At Groupex, supporting our members through complex challenges is at the heart of what we do. Faced with recent regulatory changes in fertilizers and pesticides, our cooperative responded quickly by mobilizing its network and providing clear, concrete solutions. Thanks to close collaboration with our partner-suppliers, our members benefit from access to up-to-date information, expert insights, and practical alternatives.

Groupex and Scotts Canada: Understanding the CFIA’s fertilizer regulations

To guide members through the new requirements from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Groupex teamed up with its long-standing partner, Scotts Canada, to host an informative webinar. The goal? Help members understand what’s changing and how to adjust quickly.

Since October 26, 2023, all fertilizers and supplements must comply with updated labeling rules. Products with old labels can still be sold until October 26, 2025. But after that, they’ll be banned from sale

Here’s what that means

• Labels must now clearly show active ingredients.
• Some components like peat are exempt from registration, while others (e.g., slow-release fertilizers, micronutrients, compost blends) must be registered (a process that can take up to two years).
• Labels must also include:
  • Guaranteed analysis (N-P-K)
  • Registration number if required
  • Safety and allergen information (in case of post-consumer compost)

Example:
A compost-enriched growing mix must state whether it contains registered active ingredients. If the compost is post-consumer, the label must mention potential allergens like nuts or peanuts.

Tip:

Use FIFO (First In, First Out) practices and prioritize selling your older inventory in 2025

Pesticide changes: Alternatives from within the network

At the provincial level, Quebec has introduced new restrictions banning or limiting several active ingredients in pesticides, including commonly used substances like pyrethrin and permethrin. Groupex anticipated this shift and worked with its supplier network to identify and promote eco-friendly alternatives

We created a short, accessible video to help members grasp the changes and explain what can still be used legally. More importantly, our suppliers were ready with replacement products — like essential oil-based formulas and insecticidal soaps — giving our members peace of mind and continued access to high-performance solutions.

Groupex: A Strong Network, Always Seeking Solutions

These actions reflect Groupex’s broader mission: to simplify complexity, accelerate performance, and build an environment where members can thrive. Whether the issue is regulatory, operational, or strategic, our strength lies in the network. Groupex members aren’t alone — they have access to a wide circle of trusted suppliers and experts committed to their success.

In summary

Groupex supports its members with tools and expert guidance on regulatory changes.
With CFIA rules on fertilizers, our webinar with Scotts Canada delivered clarity and concrete advice.
Facing pesticide bans, our suppliers provided safe and effective alternatives for affected products like pyrethrin and permethrin.
Our cooperative remains proactive, connected, and committed to making things simpler for horticultural businesses.