Dominion Stores

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Dominion Stores is a Canadian supermarket chain that was founded in 1919. It was one of the largest and most prominent grocery retailers in Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador. The chain is known for its wide range of products, including fresh produce, meats, dairy, and bakery items.

History

Dominion Stores was established by Robert Jackson, a grocer from Toronto, Ontario. The first store opened on May 23, 1919, at 174 Wallace Avenue in Toronto. The chain quickly expanded, and by the 1950s, it had become one of the leading supermarket chains in Canada.

In the 1970s, Dominion Stores was acquired by Argus Corporation, a Canadian conglomerate. Under Argus Corporation, the chain continued to grow, opening new stores and modernizing existing ones. However, by the 1980s, the company faced increased competition from other supermarket chains, leading to financial difficulties.

In 1987, Dominion Stores was sold to A&P Canada, a subsidiary of the American grocery chain A&P. The acquisition led to the rebranding of many Dominion stores to the A&P banner. Despite these changes, the Dominion name continued to be used in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Operations

Dominion Stores operated a variety of store formats, including traditional supermarkets, discount stores, and hypermarkets. The chain was known for its emphasis on customer service and quality products. Many stores featured in-house bakeries, delis, and butcher shops, providing a wide range of fresh and prepared foods.

Legacy

Although the Dominion name has largely disappeared from the Canadian retail landscape, its legacy continues through the stores that still operate under the Dominion banner in Newfoundland and Labrador. The chain played a significant role in shaping the Canadian grocery industry and set standards for customer service and product quality.

See Also

• Loblaws
• Sobeys
• Metro Inc.
• Grocery store
• Retailing in Canada