On April 13, 2026, the grocery landscape in Saint-Ambroise, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, experienced notable developments. Liquidation Marie, a low-cost grocery store known for its significant savings, was preparing to launch a new delivery service for its products. Founded in 2012 in Saint-Zotique, Liquidation Marie has rapidly expanded its presence, growing from five stores in May 2025 to more than double that number by early 2026. The store claims to offer savings of up to 80% on food purchases, positioning itself as a key player in the local grocery market.
However, the day took a dramatic turn shortly after the opening of Intermarché in Saint-Ambroise. A part of the store’s roof collapsed, following a loud cracking sound. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from this incident, which raised immediate concerns among the community and the store’s management. Samuel Pilote, whose brother was present at the scene, noted the suddenness of the event, emphasizing the shock it caused among shoppers and staff alike.
In the aftermath of the roof collapse, the owners of Intermarché began evaluating the possibility of a partial reopening within one to two weeks. This timeline reflects their commitment to restoring operations as quickly as possible, although the exact cause of the roof collapse has not been officially confirmed. Community member Pier-Luc Gilbert remarked on the swift support from locals for the store owners, highlighting the strong community ties in Saint-Ambroise.
As Liquidation Marie moves forward with its delivery service, experts like Sylvain Charlebois have raised questions about the feasibility of the initiative. Charlebois expressed skepticism about whether Liquidation Marie would absorb the transportation costs associated with the delivery service. The exact launch date for this service remains unknown, and it is unclear if the store will partner with a third-party delivery service to facilitate this new offering.
Liquidation Marie’s approach to grocery retail not only focuses on affordability but also addresses food waste by selling near-expiry products. This strategy resonates with a growing consumer demand for sustainable shopping options, potentially enhancing the store’s appeal in the competitive grocery market.
As these developments unfold, the local grocery sector in Saint-Ambroise is at a crossroads. The expansion of Liquidation Marie and the challenges faced by Intermarché illustrate the dynamic nature of the industry, where consumer preferences and operational challenges continually shape the landscape.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the cause of the roof collapse at Intermarché, and the community watches closely as both stores navigate these changes. The outcome of these events will likely have lasting implications for the grocery market in the region, influencing consumer behavior and local business strategies.
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