Specsavers is turbocharging its presence in Canada by opening 111 new locations inside selected Loblaw-owned grocery stores across the country.
The optometry provider – which entered Canada in 2021 – will offer eyecare in Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore and Zehrs stores, marking the phase-out of Loblaw’s existing optical banner, Theodore & Pringle.
Loblaw is Canada’s food and pharmacy leader, and the nation’s largest retailer with more than 2,800 locations.
The expansion also represents Specsavers’ entry into five new Canadian provinces – New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan – and one new territory, Yukon, while strengthening its presence in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario.
“This expansion represents a pivotal moment for eyecare accessibility in Canada,” said Mr Bill Moir, managing director of Specsavers Canada.
“By opening 111 new locations within trusted Loblaw locations, we’re fundamentally improving how Canadians access the eyecare they deserve. Our mission has always been to change lives through better sight; we believe expert eyecare and quality eyewear should be affordable for all. We are now able to expand that mission across the country, ensuring that more families can access comprehensive optical services in the communities where they already shop.”
New Specsavers locations will operate within existing Loblaws stores, providing customers and patients with “convenient access to comprehensive eye examinations, prescription eyewear, contact lenses, and specialised eyecare services”.
All locations will be staffed by qualified independent optometrists and opticians.
“Theodore & Pringle was born from the belief that eyecare should be convenient and affordable for everyone,” said Ms Irene Doody, head of optical at Loblaw Companies Limited.
“Specsavers’ reputation for accessible eyecare aligns perfectly with our purpose – to help Canadians live life well. Specsavers will provide a seamless transition for our optical customers while introducing them to a trusted global leader in eyecare.”
The first wave of new Specsavers locations within Loblaw stores is scheduled to open in September 2025, with additional locations following throughout the remainder of the year.
The move will significantly enhance Specsavers’ presence in Canada where, during the course of four years, it has opened more than 150 locations.
There are now more than 2,700 Specsavers healthcare businesses globally.
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