London Drugs to Close Downtown Eastside Store Amid Safety Concerns
Vancouver | Jan. 2026
Store to Shut Doors on Feb. 1
London Drugs has announced it will close its Downtown Eastside location in Vancouver on Feb. 1, citing ongoing safety and security challenges. The store, located in the historic Woodward’s building, has served the community since 2009.
According to the retailer, the decision followed months of internal review and was not made lightly.
Safety and Rising Costs Drive Decision
London Drugs President and Chief Operating Officer Clint Mahlman said the store faced persistent problems, including vandalism, theft, and violence involving employees and customers.
“The cumulative impact of these issues, along with the rising cost of protecting staff and merchandise, has made continued operations unsustainable,” Mahlman said during an interview with CBC Radio’s On the Coast.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Vancouver Police Department, Mahlman said enforcement alone has not been enough to reverse conditions in the area.
“Unfortunately, we don’t see a realistic path toward improvement in the near future,” he added.
Employees Offered Transfers
The closure will affect 90 employees. However, Mahlman confirmed that the company has offered staff positions at nearby London Drugs locations, helping to reduce job losses.
Community Leaders Voice Concern
The decision has drawn concern from local officials. Vancouver City Councillor Peter Meiszner, who lives in the neighbourhood, described the closure as a serious loss for residents.
“This is devastating news for the community,” Meiszner said. “This store provides affordable goods, pharmacy services, and a post office. Many people rely on it.”
He added that the closure highlights deeper issues related to public safety, mental health, and addiction support in the area.
Impact on Vulnerable Residents
With the store’s closure, residents may need to travel farther for basic services or rely on nearby convenience stores. According to Meiszner, this shift could place additional financial pressure on vulnerable individuals.
“Convenience stores often charge much higher prices,” he said. “That cost will fall on people who can least afford it.”
Longstanding Concerns from Community Advocates
Community advocates say the closure was not unexpected. Jess Ketchum, co-founder of the Save Our Streets Coalition, said concerns about the store’s long-term future had existed for several years.
He noted that ongoing safety challenges made it difficult for businesses to continue operating in the area.
A Wider Retail Footprint
London Drugs operates in more than 35 major markets across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, and also sells products online throughout Canada.
Despite the Downtown Eastside closure, the company said it remains committed to serving Vancouver through its other locations.
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