Real Canadian Superstore will open a 102,300-square-foot location at Buffalo Run on Tsuut’ina Nation, southwest of Calgary, on Nov. 26, bringing a new grocery and retail destination and employment opportunities to the developing community.
The store, which marks the first Real Canadian Superstore in Alberta developed in close consultation with an Indigenous community, is part of a broader collaboration between Loblaw Companies Limited, Tsuut’ina Nation and Taza Development Corp.
A grand opening ceremony is scheduled for 7 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 26.
The location is in Buffalo Run, one of three community villages within Taza, a 1,200-acre development on Tsuut’ina Nation overseen by Taza Development Corp.
Indigenous consultation and local artwork
During the store’s design phase, Real Canadian Superstore consulted with the Tsuut’ina-Taza Cultural Advisory Working Group, incorporating guidance from the group into the project.
The building will also feature original artwork by four local Indigenous artists: Aaron Angus Rattlesnake, Maria One Spot, Irene Crowchild and Brianna Rowan-Meguinis. The artists worked with curator Stephanie One Spot to develop pieces celebrating local culture and creativity. The artwork will be unveiled on opening day.
“We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome the community to this new Superstore,” said Jonathan Carroll, Senior Vice-President of Real Canadian Superstore at Loblaw Companies Limited.
“There has been so much care and collaboration behind bringing this store to life, and our team is incredibly excited for customers to finally experience it. We’re proud to be joining the Buffalo Run community and look forward to serving our neighbours for many years to come.”
The project is expected to support employment opportunities and economic activity while providing access to everyday goods for Tsuut’ina Nation members, Taza residents and surrounding communities.
James Robertson, President of Taza Development Corp., said the consultation process helped shape the store’s design and the inclusion of Indigenous artwork.
“Real Canadian Superstore took the time to listen,” said Robertson. “Their team brought the guidance they received during design into this building, including original work by local Indigenous artists. This opening brings jobs and everyday essentials closer to Tsuut’ina Nation members and the families settling into Taza. Buffalo Run will keep growing, and we’re committed to building it out with the same intention.”
Store operations and management
The new location will offer fresh produce, full-service meat, seafood and bakery departments, along with household and general merchandise categories including home, entertainment, beauty and toys.
The store will be led by manager Beverley Sousa, who has 24 years of experience with Real Canadian Superstore. She began her career as a cashier and worked in several positions before becoming a store manager in 2020.
Loblaw said the opening represents another step in the development of Buffalo Run and the broader Taza project, which is being developed through a partnership between Tsuut’ina Nation and Canadian real estate company Canderel.
Taza Development Corp. oversees the development of three interconnected villages: Taza Park, Buffalo Run and The Crossing. The development covers 1,200 acres adjacent to Calgary’s southwest quadrant.
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