Robotics company sues Canadian Tire following warehouse fire in Brampton

A robotics company out of Calgary is suing Canadian Tire for damages claiming a fire at the retailer’s Brampton warehouse was caused by “wrongful conduct.”

Operations were suspended at Canadian Tire’s distribution centre in Brampton after a fire broke out at the facility on March 15.

And while all employees were safely evacuated from the building, Canadian Tire says its first-quarter income was impacted by some $67.7 million in costs related to the fire.

Now, Attabotics is seeking damages from the retailer saying the warehouse fire was the result of wilful misconduct, negligence and recklessness.

In a statement of claim, the Calgary-based company alleges that the company is liable for damages it has suffered, including loss of property, reputation and market share.

Canadian Tire spokeswoman Stephanie Nadalin says the company is aware of the statement of claim and the company disagrees with the allegations, but would not comment further as the matter is before the courts.

Canadian Tire said the warehouse services its stores nationally and inventory was being transferred to other distribution centres as well as temporary facilities following the fire to manage the flow of products.

The company said anticipated costs from the fire included lost inventory, building damage, cleanup, repairs and delayed shipments due to the temporary shutdown of the facility.

With files from The Canadian Press