Canada’s Competition Bureau is intensifying its investigation into Sobeys’ parent company, Empire Company Limited, regarding its use of property controls. These controls are contractual agreements that potentially restrict where competing grocery stores can establish themselves. The Bureau has secured court orders compelling Empire to provide documents and testimony related to these practices. The investigation aims to determine if these agreements are anti-competitive and limit consumer choice. Officials are examining whether Sobeys is leveraging these controls to maintain a dominant market position in certain areas. The Bureau’s actions signal concerns about potential barriers to entry for new grocery retailers. The outcome of the investigation could lead to changes in how grocery store locations are determined across Canada.