Boost organic product sales with COTA’s new educational tools
Submitted by Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA)
A thriving organic sector begins where most consumers make their decisions: the retail store. Shoppers today are more conscious than ever about the food they eat and the products they use. They want to know not just what is organic, but why it matters—for their health, the environment, and the future of sustainable farming. This makes education in retail spaces crucial.
At the Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA), we understand that well-informed retail staff are the key to empowering customers and growing the organic market. When store employees can confidently explain the benefits of organic products, the rigorous standards behind the Canada Organic logo, and the health and environmental impacts of organic practices, they become advocates for a healthier, more sustainable choice.
To support this, COTA offers a variety of educational resources tailored to retail teams. From training programs and webinars to detailed guides on organic standards, we provide stores with tools to keep staff up to date on the latest developments in the sector. These programs ensure that employees can answer questions, highlight the value of organic products, and create a shopping experience that inspires trust and loyalty.
But investing in organic education at the retail level doesn’t just inform—it also drives growth and brings those loyal customers back to your store time and time again. Fifty-five percent of customers buy organic items weekly and 60 percent are willing to pay more for a certified product. By prioritizing your employees’ education, retailers can play a vital role in the continued success and expansion of Canada’s organic industry.
Discover more
Explore a wide range of certified organic products through our resources:
Organic Resource Hub: canada-organic.myshopify.com/collections
Retailer Training Series: canada-organic.myshopify.com/collections/retailer-training-series
Canadian Organic Retailing Practices Manual & Guide: canada-organic.myshopify.com/collections/retailer-training-series/products/copy-of-canadian-organic-retailing-practices-manual-guide-cota-member
Video Series on Organic: www.youtube.com/@canadaorganictradeassociat6582
Organic Month Digital Toolkit (for year-round use): canada-organic.myshopify.com/collections/organic-month-digital-toolkit
Learn more about organic at choosecanadaorganic.ca
Stay informed, shop organic, and support a thriving sustainable future!