Band leadership plans to operate a store in the location itself. (Image Credit: North West Company)

By Derek Cornet

food security

Fond du Lac leadership not renewing Northern Store lease

Feb 3, 2026 | 1:48 PM

A store operated by the North West Company will be taken over by Fond du Lac First Nation. 

A statement released by the band’s chief and council on Monday states a decision has been made not renew a lease to the company, which expired in May 2024.  

“The reason for this decision is due to listening to membership who have raised many concerns over the years about the services provided by the North West Company, and most recently, by a health inspector’s report suggesting that the store be temporarily closed and renovated due to its rundown condition, which poses a health risk to our community members,” the letter notes. 

Band leadership is proposing operating the store itself and expand it to include services such as a restaurant and a section for selling cultural crafts. Council plans to host a general band meeting soon, as well as distribute a survey to members to gather feedback on opening a band-operated store.  

“In the meantime, chief and council have met with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), and with financial support from ISC, we have ordered and have been distributing fresh produce and food to our members only over the next several weeks to ensure that the food security of our nation is maintained,” the letter adds.  

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larongeNOW reached out to Fond du Lac Chief Ronnie Augier, but didn’t hear back by publishing.

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com