60 years of Leadership
Some 60 years ago, a few independent grocery
retailers
decided to form a buying group
Nearly 60 years ago, a few independent grocery
retailers decided to form a buying group that would enable them to
offer consumers products at prices comparable to those of major
food chains. This led to the birth of Magasins Lasalle Stores
Ltée, which soon became a force to be reckoned with in this
highly competitive industry. The leadership and tenacity of its
members and executives, as well as their ability to adapt to
change, have allowed the Company to pursue its growth through
mergers, acquisitions and innovations. Today, it is known as METRO
INC., an acknowledged leader of the Canadian food
industry.
The buying group is created in a particular economic context. The depression of the 1930s and its devastating effects have plunged thousands into poverty. The North American economy is barely starting to recover when World War II breaks out. This period leads to serious hardships as industrial production is geared primarily to the war effort. When hostilities end, Québec society becomes more urban, and its population increases rapidly, rising from 3,600,000 to nearly 5,000,000 between 1947 and 1958. Known as the baby boom, this phenomenon ushers in major changes (improved standard of living, higher education, more women in the workforce, etc.), paving the way for a new era of consumerism.
