Announcing two new FreshCo stores in Alberta

As part of Sobeys Inc.’s plan to win market share and continue to grow our business in Western Canada, we’re announcing the closure and conversion of two Safeway stores in Calgary – Northgate and Thorncliffe.

As we have communicated, we’re growing our discount network in the West. In line with that we’re moving ahead with two store conversions in Calgary from Safeway to FreshCo. In addition, we’re evaluating up to eight more Safeway conversions in the next few years. We must remain committed to changing and strengthening our business in this highly competitive grocery market.

Safeway Northgate and Safeway Thorncliffe will close on March 2, 2026, for redevelopment and re-open as FreshCo stores in summer 2026. The pharmacies at both locations will remain open throughout the banner conversion to ensure there’s no disruption in service to customers.

By expanding our store network to include additional discount FreshCo stores, we’re better equipped to win market share by having customers shop with our company rather than discount competitors.

We’ll be working closely with impacted teammates and where applicable, the respective union, to ensure the terms of the collective agreement are met and to provide support through this transition.

We’re sincerely grateful for our teammates’ commitment and dedicated service to Safeway.

Stay up to date at SafewayTalks.ca.

Why does UFCW 401 want to hurt our business?

We are disappointed to see that once again UFCW 401 is airing television commercials directly attacking Safeway. Why is UFCW 401 working so hard to drive customers out of our stores?

Attacking a Canadian-owned and operated business hurts all of us and drives a wedge between you and the relationships you have worked so hard to build with your customers. Fewer customers means fewer sales and hours, and strength for Safeway overall.

The lies in the commercials themselves are very disheartening. We offer the highest wages. We have heavily invested in the Safeway network to revitalize the brand and compete.

UFCW 401’s actions are not helping Safeway succeed. Their actions are putting us all at risk in this very competitive environment.

If you are concerned with the impact the commercials can have on your job, we urge you to contact your union and voice your concerns.