Canadian Tire Corporation is one of the most recognizable retail brands in Canada. It operates under several banners including Canadian Tire, SportChek, PartSource, and Mark’s, employing tens of thousands across its network. With a mix of corporate and franchise-owned stores, layoffs can be complex depending on your employer’s structure.

‍

Steps to Take if You’re Laid Off or Offered Severance:

‍

1. Determine If You Were Employed by Head Office or a Franchise

Canadian Tire’s structure includes corporate-owned and independently franchised stores. This distinction affects who is liable for your severance.

2. Request All Documentation

Obtain your termination letter, ROE, and any performance evaluations or HR correspondence.

3. Don’t Accept the First Offer Without Review

Even if it seems generous, you may be entitled to more based on common law, especially if you’ve worked for several years.

4. Consider Constructive Dismissal Claims

If your hours were drastically cut or your role changed significantly before your layoff, you may have a constructive dismissal claim.

‍

FAQs:

• Do I qualify for severance if I worked in a franchise store?

Yes, but your claim is against the individual franchise owner, not Canadian Tire head office.

• I worked in multiple locations over the years—does that affect severance?

It may. Long, continuous service—even across stores—can be used to increase your severance entitlement.

• Can I get severance if I was let go without a written reason?

Yes. Employers are not always required to provide a reason, but if you were terminated without cause, you’re likely owed compensation.

• What if I signed a contract limiting severance?

Some employment contracts try to restrict severance, but not all are legally enforceable. A lawyer can help determine if yours is valid.

‍

Why Choose Our Firm:

Our firm has extensive experience helping retail employees across all major brands—including Canadian Tire—assert their legal rights and secure proper compensation. Do not hesitate to contact us for a free legal consultation today. 

‍