september 2008 ? issue twelve the late 1990s when it became difficult to compete with low-cost foreign imports and the more lucrative greenhouse varieties that obtain a better price for export. Fruit and vegetable varieties were discarded by big growers, food processors and the fast food restaurant industry because they were not commercially viable. They did not ship well, store well or conform to size, shape, texture or colour standards set by the industry. Many of these heirloom varieties have started making their way back into seed catalogues, local farms, home-based and community gardens and on restaurant menus. The members of the City Farming Project, independent farmers, home and community gardeners and local chefs have in many ways helped to lead this movement in London, not only with a multitude of heirloom tomato varieties but also with various other cultivars. The trend is also helped by consumers' growing concerns about food safety as recent recalls of imported products like tomatoes, spinach, and sprouts have shaken consumer confidence in products grown by agribusinesses. The inclination to purchase and eat local products has helped resuscitate farmers' markets and farm food stands as an alternative to grocery store retailers. Still, many of us shop at the local supermarket, where the idea of one-stop shopping, convenience, premium selection and predictable customer service is an expectation that has been firmly entrenched in our consciousness. The evolution of the supermarket in Canada is an interesting story. In Ontario, Loblaws operates under many banners and store formats, including the newer Superstore brand, and seems to be at the forefront in responding to consumer demand and maintaining customer loyalty. When Loblaws opened its first store in Toronto in 1919, they presented a new way of grocery retailing, combining self service with cash and carry. Shoppers no longer had to wait for clerks to retrieve products from behind store counters. There were plenty of naysayers, but within a decade the chain grew to 70 locations. In 1949, Loblaws led a new wave of mod-
The Only On King
172 King Street ? London 519.936.2064 www.theonlyonking.ca Reservations Recommended"The hip, cosmopolitan bistro in the heart of Downtown?
TheBraywick TheBraywick
Colin & Chef Paul invite you to try their new menuBistro
244 Dundas St., London 519-645-6524 www.braywickbistro.caPage 11 - Hotspot 1
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