Big changes are on the horizon for the former Canadian Tire site on Vedder Road, and while the tenant for the recently leased 20,000-square-foot unit hasn’t been revealed, speculation is buzzing. Jysk and Michael’s seem like prime candidates for a space of this size, but there’s also the possibility of a Marshalls, a well-known retailer that fits perfectly into this footprint.

Other potential options include Golf Town, known for its expansive retail spaces catering to sports enthusiasts, or even a No Frills grocery store, which could provide an essential, affordable shopping option for the community. A furniture store like Leon’s or Ashley Furniture is also a natural fit for a large retail space.

What makes this site particularly interesting is its unusual lot configuration. While many might assume the entire complex is under a single ownership, the reality is that the property is split among three different owners. For example:

• The building formerly occupied by the BC Liquor Store and the Chevron gas station are owned by one party.
• Another owner controls the north side of the property, which includes businesses like Sleep Country, the Telus Koodo store, strEATS restaurant, and the Sardis Bottle Depot.

Both subdivision plans for the remaining space include three 2,000-square-foot units, ready for a variety of businesses. The bigger question is whether the remaining space will be configured as a single 39,000-square-foot unit, or divided into 17,000 and 22,000 square-foot units. Either way, it’s clear there’s still plenty of potential for new retail opportunities at this site.

With the redevelopment timeline targeting Q2 2025, we’ll have to wait and see which retailers make their move, but it’s shaping up to be an exciting chapter for the Chilliwack retail landscape.