The soon-to-be former IGA store in Richmond is not expected to re-open as a Save-On Foods until the fall of 2022.
The Richmond News reported last week that the IGA store in Garden City Shopping Centre – at Blundell and Garden City roads – was set to close later this month and be replaced by a Save-On.
IGA has not returned the News’ requests for comment but a spokesperson for Save-On has confirmed the takeover, but added that, although not having an exact re-opening date, it would likely be around fall next year. The spokesperson added that Save-On wouldn't be taking possession of the property until early next year.
As for retaining the current IGA workforce, the Save-On spokesperson would only say that they “understand there are some great team members working at the existing location and we welcome them all to apply when we start recruiting for the team in the summer of 2022.”
People claiming to be staff at the IGA contacted the News last week to say that none of the workers are unionized and none are being kept on when Save-On moves in.
And they added that the store will likely be shut down for six to eight months for renovations.
“None of the employees have been asked to stay and are looking for jobs,” wrote one of the workers, who asked not to be named.
“Thank you for all the years we've served you…”
