Home Blog Page 17

Canadians keep spending through higher oil prices but momentum eased in September: RBC

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Vitaly Gariev photo
Vitaly Gariev photo

RBC Canadian cardholders continued spending in September, but the three month average growth softened, says a new report by the bank. 

“Our estimate of core retail sales, excluding gasoline and autos, rose 0.4% on a three-month average, down slightly from 0.6% in August. Discretionary services once again led spending with gains across a range of categories,” said the report by economists Abbey Xu and Rachel Battaglia.

“Purchases of essentials also remained positive excluding gasoline. However, discretionary goods were broadly flat on a three-month average despite an increase in September and continued growth in clothing purchases.

“The latest spending data remains consistent with gradual growth in Canadian household demand. Expected improvements in household incomes and the labour market should provide support, although elevated energy costs continue to weigh on purchasing power. Trade uncertainty remains a downside risk, particularly for households in directly affected industries and regions.”

Abbey Xu
Abbey Xu
Rachel Battaglia
Rachel Battaglia

RBC outlined some details on consumer spending:

  • Discretionary services’ spending rose 1% on a three-month average, easing from 1.5% in August, but remaining the strongest major category. Education, entertainment and travel-related spending all contributed to growth. Entertainment and arts spending increased 1.4%, travel rose 1%, and dining grew a more modest 0.3%.
  • Essentials spending increased 0.6% with gasoline accounting for roughly one-third of the gain. Spending excluding gasoline also continued to grow, supported by groceries and utilities.
  • Gasoline spending increased 2.6% in September, alongside a roughly 7.9% seasonally adjusted rise in gasoline prices. Higher spending at the pumps, therefore, needs to be viewed in the context of sharply higher fuel costs.
  • Discretionary goods spending edged down 0.1% despite rising 1.4% in September. Clothing, shoes and related apparel were a bright spot, increasing 1% on a three-month average, while household and construction-related spending grew 0.3%.
  • Spending rose across all provinces on a three-month average. Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador posted the strongest gains, followed by New Brunswick. Ontario recorded the smallest increase, while Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan and Alberta exceeded the national pace.

More from Retail Insider:

Canadian Retailers Face a Costly Employee Retention Challenge

By
Craig Patterson
-
Retail staffing and employment, jobs. Photo: RetailNext

Canadian retailers spend considerable resources recruiting and training employees, only to repeat the process when those workers leave. For businesses operating with relatively small store teams, the continuing cycle of recruitment, onboarding and replacement creates expenses that extend beyond wages and benefits, while the loss of experienced staff can affect productivity and customer service.

Suzanne Sears, owner of Best Retail Careers, believes retailers need to pay greater attention to retaining the employees they already have. In an interview with Retail Insider, she said businesses frequently absorb the expense of replacing departing workers while overlooking opportunities to improve retention through training and career development.

Sears has been encouraging retailers to explore government-supported training programs, particularly smaller businesses with limited resources for employee development. Her argument comes as Canadian industry research continues to identify retail as a sector facing comparatively high employee turnover and persistent challenges attracting and retaining workers.

Suzanne Sears

Retail Employee Turnover Remains Elevated

Mercer’s 2025 Canada Turnover Survey reported voluntary turnover of approximately 21% among retail and wholesale employers, compared with 10.2% across the industries surveyed. The research covered 1,057 Canadian organizations and provides an indication of the workforce challenges facing the sector, although the figure combines retail and wholesale businesses rather than measuring storefront retail alone.

Sears estimates that employee turnover in retail is approximately 25%, describing the repeated departure and replacement of workers as a significant operating expense. Her estimate is not directly comparable with Mercer’s findings, but both point to the importance of understanding why employees leave and what businesses can do to retain them.

The consequences vary considerably by retail category and the positions involved. A retailer replacing an experienced employee in luxury apparel, electronics or another specialty category may lose product knowledge and established customer relationships that take time to rebuild, particularly in stores where personalized service is central to the business model.

For smaller retailers, employee departures can also disrupt daily operations because fewer workers are available to absorb additional responsibilities. Recruitment becomes another task for owners and managers already overseeing sales, inventory, staffing and customer service.

The Cost of Replacing Retail Employees

The expense of employee turnover extends beyond job advertisements and recruitment fees. Retailers must review applications, conduct interviews, train replacements and accommodate the period during which new employees are learning their responsibilities.

“The constant filling of vacancies, constant,” Sears said, describing the repeated hiring process. She pointed to the time spent reviewing applications and the disruption created when managers or experienced employees must step away from selling to interview prospective workers.

Across a multi-store operation, those activities can become a recurring expense throughout the year. The impact may be particularly significant when departures involve employees requiring specialized product knowledge, technical training or established relationships with regular customers.

Academic research into employee turnover has identified costs associated with understaffing, onboarding and workplace disruption following employee departures. The financial impact varies among employers, however, and there is no reliable universal replacement cost that applies to every retail position.

For individual retailers, a more useful measure may be the total time and expense devoted to replacing employees over a year. Those costs can then be considered alongside investments that might improve retention, including training, career development and improvements to working conditions.

Why Employees Leave Retail

Employee departures are influenced by several factors, including compensation, scheduling, workload and opportunities for advancement. Retail’s reliance on part-time and entry-level positions can also contribute to the perception that the industry offers temporary employment rather than long-term careers.

Research commissioned by the Retail Council of Canada examining Alberta’s retail labour market identified challenges involving starting wages, shift schedules and limited career progression. The study also pointed to gaps in structured training and professional development, suggesting that employers face difficulties demonstrating the longer-term opportunities available within the industry.

Sears believes retention problems can intensify when businesses leave positions vacant after employees depart. Remaining workers may be expected to maintain the same service standards while assuming additional responsibilities, potentially increasing dissatisfaction and contributing to further departures.

“If a store used to have four and now they have three, it might not be perceivable to the consumer,” Sears said. She explained that employees would recognize the difference because the workload previously divided among four people would now fall on three.

The example illustrates the tension retailers face when managing labour expenses. Allowing staffing levels to decline through attrition may reduce immediate payroll costs, but it can also place greater pressure on experienced employees whose departure would create additional recruitment and training expenses.

Training and Career Development as Retention Strategies

Sears believes retailers could improve retention by providing employees with greater opportunities to develop professional skills and advance within the industry. Workers who see a future with their employers may be more inclined to remain, particularly when training leads to qualifications they can use throughout their careers.

“Because they feel that you’re investing in them,” Sears said when discussing the effect professional development can have on employees. She suggested that access to recognized courses could help workers view retail as a profession with opportunities for advancement.

Canadian research provides some support for that argument. A longitudinal study involving more than 5,200 for-profit firms found an association between offering a wider range of formal training programs and lower voluntary turnover, although the relationship varied according to the type and extent of training.

Separate research involving more than 50,000 retail sales associates found that online product training was associated with improved sales productivity. The findings suggest employee development can provide operational benefits beyond retention, particularly in retail formats where product knowledge and customer assistance influence purchasing decisions.

Training does not eliminate other reasons employees leave. Compensation, scheduling, management practices and working conditions remain important considerations, and professional development is unlikely to compensate for persistent problems in those areas.

For retailers investing in more sophisticated physical environments and personalized customer experiences, maintaining knowledgeable employees can be particularly important. The quality of service delivered within those stores depends partly on workers having the training and experience needed to meet customer expectations.

Ontario Job Grant Offers Financial Support for Training

Government funding could make professional development more accessible to retailers with limited training budgets. Sears has been encouraging business owners to explore available assistance, arguing that many may be unaware of opportunities to offset eligible employee-development costs.

The Ontario Job Grant, introduced under its current name in May 2026, provides financial assistance for eligible training delivered by approved third-party providers. Under the program’s published rules, assistance can reach $10,000 per eligible trainee in standard circumstances, while funding of up to $15,000 is available to qualifying smaller employers training newly hired workers who were previously unemployed.

The higher amount does not apply automatically to businesses seeking to train existing employees. Employers must satisfy eligibility requirements, contribute toward training costs where required and obtain approval before the funded training begins.

For businesses with fewer than 100 employees, the standard contribution is generally at least one-sixth of eligible training costs. Employers with 100 or more employees generally contribute half, while qualifying smaller employers training previously unemployed new hires may be eligible for full funding within the program’s limits.

The province is accepting applications from individual employers for training involving 25 or fewer participants. Funding remains subject to assessment and budget availability, and meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee approval.

Sears described helping retailers explore opportunities involving courses associated with Toronto Metropolitan University. She said approximately 10 businesses had recently signed up through her efforts, although the specific courses, program arrangements and funding approvals have not been independently confirmed.

For retailers considering these opportunities, the starting point is to determine which training programs are eligible and how much assistance may be available. Employers must also consider whether the courses meet their operational needs and provide qualifications or skills that employees can apply in their work.

Sears believes these programs could be especially useful for smaller businesses, where replacing experienced staff can create substantial disruption. Government assistance may reduce some training expenses, but retailers still need to determine whether the investment supports their longer-term staffing and business objectives.

Retention as an Operating Priority

Independent retailers often have fewer resources for recruitment and employee development than national chains. Owners and store managers may handle hiring alongside merchandising, customer service and daily operations, making repeated employee departures particularly disruptive.

Experienced employees can contribute to store performance through product knowledge, established customer relationships and familiarity with operating procedures. Replacing those capabilities requires time, even when a retailer can fill a vacant position relatively quickly.

The financial case for retention will differ among businesses. Retailers need to assess employee turnover, recruitment expenses and training requirements alongside compensation, scheduling and the working conditions that influence whether employees remain.

Sears believes employers should begin by reconsidering how much they invest in the people already working for them. “If you’re gonna hang on to the people you have, you have to invest in them,” she said.

As Canadian retailers continue investing in store renovations, expansion and customer-facing technology, workforce development represents another area where spending decisions can influence operating performance. For businesses facing repeated recruitment and replacement costs, keeping experienced employees may prove just as important as finding new ones.

More from Retail Insider:

Golf Town invests $15 million in Oakville flagship store

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Golf Town photo
Golf Town photo

Golf Town is investing $15 million in a new 40,000-square-foot flagship store in Oakville, Ont., marking its 50th Canadian location as the specialty golf retailer looks to expand its retail footprint and enhance its in-store experience.

The store, located at 290 North Service Road West, is two and a half times the size of a standard Golf Town location and is intended to serve as a model for future flagship stores across the country, alongside ongoing renovations to existing locations and growth in e-commerce.

The opening marks a new phase of development for the retailer, which has operated in Canada since 1999. The Oakville location combines traditional golf equipment and apparel sales with simulator technology, custom fitting services and interactive putting facilities.

New format combines retail and golf experiences

The flagship store features two StudioX custom fitting bays equipped with Zen Green moving-platform technology, which replicates real-world green slopes and breaks, as well as Quintic putter-fitting technology. Five Foresight simulator bays are also available.

The location includes a 1,300-square-foot putting green, four times the size of those in standard stores, and Golf Town’s first dual-projector PuttView installation, which provides an interactive visual putting experience.

Barry Williams
Barry Williams
Golf Town photo
Golf Town photo

Barry Williams, president of Golf Town, said the new location represents a change in how the retailer serves its customers.

“For more than 25 years, Golf Town has been the ultimate home for Canadian golfers both in-store and online,” said Williams. “Our new flagship store marks an exciting step forward in our evolution, offering a welcoming destination for golfers of all levels to gather, gear up, and fall in love with the game.”

The store also features dedicated retail spaces for TaylorMade, Callaway, Odyssey, PING and Titleist. Customers will have access to limited-edition equipment and tour-only products, including Scotty Cameron Circle T putters.

A staffed personalization lab offers custom wedge stamping, golf ball logo printing and other equipment customization services. The store’s footwear department includes FootJoy’s FJ FitLAB system, which uses a three-dimensional volumetric scanner and a multi-camera system to map foot measurements for shoe fittings.

Golf Town photo
Golf Town photo

Expanded apparel and women’s golf offerings

The Oakville location also has an expanded apparel department, with brands including Johnnie-O, Beach Riot, Holderness & Bourne, RLX, Peter Millar, TravisMathew, Nike and Jordan. Some brands, including Johnnie-O, Beach Riot and Holderness & Bourne, are offered as store exclusives, according to the company.

A redesigned women’s department features an expanded assortment for female golfers, forming part of the retailer’s broader investment in the new store format.

The location incorporates Canadian golf references, including putting green cups identical to those used at Cabot Cape Breton and imagery of golf courses throughout the store.

Grand opening set for Oct. 17-18

Golf Town plans to mark the opening with a two-day event on Oct. 17 and 18. The company says customers lining up on either day will receive $50 cash cards, while hourly prize giveaways from golf industry brands will have a combined value of more than $20,000.

The store will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on both days.

Golf Town operates under Sporting Life Group, a Canadian retail company that also includes Sporting Life and Team Town Sports. The group operates 14 Sporting Life stores across major Canadian cities, while Team Town Sports serves customers shopping for team sports equipment and related products.

Golf Town is owned by Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. and operates both physical stores and an online retail business through its website.

The Oakville flagship is designed to serve as a prototype for potential future flagship locations nationwide, while the company continues to renovate its existing stores and develop its e-commerce business.

Golf Town photo
Golf Town photo

More from Retail Insider:

Reitmans commits to providing one million meals through five-year food bank partnership

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Food Banks Canada photo
Food Banks Canada photo

Reitmans (Canada) Limited has announced a five-year partnership with Food Banks Canada to provide one million meals to people facing food insecurity, as the Montreal-based apparel retailer marks its 100th anniversary.

The initiative will support Food Banks Canada, a national charitable organization that works to relieve hunger and prevent food insecurity through a network of more than 5,500 food banks and community organizations across the country.

The partnership forms part of Reitmans’ broader community engagement efforts as the company marks a century in business. The retailer said it has sought to make a positive impact beyond its stores since its founding in 1926.

Lisa Reitman
Lisa Reitman
Lisa Reitman
Kirstin Beardsley

Partnership marks 100 years in business

Lisa Reitman, vice-president of business development and environmental, social and governance (ESG) at Reitmans (Canada) Limited, said the initiative reflects the company’s history and its ties to communities across the country.

“RCL started as one community store in 1926 in Montreal, and we have grown to be a part of communities across Canada for a century,” said Reitman. “Helping to provide one million meals to people in need, from coast to coast, is a meaningful way to give back to the communities that have welcomed us for generations.”

The five-year commitment is intended to help address food insecurity, which the company identified as a significant challenge facing people in Canada. Reitmans said its community involvement is based on the belief that investing in local communities helps strengthen the social fabric.

Food Banks Canada will be the organization’s partner in delivering the initiative. The charity supports food banks and community organizations nationwide, with a mandate to address immediate hunger needs while working to prevent hunger in the longer term.

Food Banks Canada photo
Food Banks Canada photo

Food banks face continued demand

Kirstin Beardsley, chief executive officer of Food Banks Canada, said partnerships with businesses are important as food banks respond to demand for assistance.

“At a time when food banks across the country are facing historic demand, partnerships like this are more important than ever. With nearly 2.2 million visits to food banks each month, the need for support continues to grow in communities from coast to coast,” said Beardsley.

“We are incredibly grateful to RCL for stepping up to help meet this moment. Their generosity will help food banks provide essential support today while bringing us closer to our mission of relieving hunger today and preventing hunger tomorrow. Together, we can ensure more people in Canada have access to the food and support they need to thrive.”

The company announced the partnership on Oct. 14, coinciding with its 100th anniversary celebrations. 

Claudia Galella, Vice President, Partnerships, Food Banks Canada (left), and Lisa Reitman, Vice President, Business Development & ESG, RCL (right)
Claudia Galella, Vice President, Partnerships, Food Banks Canada (left), and Lisa Reitman, Vice President, Business Development & ESG, RCL (right)

Retail operations across Canada

Reitmans (Canada) Limited operates 385 stores across the country under three retail banners: Reitmans, PENN. and RW&CO. The company’s store network includes 216 Reitmans locations, 85 PENN. stores and 84 RW&CO. locations.

Founded in Montreal in 1926, the company operates in the women’s and men’s specialty apparel retail sector. Its anniversary initiative adds a national food security partnership to its community engagement activities.

More from Retail Insider:

Reitmans unveils “bold new era” for Canadian fashion

Reitmans (Canada) Limited reports Q2 financial results, net revenues decrease 1.9% y/y

How Shipping Disruptions Threaten Canadian Retailers’ Profits and Customer Loyalty

By
Craig Patterson
-

Presented in partnership with UPS Capital.

A Retail Insider webinar with Insureshield by UPS Capital examines the financial and customer-service consequences of lost, damaged and stolen shipments, and how retailers can better manage delivery risks.

Lost, damaged and stolen shipments can create significant financial and operational challenges for Canadian retailers, particularly during peak shopping periods when order volumes increase. Beyond replacing merchandise or issuing refunds, businesses may face additional transportation expenses, customer-service demands and the possibility of losing future sales from dissatisfied customers.

These issues were examined during an October 7 Retail Insider webinar presented in partnership with Insureshield by UPS Capital. The discussion featured Vishav Ranjan, a business development manager with UPS Capital Canada Insurance Brokers, and explored how retailers can manage shipping risks, protect their financial interests and respond when deliveries do not go as planned.

Shipping Problems Can Affect Customer Loyalty

A central theme of the webinar was the relationship between delivery performance and customer satisfaction. Although retailers frequently rely on third-party carriers, consumers generally expect the business they purchased from to resolve problems when merchandise arrives damaged or fails to arrive.

“Customers often do not separate the retailer from the delivery experience,” Ranjan explained during the presentation. He noted that order updates, delivery communications and problem resolution all contribute to the customer’s impression of the retailer, regardless of which company handles transportation.

The importance of this relationship was reflected in two audience polls conducted during the webinar. In the first, participants identified lost shipments as the shipping risk most likely to affect their businesses during peak season. A second poll found customer dissatisfaction was the leading concern arising from lost, damaged or stolen shipments, followed by additional shipping costs and lost repeat business.

The responses illustrate the concerns of businesses participating in the discussion. For retailers investing in customer acquisition, loyalty programs and omnichannel shopping experiences, a delivery problem can undermine the customer relationship after the transaction has already taken place.

The Financial Impact Extends Beyond Merchandise

Shipping failures can affect profitability through merchandise replacement, transportation expenses and the administrative work involved in resolving incidents. Retailers may need to investigate missing shipments, communicate with customers, gather documentation and coordinate refunds or replacement orders, all while managing their regular fulfillment operations.

These expenses can be particularly significant for businesses shipping higher-value merchandise or operating with limited margins. When an order must be replaced without generating another sale, the retailer incurs additional costs while receiving no corresponding increase in revenue.

Ranjan explained that a single shipping incident can affect profit, operational effort and customer loyalty simultaneously. Businesses therefore need to consider the full cost of an incident when evaluating their exposure to shipping disruptions, particularly during periods of elevated sales activity.

Peak season can make these challenges more difficult to manage. Higher order volumes create additional activity throughout fulfillment centres and carrier networks, while increased handling and transportation demands can complicate the movement of merchandise.

Canadian e-commerce activity provides context for the scale of retail operations that depend on delivery services. According to Statistics Canada, seasonally adjusted retail e-commerce sales reached $5.5 billion in July 2026, representing 7.5 per cent of total retail trade. Although that was a 3.5 per cent decrease from June, it illustrates the substantial value of retail transactions conducted through online channels.

UPS Capital’s InsureShield Offers Shipping Protection

During the webinar, Ranjan discussed InsureShield Shipping Insurance, offered through UPS Capital Canada Insurance Brokers, as one option for managing eligible financial losses associated with shipping disruptions.

The program is designed to provide coverage for qualifying loss and damage incidents across different carriers and transportation arrangements. This can be relevant for retailers using multiple delivery providers to serve different markets, manage transportation expenses or handle international orders.

According to UPS Capital, eligible coverage can provide reimbursement of up to the full invoice value of merchandise plus associated shipping costs, subject to policy terms and limits. For retailers, this can help address the financial consequences of a qualifying loss, including the margin that would otherwise be affected by replacing the original order.

The company also offers technology options intended to simplify insurance administration. Ranjan discussed integrations involving shipping and e-commerce platforms such as ShipStation, WooCommerce and Shippo, along with API-based solutions and spreadsheet uploads for businesses with different operational requirements.

Claims administration was another focus of the presentation. Ranjan explained that InsureShield customers can initiate claims through the insurance process, although businesses must follow applicable notification and documentation requirements. UPS Capital advertises a nine-month claims-filing window and a 90-day period for reporting concealed damage.

During the webinar, Ranjan said most fully documented claims are resolved within seven days. This is a company-reported processing measure, and individual claims may take longer depending on their circumstances and the information provided.

Package theft following delivery was also discussed. Ranjan clarified that porch-piracy protection is available through an optional endorsement, meaning retailers need to confirm that it is included in their particular insurance arrangement.

Coverage depends on policy conditions, exclusions, applicable limits and geographic eligibility. UPS Capital’s Canadian website currently states that the insurance services referenced there are available to businesses operating in Ontario, so retailers elsewhere in Canada should confirm availability directly before assuming they qualify.

Managing Cross-Border Shipments and Delivery Delays

The webinar’s question-and-answer session addressed several operational situations facing Canadian retailers, including cross-border shipments, the use of multiple carriers and the distinction between delayed and lost packages.

Ranjan explained that InsureShield can provide options for eligible shipments moving between Canada and the United States, as well as certain shipments transported entirely within the U.S. for qualifying Canadian businesses. The latter arrangement, known as foreign inland transit, can be relevant when a Canadian retailer sources merchandise from an American supplier and ships directly to an American customer.

He also discussed the challenge of determining when a delayed shipment should be treated as lost. During peak season, carrier tracking information may not be updated immediately, creating uncertainty for retailers deciding whether to wait, contact the carrier or send replacement merchandise.

Customer communication is particularly important in these situations. Providing realistic delivery expectations and explaining delays can help retailers manage customer concerns while investigating the status of an order, potentially avoiding unnecessary replacement shipments.

For smaller retailers, shipping protection may need to evolve as sales volumes and delivery requirements change. Ranjan discussed reviewing coverage arrangements periodically, including shipment values, applicable minimums and policy structures, so that protection remains appropriate for the business.

Insurance can help recover eligible financial losses, but it does not eliminate the need for reliable carriers, appropriate packaging, accurate shipment records and responsive customer service. These operational practices remain important when managing delivery problems and protecting customer relationships.

Preparing for Peak Shipping Periods

The webinar offered retailers practical information about how shipping risks affect operating costs, customer satisfaction and the financial consequences of replacing lost or damaged merchandise. It also examined insurance arrangements available to businesses seeking to manage those risks.

Retailers preparing for increased order volumes can review shipment values, carrier arrangements, destinations, claims documentation and procedures for responding when deliveries are disrupted. Those considerations can help determine where shipping insurance fits within a broader fulfillment and customer-service strategy.

The full Retail Insider webinar with UPS Capital includes additional information about InsureShield Shipping Insurance, claims procedures, technology integrations and questions raised by participating retailers.

More From Retail Insider:

Explore the Features and Benefits of Qlife Ebikes 

By
Retail Insider
-

Qlife Ebike represents a revolutionary approach to personal transportation, combining the convenience of a bicycle with the power of an electric motor. In this article, we will delve into the world of Qlife Ebike, exploring its design, performance, battery life, safety features, and user experience. 

Design and Aesthetics The design of Qlife Ebike is a perfect blend of style and functionality. The frame is crafted with precision, using high – quality materials that ensure both durability and a sleek appearance. For example, the aluminum alloy frames commonly used in Qlife Ebikes are not only lightweight but also resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for various weather conditions. 

The overall shape of the bike is ergonomic, designed to provide maximum comfort during long rides. The handlebars are positioned at an optimal height and angle, reducing strain on the rider’s wrists and shoulders. The seat is also well – padded and adjustable, allowing riders of different heights and body types to find their most comfortable riding position. 

Qlife Ebikes come in a variety of colors and styles, catering to different aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a classic black for a more understated look or a bright, eye – catching color like red or blue to make a statement, there is a Qlife Ebike that suits your taste.  

Performance and Power One of the key highlights of Qlife Ebikes is their powerful electric motors. These motors are designed to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. For instance, a typical Qlife Ebike motor might have a power output of 250 – 500 watts, depending on the model. This power allows the bike to easily tackle hills and maintain a decent speed on flat roads. 

The gear system on Qlife Ebikes is also well – engineered. It offers multiple gears, which can be adjusted according to the terrain and riding conditions. When going uphill, riders can shift to a lower gear to reduce the pedaling effort, while on flat or downhill sections, a higher gear can be selected for increased speed.  

Acceleration is another area where Qlife Ebikes shine. The electric motor provides instant torque, allowing the bike to quickly pick up speed from a standstill. This is particularly useful in urban environments where riders need to navigate through traffic and make quick starts at intersections. 

Battery Life and Charging The battery is a crucial component of any electric bike, and Qlife Ebikes are equipped with high – quality lithium – ion batteries. These batteries offer a long range on a single charge. On average, a Qlife Ebike can travel between 30 – 60 miles on a full charge, depending on factors such as the terrain, rider’s weight, and the level of electric assistance used. 

Charging the battery is a simple process. Most Qlife Ebikes come with a standard charger that can be plugged into a regular household electrical outlet. The charging time typically ranges from 3 – 6 hours, depending on the battery capacity. Some models also support fast – charging options, which can significantly reduce the charging time. 

To extend the battery life, Qlife provides some useful tips. For example, riders can avoid over – discharging the battery and keep it at an optimal temperature. Additionally, using the electric assistance at a moderate level can also help conserve battery power. 

Safety Features Safety is a top priority for Qlife Ebikes. The bikes are equipped with high – quality brakes, such as disc brakes. Disc brakes offer superior stopping power compared to traditional rim brakes, especially in wet or muddy conditions. This ensures that riders can stop quickly and safely when needed. 

Another important safety feature is the lighting system. Qlife Ebikes come with bright front and rear lights. The front light illuminates the path ahead, making it easier for riders to see in low – light conditions, while the rear light makes the bike more visible to other road users, reducing the risk of accidents. 

Reflectors are also strategically placed on the bike, enhancing its visibility from different angles. Additionally, some Qlife Ebike models are equipped with a speed sensor that limits the maximum speed when the rider is not pedaling, ensuring a safe and controlled riding experience. 

User Experience and Customer Feedback Many users have reported positive experiences with Qlife Ebikes. Customers appreciate the ease of use and the convenience these bikes offer. For example, commuters find that Qlife Ebikes allow them to avoid traffic congestion and arrive at their destinations faster than traditional vehicles.  

The comfort of the ride is also highly praised. Riders with back or joint problems have found that the ergonomic design of Qlife Ebikes reduces pain and discomfort during long rides. The adjustable seat and handlebars make it easy for riders to customize the bike to their specific needs. 

Qlife also provides excellent customer service. They offer warranties on their bikes and have a responsive support team that can assist customers with any issues or questions. In case of mechanical problems, Qlife has a network of authorized repair centers, ensuring that customers can get their bikes fixed quickly and efficiently.  

In conclusion, Qlife Ebike is a great choice for those looking for an eco – friendly, convenient, and enjoyable mode of transportation. With its stylish design, powerful performance, long battery life, excellent safety features, and positive user feedback, it is no wonder that Qlife Ebikes are becoming increasingly popular.

Beyond the Filling: How Restorative Dentistry Saves Damaged Teeth and Protects Your Bite

By
Retail Insider
-

A chipped tooth might seem like a minor inconvenience until chewing becomes uncomfortable. A large cavity may cause little pain initially, yet gradually weaken the remaining tooth structure. These problems are common, but ignoring them can turn relatively manageable dental repairs into more complicated treatments.

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing damaged or missing teeth while preserving their function. The objective goes beyond improving appearance. A properly restored tooth should help maintain comfortable chewing, support the surrounding teeth, and protect long-term oral health.

Modern dentistry offers several treatment options, including fillings, crowns, bridges, and implants. Choosing between them depends on how much healthy tooth structure remains, where the damage is located, and the patient’s overall dental condition.

Understanding these differences helps patients make informed decisions before small problems become expensive ones.

Why Dental Crowns Are More Than Cosmetic Restorations

When a tooth has extensive decay, a large existing filling, or significant structural damage, another filling may not provide sufficient support. A dental crown covers the prepared tooth, restoring its shape and helping it withstand normal chewing forces.

Crowns are available in different materials, each with advantages and limitations.

For patients exploring these choices, The Dental Team compares five dental crown types, including gold alloy, porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, zirconia, and E-max restorations. Understanding these materials helps explain why dentists consider appearance, durability, tooth position, and individual bite forces before recommending a particular option.

A front tooth may require a highly natural appearance, while a heavily loaded molar may benefit from a material selected for strength.

Crowns aren’t suitable for every damaged tooth. Dentists must first evaluate whether enough healthy structure remains to support a reliable restoration.

The Problem With Repeatedly Repairing Large Fillings

Dental fillings are effective for treating many cavities, particularly when damage is limited and sufficient healthy tooth structure remains.

However, large fillings can create long-term challenges.

Every time an old filling requires replacement, additional tooth structure may need to be removed. Eventually, the remaining walls can become thin and vulnerable to fracture.

This doesn’t mean every large filling automatically requires a crown.

Dentists assess the location of the filling, remaining enamel and dentin, cracks, and the forces placed on the tooth during chewing.

In some situations, an inlay or onlay can restore damaged areas while preserving more natural tooth structure than a full crown.

The important distinction is whether a restoration can reliably protect the tooth rather than simply fill an empty space.

Preserving healthy structure should remain a priority whenever clinically possible.

How Missing Teeth Can Change Your Entire Bite

Losing a tooth creates more than a visible gap.

Neighboring teeth may gradually shift toward the empty space, while opposing teeth can move because they no longer contact their usual chewing partner.

These changes can affect bite alignment and make cleaning certain areas more difficult.

Missing teeth may also reduce chewing efficiency, particularly when several back teeth are absent.

Restorative options include dental implants, fixed bridges, and removable partial dentures.

Each approach has different requirements.

Implants involve placing a supporting fixture in the jawbone, while conventional bridges typically depend on adjacent teeth for support.

Removable appliances offer another option when fixed treatment isn’t appropriate or affordable.

A dentist should assess gum health, bone support, neighboring teeth, and personal preferences before recommending treatment.

Replacing a missing tooth isn’t always urgent, but understanding the potential consequences of leaving a gap untreated is worthwhile.

Why Root Canal Treatment Doesn’t Always Mean Losing a Tooth

Root canal treatment is often misunderstood as a procedure that weakens teeth beyond repair.

In reality, it is intended to preserve a tooth whose pulp has become inflamed or infected.

During treatment, the affected tissue is removed, the internal canals are cleaned, and the space is sealed.

The tooth may then require a permanent restoration to protect it.

Back teeth frequently need crowns after root canal treatment because they experience substantial chewing forces and may already have extensive structural damage.

However, not every root canal-treated tooth requires the same restoration.

The decision depends on remaining tooth structure, location, and clinical circumstances.

Delaying treatment for an infected tooth can allow the problem to worsen.

Persistent toothache, swelling, or sensitivity should prompt dental evaluation rather than reliance on temporary pain relief.

Choosing Crown Materials Without Focusing Only on Appearance

Patients frequently compare crowns according to how closely they resemble natural teeth.

Appearance matters, particularly for visible teeth, but material selection involves several additional considerations.

Gold alloy crowns are known for durability, although their metallic appearance makes them less desirable for some patients.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine a metal framework with a tooth-colored exterior, but the porcelain can chip and the underlying metal may become visible.

Zirconia offers high strength and can provide a natural-looking restoration.

Lithium disilicate ceramics, often associated with E-max restorations, are valued for their appearance and can be suitable for appropriately selected teeth.

No material is universally superior.

Bite forces, available space, tooth preparation, aesthetic expectations, and laboratory quality influence the outcome.

A discussion about these factors is more useful than choosing a crown solely because it looks attractive in photographs.

How Teeth Grinding Can Shorten the Life of Restorations

Bruxism, commonly called teeth grinding or clenching, places repeated pressure on natural teeth and dental restorations.

Some people grind during sleep without realizing it.

Possible signs include flattened tooth surfaces, chipped restorations, jaw discomfort, and morning headaches.

Excessive forces can contribute to crown fractures, loosened restorations, or wear on opposing teeth.

Dentists may recommend a custom nightguard for certain patients to help manage the effects of grinding.

However, a nightguard doesn’t necessarily eliminate the underlying behavior.

Other contributing factors, including sleep-related conditions, may require evaluation.

Patients receiving restorative treatment should mention any history of grinding or clenching.

This information can influence material selection, restoration design, and long-term maintenance recommendations.

Why Gum Health Determines Restorative Success

A beautifully manufactured crown cannot compensate for untreated gum disease.

Healthy gums provide important support for natural teeth and help maintain a stable environment around restorations.

When plaque accumulates near crown margins, inflammation and bleeding may develop.

If periodontal disease progresses, supporting tissues and bone can deteriorate.

Patients with dental implants also need to protect the surrounding gums and supporting bone.

Regular brushing, daily cleaning between teeth, and professional dental assessments help identify problems early.

Restorations require the same commitment to hygiene as natural teeth.

Crowns cannot decay themselves, but the natural tooth beneath a crown can develop decay around its margins.

Maintaining healthy gums and controlling plaque are therefore essential to protecting restorative work.

Making Restorative Dentistry Last Beyond the Treatment Chair

Completing a dental restoration is not the end of treatment.

Crowns, bridges, fillings, and implants require ongoing care and periodic evaluation.

Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, and attending recommended dental appointments help maintain oral health.

Patients should also avoid using their teeth to open packaging or bite extremely hard objects.

A restoration that feels loose, develops sharp edges, or causes persistent discomfort deserves professional attention.

The lifespan of dental work varies with material selection, bite forces, oral hygiene, and individual health factors.

Rather than expecting any restoration to last indefinitely, patients should view restorative dentistry as part of a continuing oral health plan.

The most successful approach combines timely treatment, appropriate materials, and consistent preventive care.

Ultimately, preserving a functional smile means protecting what remains healthy while repairing damage before it creates larger problems.

Daily Synopsis: October 14, 2026

By
Retail Insider
-

Welcome to the Daily Synopsis by Retail Insider. We hope you enjoy the 13 articles we published covering key developments in Canadian retail. Here are a couple highlights with a full list of the day’s articles thereafter.

SMYTHE has appointed Ana Mihaljevic, former Canada Goose executive, as CEO to lead its commercial operations amid plans to expand its retail presence, including a new boutique at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in 2027. Browns Shoes is expanding its physical retail presence in Canada with a new flagship at CF Toronto Eaton Centre, larger stores, and openings planned across Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec through 2027. Levi Strauss & Co. is reshaping its Canadian retail approach following Hudson’s Bay’s 2025 closure, leveraging branded stores, mass-market outlets like Walmart and Mark’s, and premium partnerships with Holt Renfrew to reach diverse consumer segments.

Deloitte forecasts a 14 percent decline in Canadian holiday spending to a record low, driven by economic uncertainty and tariff concerns that push consumers toward value-focused shopping. Retailers must navigate heightened competition as customers visit more stores and prioritise discounts, transparency, and local ownership. Meanwhile, at the Retail Insider @ Rotman event, leaders from Harry Rosen, Roots, SMYTHE, and Absolutely Fabrics will share strategies for adapting to shifting consumer expectations and the changing role of stores.

🗞️ The Day’s Retail Insider Article List

🌐 Canadian Retail News From Around the Web

The Best Home Alarm Systems in Canada for 2026: Plans, Contracts and Deals Compared

By
Geetanjali Sharma
-

The best alarm deal in Canada starts with one decision: own the hardware and answer alerts yourself, or pay a monitoring centre every month. Hardware-only kits win for buyers who want no monthly fees,

ThinkPro is the strongest no-contract monitored pick and TELUS is the go-to for professional monitoring in Quebec.

Every price and policy below was checked on each provider’s own website in October 2026. Where a company doesn’t publish a Canadian price, this guide says so instead of guessing.

Key Takeaways

  • Hardware-only kits skip the monthly bill, but the alert response is on you.
  • ThinkPro’s Value Package costs $19.99 a month plus a one-time $259.99 equipment purchase, with no term or contract.
  • TELUS charges $150 for professional installation, or a $100 self-install kit fee that’s refunded when you activate within 30 days.
  • Ring and Abode don’t offer professional monitoring in Quebec, while TELUS does.

What are the best alarm systems in Canada right now?

  1. Elder WiFi & 4G alarm kits: best no-monthly-fee deal
  2. ThinkPro: best no-contract monitored deal
  3. TELUS SmartHome Security: best for Quebec and bundled households
  4. Ring Alarm: best for homes already using Ring cameras
  5. Abode: best for Apple HomeKit homes and starting without a plan

Buying for a shop or small office

Independent retailers have more reason than ever to look at alarms.

Half of Canadian small business owners told CFIB that crime rose in their community over the past year, according to this report on small business crime.

ThinkPro sells dedicated business packages, and TELUS runs a separate Secure Business service. If you add cameras at a store, federal and provincial privacy commissioners advise that businesses position cameras to avoid capturing passers-by and tell people before they enter.

How much does an alarm system cost in Canada?

Expect two costs: the hardware and the monitoring. ThinkPro’s entry package is a good benchmark at $259.99 upfront and $19.99 a month.

TELUS works the other way on its longer agreements. Equipment is rented as part of the monthly fee, so your upfront cost is mostly the installation choice.

Hardware-only kits flip the model again, with one purchase and no monitoring bill.

Compare the best alarm systems in Canada

ProviderBest forMonitoringContractInstallationPro monitoring in QuebecDeal to look for
Elder alarm kitsNo monthly feesSelf-managedNoneDIYNo monitoring serviceRotating flash sale and open-box stock
ThinkProNo-contract monitoring24/7 professionalNoneDIY with live supportConfirm before orderingValue Package from $19.99/mo
TELUS SmartHome SecurityQuebec and bundlesProfessional or self3 or 5 years on Control + VideoPro install ($150) or DIY kitYesUp to $1,300 in rental equipment
Ring AlarmRing camera ownersProfessional with Ring Pro, or selfNone (monthly or yearly)DIYNo30-day free plan trial
AbodeHomeKit homesProfessional with Pro, or selfNone (monthly or yearly)DIYNoOften-discounted first-year plans with a hub

If you want a technician to handle everything, TELUS is the clearest choice with a published $150 install. The other four are built around mounting the sensors yourself.

Things to consider before you buy

Who answers the alarm

Professional monitoring means a central station sees the alarm and requests help when you can’t.

Self-monitoring sends the alert to your phone, which works well only if you reliably check it.

Contract terms and cancellation

No-contract plans let you leave without a penalty, though you usually buy the equipment upfront.

TELUS rental equipment has to be returned in good condition when you cancel, or you pay the replacement cost.

Internet outages

A burglar who cuts your internet shouldn’t be able to silence your system.

Ring and Abode include cellular backup on their monitored plans, and ThinkPro lists LTE cellular backup with a footnote, so confirm your package includes it.

Reviews: the best alarm systems in Canada

1. Elder WiFi & 4G alarm kits: Best no-monthly-fee deal

Best for: Budget buyers who want to own their hardware outright

Monitoring: Self-managed, with no monthly fees

Contract: None

Deal to watch: Rotating flash sale plus a certified open-box section

Elder’s smart home alarm kits come in 8, 13, 14 and 15-piece versions with WiFi and 4G connectivity.

Smaller kits use a touch panel while larger ones add a keypad and outdoor siren, and they work with Hey Google and Alexa.

The sharpest prices show up in the SecoMart flash sale, which also discounts alarm and camera bundles.

Orders over $120 ship free, returns or exchanges are risk-free and the 1-year warranty can be extended.

Watch out: Without a monitoring centre, nobody calls emergency services if you miss an alert.

2. ThinkPro: Best no-contract monitored deal

Best for: Renters and homeowners who want professional monitoring without a term

Monitoring: 24/7 professional, with LTE cellular backup listed subject to conditions

Contract: None

Deal to watch: Value Package at $19.99 a month plus $259.99 in equipment

ThinkPro pairs DIY wireless kits with a professional monitoring centre and never asks you to sign a term.

The Value Package covers a base system, pinpad, door sensor and pet-friendly motion sensor, and the company says most systems install in under 30 minutes.

The company is owned by a.p.i. ALARM, a central station monitoring provider.

A 30-day money-back guarantee and no installation fees take most of the risk out of trying it.

Watch out: ThinkPro’s site doesn’t spell out Quebec coverage, so confirm before you order.

3. TELUS SmartHome Security: Best for Quebec and bundles

Best for: Quebec homes and households already on TELUS services

Monitoring: 24/7 professional or self-monitored plans

Contract: 3 or 5 year agreement on Control + Video

Deal to watch: Up to $1,300 in rental equipment on Control + Video

TELUS now runs the former ADT Canada alarm business, and it offers professional monitoring in Quebec.

You can self-install with a $100 kit fee that’s refunded on activation within 30 days, or pay $150 for a technician.

Pro-monitored plans can add Guard Response for $5 a month, where a uniformed guard checks the alarm in person.

BrandSpark’s Canadian Trust Study named TELUS the most trusted home security brand from 2022 to 2026.

Watch out: Rental equipment must go back in good condition when you cancel, or you pay the replacement cost.

4. Ring Alarm: Best for Ring camera owners

Best for: Homes already using Ring doorbells or cameras

Monitoring: 24/7 professional with Ring Pro, or self-monitored

Contract: None, plans renew monthly or yearly until cancelled

Deal to watch: A 30-day free plan trial when you set up a device

Ring renamed its plans to Ring Protect in 2026. The Pro plan bundles 24/7 professional monitoring, alarm cellular backup and SOS emergency response, while the Solo and Multi plans focus on video history and arming modes.

Subscribers also get 10% off select products on Ring’s own store. That helps if you plan to add cameras later.

Watch out: Professional monitoring isn’t available in Quebec, and Ring’s public plan page lists U.S. pricing, so check Canadian rates before you budget.

5. Abode: Best for HomeKit homes

Best for: Apple HomeKit users and anyone who wants to start without a plan

Monitoring: Free self-monitoring, or professional with the Pro plan

Contract: None, billed monthly or yearly

Deal to watch: First-year plans bought with a hub, which Abode says are often discounted, plus a one-month Pro trial for new subscribers

Abode’s free tier lets you control and self-monitor the system, watch live video and use HomeKit, Alexa and Google Assistant integrations.

The Pro plan adds professional monitoring and cellular backup through a SIM card that ships preinstalled in every starter kit.

Abode’s two monitoring centres are in the U.S. Your plan follows your account if you move.

Watch out: Professional monitoring isn’t offered in Quebec because of French-language support requirements.

FAQ

Which alarm companies offer professional monitoring in Quebec?

TELUS offers professional monitoring in Quebec. Ring and Abode don’t, and ThinkPro doesn’t state its Quebec coverage, so ask before buying.

Is a no-contract alarm system cheaper?

Not always month to month, but it’s cheaper to leave. With a contract, the equipment is often rented into the monthly fee, while no-contract providers usually sell it upfront.

Will my alarm work if the internet goes down?

It will if the system has cellular backup. Ring Pro and Abode Pro include it, and ThinkPro lists it with conditions, so check your package.

Do I need professional monitoring?

You need it if you can’t always respond to an alert yourself. If you’re often away or travel for work, a monitoring centre closes that gap.

How we chose

We compared providers on upfront cost, monthly cost, contract terms, installation, outage backup, Quebec availability and the deals each one runs.

Every provider detail came from the company’s own website, checked in October 2026.

Some well-known brands were left out because their current Canadian pricing or availability couldn’t be confirmed on their own sites.

Final word

Prices and promotions change often, so confirm the current offer before you buy. For most Canadian homes, hardware-only kits are the cheapest way in if you’ll answer your own alerts, ThinkPro is the best-value monitored system and TELUS is the safest bet in Quebec.

Field of Screams Pulls Haunt Fans From New Jersey and New York to a Lancaster County Farm

By
Retail Insider
-

Now in its 34th season, the Mountville attraction has become a destination drive for visitors across the Northeast corridor

Halloween fans in New Jersey and New York have no shortage of options close to home. Each fall, a steady number of them still make the drive to Mountville, Pennsylvania, for Field of Screams, a haunted attraction that has operated on the same Lancaster County farm since 1993.

From South Jersey, the trip takes under two hours by way of Philadelphia and Route 30. From North Jersey it is closer to two and a half hours, and from New York City about three. For many visitors, the distance is part of the appeal: a full night out on a working farm, far from the city.

Why people make the drive

Field of Screams packs four attractions onto one property. The Haunted Hayride carries guests by tractor through cornfields and a series of staged scenes. The Den of Darkness, home to this year’s new Midnight Masquerade scene, and the Frightmare Asylum run indoors. The Nocturnal Wasteland is an outdoor trail through the woods.

Nearly everything guests see is built on the property, from sets and animatronics to costumes and sound. The attraction draws more than 75,000 visitors a season and holds a 4.4-star average across roughly 5,000 Google reviews.

“We get visitors who have been to the big theme-park Halloween events, and they tell us this feels different,” said Jim Schopf, co-founder of Field of Screams. “You’re on a real farm, in real buildings, and everything you see was made by people who care about it.”

Thirty-four years on the same farm

The Field of Screams that brothers Gene and Jim Schopf founded in 1993 still operates on their family’s farm at 191 College Avenue in Mountville. As Halloween nears, the late-October weekends draw the biggest crowds of the season, and many out-of-state visitors plan their trip weeks ahead.

“People drive a long way to see us, and we never take that for granted,” Schopf said. “Every fall we’re out here on the same farm in Lancaster County, and this year is our 34th.”

Season details

The regular season runs on select nights through Saturday, November 7. The Extreme Blackout event follows on Friday, November 13, and the 14th annual Zombie Fun Run takes place on Saturday, November 14. The event runs rain or shine. Tickets and dates are available at fieldofscreams.com.

1...161718...1,448Page 17 of 1,448