Walmart Canada is investing over $200 million in its store network, with a focus on refurbishing and refreshing 31 stores across the country over the next year, including five stores in Alberta.

The company said about 3,250 construction jobs will be created to support these upgrades.

The five renovated Alberta stores are in Calgary (Westbrook), Grande Prairie, Lethbridge, Lloydminster and Wetaskiwin.

Walmart said the updates are the latest in a series of store investments, building on the retailer’s $175-million updates to its store network in its last fiscal year. Over the last five years, the company has invested over $1 billion in its Canadian store network.

“Our store network is a key advantage in our ability to best serve the changing needs of our customers,” said Lee Tappenden, president and CEO of Walmart Canada, in a news release. “1.2 million customers in Canada choose to shop in our stores every day and we are focused on making their experience easy, enjoyable and convenient while seamlessly integrating our e-commerce business. Investing in our stores is critical for the future of our business and to deliver on the changing needs of our customers.”

Walmart said it will expand its fresh food Supercentre format to more locations and the investments will also help create a more seamless experience for customers ordering on Walmart.ca and picking up at their local store.

It has opened more than 20 stores over the past four years.

But Walmart also announced it’s closing two stores – in Pincourt, Que., and Sault St. Marie, Ont.

– Mario Toneguzzi

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