Empire Company Limited, the parent organisation of Sobeys Inc., has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Mayrand Food Group Inc. The transaction involves Mayrand’s four large-format retail locations situated across the Greater Montréal Area. This acquisition marks a significant move for Empire as it seeks to diversify its portfolio within the competitive Québec market by entering the discount and warehouse food segments.
The transaction is being executed through a court-approved process. While the financial terms have not been disclosed, the deal remains subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, with a projected closing date in the first quarter of fiscal 2027.
Entry into the Warehouse and Foodservice Segment
The acquisition of Mayrand provides Empire with immediate access to a unique market segment. Unlike traditional grocery retail, Mayrand operates as a warehouse-style provider that caters to a dual customer base of residential households and professional foodservice operators.
Founded over 110 years ago, Mayrand is established in the Québec region with a reputation for a broad product assortment and competitive pricing models. By acquiring this business, Empire gains a foothold in a growing segment that complements its existing full-service and convenience retail banners.
Operational Synergy
Empire has confirmed its intention to maintain Mayrand as a distinct banner. The brand will continue to operate under its existing identity, preserving its local roots and loyal customer base while leveraging Empire’s significant corporate infrastructure.
Under the new ownership, Mayrand is expected to benefit from Empire’s scale in several key areas:
Procurement and Merchandising: Enhanced purchasing power and supply chain optimisation.
Logistics and Real Estate: Integration into Empire’s national distribution network and real estate management expertise.
Back-Office Support: Access to advanced treasury, logistics, and operational support functions.
Luc L’Archevêque, Chief Customer Officer at Empire, noted that the transaction allows the Mayrand brand to continue serving its communities while benefiting from Empire’s operational expertise and long-term commitment to the Québec food retail sector.
Workforce Stability and Regional Impact
As part of the acquisition agreement, Empire has committed to ensuring continuity for the existing Mayrand workforce. The four stores involved in the deal are located in:
Anjou
Laval
Brossard
Saint-Jérôme
This stability is intended to provide a seamless transition for Mayrand’s existing suppliers and business partners. The move is viewed by industry analysts as a defensive and offensive play, allowing Empire to compete more effectively against other warehouse-style competitors in the province.
The move into the discount/warehouse space reflects a broader North American trend where consumers and small-scale foodservice operators are increasingly seeking value-driven, bulk-purchase options. As Empire moves toward the projected Q1 fiscal 2027 closing date, the integration of Mayrand will likely serve as a blueprint for how the company manages specialised, regional banners within its national portfolio.
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