Our major grocery chains continue to open and convert discount stores across the country. Metro recently announced plans to open about a dozen new locations in 2026, focusing primarily on expanding its discount brands, including Super C and Food Basics. This week, Loblaw — the country’s largest food retailer — followed with its own announcement: a $2.4-billion investment in 2026 to open roughly 70 new stores across Canada, including Shoppers/Pharmaprix pharmacies and No Frills/Maxi discount grocery outlets, while renovating nearly 200 existing locations.

Every year, we witness the same choreography of announcements: new store openings from coast to coast. More stores to serve a market that claims to crave competition. More stores, more choice, lower prices — right?

CHARLEBOIS: Grocery stores openings we see, closures we don't Back to video

At first glance, the news sounds encouraging. But the........

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