Kitchener 
Loblaw Companies Ltd. has unveiled a pilot project for a new no name store format in Ontario aimed at offering significant savings on groceries and household essentials.
CNW Group/Loblaw Companies Limited – Public Relations
Scheduled to launch in September 2024 in Windsor, St. Catharines, and Brockville, these stores promise up to 20% lower prices compared to the region’s main discount grocers.
Per the news release, the no name stores intend to cut operational costs through several measures including reduced operating hours from 10 am to 7 pm, a streamlined selection of 1,300 top-selling items, minimal marketing, absence of refrigeration, recycled store fixtures, and fewer delivery schedules. These strategies are designed to simplify store management and reduce expenses, thereby lowering prices for consumers.
CNW Group/Loblaw Companies Limited – Public Relations
The store’s inventory will focus on non-perishable food items and essential household products, avoiding fresh meat and dairy. Customers can expect a range of frozen foods, pantry staples, and shelf-stable bakery and produce items such as bread, bagels, apples, bananas, peppers, and carrots.
“Our commitment to customers is that products at the no name store will be up to 20% less than the regular retail price on a comparable product at any of the four main discount grocers in that local area,” said Melanie Singh, President, Loblaw’s Hard Discount Division.
“These no name stores will have a limited selection of 1,300 products, but these are many of our top-selling pantry staples and household goods throughout the province, so we know they’re what customers buy most and what will bring them the biggest savings.”
Loblaws says the pilot is experimental, and their focus remains on adapting quickly to customer feedback and needs.
