Competition Bureau seeks to block Nortera’s proposed acquisition of B&G’s Green Giant and Le Sieur Canadian vegetable business
News release
August 19, 2026– GATINEAU (Québec), Competition Bureau
The Bureau found that the proposed transaction involving a dominant processor of certain canned and frozen vegetables in Canada is likely to lead to higher prices, fewer choices and less competition in the wholesale grocery supply
The Competition Bureau announced today that it has asked the Competition Tribunal to block Nortera Foods’ proposed acquisition of B&G Foods Canada’s Green Giant and Le Sieur brands. Nortera sells canned and frozen vegetables, including under the Del Monte and Arctic Gardens brands.
The Bureau also asked the Competition Tribunal to prevent the companies from closing the transaction until the Tribunal issues a decision on the matter.
The Bureau found that Nortera is already Canada's dominant processor of certain canned and frozen vegetables. The transaction would combine it with its only major national brand competitor and harm competition in an already highly concentrated market.
Canned and frozen vegetables are staple grocery items that Canadians rely on. Strong competition between suppliers helps keep prices affordable and ensures that consumers have a range of options at the grocery store.
A backgrounder provides additional information about the Bureau’s review of this transaction.
Briefing for media
The Bureau will hold a technical briefing for media on August 19, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. (ET). To join, interested recognized media can contact the Competition Bureau media relations by emailing media-cb-bc@cb-bc.gc.ca.
Quotes
“Our investigation found that this proposed transaction would weaken competition and likely lead to higher prices and fewer choices for staple items at the grocery store. We are taking action to preserve competition so that Canadians don't pay more for basic necessities like canned and frozen vegetables.”
Jeanne Pratt
Interim Commissioner of Competition
Quick facts
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Nortera processes, markets and sells canned and frozen vegetables in Canada, including under the Del Monte and Arctic Gardens brands.
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B&G Foods Canada markets and sells vegetables under the Green Giant and Le Sieur brands in Canada.
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The Bureau’s mandate is to review mergers and determine whether they are likely to harm competition in Canada.
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Effective merger control is the first line of defence to protect competition.
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The Competition Tribunal is similar to a court. It hears cases under the Competition Act and issues decisions.
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The final decision in this matter rests with the Competition Tribunal.
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The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition drives lower prices and innovation while fueling economic growth.