It all began in ¸1987, when Mr. Nikol Poulin took his first steps into the world of food and non-food product delivery by purchasing his very first delivery truck. He personally delivered goods to convenience stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies throughout the Beauce and Bellechasse regions.
Meanwhile, Raymonde was managing the bookkeeping from the basement of their home at 2280-3rd Avenue, Saint-Georges.
In 1990, an opportunity presented itself when the company I. Magid Inc. offered them a sales representative position. They accepted and began covering a vast territory across Eastern Québec, including Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie, and even into New Brunswick. What was originally a 5-year agreement ended up lasting 7 years.
In 1997, they decided to part ways with I. Magid Inc. and launched their own independent food distribution company: Nikol Poulin Inc. They started small, operating from a modest warehouse space in Cabano (Notre-Dame, Saint-Georges). Soon after, they moved to 3100 Dionne Blvd (now Ultra Prix), where the business began to grow.
It was at this location that Raymonde created the concept of Ultra Prix, setting up products for sale on just three tables at the entrance. After a brief move to 2925 Dionne Blvd (for two years), the company returned to 3100, expanding into an adjacent unit—and from there, the adventure truly took off.
“A great number of clients, suppliers, transporters, and our sales team, along with CFE Desjardins, placed their trust in us. That’s what allowed us to grow quickly and establish ourselves across Canada and the United States.”
In 2011, the second generation — Dave Poulin, Karine Poulin, Marie-Ann Poulin, and Philippe Poulin — joined the company, bringing fresh energy, new ideas, and innovative strategies that helped propel the business to new heights.
In 2018, a valuable opportunity arose for Groupe NPI: a partnership with the owner of Save A Lot, a retail store located in Kitchener, Ontario. This store became the second retail location owned by the Group. This collaboration marked a significant milestone in NPI’s growth, opening new horizons in how the company operates and distributes its merchandise.
In October 2018, Groupe NPI completed construction of its very own 20,000 sq. ft. distribution center, located in the Eastern Industrial Park of Saint-Georges (3232 85e Rue, Saint-Georges).
In 2020, Groupe NPI acquired its third retail store, Escomptes Fortin 2020, located at 55 Marie-de-l’Incarnation Street in Québec City. This new location strengthens the Group’s presence in the province and reflects its commitment to growth and diversification.
By 2021, the company expanded again, acquiring a nearly 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse (formerly F. Charest Ltée) on 42e Rue Nord in Saint-Georges. With this, Groupe NPI reached a total of 110,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space.
In 2024, the group added a fourth retail location with the acquisition of Économarché in Acton Vale, continuing its mission to offer deeply discounted grocery surplus items.
Groupe NPI now employs over 102 people, including 8 sales representatives, and operates four discount retail stores:
Today, Groupe NPI conducts business around the globe, across North America, South America, Asia, and Europe.
We are proud to serve over 2,000 customers, supported by a network of more than 350 suppliersfrom all corners of the world.
CATEGORY: HONORARY AWARD
The Jarret d’Or is a discretionary award presented by the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce of Saint-Georges. It aims to celebrate the success of a Beauce-based business operating for over 25 years that, through its achievements, excellence, and expertise, stands out in its industry and contributes significantly to the region’s economy.
This award is not subject to applications. It is granted in recognition of an outstanding business journey.
In 2025, Groupe NPI had the honor of receiving this distinction, highlighting our commitment, consistency, and deep roots in the Beauce region for over three decades.
