Discount Grocery Boom Amid Rising Food Costs in Canada

Canada’s food price surge—over 27 % in the last five years—has pushed shoppers to discount chains such as Liquidation Marie, an ultra‑cheap Quebec‑based retailer. Montreal resident Ron Robinson says he can buy a steak for about $6 at Liquidation Marie versus $20–25 at a big‑box store. Founded in 2012, the chain now has more than 10 stores and plans to open ten more in 2026, bringing the total to 18. Co‑owner Marie Eve Breton reports an average of 30,000 weekly customers and 139,000 Facebook members. Marketing professors Yu Ma and Jordan LeBel note that rising incomes and lower rents make these stores attractive across Canada. Experts also point out that liquidators buy surplus stock from major retailers, passing discounts to consumers and reducing food waste.