Specialty frozen meat and seafood retailer Wild Fork is exiting the Canadian market this fall, closing all four of its Ontario stores and ending online orders by Oct. 13, with physical locations shutting their doors by Dec. 14.
The U.S.-based chain, owned by JBS Foods, the world’s largest meat packing company, did not cite a specific reason for the withdrawal, though the company’s statement referenced stores missing profitability targets.
Store Closure Timeline
Wild Fork entered Canada in 2023, first operating as an online protein delivery service before opening its debut physical retail location in Whitby in May of that year. Three years later, the banner is pulling out entirely.
Ontario customers received an email earlier this week confirming the closures. Online orders and customer pickup will continue to be available until Oct. 13, while the four stores — located in Whitby, Oakville, Ancaster and Newmarket — will close by Dec. 14 or earlier.
The retailer offers more than 600 products, primarily frozen meat and seafood, ranging from everyday staples to specialty items such as Wagyu beef, along with sides, seasonings and ready-to-eat meals. A $29.95 membership fee has provided customers with free delivery on orders.
Company Statement and Tariff Questions
“Wild Fork has made the difficult decision to exit the Canadian market and close its operations in Canada,” the company said in a statement, adding it was “sincerely grateful” to its Canadian team and is focused on supporting affected employees through the transition.
It remains unclear whether tariffs factored into the decision. Canada had initially announced counter-tariffs that would have raised prices on U.S. fish and seafood imports, but those levies were cancelled as part of amendments announced by the Department of Finance on Aug. 26.
Wild Fork said it plans to keep expanding in the United States, stating it will focus on “opening stores in markets where we see strong customer demand and a clear path to sustainable profitability.”
In its email to Canadian customers, the company said the closure decision followed careful consideration, thanking customers who had supported the brand since its arrival in Canada. Customers with questions about the closures can contact Wild Fork’s customer care team by email or phone.
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