If you ever see an item in the grocery store that says "Prepared in Canada", it means nothing of value, avoid them for their deceptive practices.

Depending on where you live there are likely farmers' markets and/or local producers within a reasonable drive. In my experience it can range as far as price, and flavour is almost always better.

At least it's a way to reduce reliance and dependence on this oligopoly.

Just wanted to point out an iconic quote from BC Green Leader from tonight's debate, said towards the other two candidates "Neither of you have the guts to stand up to Big Grocery and it shows".

Bless Emily Lowan fr.

costco is surprising its so big in canada.

Wow four whole supermarket chains? That's double Australia, where we have just two.

I'd wager it's more or less the same structural reasons as Canada though.

Never heard of metro, but suppose I should respect save on foods more

This is simply the result of Canadian cities with overly anti-small business policies. The fact that you can't just run a business anywhere, or that you require to have a license from the municipal/city, or even have a permit for a sign out on the street, have a permit for x style of signage, etc. all for the sake of the look-and-feel of a city... is anti-business. It puts barriers in front of lower budget mom/pop stores.

Go out of North America, and you'll see that when overbearing policies are removed, small businesses thrive, cost of goods go down , and more variety are available to the consumer.

This extends beyond just the grocery market.

Be glad you're not in New Zealand where "Competition is dominated by two major retailers" according to the New Zealand Commerce Commission Market study into the grocery sector Summary of Findings published March 2022.