Loblaw Shuts Down 170+ Theodore & Pringle Optical Locations as Specsavers Takes Over

What’s Happening a Loblaw?

Loblaw is shutting down all of its 170+ Theodore & Pringle optical locations across Canada as part of a new partnership with Specsavers Canada. The affected stores will be phased out and replaced by the independently owned Specsavers outlets.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we are already hearing from numerous Theodore & Pringle employees across the country who have been impacted by this decision. Many are reaching out to our firm for severance pay advice and to better understand their legal rights as these closures take effect. While Loblaw has framed the move as a seamless brand transition for customers, the consequences for workers are significant and ongoing.

Additional Details

• All Theodore & Pringle locations will cease operations at over 170 locations.
• The replacement will begin in September 2025, starting with 111 new Specsavers stores inside Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, and Zehrs locations.
• Specsavers will enter five new provinces and one territory, expanding its footprint to over 260 stores across Canada.
• Affected locations span across BC, Alberta, and Ontario, among others.

Official Statements and Context

In a joint press release on July 30, 2025, Loblaw and Specsavers announced the transition as a major shift in how Canadians will access optical care. According to Irene Doody, Head of Optical at Loblaw:

“Theodore & Pringle was born from the belief that eye care should be convenient and affordable for everyone. Specsavers’ reputation for accessible eye care aligns perfectly with our purpose — to help Canadians live life well.”

SEE ALSO
• Steelmaker ArcelorMittal Closing Hamilton Facility Amid US Trade War
• Hudson’s Bay slashing more than 8,300 jobs, closing stores June 1
• Employee Rights When a Company Closes

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Lost Your Job? Get Help Now

📞 Contact Samfiru Tumarkin LLP: 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.

Our experienced employment lawyers in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia (BC) have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized individuals resolve their workplace issues, including wrongful dismissals.

If you’ve lost your job at Loblaw for any reason, don’t panic. We can review your situation, assess your legal options, and help you secure the compensation you’re legally entitled to.

Disclaimer: The materials above are provided as general information about the rights of non-unionized employees in Canada. It is not specific to any one company and SHOULD NOT be read as suggesting any improper conduct on the part of any specific employer, or a relationship between Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and a specific employer.