Wal-Mart plans to remodel or open up to 40 “supercentres” in Canada this year, the head of the US retailer’s local arm has revealed.

The company’s plans could take its store count in Canada to 325 by the end of 2010, including 124 supercentres and 201 discount stores.

“The combination of one-stop shopping and low prices that our supercentres provide has been embraced by our customers,” said David Cheesewright, president and CEO of Walmart Canada.

Wal-Mart is also looking to open a refrigerated distribution centre in Alberta this autumn.