Economist and consultant John F. T. Scott is one of Canada’s leading retail experts, and the former CEO of The Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers. He is the author of Perspectives on the Canadian Retail Food Industry, and is a recognised authority on subjects including consumer trends, innovation, and the changing landscape of the retail industry.

For 22 years, Scott served as CEO of The Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers, the largest retail grocery association in the country. During this time, he became known as a powerful advocate for the industry, and gained an unparalleled insight into its producers, processors and retailers. Today, Scott is a speaker and retail food industry analyst, providing consulting services that leverage his extensive market knowledge and strategic experience. He has spoken at many of the industry’s leading brands including Kraft, Nestle, McCain and Pepsico, at various industry associations internationally, and at public bodies and educational institutions.

Scott is currently Chair of the Board of Governors of Niagara College, and Chair of the Canadian Agri-Foods Policy Institute. He has previously served on the board of the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency, the interim board of Platform Genetics Inc, and the North American Advisory Board of Monaghan Mushrooms, and was chair of the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and Markham Stouffville Hospital. For his contributions to the retail food industry, Scott has been recognised with the Spirit of the Independent Award and the Golden Pencil – one of only three individuals to earn both honours.