Loblaw announces $2.4B in store expansions, renos for 2026

Key Takeaways:

• Loblaw is investing 2.4 billion dollars in 2026 to open 70 new stores and renovate 191 existing locations while creating nearly 9,700 jobs across Canada
• The expansion focuses heavily on discount brands and healthcare services with plans for 34 Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacies and 31 No Frills or Maxi stores
• This spending marks the second phase of a larger 10 billion dollar five-year capital plan that includes infrastructure projects like a massive automated distribution centre in Ontario

The Whole Story:

Loblaw Companies Limited will spend $2.4 billion in 2026 to expand its store network, renovate existing locations, and advance supply chain capabilities, creating an anticipated 9,700 retail and construction jobs across Canada.

The company will open 70 new stores in 2026, including 34 Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix pharmacies and care clinics, and 31 No Frills and Maxi discount locations. An additional 191 stores will be renovated. The investment also includes continued construction of an automated distribution centre in Caledon, Ontario, spanning roughly 1.2 million square feet.

The announcement represents the second phase of Loblaw’s five-year capital plan to spend $10 billion by 2030.

“Our success depends heavily on the strength of the communities we serve,” said Per Bank, President and CEO of Loblaw Companies Limited, in a news release. “We see this as a significant investment in our network and capabilities as one of Canada’s largest retailers, but it is also an investment in the people we serve and their ability to access great value and quality healthcare.”

The company said investment will be distributed across all regions: Eastern Canada will receive four new stores and more than 600 jobs; Quebec, 15 new stores and more than 1,985 jobs; Ontario, 27 new stores and 3,775 jobs (including roles tied to two new automated distribution centres in Southern Ontario); and Western Canada, 24 new stores and more than 3,400 jobs.