In 2025, the wealth of Canada’s grocery store moguls saw a substantial surge, as revealed in a recent report. Oxfam Canada disclosed that the Weston and Pattison families, owners of Loblaws and Save-on-Foods chains respectively, experienced over a 14% increase in their net worth each. The combined value of their businesses now stands at around $32.8 billion, marking a $4.4 billion upsurge from the previous year.
Conversely, the demand for food aid has skyrocketed, with a staggering one in four individuals self-reporting food insecurity, reports Food Banks Canada. Kim Savage, the spokesperson for Surrey Food Bank, has witnessed a continuous rise in the number of people seeking assistance, with a 65% increase since 2023. The food bank is now serving over 22,000 visits monthly, accommodating about 9,200 unique clients, up from approximately 8,600 the year prior.
While many struggle, some affluent Canadians are advocating for change. Patriotic Millionaires is pushing for higher taxes on the wealthiest individuals, pointing out loopholes in Canada’s taxation system that benefit billionaire families like the Westons and Pattisons. Executive Director Dylan Dusseault emphasizes the urgency of addressing growing wealth inequality amidst widespread poverty and increased reliance on food banks.
Dusseault argues that imposing heavy taxes on excessive profits could dissuade corporations from exploiting consumers, particularly in the grocery sector where price hikes are affecting vulnerable populations. While acknowledging the role of businesses in profit-making, Kim Savage highlights the crucial support provided by grocery store donations to food banks, despite underlying market dynamics.
As the community grapples with longer lines at food banks and rising food prices, the emotional toll on those facing food insecurity remains significant. With Statistics Canada data indicating a steady increase in food costs, calls for tax reforms and measures to combat inequality are gaining traction. Oxfam’s report aligns with the push for tax revisions and the establishment of international initiatives to address wealth disparities.
Keyphrase: Wealth inequality grocery industry