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Collective marketing of maple syrup products
Between 2002 and 2004, the maple syrup industry underwent a number of changes designed to establish a type of marketing that would benefit maple syrup producers, bottling companies, exporters, government and consumers, both within and outside Quebec’s borders. Today, the measures that were implemented have ensured that the highest number of companies remain in business, that profits are maximized, and that the industry minimize its need for government assistance. These measures were imperative because the free market structure generated hypothecated revenue for producers, reduced the number of operating businesses, consolidated the remaining companies, and undermined the vitality of rural municipalities of Quebec.
The organization of the marketing of maple syrup products also allowed to harmonize and control the quality standards that apply to bulk maple syrup production.
The marketing of maple sap and maple syrup of Quebec is being conducted within the framework of a joint plan of the province's maple syrup producers, by virtue of the Loi sur la mise en marché, an act that regulates the marketing of maple syrup. Only maple syrup products that are sold directly to consumers by the producer are exempt from the joint plan and its policies.
All producers who make maple syrup in bulk or in barrels, must market their product via the Federation’s sales agency.
This syrup is systematically inspected and classified by an independent and unbiased firm, which then determines its price, and whenever required, its appropriate packaging.
Producers who bottle their own maple syrup are at liberty to sell it to the middleman of their choice (e.g. convenience store, grocer). However, they must declare these sales to the Federation.
To avoid surpluses, production levels are adjusted to those of demand using a production quota system.
All producers, whether they sell in bulk or in small containers via a middleman, have access to financing programs organized by the Federation.
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