It has been a topic of discussion for over 20 years, but it looks like the Squamish Walmart could finally be on the way to becoming a Supercentre.
The supermarket giant opened at 39210, Discovery Way in Squamish in 2006 after agreeing not to sell perishables such as fresh meat, fish or produce.
But as of 2024, the company has applied to amend the zoning which will remove the restrictions around the sale of fresh produce.
“We're delighted to share we've submitted an application to convert our Squamish Walmart store to a Supercentre to better serve our Squamish customers,” a Walmart spokesperson told The Squamish Chief.
“Squamish customers will benefit from having an expanded assortment of products and the ability to choose to shop in-store or online with in-store pickup or delivery,” they said.
District of Squamish spokesperson Rachel Boguski said the development permit application has been displayed on their website since July 10 and includes “improvements and upgrades to the facade, signage and parking areas.”
“Walmart is not currently permitted to sell fresh produce and has restrictions on the amount of floor area which can be used for sale of non-perishable food items,” Boguski said.
“The application is a combined rezoning and development permit application. The District has provided initial feedback to Walmart regarding the application and is awaiting additional information.
Boguski said no date has been set for bringing the application before council and no feedback from the public has been received to date.
A bit of history
In 2004 the council posed a 6,410 square-foot limit on the food sales area and a 1,135 square-foot limit on the area set aside for confectionery.
It was also a requirement that Walmart would not apply for a rezoning on any issue related to food sales for at least five years after the store was built.
Plans for the upgrades to the current Walmart building to turn it into a Supercentre can be found on the District of Squamish website.
—With a file from Adam Daff/Pique Magazine
