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Time Out Market Vancouver unveils the first lineup of vendors

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Image: Time Out Market
Image: Time Out Market

Time Out Market Vancouver, the food and cultural market set to open in Spring 2026 at Oakridge Park, has unveiled the first chefs and restaurateurs to join its culinary lineup.

Time Out Market said it will bring the best of the city together under one roof: a curated mix of the best chefs and restaurateurs, drinks and cultural experiences – showcasing top local talents in a casual, uniquely-designed space.

Julien Lavoie
Julien Lavoie

Julien Lavoie, General Manager of Time Out Market Vancouver said: “At the heart of Oakridge Park will be Time Out Market Vancouver – this is where we will bring the best of the city together under one roof: a carefully curated mix of the best chefs, drinks and entertainment. We are dedicated to making the Market a new destination, packed with outstanding culinary and cultural experiences, for both locals and visitors – a vibrant community gathering place for the city, like a collective kitchen table. Oakridge Park is a fantastic place for this unique experience.

“We have revealed the first vendors to join Time Out Market Vancouver: alongside established and award-winning names, we are proud to spotlight emerging talent and much-loved local favorites. While everything within the Market will be of high-quality, it will be accessible and appeal to a wide audience – from fine-dining at affordable prices, to really good fried chicken or a juicy burger.”

Across 50,000 square feet, Time Out Market Vancouver said it  will offer food from local award-winning and rising culinary talents as well as much-loved local gems across 18 kitchens, one dessert and one coffee counter – there will also be three bars, multiple event spaces, around 1,000 seats and a large outdoor terrace facing onto a public park.

“Guests – whether they visit with family, friends or on their own – will get to enjoy a hugely diverse variety of food options while coming together around communal tables, surrounded by open kitchens with chefs in action. The Market will also host a vibrant, year-round cultural program alongside its curated food and drink offerings, providing an experience that will be both accessible and affordable,” it said.

“Time Out Market is the world’s first food and cultural market curated by local experts to bring the best of the city together under one roof. In 2014, a historic market building in Lisbon was turned into the first Time Out Market. Today, there are 13 Markets globally in cities including New York, Montreal, Dubai, Cape Town and Osaka, with more to come – the execution of each is distinctly local to give a true taste of the city it is in. The Vancouver location marks the second Time Out Market in Canada.”

Time Out Market Vancouver is located at Oakridge Park, a major redevelopment project in Vancouver’s Oakridge neighbourhood, comprising residential, retail, office, green spaces, civic, and cultural components. At the intersection of West 41st Avenue and Cambie Street, Time Out Market is conveniently located between Vancouver’s downtown and YVR Airport which makes it easily accessible to locals and visitors alike.

The first six vendors revealed to join Time Out Market Vancouver

From beloved local institutions to award-winning and rising talents, the first six outstanding chefs and restaurateurs to join Time Out Market Vancouver’s curated lineup have been revealed. More vendors, how the beverage program and culture will be part of the experience, and the opening date will be announced in the lead up to opening:

Robert Feenie
Robert Feenie

Chef Robert Feenie will launch Feenie’s at Time Out Market Vancouver to serve gourmet burgers

As Executive Chef and Partner of Le Crocodile and, prior to that, of Lumiere, Feenie is one of Vancouver’s most iconic culinary talents. His long list of accolades includes winning Iron Chef America and being a four-time winner of Iron Chef Canada. For the Market, he is launching Feenie’s, which will serve gourmet burgers, specifically creating a menu of outstanding, approachable, and casual items, such as the Chef’s well-known and loved Classic Burger, and a signature Time Out Market Burger with house-ground wagyu and gruyeré, based on Le Crocodile’s Burger De Maison.

Chanthy Yen
Chanthy Yen

Chef Chanthy Yen joins with Mee Bar – a celebration of his Cambodian heritage

Local Vancouverite and winner of Top Chef Canada 2024, Chef Yen has spent over 20 years honing his craft in some of the most highly respected restaurants across Canada and globally. Celebrated for his innovative approach to Cambodian cuisine, he will continue to push culinary boundaries with a new Cambodian concept for Time Out Market called Mee Bar, offering exciting dishes such as Mee Kola (a fresh take on a rice noodle bowl) topped with charcoal grilled meat and seafood, Cambodian-style chicken wings with lime and Kampot pepper, and Nom Banh Chok (traditional Cambodian curry broth, rice noodles, fresh vegetables and herb salad).

Nguyen Thi
Nguyen Thi

Lunch Lady is coming to Time Out Market with its renowned Vietnamese street food

An instant sensation since opening its doors in Vancouver in 2020, Lunch Lady quickly evolved from a much-loved neighbourhood spot to a Michelin-recognized restaurant across North America. Inspired by and in collaboration with Vietnamese culinary legend Chef Nguyen Thi Thanh (the original “Lunch Lady” of Saigon Street food fame), Co-Owners Michael Tran, Victoria Tran and Benedict Lim brought the concept to Vancouver. Now, the Bib Gourmand-honoured Lunch Lady will join Time Out Market to present its flavour-packed menu, including menu items like Steak Lúc Lắc, Garlic Fried Noodles, and much more.

Nutcha Phanthoupheng
Nutcha Phanthoupheng

At the heart of MaKaam is modern Artisan Thai cuisine from Baan Lao’s Chef-Owner Nutcha Phanthoupheng 


MaKaam is a new concept for Time Out Market Vancouver from Chef-Owner Nutcha Phanthoupheng of famed Baan Lao, which was recognized as Canada’s Best Restaurant at the World Culinary Awards in 2024 and 2025 (the first Canadian restaurant to win twice) and ranked #12 on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list. With the extraordinary attention to detail that defines Royal Thai cuisine and prepared with innovative twists, MaKaam at Time Out Market will focus on a modern artisan Thai menu featuring highlights such as their iconic pad Thai, reinvented with aged tamarind water buffalo milk gouda.

Doug Stephen
Doug Stephen

DownLow Chicken will serve its iconic crispy fried chicken


This small but mighty chicken shack has been an institution in Vancouver since it was launched in 2018 by Doug Stephen and Lindsey Mann, bringing its legendary take on Nashville Hot Chicken to the city. DownLow Chicken will serve its much-loved, well-executed fried chicken at Time Out Market, with The OG Sando, Signature DL Mac n Cheese, Fries on the Downlow, and more on the menu.

Jonah Joffe
Jonah Joffe

Barnacle by Bar Bravo will offer a selection of raw and cooked seafood


An offshoot of Bar Bravo, a beloved neighbourhood gem nestled in Vancouver’s Fraserhood, Barnacle by Bar Bravo is a new concept for Time Out Market which will showcase the acclaimed seafood of Head Chef Jonah Joffe. Since opening in 2023, Bar Bravo has earned top accolades, including 2024 and 2025 Michelin recognition, and “the best seafood in Vancouver” award from Vancouver Magazine. At the Market, the team will serve a selection of raw and cooked seafood, with a menu that balances bold, punchy flavours with seasonal, fresh, and sustainable ingredients. Guests can look forward to beautiful dishes such as Local Oysters, Signature Jonah Crab Cocktail, and a Seafood Tower.

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Om Organics launches new Calgary store

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Image: Mackey Design
Image: Mackey Design

Canadian clean-beauty brand Om Organics has opened its first dedicated retail store in Calgary’s Marda Loop neighbourhood.

The Invermere-based skincare company also has plans to debut an exclusive new product alongside this significant expansion.

Located at 1942 33 Avenue SW, the store will offer the full Om Organics collection and employ five staff members. The space features a consultation area where customers can receive personalized skincare recommendations and test products before purchasing.

The Calgary expansion comes as founder Kari Asselin, a former esthetician who launched Om Organics in 2016, looks to connect directly with customers in their largest Alberta market. After a year-long search across Calgary neighbourhoods, Asselin selected Marda Loop for its high concentration of fellow independent retailers, vibrant energy, and strong sense of community spirit.

Kari Asselin
Kari Asselin

“This store represents a turning point for Om Organics,” said Asselin. “For nearly a decade, we’ve been building relationships with customers online and in our flagship space, which operates as our apothecary, but there’s something irreplaceable about being able to hand someone a product, answer their questions face-to-face, and guide them through their skincare journey in real time. Opening in Calgary feels like the natural next step as we head into our tenth year and we’re excited to have a space where customers can experience our formulations in person.”

Upon opening the 965-square-foot store, Om said it will also launch its new Resurfacing Glow Tonic. Two years in the making, this landmark new product boasts a 100% natural formula combining BHA (salicylic acid), AHA (lactic acid), and niacinamide to address uneven texture, breakouts, and dullness by promoting gentle exfoliation. The $52 tonic will be available exclusively in-store at the Calgary location from December 2-9 before its online release on December 9 at omskin.com, said the retailer.

Om Organics products are handcrafted in small batches in Invermere, B.C., and sold across Canada. The brand is certified cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny), vegan, pregnancy-safe, and CertClean-certified. Om Organics uses glass packaging, offers refills on select products, and donates 1% of profits to the Beagle Freedom Project, said Asselin.

With ambitious plans for growth, Om said it hopes to follow a successful Calgary launch with the addition of several new storefronts across Canada in the coming years.

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Image: Mackey Design
Image: Mackey Design
Image: Mackey Design
Image: Mackey Design
Image: Mackey Design
Image: Mackey Design

Butterdome Craft Sale 2025: Alberta’s Largest Holiday Market Returns With 225+ Canadian Artisans

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale
Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale

More than 225 artisans, makers and designers from across the country will set up shop at the U of A Butterdome from December 4–7 for Alberta’s largest holiday craft market. Celebrating 35 years, the Butterdome Craft Sale gives Edmontonians a one-of-a-kind chance to support local small businesses, celebrate diverse Canadian heritage and, in the time of tariffs and shipping delays, put their money where it counts.

Since 1990, the Butterdome Craft Sale has become Alberta’s premier holiday shopping event, allowing visitors to meet passionate creatives in person, hear their stories, and feel their works first-hand—all the while enjoying drinks and snacks, live music, and festive decor, say organizers. 

Across the country, this year’s artisans have been selling more than ever, and the 2025 Butterdome Craft Sale spotlights a slew of products that speak to a growing Canadian pride: wild rose hip soap (Prairie Soap Shack); cork wall maps featuring NHL arenas (Wanderlust Creatures); maple garlic sauces and jellies (Voisin’s Maple Products); Lake Louise-inspired porcelain earrings (Heatgust); moose-patterned flannel baby bibs (Gracious Gifts); and maple leaf stained glass suncatchers (A Touch of Glass). It’s no surprise that the show’s Christmas trees will be topped with maple leaves in lieu of stars, they said.

Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale
Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale

“Alongside other concessions and delicious artisan samples, this year’s Craft Sale will also host the CBC’s Make the Season Kind food truck from Dec 5 to 7, with acclaimed Edmonton chef Daniel Costa (Olia Ristorante, Bar Henry, Bar Bricco) curating a by-donation dish in support of Edmonton’s Food Bank and Food Banks Alberta. (Spoiler: The Zuppa di Ceci, or chickpea soup, cleverly incorporates key pantry items that food banks need this time of year.),” according to organizers.

“Since the tariffs conversation began, we’ve seen a clear surge in demand for locally made goods, both online and in-person at markets and events,” says Ray Ma of Honest Dumpings. “Our customers are more intentional than ever about buying Canadian. They want to know the story behind the food—who made it, where the ingredients came from, and how their purchase supports jobs in their own community.” 

Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale
Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale

“Recently, I’ve noticed that customers value “Canadian-made” and “handmade” more than ever, seeing my work not just as functional mugs but as pottery that carries a Canadian story—a piece many customers say feels distinctly Canadian,” says potter Moon Kim of MoonK Studio. Her mugs, bowls and serving trays often reflect Canadian wildflowers, camping life, and mountains (Canmore’s “Three Sisters” are a fan favourite!) with clay and materials sourced from Canada and her native Korea. 

For a full list of vendors, visit butterdome.com/artists/

Tickets at butterdome.com. 

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Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale
Photo: Butterdome Craft Sale

Apple AI Chief John Giannandrea to Retire in 2026 as Company Reshuffles Machine Learning Leadership

By
Lee Rivett
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Google's Senior VP of Engineering John Giannandrea speaks onstage

Apple is preparing for a major leadership transition in its artificial intelligence organization, announcing that John Giannandrea, the company’s senior vice president of Machine Learning and AI Strategy, will step down from his role and transition to an advisory position before retiring in the spring of 2026.

The company also said it has hired Amar Subramanya as vice president of AI, reporting to Apple’s software chief Craig Federighi, as Apple signals a tighter integration between AI development and its core software and product roadmap.

The move comes as Apple continues to push further into AI-enabled features under its Apple Intelligence banner, while attempting to strengthen internal execution on foundation models, product integration, and safety evaluation.

Amar Subramanya Joins Apple From Microsoft

Subramanya, described by Apple as a “renowned AI researcher,” most recently served as corporate vice president of AI at Microsoft, and previously spent 16 years at Google, where he was head of engineering for Gemini Assistant.

Apple said Subramanya will lead several of the company’s most critical AI areas, including:

  • Apple Foundation Models
  • Machine learning research
  • AI safety and evaluation

For Canadian business and technology decision-makers, the appointment stands out as a sign Apple is still actively recruiting top-tier AI leadership talent in a market defined by intense competition from Microsoft, Google, OpenAI, and Meta.

Apple Reassigns Portions of Giannandrea’s Organization

Alongside the leadership change, Apple said “the balance” of Giannandrea’s organization will shift under Sabih Khan and Eddy Cue, moving pieces of the AI group closer to parallel internal teams.

The restructuring indicates Apple is not only replacing leadership but also adjusting reporting lines to align AI work more tightly with areas like operations, product delivery, and services—suggesting a push to turn AI research into deployable features at scale.

Giannandrea’s group has included responsibilities such as:

  • Apple Foundation Models
  • Search and Knowledge
  • ML Research
  • AI Infrastructure

A Strategic Shift Under Craig Federighi’s Software Leadership

Apple CEO Tim Cook framed the changes as both a leadership transition and an acceleration of Apple’s long-term AI strategy, emphasizing Federighi’s growing role in shaping Apple’s AI execution.

“AI has long been central to Apple’s strategy,” Cook said, adding that Federighi has been instrumental in driving Apple’s AI efforts and is overseeing work to deliver a “more personalized Siri” next year.

For Apple, placing AI leadership under Federighi is a clear signal that the company’s AI ambitions are moving further into the mainstream of its software platform strategy, rather than remaining primarily a standalone research function.

What It Means for Canada’s Apple Ecosystem

For Canadian retailers, carriers, and enterprise IT buyers, Apple’s AI leadership changes matter less as a corporate reshuffle and more as a signal of product direction. As Apple expands AI features across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS, demand is expected to increasingly shift toward newer hardware capable of running AI-enabled experiences smoothly and securely.

Giannandrea’s retirement also marks the closing chapter of a leadership era that began with Apple’s 2018 effort to build a stronger AI and machine learning engine internally—at a time when voice assistants, on-device intelligence, and contextual computing were becoming core platform priorities.

With Subramanya joining, Federighi’s oversight expanding, and internal reporting lines being reorganized, Apple appears to be laying the foundation for its next phase in AI: one focused on foundation models, product integration, and trusted deployment at global scale.

Läderach Unveils New Boutique on Toronto’s Bloor Street

By
Craig Patterson
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Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Note: at time of photo, Läderach was waiting for exterior signage to be installed, hence the temporary sign. Photo: Craig Patterson

Läderach’s newest Canadian boutique has opened its doors on Toronto’s luxury run, bringing fresh Swiss chocolate to street level on one of the country’s most important retail corridors. The Läderach Bloor Street store, located at 110 Bloor Street West, quietly began trading ahead of a grand opening on Thursday, November 27 that featured a ribbon cutting and a chocolate giveaway for the first 200 customers.

The debut marks Läderach’s first street-front location in Canada and the latest step in a broader North American expansion that now spans malls, airports and high streets. The premium chocolatier already has a presence in key Greater Toronto Area shopping centres and recently entered British Columbia, but Bloor-Yorkville adds a different type of visibility, with constant foot traffic from local residents, tourists and office workers.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence of fresh Swiss chocolate in Canada on historic Bloor Street,” said Warren Dunkelberger, President of Läderach North America. “This location represents an important step in our commitment to making our fresh, artisan Swiss chocolate more accessible across the country.”

Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Läderach lands on Canada’s premier luxury corridor

The boutique at 110 Bloor sits in a narrow, street-facing space of just over 1,100 square feet between the Winners/HomeSense entrance and the Alexander Wang boutique. The building, owned by ProWinko and managed by Salthill Capital, has been attracting new tenants in recent times, including a large Saint Laurent flagship, Paris Baguette and Mandy’s Salads.

Leasing for the Läderach Bloor Street boutique was completed by Casdin Parr of Odyssey Retail Advisors and Jason Richter of Capricorn Retail Advisors, who represented the tenant. The property was co-listed by CBRE’s Urban Retail Team alongside Carmen Siegel of Cushman & Wakefield.

Canadian construction firm BUILD IT brought the space to life — BUILD IT works with various leading brands on store build-outs.

For Läderach, it is a deliberate move into a neighbourhood that already caters to luxury shoppers. Bloor-Yorkville is in the midst of another wave of investment, with new flagships underway and existing retail boxes being rethought for high-end uses. Tiffany & Co. is preparing a major new corner store nearby, while other global brands continue to reshape the street.

“This is definitely a statement for us,” said Jorge Chon, Regional Operations Manager for Läderach in Toronto, during an in-store interview. “We have been wanting a Bloor Street store for about four years. We needed the right space and the right neighbours, and this location gives us both. The demographics, the foot traffic and the character of the street make it a perfect fit.”

The shop joins an existing network of Läderach locations in the Toronto region, including CF Toronto Eaton Centre, Yorkdale Shopping Centre, York Mills Centre, Square One in Mississauga and CF Sherway Gardens. The company also recently opened at CF Richmond Centre near Vancouver, with more western Canadian locations on the way.

Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

A boutique built around fresh chocolate

Inside, the design leans into chocolate as both product and inspiration. The walls and fixtures follow a palette of warm browns and neutrals, with subtle textures intended to evoke the look of poured and tempered chocolate. The layout is compact but carefully organized, reflecting a newer global store concept that Läderach has refined through test locations in Switzerland.

“We bring the elements from our 2.0 concept, but this is a more refined evolution,” said Chon. “We learned that we do not need gigantic stores to deliver the full experience. It is about flow, assortment and making sure customers feel close to the product from the moment they walk in.”

The centre of the boutique is dominated by the brand’s signature FrischSchoggi counter, where large slabs of chocolate are displayed in an almost sculptural way. Produced in Switzerland, the slabs are poured, mixed and finished by hand or with light mechanical assistance, then shipped to Canada by air on a weekly basis to maintain freshness.

“In our factory, the chocolate is pumped onto trays, mixed and spread, then quickly cooled and tempered,” Chon explained. “Everything is made in Switzerland and we bring it in weekly. Customers choose the flavours they want and we break off pieces by hand, sold by weight. It is like going to a cheese shop and asking for a hundred grams of your favourite cheese, but with chocolate.”

Alongside the FrischSchoggi display, the boutique carries a broad assortment of pralines, truffles, single-origin bars and seasonal gift items. A seasonal table at the front of the shop highlights limited-time collections that are geared to holidays and occasion-driven traffic on Bloor Street.

Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Pistachio leads a growing flavor lineup

One of the surprise stories in Läderach’s Canadian growth has been the strong demand for pistachio, particularly in Toronto. The flavour has become a bestseller across several locations, including Eaton Centre and Yorkdale, and is expected to perform especially well in Bloor-Yorkville given the neighbourhood’s taste for specialty products.

“We brought the milk pistachio chocolate last December and people went crazy,” said Chon. “We thought it would be a trend that lasted a few weeks or maybe a month, but it has not stopped. That is why we introduced the dark pistachio version too. It is a little less sweet, but with the same filling, and people love it.”

Ingredient sourcing is a key part of the story Läderach tells in its boutiques. Pistachios come from Iran, hazelnuts from Piedmont in Italy, and almonds from California, with Swiss milk and tightly controlled production processes in the company’s home country.

“We try to source the best ingredients and we do not use preservatives,” Chon noted. “Everything is made fresh in Switzerland, brought in by air and sold quickly. That is what sets us apart and why we focus so much on freshness in every store.”

Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Expansion strategy across Canada and beyond

The Läderach Bloor Street store is part of a broader expansion strategy that has seen the company build density in key markets before moving into new regions. In Canada, that has meant starting in Toronto and then extending westward.

Läderach entered the country in December 2019 with a flagship at CF Toronto Eaton Centre. The Yorkdale store followed in late January 2022, taking over a former Godiva space as part of a wider North American deal. York Mills Centre joined the network by early 2024, offering a convenient stop for commuters and residents in a high-income pocket of North York. Square One in Mississauga opened in summer 2024, followed by CF Sherway Gardens in August 2025.

On the West Coast, CF Richmond Centre became Läderach’s first British Columbia location in 2025. Chon confirmed that the company has already secured additional sites.

“We are going into CF Pacific Centre in Vancouver, which is very exciting for us,” he said. “We also have a planned store inside the McArthurGlen designer outlet by the airport in Richmond, and we are working on getting into well known centres. After that, we are exploring Calgary and Edmonton.”

Outlets are also on the radar, with locations such as Niagara, Vaughan Mills and Toronto Premium Outlets under consideration for future phases.

“First we focus on the main cities and the main shopping centres,” said Chon. “Then we can get creative about where else we can go. We do not have a fixed number in mind for how many stores Canada will eventually have. Time will tell. It is more important to grow in an organized way so we can support each store properly.”

Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Events, partnerships and a neighbourhood role

Although the boutique is compact, it is designed to host events and private tastings. Läderach has already tested this format at other locations, including a recent event at CF Toronto Eaton Centre for a Swiss corporate group that paired wine with chocolate-based canapés.

“We had foie gras with chocolate, special creations from a catering company and wine pairings,” Chon said. “Then we did a chocolate experience in the store. Those events work very well and we see this Bloor Street location as perfect for that type of activity.”

The company is also looking to build relationships with the Bloor-Yorkville BIA and nearby businesses.

“We are exploring partnerships with the local BIA to understand what the plans are for the summer and the rest of the year,” he said. “The neighbourhood is very supportive. Our neighbours like Saint Laurent, Gucci and others have already expressed interest in doing VIP events or collaborations. That is how retail works. A strong mix of tenants helps everyone.”

The timing of the opening, just ahead of the holiday season, is another advantage. Bloor Street sees significant gifting traffic in November and December, with locals and visitors alike seeking premium products that can serve as host gifts, corporate presents or personal indulgences.

“Right in time for gifting season, the products fly off the shelves,” Chon said. “People love their chocolate and they want something special. This store gives them that, right in the middle of the luxury run.”

Läderach at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

A Swiss brand with global reach and local ambitions

Läderach remains a family-owned business, founded in 1962 in the Swiss canton of Glarus. The company oversees its value chain from the cocoa bean through production to the final product, with all manufacturing kept in Switzerland. That level of control, combined with a focus on freshness, has helped Läderach become the largest chocolate retailer in Switzerland and a prominent name globally.

Today, the brand operates more than 200 boutiques in over 20 countries and supports those physical locations with an expanding e-commerce platform. It also counts the reigning World Chocolate Master among its leadership, a credential that reinforces the company’s emphasis on craftsmanship and innovation.

In Canada, the Läderach Bloor Street store underlines the company’s intention to compete seriously in the premium chocolate segment. Positioned alongside leading international fashion and luxury brands, the boutique gives Läderach a high-profile stage from which to build deeper recognition among both local residents and visitors.

“This is a neighbourhood store and a flagship address at the same time,” said Chon. “We have local customers who live around the corner and come in for gifts or treats, and we have tourists who discover us while exploring Bloor Street. It is a powerful combination.”

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Hillberg & Berk Unveils Official Team Canada Jewellery Line

By
Craig Patterson
-
Maple leaf studs. Image: Hillberg & Berk

Hillberg & Berk, the Regina-based jewellery brand known nationwide for its vibrant pieces and purpose-driven mission, is preparing for a milestone moment. On December 9, 2025, the company will release the Official Team Canada Jewellery Collection in partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee. The launch arrives at a time of rising anticipation as athletes and fans look toward the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, scheduled for February 6 to 22. For Hillberg & Berk, the debut represents both the evolution of a national partnership and the deepening of its long investment in women’s sport and community empowerment.

Hillberg & Berk announced its four-year partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee in June 2025, a move that formalized years of organic connections between the brand and Canadian athletes. To mark the occasion, the company released the Team Canada Sparkle Hearts, a limited piece that quickly became a fan favourite. The earrings have already sold out three times, generating more than ten thousand dollars in proceeds in support of Team Canada.

Rachel Mielke

“As a brand passionate about community, we have always believed in the power of storytelling, and few stories are as inspiring as those told through sport,” said founder and CEO Rachel Mielke in the partnership announcement. She noted that athletes have worn Hillberg & Berk pieces on the world stage for years as symbols of confidence, strength, and unity. This alignment of values laid the groundwork for a deeper collaboration leading into the 2026 Olympic Games.

The Team Canada Jewellery Collection builds on that momentum, bringing the energy and symbolism of Olympic sport into homes across the country. The new line is designed to be both accessible and aspirational, appealing to dedicated fans and casual supporters who want to celebrate Team Canada in a meaningful way.

Details of the December 9 Launch

The full collection will be released on December 9, with early access beginning December 4 for BerkPerks loyalty members. Pieces include brooches, studs, hoops, charms, necklaces, and rings. The designs highlight familiar Canadian elements such as maple leaf motifs, rich reds, and Hillberg & Berk’s signature sparkle. Each item arrives in custom red velvet packaging that mirrors the brand’s luxury aesthetic and its attention to detail.

Twelve percent of all sales from the Team Canada Jewellery Collection will go directly to support Team Canada. That financial commitment forms a key part of the brand’s strategy as it positions itself more prominently within the national sports landscape. The funding will help the Canadian Olympic Committee deliver programs that foster athlete development and expand opportunities for young people to participate in sport.

Maple Leaf Charm Necklace. Image: Hillberg & Berk

The Face of the Campaign: Maïa Schwinghammer

To bring the new collection to life visually and narratively, Hillberg & Berk partnered with freestyle moguls skier Maïa Schwinghammer. Born in Saskatoon and now competing internationally, Schwinghammer represents the energy and ambition of a new generation of Canadian athletes moving confidently toward Milano Cortina 2026.

“Representing my country on the world stage has been my dream since I was a kid, and I feel incredibly lucky to be living it,” said Schwinghammer. “My favourite quote is, ‘What a blessing it is to be challenged in a pursuit of your own choosing.’ I live by that.”

The Team Canada Jewellery Collection is positioned as both a celebration of athletes like Schwinghammer and a way for fans to share in the Olympic journey. Each piece is designed to capture the spirit of dedication, pride, and personal expression that defines Team Canada. For the brand, featuring an athlete from the Prairies underscores its Canadian roots and the universality of its message.

10k Maple Leaf Studs. Image: Hillberg & Berk

A Strategic Commitment to Women’s Sport

The collection is part of a broader and increasingly visible sports strategy for Hillberg & Berk, one that places a significant emphasis on supporting women across all levels of sport. The company has built a portfolio of partnerships that spans elite Olympic athletes, professional leagues, and grassroots programs focused on increasing participation among girls.

Its four-year partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee includes more than the Team Canada Jewellery Collection. As the Official Jewellery Partner of Team Canada through Milano Cortina 2026 and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, Hillberg & Berk will also produce custom commemorative rings for all athletes. In addition, the company has aligned with the Northern Super League as the Official Jewellery Partner of the first professional women’s soccer league playoffs and final. This relationship includes the creation of winning necklaces for players and limited edition fan pieces that provide financial support for league growth.

Hillberg & Berk’s expanding sports presence also includes work with the Professional Women’s Hockey League and a number of philanthropic initiatives. Programs such as Play for More and Girls Forward address the fact that many girls leave sport in adolescence due to limited access and lack of support. The brand designs capsule jewellery pieces that help fund organizations focused on skill building, leadership, and confidence for girls. At least one percent of the company’s annual sales supports women-related causes, with a portion directed specifically to girls’ and women’s sport.

Maple Leaf Corded Necklace. Image: Hillberg & Berk

Purpose at the Heart of the Brand

Hillberg & Berk was founded on a philosophy of empowerment, with a mission to help women express themselves with authenticity and purpose. This mission fits naturally with the narratives emerging from the Canadian sports community, especially as women’s sport receives more attention and investment both nationally and globally.

The company notes that many female athletes began wearing its jewellery independently, long before formal partnerships were established. For Hillberg & Berk, these early connections signaled an opportunity to support a segment of the sports world that continues to face funding and visibility gaps. By turning these relationships into formal partnerships, the brand not only acknowledges the role athletes played in its growth but also reinforces its commitment to elevating women’s sport.

The Team Canada Jewellery Collection is an extension of that philosophy. Through design, storytelling, and financial contribution, the collection transforms sponsorship into something tangible, allowing fans to carry a piece of the Olympic narrative with them. For Hillberg & Berk, the goal is to ensure that the jewellery becomes more than an accessory, functioning instead as a symbol of pride, inspiration, and shared national enthusiasm ahead of Milano Cortina 2026.

Looking Ahead to Milano Cortina 2026

As the countdown to Milano Cortina 2026 begins, Hillberg & Berk is preparing to play a visible role in the uniforms, wardrobes, and personal style of Canadian athletes. The brand expects its pieces to appear both in competition and in the broader presentation moments that accompany the Games.

The Team Canada Jewellery Collection is expected to resonate with consumers across the country during the holiday season and into the Olympic year. With themes of national pride and personal expression woven throughout the campaign, the launch serves as an early celebration of what many hope will be a strong showing for Team Canada in Italy.

The collection also reinforces the role retail partnerships play in amplifying sporting culture in Canada. Hillberg & Berk’s alignment with the Canadian Olympic Committee comes at a time when fans are increasingly interested in supporting organizations that reflect their values. With a clear mission and a purposeful approach to storytelling, the brand is positioning itself as both a retailer and a cultural contributor in a moment of heightened excitement for Canadian sport.

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Toronto’s ShopReel AI Merges Video and Shopping

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: Unsplash

Toronto-based startup ShopReel AI is aiming to reshape how consumers shop online by transforming social video content into AI interactive, shoppable experiences. Co-founded by Lawrence Tung, the company merges artificial intelligence with social commerce to let users “shop what they watch” directly from videos on platforms like Instagram.

The concept emerged when social media video content became a dominant retail discovery channel. “We saw how quickly TikTok and Reels changed how people engaged with brands,” said Tung. “Yet, online shopping hadn’t caught up to that video-first world. We asked ourselves: why are we still shopping through static images and text when we consume everything else through video?”

Turning Social Media into a Storefront

At its core, ShopReel AI connects social engagement and commerce through video. Using advanced AI, the platform scans each frame of a video to identify and tag products automatically, turning social video content into a digital storefront. Consumers watching an Instagram Reel can tap directly on an item, such as a sweater, jacket, or accessory, within the same scene, and instantly view its product page.

“We call it contextual social commerce,” explained Tung. “People use social media not just for entertainment but also for inspiration. The challenge is that the shopping experience has been disconnected. You might see a product you love in a reel, click through, and then have to hunt around a website to find it. ShopReel AI bridges that gap.”

By linking directly from video to purchase, ShopReel AI provides what Tung describes as “continuity of experience.” The goal, he said, is to make shopping as seamless as doing what we love, watching videos — and for brands, that means higher engagement and conversion.

How the Technology Works

The company’s platform is built for simplicity. “Merchants don’t have to do any manual tagging,” Tung explained. “They simply upload the video and the associated product links. Our AI does the rest, recognizing products within the reels and connecting them back to the brand’s product page. It’s built to be intuitive and low-lift for teams that are often stretched thin.”

The experience for consumers is magical and mirrors how they already engage with video content on Instagram or TikTok, except now the link between discovery and purchase is instantaneous. “When someone clicks on any part of a product as seen in a reel they’re taken directly to the exact product page featured” said Tung. “No searching, no guesswork.”

Smarter Analytics for Brands

Beyond convenience, ShopReel AI provides merchants with a level of insight rarely possible in social commerce. Brands can now track engagement not just at the video level but frame by frame, understanding exactly how viewers interact with products.

“For the first time, brands can see how customers engage within a video,” Tung said. “They can identify which products attract the most attention, which moments drive clicks, and how that correlates with sales. Think of it like a dynamic heatmapin video.”

These analytics, he explained, go far beyond standard metrics like views or impressions. Instead, they provide “intelligent information in context”, helping brands refine their creative, optimize product placement, and better understand the connection between engagement and conversion.

Designed for Independent Retailers as Well as Major Brands

While ShopReel AI’s technology is robust enough for enterprise use, Tung emphasized that the platform was also built with smaller retailers in mind. “Independent merchants often face budget and resource constraints,” he said. “We wanted to create a tool that gives them access to the same kind of immersive commerce experience that big brands have.”

Using nothing more than a smartphone, merchants can create authentic shoppable reels that connect directly to their online store. “It’s about making high-impact content achievable and affordable,” said Tung. “We think this levels the playing field.”

The company’s early discussions with retailers reflect growing interest in that capability. ShopReel AI is currently in conversations with several brands about pilot campaigns and upcoming launches. “Our product is scalable and ready to go,” Tung confirmed. “We’re working closely with partners who see the potential to bring their content to life in new ways.”

Bridging Online and In-Store Experiences

While the platform is designed for digital channels, Tung believes there are compelling applications for physical retail as well. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in omnichannel storytelling,” he said. “Imagine a brand filming shoppable reels inside their own store. Pulling products off the rack and creating looks right from their physical space.”

That kind of content can strengthen familiarity and connection for customers who later visit in person. “When shoppers walk into the store and recognize the layout or products from what they saw online, it deepens the relationship,” Tung explained. “It brings the online and offline worlds together in a really natural way.”

The Role of Authenticity in an AI-Driven World

While the company embraces AI, Tung stressed that authenticity remains central to the experience. “There’s a lot of excitement about generative AI, but we believe shopping still needs to feel real,” he said. “When people make a purchase, they want to know exactly what they’re getting.”

For that reason, ShopReel AI focuses on enhancing real content rather than generating synthetic imagery. “We think the integration of AI into authentic, real-life video makes the most sense right now,” he added. “Customers want to see genuine products in context, not computer-generated versions. That builds trust.”

Tung acknowledged that some brands are experimenting with AI-generated advertising, citing recent examples like Coca-Cola’s AI holiday campaign, but he believes consumers will increasingly value the human element. “Authenticity is going to matter more than ever,” he said. “That’s where we see ShopReel AI standing out.”

A Proudly Canadian Innovation

Headquartered in Toronto, ShopReel AI is part of Canada’s growing community of technology innovators. The company is also affiliated with the Vector Institute, a government-funded organization that supports the adoption of artificial intelligence across industries.

“The Vector Institute has been instrumental in helping us connect with talent and build our team,” said Tung. “It’s a world-class ecosystem, and we’re proud to be part of it. There’s incredible innovation happening here in Toronto, and we want to contribute to that story.”

He hopes that more Canadian retailers will collaborate with local technology firms like ShopReel AI to accelerate digital transformation. “Canada has the talent and creativity to lead in retail technology,” Tung said. “We just need to keep building those bridges between the tech community and the retail sector.”

The Future of Social Commerce

As social media continues to influence purchasing decisions, platforms like ShopReel AI may represent the next evolution of e-commerce. With over 60 percent of social media users engaging with shopping-related content, Tung believes the timing is ideal for contextual commerce to take off.

“We’re just at the beginning,” he said. “Video is how people consume information today and increasingly, it’s how they shop. As we onboard retailers to our platform,our mission is to make that process as seamless and enjoyable as possible, both for consumers and for the brands that serve them.”

Looking ahead, ShopReel AI plans to expand its partnerships and roll out new features that integrate further with social networks and retail systems. “Our roadmap includes exploring generative tools that enhance video analytics,” Tung said. “But the foundation will always be authentic, intelligent, and human-driven shopping experiences.”

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Keeping Retail and Office Spaces Ready for Business

By
Retail Insider
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Retail and office spaces rely on routine, but that routine only works when the environment stays clean and organised. A spotless floor or tidy counter matters, especially as foot traffic quickly dulls surfaces, marks glass doors and wears down restrooms. It takes more than a quick wipe to keep everything looking ready for the day.

Many businesses underestimate how much of their brand presentation lives in the small things customers and employees notice immediately. Lighting matters, signage matters, but none of it lands properly in a space that feels neglected. Cleanliness sets the tone for everything that follows, from staff morale to customer confidence.

Why Cleaning Retail Spaces and Offices Makes Daily Operations Smoother

Retail and office environments have different rhythms, but both face consistent pressure. People move through them constantly. Packages come in, stock gets shifted, doors open and close and every surface ends up touched by someone. It adds up quickly, which is why many companies turn to office cleaning toronto to keep their workspaces under control.

A commercial team knows how to move through a space efficiently without disrupting operations. They work around foot traffic, early openings and late closings. They manage high-touch surfaces, waiting areas, shared workstations and restrooms with a level of detail that keeps everything feeling fresh well into the workday. When employees walk into a clean office each morning, it sets a quiet expectation of professionalism. In retail settings, it helps customers feel comfortable lingering, browsing and returning.

This consistency matters. A team trained for commercial environments approaches cleaning differently from general residential crews. They understand the patterns of busy spaces and the speed at which grime accumulates. Their work becomes part of the invisible infrastructure that keeps the business running without hiccups.

The Role of a Retail Cleaning Service in Customer Experience

A store’s appearance affects how people behave inside it. When aisles look tidy, shelves feel fresh and floors stay clear of debris, customers slow down. They pay more attention to displays. They pick up items they might otherwise walk past. A good retail cleaning service supports this kind of shopper behaviour by maintaining an atmosphere that feels intentional rather than chaotic.

Retail spaces have practical needs that go far beyond appearances. Changing rooms need constant attention, glass storefronts pick up streaks quickly and back rooms collect dust from stock movement. Spills in busy areas become safety concerns if ignored. A professional team handles these tasks so staff can focus on sales and service, while regular cleaning also keeps inventory presentable by preventing dust from settling on products or packaging.

Why Commercial Cleaning in Toronto Helps Businesses Stay Ahead

Running a business in a city as busy as Toronto means dealing with weather, foot traffic and long operating hours. Winter slush leads to muddy footprints in reception areas. Summer humidity leaves smudges and moisture stains. Delivery routes create dust trails. These challenges make commercial cleaning in Toronto a practical necessity rather than an optional upgrade.

Commercial cleaners use equipment that handles this volume. Industrial vacuums, floor scrubbers and specialised products cut through grime quickly and safely. They know how to maintain flooring materials found in modern offices and retail spaces, whether sealed concrete, laminate, hardwood or tile. Their work protects surfaces that would otherwise wear down faster under constant stress.

Why Clean Workspaces Support Employee Performance

A tidy workspace influences more than appearances. Employees focus better when their environment feels organised. Messy break rooms, overflowing bins or sticky desks send the wrong message. Clutter slows people down mentally and physically. A professionally cleaned office removes these small but meaningful irritations.

Air quality improves too. Dust in vents or on shelves affects people sitting in the same room for eight hours a day. Clean air and clean surfaces contribute to fewer sick days and a generally more comfortable atmosphere. In open-plan offices, where everything feels shared, having a consistent cleaning routine provides reassurance that the environment is being looked after properly.

Why Retail and Office Cleaning Should Be Part of Long-Term Planning

Businesses often budget for décor, advertising, renovations or new technology, but cleaning plans deserve equal attention. A neglected space ages quickly. Floors lose their shine, furniture wears down and dust settles into corners. Once that happens, even the best branding cannot hide it.

Scheduling regular professional cleaning is a long-term maintenance strategy. It protects the investment in furnishings, flooring and fixtures. It keeps the environment welcoming. And it creates a consistent experience for staff and customers alike.

A clean setting also supports compliance with workplace standards. Many industries require regular sanitation, especially in areas where food, health or large groups of people are involved. Professional cleaners help maintain those expectations in the background.

No matter how you look at it, a professional cleaning crew is not a liability, but an invaluable asset for you and your business.

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For December 2, 2025

By
Retail Insider
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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web

News at a Glance

Retail Insider is streamlining its Canadian retail news from around the web to include a handful of top news stories that can be viewed quickly during the day. Here are the top stories from the past 24 hours.

Pay high duties or lose U.S. shoppers? Some Canadian retailers forced to choose amid holiday sales (CBC)

Theft worrying Canadian retailers as busy holiday shopping season begins (CityNews)

Canadian retail beef price hits record high, forcing some shoppers to ditch steak (CBC)

Gildan sees growth opportunities with HanesBrands acquisition – starting with better underwear (Globe & Mail)

U.S. industry groups strongly back renewing CUSMA (MSN)

Loblaw reports slight decrease in Canada’s food inflation rate (Grocery Business)

Toys R Us to shut down all but one of its remaining stores in Quebec (Montreal Gazette)

How a new fund is helping Vancouver Chinatown shops increase their customer base (Vancouver Sun)

Knix Accelerates Retail Growth With New Stores And Partnerships (Forbes)

Weekend online sales after Black Friday up nine per cent from year ago: Salesforce (Canadian Press)

Montreal-area toy store saved by community after Canada Post disruptions threaten holiday catalogue (CTV)

Maison Sarava Brings European Slow Fashion to First Canadian Place (6ix Retail)

Toronto’s Junction Guitars Is Moving to a New Neighbourhood (Exclaim!)

Filipino grocery chain brings viral dance party to Scarborough (CityNews)

New commercial centre in the works for southwest Edmonton (Daily Hive)

Winnipeg retailer says persistent theft, vandalism costs him thousands a month (Winnipeg Free Press)

CLOSURE: Bottle shop just closed the doors of their storefront in Toronto (YourCityWithin)

Calgary-based cannabis giant High Tide expands into Europe with flagship Berlin retail store (MSN)

CAFA Comes to Montreal in 2026 + More Fashion News (Fashion Magazine)

B.C. shoppers prioritizing buying local this holiday season, report reveals (Western Investor)

A push to boycott Amazon in Quebec, especially during the holidays, is ongoing. Does it make sense? (Yahoo)

Black Friday remains retail’s busiest day in Saskatoon (CTV)

Calgary developer looking to revitalize ‘bad luck corner’ at 17th Ave. and 14th St. (CBC)

Calgarians flock to take advantage of Black Friday deals (CTV)

‘I thought it would be packed’: Black Friday shoppers notice smaller crowds from years past at West Edmonton Mall (CTV)

Canadian Black Friday sales rise 6% as AI-driven shopping and Buy Now Pay Later surge: Salesforce

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Gustavo Fring
Photo: Gustavo Fring

The latest Black Friday numbers are out by Salesforce indicating sales in Canada rose year-over-year.

The numbers showed big growth in sales, AI-influenced sales as well as a surge in “Buy Now Pay Later”. 

Black Friday Results | Key Findings for Canada: 

  • Black Friday sales in Canada grew 6% YoY, reaching $865M USD 
  • Average discounting rose to 28% (up from 27% last year)
  • $173M USD in Canadian Black Friday online sales were influenced by AI and digital agents
  • AI-search-referred traffic:
    • AI-search-referred-traffic increased 5x compared to last year’s Black Friday
    • Conversion rates from AI search are 4x higher than social, showing AI’s strength in product discovery
  • Social and Mobile:
    • Social traffic share was 12%, down from 13% last year
    • Mobile traffic share decreased to 74% from 75%
    • Mobile order share increased to 60%, up from 57% last year
  • Payment Shares:
    • Buy Now, Pay Later shares grew from 2.8% to 5.1% this year
    • Mobile Wallet Pay increased from 16% to 18% this year
    • Both these channels are taking share from the traditional payment channels, Credit card/Debit Card, whose shares decreased from 80% last year to 75% this year
Caila Schwartz
Caila Schwartz

Caila Schwartz, Director of Consumer Insights, Salesforce Spend Insights, said: “Canadian Black Friday sales were strong, growing 6% year-over-year to a total of $865 million, suggesting the consumer is certainly still spending, but that growth comes with a clear warning sign. Shoppers are relying heavily on flexible financing to afford those deep discounts. The use of ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ plans surged dramatically, with its share of payments nearly doubling from 2.8% to 5.1% this year. This shows that while retailers successfully drove purchases with aggressive deals, the Canadian consumer’s holiday budget is clearly stretched, forcing them to lean into debt just to ease the cost of shopping.”

“AI took centre stage in Canada during Black Friday. Evolving from a helpful add-on to a critical value driver for retailers, with AI-search-referred traffic surging 5x year-over-year,” she added.

Photo: Gustavo Fring
Photo: Gustavo Fring

Here are some key insights from Salesforce on shopping from Thursday just before Black Friday:

  • Online sales were strong on Thursday with sales up 10% YoY.
  • Order volumes were up 9% YoY, indicating strong demand.
  • Units per transaction also increased 15% YoY with consumers not only placing more orders, but also buying more items at checkout.
  • Discounts were strong heading into the Black Friday event, with Thursday discount rates averaging 30%, up 15% over last year.
    • Thanks to large discounts, the average selling price in Canada fell 12% YoY. 

“The Canadian consumer is converting at rates we haven’t seen in years. By offering discounts up 15% over last year, retailers successfully dropped the average selling price by 12%. This focus on value is unlocking massive demand: not only are shoppers placing more orders, but they are buying 15% more units at checkout. The message is clear: great prices are the engine driving Canada’s strong start to Cyber Weekend,” said Schwartz.

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