Competition Bureau Investigates Grocery Industry's Use of Property Controls

The Bureau seeks insights from retailers and real estate professionals on restrictive clauses that may hinder market competition.

The Competition Bureau is examining the impact of property controls used by grocery retailers like Sobeys and Loblaw.
Property controls can limit competition by preventing other businesses from opening at vacated sites or restricting product offerings.
Concerns have been raised that these practices contribute to food deserts, limiting consumer access to diverse food options.
The Bureau is soliciting confidential feedback from the grocery and real estate sectors to understand the prevalence and effects of these controls.
Stakeholders are encouraged to share instances where property controls have impeded new grocery store openings or restricted operations.