The provincial government continues to provide free COVID-19 rapid antigen tests at select locations, but they’re also available for sale in some spots, such as Staples.
The office supply store, which has two locations in Guelph, is selling the five-test kits for $24.99 each. They’re also available through the chain’s online store.
“Staples does not have access to the government free test kits as we are a non-grocery retailer. However, we purchased these kits to support our business customers in making sure their workplace is safe for their employees and customers,” Pamela Kennedy, Staples Canada’s manager of public relations and communications, told GuelphToday via email.
Staples has been selling the kits since September, she said.
On Friday, there was a display of test kits for sale sitting on a checkout counter at the Staples store on Woodlawn Road.
Located in the same plaza, Pharma Choice has been a free provincial distribution point but didn’t have any available that day. However, the pharmacy at the nearby Walmart store had some available and gave them out free of charge.
Denis Murphy, provincial spokesperson, confirmed the provincial government is continuing to provide the kits at grocery store and pharmacy locations “to provide low-barrier access to free symptomatic testing for members of the public that aren’t eligible for molecular testing.”
Some people aren't thrilled with it, others said it is a regular occurrence.
"This shouldn't be allowed to happen," @maggiearchibald commented on a post pointing out the fact Guelph Staples is selling the kits.
"Gov’t doesn’t have a monopoly on rapid tests ... Very common in other provinces, US & EU to sell retail," commented @shnicholson.
Why go to your local MLA office, DMV, Library, or almost anywhere else for your free COVID-19 test kits when you can pay $24.99 at *checks notes* Staples Woodlawn. pic.twitter.com/4tIvYGQ3ZG
— Katy Jean (@katynotie) October 1, 2022
