Real estate development and investment company Harden, in partnership with Crombie REIT, has officially broken ground on Faubourg Contrecœur, a major commercial project in Montréal’s Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough. The $30-million investment will introduce new retail and community amenities to the city’s growing east end and marks a significant milestone for residents seeking enhanced local services.
Located at 3553 rue de Contrecœur at the intersection of rue Sherbrooke Est and rue de Contrecœur, the development will transform over 240,000 square feet of land into a modern retail hub anchored by an IGA extra supermarket, which is expected to open in the summer of 2026.
Faubourg Contrecœur will offer over 52,000 square feet of Gross Leasable Area (GLA) and is designed to integrate sustainability and convenience for the neighbourhood. The project will feature green spaces, bicycle paths, EV charging stations, and solar-powered rooftops. More than 170 parking spaces will be provided, ensuring accessibility for shoppers while supporting environmentally conscious infrastructure.
“Today marks a significant milestone for the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community. It is with great enthusiasm that we break ground on a development that will bring long-awaited amenities to residents,” said Tyler Harden, Co-CEO of Harden. “Our vision has always been to create a space that enhances daily life, supports local jobs, and fosters growth for the entire community. Partnering with Crombie to bring Faubourg Contrecœur to life allows us to support the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community and respond to a significant need.”
IGA extra to Anchor the Retail Offering
The highly anticipated IGA extra supermarket will be the anchor tenant, taking up 40,000 square feet of GLA within the project. Its arrival will give east-end residents convenient access to a full-service grocery store featuring a butcher shop, bakery, Rachelle Béry section, and other amenities. The location is designed to be a local gathering place that not only provides fresh, high-quality products but also supports Quebec producers and creates new jobs.
“We are delighted to launch the construction of the future 40,000 sq. ft. IGA extra in Faubourg Contrecœur, which will offer a comprehensive and personalized experience,” said Geneviève Dufresne, AVP, Real Estate Development and Transactions Qc & Atl. at Sobeys. “With its butcher shop, bakery, Rachelle Béry section and sustainable features, this new store will create local jobs, promote our Quebec producers and become a true gathering place for families in the community by the summer of 2026.”
Two retail pads, approximately 10,000 square feet and 3,000 square feet respectively, remain available and are expected to complement the grocery anchor by broadening the site’s overall retail offering. These pads could host additional services and retailers providing affordable essentials and conveniences that meet the needs of area residents.
“Faubourg Contrecœur is an excellent example of Crombie’s commitment to working with our partners to enrich communities coast to coast through thoughtful and sustainable community hubs,” said Victor Settino, Executive Vice President, Development and Construction at Crombie. “We’re proud of the positive impact this project will have on Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve.”
Building on Proven Development Expertise
The partnership between Harden and Crombie brings together two of Canada’s most experienced real estate developers. Harden, a second-generation, family-owned real estate company established in 1985, owns and operates a diverse portfolio of commercial, residential, and industrial properties across Quebec and Ontario. The company is vertically integrated, managing every stage of the real estate process including development, construction, leasing, and asset management—experience that will guide Faubourg Contrecœur from planning to completion.
Crombie contributes a national perspective with a portfolio that spans grocery-anchored retail, retail-related industrial assets, and mixed-use residential properties. As of June 30, 2025, Crombie’s portfolio included 306 properties representing approximately 18.8 million square feet, inclusive of joint ventures and a pipeline of future development projects. The company’s focus on building community-oriented retail nodes ensures that Faubourg Contrecœur will be aligned with long-term growth and sustainability objectives.
Strengthening the Neighbourhood’s Future
The east end of Montreal has seen rapid residential development over the past decade, and Faubourg Contrecœur aims to become a catalyst for additional economic activity and employment opportunities. By integrating sustainable features like solar panels and EV infrastructure, the project also supports the City of Montréal’s climate initiatives.
Once complete, the commercial hub is expected to attract shoppers from across the borough, drawing foot traffic to surrounding businesses and boosting local economic growth. The addition of a modern supermarket is expected to fill a key gap for residents who have sought improved access to groceries and other everyday essentials close to home.
