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Grocery stores, convenience stores and grocery stores in Quebec face high risks: armed robbery, loss of food due to breakdown, falling customers, slipping on wet ground. Convenience stores are among the businesses most targeted by thefts in QC — according to Quebec Public Security.

A grocery insurance policy includes: building/contents, robbery, loss of perishable foodstuffs, public liability $2-5 million, mechanical breakdown (refrigeration, ovens), theft of money and business interruption. Typical premium: $2,600 to $6,200/year. Assur360 compares 15+ insurers for the best deal.

$2,600+
premium avg.
38%
Theft = Convenience Stores
24 hrs
Total loss of foodstuffs
$5M
Recommended P&C

Risks specific to your grocery store

Armed robbery and robbery

Convenience stores open 24/7 are very targeted. Make sure your policy covers theft of cash in cash, in safes, and in transit (between commerce and banking). Limits often $1,500-5,000 — ask for the increase if you handle more.

Loss of perishable goods

Failure of a freezer or fridge 24 hours = $5,000-20,000 loss. The Loss of Goods Due to Equipment Failure endorsement is essential — not included by default.

Falls and slips for customers

Wet floor (entrance in winter), broken shelf, falling object: common P&C chase. Minimum $2 million in public liability, recommended $5 million for a large area.

Sale of alcohol / tobacco / lottery

Alcohol permits (RACJ) add liability: sale to minors = fines + premium increase. Éduc’alcool training or Offences Act recommended.

Essential Protections to Include

Building & Content

Shelves, refrigerated counters, inventory. Replacement cost on equipment.

Money theft & inventory

Specific endorsement — covers cash, lottery, prepaid cards, cigarettes.

Loss of perishable goods

Essential for meat/milk fridge, freezers, fresh produce areas.

Public P&C $5 million

Fall, poisoning, broken shelf leg. Reasonable minimum.

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Premium 2026 — indicative table

ProfileVolume / DetailAnnual Bonus
Convenience store <1,000 sq. ft{{{wpml_tag_16}}}{{{wpml_tag_17}}}Inventory $15-30k{{{wpml_tag_18}}}{{{wpml_tag_19}}}$2,600 – $3,400{{{wpml_tag_20}}}{{{wpml_tag_21}}}{{{wpml_tag_22}}}{{{wpml_tag_23}}}Neighborhood grocery 1,500-3,000 sq. ft{{{wpml_tag_24}}}{{{wpml_tag_25}}}Inventory $40-80k{{{wpml_tag_26}}}{{{wpml_tag_27}}}$3,400 – $4,800{{{wpml_tag_28}}}{{{wpml_tag_29}}}{{{wpml_tag_30}}}{{{wpml_tag_31}}}Specialty / organic / ethnic market{{{wpml_tag_32}}}{{{wpml_tag_33}}}Inventory $60-120k{{{wpml_tag_34}}}{{{wpml_tag_35}}}$4,400 – $5,800{{{wpml_tag_36}}}{{{wpml_tag_37}}}{{{wpml_tag_38}}}{{{wpml_tag_39}}}Large grocery >5,000 sq. ftInventory$150,000+$5,400 – $6,200

The amounts are indicative. Your actual premium depends on your claims history, location, security systems, and coverage chosen.

Tips for lowering your premium

  • 24/7 cloud IP cameras + monitoring alarm: 10-15% discount + proof in case of theft.
  • Frequent bank deposits (not keeping >$1,500 in cash) — reduces uncovered losses.
  • 5,000W portable generator: plugged in in 30 minutes preserves fridges for 8-12 hours.
  • Preventive maintenance of compressors every 6 months: required by many insurers.

Frequently Asked Questions — Grocery Insurance

How much does grocery insurance cost in Quebec in 2026?
Average premium: $2,600 to $6,200/year depending on size, sales volume, location, and your claims history. The 2026 rates reflect the increase in the cost of materials and parts.
What protections are essential for a grocery store?
Minimum: Commercial liability (2-5M$), building/content (replacement cost), equipment, business interruption. Endorsements specific to your industry (Building & content, Theft of cash & inventory) are often crucial.
Is the CNESST included?
No. The CNESST is a mandatory contribution managed separately by the employer. Commercial insurance complements the CNESST for civil liability claims outside of work (customers, third parties).
Do I have to declare all my income exactly?
Yes. A underreporting can result in a proportional penalty (proportional rule) in case of a claim: if you declared $400k but actually make $800k, you receive 50% of the compensation due.
Are my subcontractors covered by my policy?
No. Each subcontractor must have their own liability insurance. Always ask for a certificate of insurance and add yourself as an additional insured on their policy. Otherwise, you remain responsible for the damages they cause.
What is a replacement cost vs depreciated value?
Replacement cost: you are reimbursed the current price of an equivalent new piece of equipment. Depreciated value: reduced amount due to wear and tear (e.g., 10-year-old fridge = 30% of its replacement cost). Replacement cost is recommended — additional cost 10-15%.
Can I insure my commercial vehicles with the same policy?
Often yes, but sometimes it is more advantageous to separate: distinct commercial fleet policy. We compare both scenarios to choose the most economical one.
How long does it take to be compensated after a claim?
With up-to-date inventory + photos + financial documents: settlement in 4-8 weeks. Without evidence: can drag on for 4-12 months. That’s why we recommend a digital inventory backed up off-site.
What should I do if my insurer refuses to renew it?
Common causes: repeated claims, change of business, relocation. Assur360 has access to 15+ insurers (including 3-4 specialized in difficult risks). We generally find a solution in 90% of cases — call 1-866-357-4451.
How do I get my grocery quote?
Fill out our 3-minute form with your annual income, area, number of employees, and current coverages. You will receive up to 3 compared quotes within 24-48 business hours. Free, no obligation. ☎ 1-866-357-4451.

Why choose Assur360

✓ AMF & Chamber of Insurance
Accredited and certified firm
✓ 15+ insurers compared
Intact, Desjardins, Beneva, Aviva, Economical, Belair…
✓ 100,000+ Quebecers served
Since 2008
✓ No cost, no obligation
Our commission is paid by the insurer

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