In the retail sector, the median EBITDA multiple over the past 12 months is 3.7x (Q1 2025).
Market share of the top 3 players in the Canadian industry:
Empire Company Limited (Sobeys, IGA, etc.): 37.4%
Loblaw Companies Limited (Provigo, Loblaws, etc.): 37.1%
Metro Inc.: 14.1%
These three companies hold nearly 89% of the Canadian grocery and supermarket market, reflecting high industry concentration (oligopoly).
Number of establishments in Canada: 8,936, generating $111.9 billion in revenue
Number of establishments in Quebec: 2,909 (25%), generating $30.1 billion in revenue
Revenue breakdown by food product category:
Meat: 18.4%
Dairy and eggs: 15.1%
Vegetables: 12.8%
Fruits, nuts, and preparations: 12.8%
Bakery products: 8.4%
Cereals and cereal products: 5.2%
Fish and seafood: 3.4%
Other (hygiene, household items, etc.): 23.9%
Market share of the top 3 players in the U.S. industry:
Kroger: 18.1%
Albertsons: 9.6%
Publix: 7.2%
These three companies account for 35% of the U.S. market.
Number of establishments in the U.S.: 61,626, generating $829.9 billion in revenue
Proximity to target markets – Being located near densely populated areas maximizes foot traffic and sales
Efficient inventory management – Ensuring product availability, especially for promotional items, to meet customer demand
Agile and flexible workforce – Employing versatile staff allows quick adaptation to operational needs, especially during peak hours
Close monitoring of competition – In a market with low product differentiation, it’s crucial to track competitors’ pricing and promotional strategies
Strict regulatory compliance – Adhering to food safety and labeling regulations is vital to maintaining consumer trust
Technological innovation – Implementing advanced technologies such as self-checkouts and mobile apps enhances customer experience and operational efficiency
Canada:
Revenue per employee: $254,295
Gross margin: 25.1%
Profit margin: 1.5%
United States:
Revenue per employee: $296,333
Gross margin: 32.2%
Profit margin: 2%
Population growth and urbanization – Rising populations, particularly in urban centers, will drive demand for food products and support supermarket expansion
Changing consumer preferences – Increasing demand for organic, local, and ready-to-eat products pushes retailers to diversify their offerings
Technology integration – Adoption of tools like self-checkouts, mobile apps, and digital loyalty programs will improve customer experience and operational efficiency
E-commerce expansion – Continued growth in online grocery sales, accelerated by the pandemic, is pushing retailers to strengthen digital platforms and delivery capabilities
Greater price sensitivity – In the face of inflation and economic uncertainty, consumers will be more price-conscious, leading retailers to offer promotions and value-added products
Diversification of store formats – Growth in niche formats, such as ethnic supermarkets, addresses increasing demand for culturally diverse food options
Competitive pressure – Entry of new players, including international retailers and delivery services, intensifies competition, requiring innovation and operational optimization from established companies
IBISWORLD
Supermarkets & Grocery Stores in Canada – NAICS (44511CA)
Supermarkets & Grocery Stores in the US – NAICS (44511US)
BVR
DealStats – NAICS (44511) – Revenue between $5,000,000 and $20,000,000
DealStats Value Index Q1 2025
Important Note
These are general guidelines, and many positive or negative factors may influence the above results. Every business is unique. Moreover, the selling price largely depends on the number of interested buyers, synergies with the target business, and desired returns.
Disclaimer
pntt makes no representation to anyone regarding the completeness or accuracy of the data or information contained in this document. pnttaccepts no liability and disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any person as a result of using the information in this document.
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