It’s been a topic of discussion for over 20 years, but it looks like Walmart in Squamish is finally on its way to becoming a Supercenter.

The supermarket giant opened in 2006 at 39210 Discovery Way in Squamish after committing to not selling perishable goods such as fresh meat, fish or fruits and vegetables.

However, the company has applied for a land use plan change that will lift restrictions on the sale of fresh produce from 2024.

“We are pleased to announce that we have submitted an application to convert our Walmart store in Squamish into a Supercenter to better serve our customers in Squamish,” a Walmart spokesperson told The Squamish Chief.

“Squamish customers will benefit from an expanded product assortment and the ability to choose between shopping in-store or online with in-store pickup or delivery,” they said.

Rachel Boguski, spokeswoman for the District of Squamish, said the building permit application has been available on the district’s website since July 10 and includes “improvements and upgrades to the facade, signage and parking areas.”

“Walmart is currently not allowed to sell fresh produce and there are restrictions on the amount of space it can sell shelf-stable foods,” Boguski said.

“The application is a combined rezoning and building permit application. The district has provided Walmart with initial feedback on the application and is awaiting further information.

Boguski said no date has been set for the application to be presented to council and no feedback has been received from the public.

A bit of history

In 2004, the Council set a limit of 6,410 square metres on the retail space for food products and a limit of 1,135 square metres on the space reserved for confectionery.

Another requirement was that Walmart could not apply for rezoning for reasons related to food sales within five years of opening the store.

Plans for converting the current Walmart building into a Supercenter can be found on the District of Squamish website.

—With a file by Adam Daff/Pique Magazine