Daily Synopsis: September 2, 2026

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Welcome to the Daily Synopsis by Retail Insider. We hope you enjoy the 9 articles we published covering key developments in Canadian retail.

FoodHero’s platform helps independent Canadian food retailers transform surplus and short-dated inventory into revenue by selling products at reduced prices, addressing a significant source of financial loss associated with food waste. Kit and Ace has relocated to a smaller but better-positioned 2,370-square-foot store within CF Sherway Gardens, resulting in improved sales performance despite a 21% reduction in space.

Gap Inc. reported a 10% sales increase for its Gap brand while Old Navy’s Canadian operations continue to reshape their store network, closing major locations and selectively opening new stores, such as at Toronto’,s Dufferin Mall. Brand activations are increasingly used in retail marketing to create immersive, multisensory experiences that connect consumers with products beyond traditional advertising.

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Margins, Losses, Surplus: What Food Waste Really Costs Small Businesses

FoodHero is helping independent Canadian retailers turn surplus food into revenue, reduce waste and reach new customers as it expands its platform.

Kit and Ace Relocates at CF Sherway Gardens as Expansion Continues

Kit and Ace has relocated at CF Sherway Gardens, moving into a 2,370-square-foot store that CEO David Lui says is performing better.

Gap Sales Surge as Old Navy Reshapes Canadian Store Network

Gap continues its strong sales momentum as Old Navy works to improve performance while reshaping its Canadian store network through closures and new locations.

Why Brand Activations Are Becoming an Important Part of Retail Marketing

Brand activations are becoming a bigger part of retail marketing as brands use physical experiences, creator content and memorable environments to connect with consumers.

Canadian Tire, Tim Hortons launch linked loyalty program

The program is aimed at connecting the two loyalty ecosystems and giving customers additional rewards for purchases at participating Tim Hortons restaurants.

ROYALMOUNT adopts Genetec security system as Montréal development expands

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Jimmy John’s opens first Calgary restaurant in city’s University District

This is the second location in Alberta since the brand’s first Canadian location opened in November 2024, with plans to open over six more before the end of the year.

New U.S. Tariffs Add to Cost Pressures for Canada’s Restaurant Industry: Restaurants Canada 

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Planet Fitness to open third Halifax-area location in Lower Sackville

The company also has locations in Moncton, Saint John and St. John's elsewhere in Atlantic Canada.

Daily Synopsis: September 1, 2026

Surge in demand for Canadian-made food and products, New Lululemon CEO faces turnaround challenge, used bookstores navigate bulk orders amid AI book shredding fears, Safeway opens at Oakridge Park in Vancouver, and other news.

Couche-Tard Earnings Rise as Canadian Convenience Sales Flatten

Couche-Tard reports higher Q1 earnings as Canadian merchandise sales remain flat, while fuel volumes and margins strengthen.

MONTONI partners with Super C and Jean Coutu to develop new retail complex in Mascouche, Quebec

MONTONI develops, builds and manages real estate projects and it has completed more than 700 projects representing over 30 million square feet of industrial, commercial, institutional and residential construction and 30 corporate campuses, with another 25 million square feet under development–an impressive portfolio of properties across Québec.

Michael Hill Plans Further Canadian Store Expansion After Record Year

Michael Hill is targeting further growth in Canada after a record year, with store upgrades planned and additional locations under consideration.

Loblaw Plans More No Frills and Maxi Stores in $1.2B Expansion

Loblaw plans $1.2 billion in capital spending through the rest of 2026 as it accelerates No Frills and Maxi expansion across Canada.

Tapo Canada launches direct-to-consumer online store

The new e-commerce operation allows Canadians to buy Tapo products directly from the brand while the company continues to sell through online and physical retailers across the country.

NerdWallet Canada study finds ‘doomspending’ spans generations

NerdWallet Canada refers to the behaviour as “doomspending,” describing it as buying things people do not need because the future feels uncertain or saving money seems pointless.

Canadian Retailers Enter Holiday 2026 With Spending Momentum and Price-Sensitive Shoppers

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Build-A-Bear Refocuses Strategy as Canadian Store Network Evolves

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Temu Is Becoming a More Local Competitor for Canadian Retailers

Temu is expanding its local seller model as PDD Holdings invests in fulfillment and supply chains, with growing implications for Canadian retailers.

Dr. Phone Fix reports 32% revenue growth in Q2

Revenue increased 32% to $3.76 million, compared with $2.86 million in Q2 2025. Approximately 60% of the year-over-year increase was attributable to same-store sales growth. Revenue also increased 19% from Q1 2026.