Mario Toneguzzi

Mario Toneguzzi, based in Calgary, has more than 40 years experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He worked for 35 years at the Calgary Herald covering sports, crime, politics, health, faith, city and breaking news, and business. He is the Co-Editor-in-Chief with Retail Insider in addition to working as a freelance writer and consultant in communications and media relations/training. Mario was named as a RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert in 2024.

First Capital REIT reports Q2 financial results, indicating a strong leasing volume

On a quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year basis, total portfolio occupancy decreased 0.1% to 97.1% at June 30, 2026, from 97.2% at March 31, 2026 and June 30, 2025, respectively.

Back-to-School now a $4.5 billion retail market in Canada: Retail Council of Canada

Average household spending ranges from $600 to $750 per child when electronics are included, making it one of the most significant retail events of the year.

Iconic Bavarian Inn site for sale in Bragg Creek, Alberta

Known by many as the BAV TAV, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant has been serving guests since the 1970s and has built a long-standing reputation for quality, consistency, and warm hospitality.

Omnichannel no longer enough as retailers shift focus to customer decision-making: Report

The brands delivering the best experiences are no longer simply the ones with the most touchpoints.

Poor customer service abroad is driving travellers to switch banks: Gradient Labs

1,000 of the 1,998 travellers surveyed reported experiencing a card, payment, or banking issue abroad in the past two years. 

AI security spending rises as retailers face surge in deepfake and identity attacks: Thales

72% of retail organizations cite rapid changes in AI ecosystems as their leading security concern, undermining the ability of traditional tools to keep pace.

Amazon launches Amazon Family and Add to Delivery for Prime members in Canada

Amazon has invested more than $65 billion in its Canadian operations since 2010, employing more than 46,000 people across the country.

Bota Bota opens second floating pavilion as Montréal spa expands wellness facilities

Docked perpendicular to the original vessel, the expansion introduces additional amenities focused on relaxation while extending the spa’s signature water circuit.

Shoppers Drug Mart and Obesity Canada partner on obesity care, virtual weight management access

The alliance will focus on improving awareness of obesity, promoting evidence-based care resources, and supporting multidisciplinary approaches to long-term weight management for eligible Canadians.

The Keg launches first-ever delivery service through exclusive DoorDash partnership

Customers can now order a range of its signature menu items, including steaks, appetizers and desserts, through the delivery platform, marking a significant expansion of how the company serves customers beyond its restaurant dining rooms.

Medik8 to launch in all Sephora Canada stores as part of North American expansion

Products will become available online at Sephora Canada beginning Aug. 11 and in all 147 Sephora Canada stores starting Aug. 14.

Choice Properties Real Estate Investment Trust reports results for Q2 with a higher net loss

On its website, the REIT said it had 699 properties, more than 18 million square feet in the development pipeline, 37 million square feet of grocery-anchored retail in the portfolio, and it had an industry-leading balance sheet with 7.0x Debt/EBITDA.

A&W Food Services releases Q2 results as sales and revenue grow

During the quarter, the company opened eight new A&W restaurants and the first franchised Pret shop.

Small business confidence improves but new tariff threat looms: CFIB

Fuel costs remained the top cost constraint affecting 60% of small firms across Canada, while shipping and receiving costs stayed elevated for 45% of businesses.

Retail sales continue to climb: Statistics Canada

The largest increase in retail sales in May was observed at gasoline stations and fuel vendors (+3.1%).

Groupe Dynamite appoints former Cohere executive Martin Kon to board of directors

The appointment comes as Groupe Dynamite continues to expand its retail and digital operations internationally while focusing on technology, data and artificial intelligence as part of its business strategy.

Moxy Ottawa Downtown hotel opens in iconic Byward Market district

The hotel also offers a variety of amenities designed to balance social energy with relaxation, including a fitness centre, and flexible gathering spaces for both work and play.

CF Markville brings the Thrill of the Track to Markham families with interactive racing simulator experience

Markham native Demi Chalkias - professional racer, Radical Cup Canada competitor, and the groundbreaking first mother to compete in the series - will make special guest appearances.

EMERGE Commerce reports preliminary results for Q2 with revenue hike

Revenue expected to be between $9.0M and $9.1M vs. $8.5M

Tim Hortons launches handcrafted matcha beverage lineup across Canada

The launch adds five matcha-based drinks to the chain's menu and marks the company's latest product introduction aimed at broadening beverage options beyond its traditional coffee and tea offerings.

Premiers sign final agreement towards Canada-wide direct-to-consumer alcohol sales 

“Canada's independent wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries have waited a long time to see direct-to-consumer alcohol shipping finally become a reality.”

Jobs filled by temporary foreign workers are the ones Canadian youth don’t want: CFIB

Harvesting labourers alone account for nearly a third (32%) of all temporary foreign worker positions in Canada, work that's physically demanding, outdoor and seasonal.

Amazon opens first Canadian Disaster Relief hub in Edmonton, specialized in wildfire response

The hub specializes in wildfire response, stocking and donating supplies that nonprofits and responders need most.

Tim Hortons Camp Day raises $12.7 million for youth charity

The company said the annual fundraiser, held July 15, brings the total amount raised through Camp Day since its launch to $287.7 million.

Birks Group Inc. reports Fiscal 2026 results, with net sales increasing 15.5% year-over-year

The increase in net sales is attributable in part, to the acquisition of the luxury timepieces and jewelry retail activities of European Boutique, as well as an increase in both Birks branded jewelry and third party branded jewelry.

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