The Financial Post reports in its Wednesday, Feb. 25, edition that Loblaw plans to invest $2.4-billion in the Canadian economy in 2026 as part of its five-year plan to spend $10-billion by 2030. The Post's Shantae Campbell writes that Loblaw's 2026 investment will open 70 new stores, renovate 191 existing locations and continue building its automated distribution network, creating about 9,700 jobs in retail and construction across Canada. In 2026, 34 new stores will be Shoppers Drug Mart or Pharmaprix pharmacies and care clinics, and 31 will be No Frills and Maxi hard-discount grocery stores. Loblaw did not specify the mix for the remaining locations. Ontario will get 27 new stores and about 3,775 jobs, including positions at two automated distribution centres. Quebec is set to receive 15 new stores and over 1,985 jobs, while Western Canada will have 24 new stores and more than 3,400 jobs. Eastern Canada will see four new stores and over 600 jobs. Loblaw will use some funds to continue building its 1.2-million-square-foot automated distribution centre in Caledon, Ont., to enhance supply-chain capabilities. The investment represents the second year of a five-year capital plan.