Our Services
Assisting Manufacturers, Importers, and Retailers with in-depth research, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning from product to retail execution.
Manufacturers and distributors are fine as posted.
Manufacturers
Ensure a successful market entry by optimizing your product for Canada and securing the right distributor to drive brand growth. With a strategic approach, we help position your brand for long-term success in the Canadian market. retail presence and drive long-term success in Canada’s competitive landscape.
Importers / Distributors
Need a turnkey solution to build a successful product category? Leverage 30+ years of expertise in developing proven programs with short-term, specialized support tailored to your business needs. Achieve success with strategic guidance that drives growth and market adoption.
Retailers
Create a memorable in-store experience by offering the right product assortment, presented with eye-catching merchandising and supported by promotions that drive trial and customer interaction. Engage customers effectively to boost interest, increase conversions, and build long-term brand loyalty
Meet Andy Shay
Founder & Principal, The Whey Forward
With over 28 years of global experience in the food industry, Andy Shay has dedicated his career to helping customers discover and enjoy quality food—while driving long-term sales and sustainable business growth. His professional journey has taken him across the United States, Australia, Europe, and Canada, giving him a well-rounded, international perspective on the food supply chain and consumer trends. Andy has worked extensively with Manufacturers across North America and Europe, collaborating to create go-to-market products that are not only compliant with Canadian regulations but also positioned for long-term success. His insight into the Canadian market landscape—from regulatory frameworks and logistics to consumer preferences and pricing strategies—makes him a trusted advisor for both branded and private label products. With years spent at a national retail chain, an importer/distributor and as and entrepreneur of 3 startups, Andy brings a uniquely practical lens to product launches, balancing innovation with real-world market demands. He is particularly knowledgeable in specialized areas such as Canadian cheese quotas, air freight logistics, and private label compliance. Andy’s roots in food retail run deep, having led operations in New York City, Sydney, and Toronto
The Whey Forward
At The Whey Forward, we specialize in helping Manufacturers, Importers, Distributors, and Retailers successfully introduce their products to the Canadian market and optimize retail sales. Our mission is to ensure that every product we support is:
-
Fully compliant and prepared for the Canadian marketplace
-
Strategically positioned to drive consumer trial and long-term growth
-
Expertly presented to engage customers and stand out on shelves
With years of industry experience, we offer targeted solutions without the need to expand your internal team. Whether you're launching a new product or expanding an existing brand, we provide flexible, expert-level support—exactly when and where you need it .By partnering with The Whey Forward, you gain a seasoned expert who understands the nuances of the Canadian retail landscape, helping you move to market faster, smarter, and more efficiently
Satisfied Clients
Why Choose Us?
Assisting Manufacturers, Importers, and Retailers with in-depth research, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning for a successful product launch and retail sales in Canada.
Decades of Industry Experience
With 30+ years of expertise in market expansion, retail partnerships, and product launches, we bring deep industry knowledge to ensure your projects success. Our team has worked with leading manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, for boutiques, start ups and multinational corporations giving us an insider’s perspective and a balance between entrepreneurial spirit and corporate rigour
Proven Success & Trusted by Brands
We’ve helped successfully launch products, brands, programs, departments, stores and businesses in Canada, navigating market complexities while driving sales and visibility. Our data-driven approach ensures your project gets the right placement, at the right time, in front of the right audience.
Tailored Strategies for Max Impact
No two brands or stores are the same, and neither are our solutions. We craft custom go-to-market strategies, ensuring that your product or stores stand out through localized marketing, strategic retail positioning, and optimized distribution channels.
Cost-Effective & Scalable Support
Instead of building an in-house team, you gain access to top-tier industry experts on demand, reducing costs while maximizing efficiency. Whether you need a full-scale launch plan or targeted support, we provide exactly what you need—without unnecessary overhead.
.
.
Get in Touch
Have questions or need expert guidance for your Canadian market expansion? We’re here to help! Reach out to us for tailored strategies, retail partnerships, and market entry solutions that drive success.
Contact us
Toronto, Ontario
416-400-3340
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
Sat - Sun
8:00 am – 8:00 pm
9:00 am – 7:00 pm