Jim Pattison Developments Confirms ICE Warehouse Sale Remains Subject to Approvals
Jim Pattison Developments has issued a statement clarifying that the planned sale of a warehouse in Virginia to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, intended for use by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is still pending necessary approvals. This announcement comes amidst escalating calls for a boycott against the Jim Pattison Group, spearheaded by British Columbia's Green Party leader Emily Lowan.
Background of the Controversial Real Estate Transaction
The property in question, located at 11525 Lakeridge Parkway in Ashland, Virginia, was originally constructed by Jim Pattison Developments in early 2024 for the company's own operational needs. When those needs changed, the industrial building was publicly listed for either lease or sale. An offer was subsequently accepted to sell the building to a U.S. government contractor.
In a statement emailed to Postmedia, the company revealed, "Some time later, we became aware of the ultimate owner and intended use of the building. This transaction is still subject to certain approvals and closing conditions." The firm emphasized its policy of not commenting on private transactions but acknowledged the heated discourse surrounding immigration policy and enforcement.
Boycott Calls Intensify Following Recent ICE-Related Violence
The potential sale has ignited significant backlash, particularly in light of recent fatal shootings involving ICE agents in Minnesota. Federal agents shot and killed Renee Good on January 7, 2026, followed by Alex Pretti on January 28, 2026. These incidents have sparked protests and growing makeshift memorials in Minneapolis, fueling public outrage.
Green Party Leader Emily Lowan has been vocal in her condemnation, calling for a widespread boycott of the Jim Pattison Group. She argues that British Columbians must hold corporations accountable and sever ties with ICE, citing President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown as a catalyst for violence and death. In a video posted on YouTube, Lowan directly appeals to 97-year-old billionaire Jim Pattison, who owns a diverse portfolio including grocery stores, a coal mine, restaurants, and car dealerships, to cut all connections with ICE.
Corporate Response and Community Impact
Jim Pattison Developments has stated its commitment to complying with all applicable laws and regulations as it works to divest the asset. The company noted, "We understand that the conversation around immigration policy and enforcement is particularly heated, and has become much more so over the past few weeks. We respect that this issue is deeply important to many people."
However, Lowan highlights a practical challenge in the boycott movement: the Jim Pattison Group's substantial market presence. She points out that in many communities, Pattison-owned entities or Loblaws hold an effective monopoly on the food supply, leaving consumers with limited alternatives. This situation has prompted calls for a public option for groceries in British Columbia to ensure competitive choices.
Regulatory and Political Context
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security formally notified Hanover County last month of its plans to purchase, occupy, and rehabilitate the Virginia site for use as a processing facility. This move aligns with ongoing federal efforts to expand immigration enforcement infrastructure, a policy that continues to draw both support and criticism across North America.
As the sale awaits final approvals, the controversy underscores the complex interplay between corporate real estate decisions, immigration politics, and social activism. The outcome of this transaction could have lasting implications for Jim Pattison Developments' reputation and its standing within communities that are increasingly scrutinizing corporate ethics in relation to human rights issues.
