London Drugs opens its first LDEXPRESS urban concept store in Canada

Jul 20 2017, 1:14 am

London Drugs is expanding its market share in Canada’s retail landscape by opening a hyper-condensed, miniature version of its stores that will provide competition for Shoppers Drug Mart, convenience stores, and even ultra low-cost retailers like dollar stores.

The first LDEXPRESS store opened in Calgary late last month on Stephen Avenue inside Scotia Centre at 230 8th Avenue SW.

At just 4,000 sq. ft., the first LDEXPRESS store is about one-sixth the size of the average full-size London Drugs stores.

But despite its small size, this store concept will still consist of a full-service pharmacy, customer service specialist desks, and ship-to-store online pick-up.

Interior of the first LDExpress in Calgary. (London Drugs)

There will also be sections for cosmetics and dermatology, small housewares and office supplies, high-tech accessories, and photo kiosk and passport photo service.

As well, snacks and food to-go from Spolumbo’s fine food and deli will be made available.

“LDEXPRESS on Stephen Avenue is here to cater to consumers who are time-starved but who also desire high-quality products and personalized customer care which they know they can count on from London Drugs,” said Clint Mahlman, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of London Drugs, in a statement. “This store is built entirely around the customer.”

Interior of the first LDExpress in Calgary. (London Drugs)

Such compact stores are designed for high-density office and urban areas, and the company is likely to open more of these stores in its existing markets, including at its home base market of Vancouver.

London Drugs currently has approximately 80 stores in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Some of its smallest full-size London Drugs store locations are at 1187 Robson Street in Vancouver’s West End and 1622 Salt Street in Vancouver’s Olympic Village, which are both roughly 17,000 sq. ft.

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Kenneth ChanKenneth Chan

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