The North West Company Clarifies Closure of Northern Store in Fond du Lac

Press Release

Winnipeg, MB – February 17, 2026 – The North West Company (“North West”) has confirmed that Friday, February 13, 2026, was the final day of operations for its Northern Store in Fond du Lac.

The winding of its operations in Fond de Lac follows the conclusion of lease discussions with the Fond du Lac Denesuline First Nation after nearly two years of engagement. Despite extensive efforts to establish a new lease agreement, the parties could not reach terms. North West was prepared to invest in store improvements, including refrigeration replacement, contingent on securing a new lease agreement.

The closure of the store is not related to a health or safety violation as North West was never notified of a health order requiring the store to close. An inspection conducted in late January did not result in a closure order.

In recent weeks, North West proposed to the First Nation transition options intended to support employees, maintain essential services, and minimize disruption for customers, including a short-term extension to allow for an orderly transition. These proposals were not accepted by Fond de Lac Chief and Council, and as a result and in accordance with Band Council Resolution, North West will be vacating the leased store premises by 5:00 p.m. on February 15, 2026.

“The Northern store has been part of Fond du Lac for many years, and we are proud to have served the community for so long,” said Jim Caldwell, President, Canadian Retail. “We are grateful to the community for the trust placed in us over generations, and we want to sincerely thank our employees, past and present, who served their neighbours with dedication and care.”

North West is aware that Chief and Council have indicated an intention to open a community-operated store in the coming months but have not been involved in those plans and is not aware of the details or timing.

Should an opportunity arise in the future to serve Fond du Lac again, North West would welcome that discussion.

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About The North West Company

The North West Company is a leading retailer of food and everyday products and services to northern rural communities and urban neighbourhoods across Canada. The North West Company operates the

trading names Northern, NorthMart, Giant Tiger, Solo Market, Quickstop, Valu Lots, and NWC Motorsports.

Media Contact:
Brigitte Burgoyne
Director, Communications & Public Relations bburgoyne@northwest.ca
204-934-1588

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