Loblaws has announced that it will build 50 new stores and renovate at least 100 existing locations in an expansion program that will add 20,000 jobs through staffing and construction. All of Loblaws store flags including Shoppers Drug Mart will benefit from this expansion, the company said in a statement. There are no details of where stores will go but the plans seem to be fairly urgent, set to get underway this year. Local business handicappers have often guessed that Loblaws would like to be stronger on Laird Drive, perhaps replacing the hidden store on Redway Rd. with one that is on the street. Time will tell. Nor is there any way of knowing what might be in store for the venerable location of 301 Moore Ave. A continuation of Redway to the Bayview extension might permit the closing of the dangerous (but convenient) piece of Pottery Road that runs between Loblaws and the Rexall strip mall at 320 Moore. Such an extension of Redway is bitterly opposed by many but would speed traffic east during rush hour. CNW
