savings is still key. A GPO has buying power so independents get the same advantages as large chains.

Over a year, even small savings per case can add up to thousands of dollars.

Data Turns Uncertainty Into Action

The biggest risk in 2026 is not cost, it is surprise.

That is why data matters.

With clear market insight, you can:

• Build smarter budgets
• Set menu prices with confidence
• Forecast food spend
• Avoid panic changes

Instead of guessing, you plan.

See What’s Coming Next with Our Cost Outlook

Knowing what is ahead is powerful.

That is why we created our Cost Outlook[SH2] . It gives operators a clear view of where food and supply costs are heading in 2026.

Inside, you will see:

• Category trends across Canada
• Pressures by product type
• What to watch in the months ahead
• How to prepare before costs rise

It is built for operators. No jargon. No fluff. Just clear insight you can use.

With this data, you move from reacting to leading.

The Bottom Line

2026 will reward operators who stay informed and flexible.

A modern procurement strategy is no longer optional. It is essential.

By working with a GPO like Entegra and joining a Canada buying group, you gain:

• Better  savings
• Better data
• Better decisions

You do more than save on procurement.

You build a smarter, stronger business.

The landscape is changing.

The real question is: Are you changing with it?