Amid the election campaign, the NDP proposed emergency price caps and a mandatory grocery code of conduct designed to regulate pricing practices and tax windfall profits at major retailers, with Empire Foods being specifically named among those accused of driving up food costs.

Following an investigation by the Competition Bureau, Empire Company Limited, owner of Sobeys, agreed to remove a property control restriction that limited retail grocery competition in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. This move is intended to promote fair market access and prevent excessive economic concentration.

Empire Company Limited, part of Empire Foods, published its FY2024 report outlining comprehensive measures to combat forced labour and child labour. The report details ethical and sustainable sourcing policies, rigorous supplier vetting, employee training on human rights, and a robust grievance mechanism—highlighting the company’s commitment to fair and ethical labor practices across its supply chain.

On April 12, Empire (Sobeys owner) filed a notice in Federal Court to review and challenge the Competition Bureau's complaint over alleged anti-competitive property controls, arguing that the investigation was 'invalid, unlawful' and demonstrated a lack of independence.

At a Retail Council of Canada event, Empire Foods CEO Michael Medline stated that a voluntary grocery code of conduct would not raise food prices and could eventually help lower them. In the same remarks, he called on the Competition Bureau to end its long-running investigation into alleged bread price-fixing practices, a move seen as an effort to deflect regulatory scrutiny and protect corporate interests.

In 2024, Empire Foods filed its first Fighting Forced Labour and Child Labour Report in compliance with new federal legislation. The report outlines its Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing Policy (ESSP) and demonstrates the company's commitment to upholding human rights both within its workplaces and across its supply chains through rigorous due diligence practices.

Empire Company Ltd (the parent of Sobeys, associated with Empire Foods) and Food, Health & Consumer Products of Canada have jointly proposed a draft grocery code of practice. The initiative seeks to address long‐standing issues such as arbitrary fees, unannounced cost increases, and late payments imposed on suppliers. The goal is to foster fairer, more transparent business practices within the grocery industry, benefiting independent suppliers and ensuring a more equitable supply chain.