The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, Aug. 27, edition that two strong supporters of the grocery code of conduct believe it could drive more investment and innovation by Canadian food manufacturers, guarding against future shortages and price fluctuations. A Canadian Press dispatch to The Globe reports that Empire chief executive officer Michael Medline says: "The code is not a silver bullet or a panacea for every problem globally. But when you look at what the code can achieve in the medium- and long-term, it should lead to lower prices, shorter supply chains and more choice for Canadians." Mr. Medline told CP in a joint interview with Michael Graydon, CEO of the Food, Health & Consumer Products Canada Association, that the industry can only benefit from clearer rules over negotiations and disagreements. Mr. Graydon says the grocery retail industry in Canada has consolidated over time, resulting in a power imbalance between retailers and suppliers. Mr. Graydon believes the cost implications of that imbalance for suppliers has resulted in a reduction in capital investment and innovation. He believes the code could lower costs for manufacturers by reducing the number and scale of fines they face from retailers.