London Drugs is set to expand its footprint in Winnipeg with the announcement of a new store opening at CF Polo Park Shopping Centre. It’s the first new London drugs store to open in the Winnipeg market in 20 years, in one of the country’s leading shopping centres.
The new location, slated to open in the latter half of 2025, will mark London Drugs’ second store in the Winnipeg area. This expansion is part of the company’s broader growth strategy in Manitoba, aimed at meeting the diverse needs of local consumers while contributing to the region’s economic development.
Situated on the upper level of CF Polo Park, the purpose-built retail space will offer a unique blend of products and services. At the heart of the store will be a full-service pharmacy and the innovative Connected Wellness program, designed to provide customers with a seamless integration of health services, technology, and beauty products.
The store’s concept emphasizes an integrated approach to wellness, with pharmacists and tech experts working in tandem to offer personalized guidance. This holistic strategy aims to empower customers in their health journeys by providing easy access to innovative solutions and expert advice.
According to lease plans, it appears that London Drugs is likely to open in an 18,000 square foot space in part of what was once a Sears department store located in the mall. London Drugs will be the second large drug store to operate in CF Polo Park, with Shoppers Drug Mart also having a 15,000 square foot store downstairs on the main level.
Peter Havens, General Manager of CF Polo Park, expressed enthusiasm about the addition of London Drugs to the shopping centre’s roster. “As the leading shopping destination in Winnipeg, this opening reaffirms our commitment to delivering best-in-class retail experiences to our community,” Havens said in a statement.
Clint Mahlman, COO and President of London Drugs, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the company’s dedication to community engagement. “We’re looking forward to fully integrating ourselves into the local community and bringing real value to Winnipeg’s residents and their community goals with our unique product offerings and ongoing initiatives,” Mahlman remarked in a statement.
The new store is expected to generate between 60 and 70 new jobs for local residents. This investment in human capital aligns with London Drugs’ reputation as a significant employer in Western Canada, where it currently provides jobs for over 9,000 individuals across its network of 80 stores.
CF Polo Park is one of Canada’s top shopping centres in terms of sales per square feet, exceeding $1,000 annually. The shopping centre spans more than a million square feet with Hudson’s Bay being its largest anchor.
London Drugs entered the Winnipeg market in 2004 when it opened its first store at the St. Vital Centre. The store remains operational today.
Founded in Vancouver in 1945, London Drugs has established itself as a versatile retailer, offering a wide range of products from personal protective equipment to electronics and cosmetics.
More like 22 years after opening their only Manitoba location.