Whole Foods Heads To Canada

AUSTIN, Texas--Hazelton Lanes, a shopping district in downtown Toronto, announced Oct. 19 that Whole Foods Market selected the location to open its first international store. Whole Foods currently has more than 117 natural products supermarkets across the United States.

In a release from Hazelton Lanes, the organization stated that Whole Foods will occupy a total of 45,000 square feet on two levels in the Avenue Road-Yorkville landmark building. "The addition of Whole Foods is just the beginning of our long-term plan to restore The Lanes to its former position as a regular shopping destination," noted Stephen Chan, president of Max & Co. Development, owner of The Lanes. "What we will not do is lower Hazelton Lanes' standards for quality. Whole Foods is the perfect fit in those terms."

Marylou Torrison with Whole Foods Central Region confirmed the plan to open in Toronto, though she noted the timeline for opening has not been released. More information on the new opening will likely be presented at a 4Q earnings conference call, scheduled for Nov. 14 at 4:15 (CST). In order to participate in this call, call (212) 896-6061. Internet users can listen to the call live or at a later date at www.vcall.com. For more information, visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com.