EDMONTON — The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA ) is gearing up to host its annual Alberta Foodservice Expo, which will run from Sept. 9 to 10 at the Edmonton Expo Centre.

The show will host a local/organic farmers market, educational seminars and cooking demos with chefs from Fantasyland Hotel’s L2 Grill, Murrieta’s, Zinc Restaurant and ASNA. Chefs will also compete to win top spots in their categories at the 2nd Annual Hot Competition Live.

CALGARY — Sales for the foodservice and drinking industry jumped 1.1 per cent from April to $4.4 billion in May, according to a report released yesterday by Statistics Canada.

The Western provinces led the pack, posting the highest percent growth in sales, with Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan posting the highest percent growth, respectively.

EDMONTON — The end of the Wheat Board monopoly is Aug. 1, so the Government of Alberta has created two new commissions to represent grain farmers in Alberta — The Alberta Wheat Commission and the Alberta Oat Growers Commission.

“Producers recognize the need to have organizations that will serve as a strong voice on their behalf and help ensure the grain industry remains competitive, profitable and on the leading edge of innovation,” said Agriculture Minister Verlyn Olson.

CALGARY — The execs at Joey’s Restaurants, Calgary’s fish-and-chips mainstay, are turning heads with the launch of Joey’s Urban concept, which capitalizes on the growing popularity of the fast-casual market.

The new chain serves fresh tacos, poutine, fish and chips, family fish meals, salads, snacks and beverages (including alcohol) in a small footprint with fresh food and counter service.