Loblaw warns of widespread price hikes as tariffs bite deeper

Loblaw Companies Ltd. has issued a stark warning to Canadian consumers: The price of everyday grocery items is set to rise sharply in the coming weeks.

The retailer, which operates chains such as Loblaws, No Frills and Real Canadian Superstore, announced this week that the number of products marked with a "T" symbol — indicating tariff-related price increases — will soar from nearly 1,000 to over 6,000 by mid-July.

CEO Per Bank explained in a LinkedIn post that while current inventories purchased before the tariffs remain unaffected, the impact will soon be felt across a wide range of categories, including pantry staples, natural foods and health and beauty products.

"While the tariff situation might be improving between the U.S. and other countries, that’s not yet the case here in Canada. In fact, we’ll be facing a large wave of tariff-related increases in the weeks ahead,” he said.

He noted that the "T" symbol will help customers identify which items are directly impacted by the U.S. tariffs.

This surge in prices comes as Canada continues to grapple with the economic fallout of the trade dispute with the U.S., which has led to increased costs for Canadian businesses and concerns about potential job losses. While some relief has been offered to other countries, Canada has not seen significant reductions in tariffs.