Walmart Canada says it will invest nearly $1 billion this fiscal year on a slew of projects meant to modernize the retail giant鈥檚 Canadian footprint.

The spending will include more than $300 million for store remodels and renovations.

Some of the chain鈥檚 stores will be altered to include larger produce areas with an expanded assortment of products, more space for employees to prepare customer orders and clearer aisle markers.

Walmart will also bring a 鈥渟tore of the future鈥� to Mississauga, Ont., where shoppers will find electronics typically stored in product cases are instead set up in open displays allowing for more interaction.

Also in the electronics department, customers will be able to see real-time product availability, scan a QR code to place orders and experience immediate on-site delivery by an associate.

The location will be rounded out with a health hub that brings Walmart鈥檚 pharmacy, vision centre and medical clinic into one area.

The changes are part of a five-year transformation Walmart Canada announced in July 2020 to overhaul store infrastructure and the customer experience with $3.5 billion in improvements.

The Canadian Press