Empire to acquire Montreal’s Mayrand Food Group

STELLARTON, NS, April 9, 2026 /CNW/ – Empire Company Limited BB #:137787 and its wholly owned subsidiary Sobeys Inc. BB #:116615 announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Mayrand Food Group Inc. BB #:116080, a long‑established Québec food retailer operating four large‑format locations across the Greater Montréal Area.

The transaction is being completed pursuant to a court‑approved process and remains subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of court-approval and required regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to close in first quarter of fiscal 2027.

Founded more than 110 years ago, Mayrand is a trusted Québec retail banner known for its broad product assortment, competitive pricing, and strong relationships with both retail and foodservice customers. The business operates four stores in Anjou, Laval, Brossard, and Saint‑Jérôme.

“Mayrand is a respected Québec institution with deep local roots and a loyal customer base,” said Luc L’Archevêque, Chief Customer Officer, Empire. “This transaction allows the Mayrand brand to continue serving customers and communities while benefiting from Empire’s scale, operational expertise, and long‑term commitment to food retail in Québec.”

The acquisition provides Empire with a strategic entry into the Québec discount/warehouse food market, a growing segment serving both households and foodservice operators. Mayrand’s differentiated positioning, large‑format stores, and extensive assortment complement and strengthen Empire’s existing retail portfolio.

Empire intends to maintain the Mayrand banner and grow the business as a distinct brand, building on its strong reputation for value, quality, and product depth. Mayrand will benefit from Empire’s capabilities in merchandising, purchasing, logistics, real estate, treasury, and other operational support functions.

As part of the transaction, Empire will ensure continuity for the Mayrand workforce and stability for customers, suppliers, and business partners.

ABOUT EMPIRE
Empire Company Limited (TSX: EMP.A) is a Canadian company headquartered in Stellarton, Nova Scotia. Empire’s key businesses are food retailing, through wholly owned subsidiary Sobeys Inc., and related real estate. With approximately $32 billion in annual sales and $17 billion in assets, Empire and its subsidiaries, franchisees and affiliates employ approximately 129,000 people. Additional financial information relating to Empire, including the Company’s Annual Information Form, can be found on the Company’s website at www.empireco.ca or on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

ABOUT MAYRAND
Since 1914, Mayrand Food Group has been helping Québecers with their everyday food needs, offering a unique selection of fresh, local and international products. Proudly Québec based, Mayrand and its nearly 300 dedicated employees serve both retail consumers and foodservice professionals through its four stores across Greater Montréal. Recognized for its compelling value proposition, broad offering and longstanding market presence, Mayrand is a trusted participant in Québec’s food retail ecosystem.

For further information, please contact: Media Contact: Karen White-Boswell, Director, External Communications, Sobeys Inc., media@sobeys.com; Investor Contact: Katie Brine, Vice President, Investor Relations & Pensions, Sobeys Inc., investor.relations@empireco.ca