Empire Company Limited announced it has entered into an agreement, through its wholly owned subsidiary Sobeys Inc., to acquire Mayrand Food Group, a long-established food retailer operating four large-format locations across the Greater Montréal area.
The transaction is being completed through a court-approved process and remains subject to customary closing conditions, including court and regulatory approvals. It is expected to close in the first quarter of fiscal 2027.
Founded more than 110 years ago, Mayrand is known across Québec for its broad product assortment, competitive pricing, and strong relationships with both retail consumers and foodservice operators. The company operates four stores located in Anjou, Laval, Brossard, and Saint-Jérôme.
The acquisition marks a strategic move by Empire to enter the Québec discount and warehouse food segment, a growing category serving both households and professional foodservice customers. Mayrand’s large-format stores and differentiated merchandising approach are expected to complement Empire’s existing retail portfolio.
Empire plans to keep the Mayrand brand distinct and use its own capabilities in merchandising, procurement, logistics, real estate, and treasury to support future growth. The company also emphasized continuity for employees, customers, suppliers, and partners as part of the transition.
With approximately $32 billion in annual sales and $17 billion in assets, Empire is one of Canada’s largest food retail and real estate operators, employing roughly 129,000 people across its network. Mayrand, founded in 1914, employs nearly 300 people and serves Québec customers with a mix of fresh, local, and international food products.
KEY QUOTE:
“Mayrand is a respected Québec institution with deep local roots and a loyal customer base. This transaction allows the Mayrand brand to continue serving customers and communities while benefiting from Empire’s scale, operational expertise, and long-term commitment to food retail in Québec.”
Luc L’Archevêque, Chief Customer Officer, Empire Company Limited
