In the face of escalating living expenses, Ron Robinson is committed to cutting costs wherever possible, starting with his grocery spending. This determination led him to shop at Liquidation Marie, a discount grocery chain in Montreal where prices can be up to 50% lower than traditional stores. Robinson reminisces about buying steaks for about six dollars each, significantly cheaper than the typical price of $20-$25 for a similar pack at larger retailers.
The trend of opting for liquidation-style grocery stores is gaining traction nationwide as Canadians grapple with the challenges of high food prices. Bianca Amor’s Liquidation Supercentre and The Grocery Outlet in southern Ontario are among the emerging players in this market. Liquidation Marie, established in 2012, has rapidly expanded its presence in Quebec, with plans to open ten more locations in 2026, bringing the total to 18 stores across the province.
Marie Eve Breton, co-owner of Liquidation Marie, attributes the store’s competitive pricing to buying surplus or discontinued food items from major retailers at discounted rates. The ever-changing stock, which can include mislabeled or surplus products, attracts thrifty shoppers seeking bargains. Despite the unpredictable inventory, Liquidation Marie sees around 30,000 customers weekly, with its Facebook group boasting over 139,000 members.
Economic factors, such as a 27% increase in grocery prices over the last five years, are driving consumers towards alternative shopping options like liquidation stores. With households feeling the pinch of inflation, many are turning to discount grocery outlets to stretch their budgets further. Experts like Dr. Yu Ma emphasize the appeal of cost-saving measures in the face of rising food expenses.
Discount grocery stores not only offer savings to consumers but also contribute to reducing food waste in the supply chain. Sylvain Charlebois highlights the benefits for major retailers who can offload damaged or surplus stock to liquidation stores, preventing wastage. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency clarifies that best-before dates indicate quality rather than safety, encouraging consumers to rethink their approach to buying products past their prime.
The popularity of discount grocery shopping reflects a shift in attitudes towards food consumption and waste. As more people embrace the idea of buying near-expiry or surplus items, the potential for reducing overall food waste increases. This evolving mindset towards food products’ best-before dates is reshaping consumer behavior and fostering a more sustainable approach to shopping.
