Whole Foods has announced that its Leaside and Yonge-Sheppard locations in Toronto will shut down on August 22. blogTO
Whole Foods has confirmed it will shut down two Toronto locations next week. The affected stores are at Bayview and Eglinton in Leaside, and Yonge and Sheppard inside the Hullmark Centre. Employees learned the news during a staff meeting on Friday morning. Shoppers and workers now face the sudden closures scheduled for August 22.
Employee reactions
Some employees shared the news online before the official confirmation. Posts described frustration with the short notice and concerns over layoffs. Workers said the announcement came as a shock, with only days left before doors close for good. Many customers who shop regularly at these stores are also disappointed.
Company statement
A Whole Foods spokesperson confirmed the closures and explained the decision. “Like any retail business, we regularly evaluate each of our stores and make decisions to position the company for long-term success,” they said. The company promised to support employees during the transition and provide assistance wherever possible.
The spokesperson also stressed the company’s ongoing commitment to Canada. They said Whole Foods will continue expanding and confirmed a new Toronto store will open on King Street West next year. Beyond the two closing stores, no other Canadian locations will be affected.
Whole Foods in Canada
Whole Foods first entered the Canadian market in 2002, opening a store in Yorkville, Toronto. The company announced ambitious expansion plans more than a decade ago, aiming to open dozens of stores across the country. That goal has not been met. Today, only 14 locations operate in Canada.
The grocery chain, known for organic products and prepared meals, has faced growing competition in recent years. More Canadian retailers now offer natural and health-focused food options, making the market tougher. Still, Whole Foods insists it remains committed to Canadian customers and plans to grow its presence.
Impact on customers and community
For many shoppers, the closures mean losing convenient access to specialty items not easily found elsewhere. Residents near Bayview and Yonge streets will now need to travel farther for the same products. Some loyal customers expressed concern about the loss of community spaces, since these stores also served as gathering places.
What comes next
While the closures are difficult for staff and customers, Whole Foods says its long-term vision for Canada remains positive. The company believes the new downtown store will offer shoppers more options and attract new customers. Until then, shoppers can still visit other Toronto stores that remain open.
