He said the media firestorm was felt by Earls staff ranging from dishwashers to executives.
"The morale or moral impact, the confidence impact, the feeling of embarrassment that Albertans and Canadians found us arrogant and selfish, had a massive impact in the company because we want to be a loved brand," he said.
Alberta Beef Producers chair Bob Lowe, a fourth-generation cattle rancher and feedlot operator, said he was angry when he heard Earls was sourcing its beef in the United States but he has talked to Jessa often since then and accepts his apology.
"I think because of the little flub on Earls part, and the way they handled it, and we take some responsibility, too, as an industry, there are going to be great things coming out of it," he said.
He noted the cattle industry must continually work to earn its social licence by proving to consumers their animals are well cared for and their products are safe, rather than simply insisting they already produce humane meat.
Jessa spoke as part of a panel discussion on beef demand. The conference, which runs until Friday, is the inaugural event for a partnership of four national Canadian cattle associations promoting a reinvigorated beef marketing strategy. Organizers said the event was sold out, with 650 delegates registered.
Panellist Sam Heath, vice-president of marketing for Tim Hortons in Canada, told the conference the company famous for breakfast and coffee is conducting market research to try to grow its lunch and dinner options, which will include promoting beef dishes.
He said Tim Hortons is aware of the success A&W has had with marketing claiming its unique use of cows raised without the use of hormones or steroids, but hasn't decided if that is the way it will go.
"If it does," he said, "the company will be looking for suppliers who can meet its standards, while preferably maintaining its sources in Canada."
Source: Meatbusiness