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How Retailers Can Automate Billing with Invoice Template Software

In retail, billing a vendor or other entity can be a very repetitive process that can also be very time consuming. A manual process can increase risk and allow opportunity for many issues such as late payments, document errors, and other accounting issues. Fortunately, there are endless invoice template software options available that can assist retailers to fully automate their billing process as well as help present their business more professionally.

The Application of Invoice Template Software for Retailers

Transaction volume 

Many retailers handle a very large volume of transactions. From one off transactions to recurring supply orders, many transactions can add up very quickly throughout the month. Using manual billing methods can get very overwhelming for retailers as there is no file management system. Many retailers are forced to figure out their own organization practice. 

While many retailers can adapt to their own system, others can rely on a system that has been known to work and is reliable. Many Invoice Template Software applications provide document organization as well as cloud storage. This prevents documents from being lost and ensures that retailers can access any document from anywhere. 

Billing Automation

Billing automation reduces any common human errors such as incorrect line items, miscalculated totals, and even duplicated documents. When documents are automatically generated and sent out to vendors, this can ensure that cash flow is consistent and documents are being sent out automatically without delay from human input. 

Generally, all automation tools are major time savers. Instead of spending countless hours organizing and billing, retailers can focus their efforts on other areas of their business. 

Branding

One of the most overlooked aspects when it comes to billing is company branding. The company’s logo, colors, and template design are some of the ways that retailers can differentiate themselves from their competitors. Not everyone is a graphic designer and many do not care to be which is why companies have the luxury of relying on already professionally made template designs. Every platform has their own variety of template designs from professional options to fun and creative designs. It depends on the retailer and the brand for which template design fits their image and brand. 

What is Invoice Template Software?

Invoice Template Software is a system with pre-designed customizable templates that contains all of the fields needed to invoice a customer such as business details, item descriptions, quantities, and pricing. It also has the terms and conditions which further outlines how to get paid as well as any specific due dates.

What should be included within an Invoice Template?

  • Business name and contact information
  • Client’s name and contact information
  • Invoice date
  • Invoice number
  • Products or services as line items
  • Taxes, subtotal, and total
  • Due date 
  • Terms and conditions

Walkthrough on How Retailers Can Automate their Billing

Select your Invoice Template Software

There are many options when it comes to choosing your preferred invoice template software. While many of the options are free, there are some that require payment for certain premium features. It depends on the retailers and what kind of features that they prefer when it comes to their billing. Some invoice template software options offer a free plan where you can invoice up to a specific amount before having to pay a monthly fee. 

Customize a Template

Retailers can set up their invoice template by including their logo, store details and information, tax ID, and any payment terms within the terms and conditions area. Once configured, the template can be reused to send to a variety of vendors or suppliers. 

Configure Automated Billing Settings

Retailers can schedule their invoices to go out on certain business days as well as setting up recurring invoicing rules if they prefer their invoices to be delivered automatically on specific days of the month. 

Add Payment Methods

Adding payment options to the invoice can make it very convenient to be paid securely and quickly. Many options can include Credit Card, Paypal, and Stripe as a payment method depending on the invoicing platform. 

Conclusion: Automating Retail Billing with Invoice Templates

With the rapid growth of digital tools, invoice template software has become essential for businesses that want to operate efficiently. The days of paper, pencil, and Excel sheets are in the past. While some retailers can still get away with using these methods, they will struggle to keep up with their competitors who are enjoying automated billing using their customized invoice templates. 

When retailers pair a customized invoice template with automation software, they not only save time and reduce errors but also create a smoother billing process that allows them to concentrate on growth for other areas in their business. 

From Proms to Corporate Galas: Why Every Event Needs a Photo Booth

When you plan an event, what do people actually remember afterward? It’s sometimes the menu….honestly, rarely the speeches. But the thing everyone remembers is the atmosphere, the laughter, and the little snapshots.

That’s why photo booths are no longer an optional extra. They’ve become the secret ingredient for creating unforgettable events. So, whether you’re looking at a photo booth rental in Toronto, exploring options in Brampton, or considering setups in Mississauga, the effect is the same. Guests walk away with keepsakes that last a long time after the event ends.

Here’s why photo booths work at every kind of gathering…big or small.

Proms and Graduations: Making Milestones Count

Prom night is hyped up for months.
Graduation marks years of hard work.
Students today want more than just a formal photo against a dull backdrop.

This is where a booth changes the energy. Think oversized glasses, glittery hats, and themed props that match school colours. Also,  friends crowd together, laugh at their poses, and leave holding prints they’ll keep forever.

What makes it even better is the instant nature of it. No waiting around for a photographer to upload galleries weeks later. The photos are there, in hand, before the night ends.

For schools working on tight budgets, services like photo booth rental Brampton make it possible without overspending.  It’s an affordable add-on that instantly lifts the experience.

Weddings and Anniversaries: More Than Formal Pictures

Weddings are emotional. They’re carefully planned down to the flower arrangements. But while the photographer captures the aisle walk and the first dance, they can’t be everywhere at once.

That’s where a booth steps in.
It captures the raw, silly, joyful side of the celebration. Guests can be themselves…whether it’s pulling funny faces, squeezing into a group shot, or creating something to remember for the bride and groom.

The personalisation options make it even stronger. Couples can design templates to match their wedding stationery, add custom backdrops, or even create hashtags for digital sharing.

For anniversaries, it’s the same deal, except now you’re celebrating years of love with family and friends joining in.

It’s not a replacement for the photographer. It’s a layer that adds warmth and a little bit of personality to the event.

Corporate Events and Galas: Polished but Playful

Corporate events need a careful balance. You want to keep things professional, but you also don’t want the night to feel stiff.

Photo booths make that balance work.
Imagine a networking event where people loosen up while posing together. It’s easier to break the ice when you’ve already laughed over a silly prop.

The business benefits are huge, too. Companies can brand their booths with logos, create custom templates, and even allow digital sharing straight to social media. That means every photo becomes free marketing.

Services like photo booth Mississauga are designed with this in mind. They cater to corporate crowds, offering sleek setups that feel high-end while still being fun. At a gala or a product launch, it’s an easy way to keep guests engaged while showing off your brand.

Birthdays, Holidays, and Private Celebrations

Not every event needs a ballroom or a corporate sponsor. Sometimes it’s a backyard birthday, a Christmas party, or a family reunion. And booths work just as well in those intimate spaces.

Think about it…what’s better than sending guests home with more than just memories?
A physical print they can pin to the fridge or frame on their desk. It’s a party favour and entertainment rolled into one.

For kids’ birthdays, props keep them laughing and occupied. For adults, the novelty doesn’t wear off; it only gets funnier with each group shot, and at holiday parties, themed props like Santa hats or New Year’s glasses set the mood instantly.

A booth makes even the most casual gathering feel like a big event.

Why Event Planners Keep Choosing Photo Booths?

Ask any event planner and they’ll tell you: simple wins. And photo booths are about as simple as they get.

They require minimal setup, fit into almost any venue, and don’t need heavy supervision. One booth can entertain guests for hours without any extra effort from the host.

They’re scalable, too. For a small gathering, you can go with a compact, budget-friendly booth. For a large gala, you can choose open-air designs that accommodate big groups. Either way, guests are entertained and leave happier.

Planners know their reputation hangs in the balance of how guests feel. A booth isn’t just about photos…it’s about the overall vibe. It ensures people leave smiling, with something tangible in hand.

The Must-Have Factor

Let’s be clear about one thing: photo booths aren’t a passing trend. The reality is that they’ve become a universal part of events because they work on so many levels.

  • They entertain.
  • They create instant keepsakes.
  • They give hosts and businesses a way to personalise and brand their events.
  • They’re flexible enough to fit any occasion, from a teenager’s prom to a company gala.

If you’re hosting, don’t treat a booth as “extra.” Treat it as a core part of the experience.
From photo booth rental in Toronto to setups in Brampton and Mississauga, the options are there to fit every event and every budget.

The only mistake? Waiting too long to book one. Because once guests experience a booth, they expect it at every event afterward.

CapCut Desktop for Storytelling: Editing Features That Hook Viewers

Storytelling has always been at the heart of great content, whether it’s a short clip for social media, a brand video, or a personal project. The difference between an ordinary video and one that captures attention often comes down to editing. With CapCut Desktop Video Editing Software, creators of all levels have access to professional-grade tools designed to make stories shine. What makes CapCut Desktop stand out is how it combines a user-friendly design with powerful features. You don’t need years of editing experience to create videos that look polished, flow smoothly, and keep audiences hooked. Let’s explore why this tool is ideal for storytelling and how you can use it to craft videos that leave a lasting impact.

Why Storytelling Matters in Video Editing

Videos are more than just visuals strung together. They are experiences that communicate feelings, ideas, and messages. A good story builds curiosity, creates emotional connection, and encourages viewers to stay until the very end. However, storytelling in videos doesn’t just rely on the script or concept—it relies heavily on editing. Transitions, pacing, effects, sound, and visuals all come together to guide the audience through the story. This is where CapCut Desktop makes the job much easier for creators.

CapCut Desktop Editing Features That Hook Viewers

Here are some of the standout features that make CapCut Desktop a great choice for storytellers:

1. Intuitive Timeline Editing

CapCut Desktop Video Editor offers a drag-and-drop timeline that makes it simple to arrange clips, trim unnecessary parts, and add effects. The clean layout ensures that even beginners can easily manage multiple layers of video and audio, allowing for smooth and professional storytelling.

2. Transitions that Enhance Flow

A story loses impact if the cuts between clips feel abrupt. CapCut’s wide range of transitions ensures your narrative flows seamlessly. From smooth fades to dynamic motion effects, transitions help you control pacing and maintain audience attention.

3. Text and Subtitles for Clarity

Text tools are essential for storytelling, especially when you want to emphasize dialogue, highlight key points, or make content accessible to a wider audience. CapCut allows you to add stylish subtitles, Voice Changer, captions, and animated text that keep viewers engaged.

4. Sound Effects and Music Sync

Sound is a powerful storytelling tool. With CapCut, you can add background music, adjust audio levels, and insert sound effects that bring scenes to life. Whether it’s suspense, excitement, or emotion, audio editing helps set the mood.

5. Filters and Color Grading

The look of your video often determines how viewers feel about it. CapCut Desktop provides filters and color adjustment tools to create the right atmosphere—warm tones for nostalgia, cool tones for suspense, or vibrant colors for energy.

6. Creative Stickers and Overlays

Sometimes, a fun sticker or creative overlay can enhance your story. CapCut also has an Online Photo Editor that includes a library of stickers, effects, and overlays that make videos visually exciting without being overwhelming.

7. Exporting in High Quality

Good storytelling loses its magic if the final video is blurry or pixelated. CapCut supports high-resolution exports so that your work looks crisp on any platform, whether it’s TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram.

How to Use CapCut Desktop for Storytelling

If you’re ready to turn your ideas into captivating videos, follow this simple guide:

Step 1: Build the Foundation of Your Story

Start by importing your clips, audio, and images into CapCut Desktop. Place them on the timeline in the order that matches your story’s beginning, middle, and end. Trim unnecessary parts so the pacing feels smooth. At this stage, think of yourself as laying the foundation of a house—keeping it clear and structured ensures everything else falls into place later. Arrange clips logically to reflect the narrative. Trim dead space or irrelevant footage. Use markers to highlight important story moments.

Step 2: Enhance with Effects, Text, and Audio

Now that your structure is set, it’s time to make the video engaging. Add transitions between clips to maintain flow. Insert text or captions for clarity, especially if your audience is scrolling without sound. Layer in background music and sound effects to set the mood. Use smooth transitions to avoid abrupt jumps. Add animated text to emphasize key points. Balance audio so dialogue is clear and music isn’t overpowering.

Step 3: Polish and Finalize Your Story

The final step is about fine-tuning. Adjust color grading to create the right mood. Add overlays, stickers, or filters to match your style. Watch the video multiple times to ensure pacing feels natural and nothing feels out of place. Finally, export your video in high resolution so your story looks professional wherever it’s shared. Apply consistent color grading for mood. Check audio levels for clarity. Export in HD or 4K for the best results.

Conclusion

Storytelling is the backbone of every memorable video, and with CapCut Desktop Video Editor, you have everything you need to bring stories to life. From smooth transitions and text animations to music, effects, and color grading, this tool helps creators shape narratives that keep audiences engaged. By following a clear process—structuring your story, enhancing it with effects, and polishing it before export—you can turn raw footage into a video that hooks viewers from start to finish. Whether you’re a content creator, business owner, or just someone who loves sharing stories, CapCut Desktop is your partner in creating videos that connect, inspire, and entertain.

Pop Mart to Open 1st Canadian Store at CF Richmond Centre

Pop Mart construction hoarding at CF Richmond Centre. Photo: Ritchie Po

Pop Mart will open its first Canadian store this fall at CF Richmond Centre in Richmond, south of Vancouver. The 1,325-square-foot space will sit in a prime location between the centre’s Apple Store and Anne Louise Jewellers. The store will feature a 30-foot-wide façade and is expected to draw large crowds of collectors, many eager to line up for Pop Mart’s highly sought-after product drops, including limited-edition Labubu dolls that have become a global phenomenon.

The opening of Pop Mart CF Richmond Centre represents a milestone for the brand, which until now had operated in Canada primarily through vending machines and third-party resellers. The new store marks the company’s first fully brand-operated retail location in the country, providing Canadian fans with direct access to its complete range of collectibles and exclusive releases. More Pop Mart locations will open in Canada in the coming months.

Jeff Berkowitz of Aurora Realty Consultants is handling the Canadian Pop Mart store expansion as broker.

Pop Mart store. Photo: Pop Mart

A New Era for Pop Mart in Canada

Opening signage for the store was first spotted this week, creating excitement within Canada’s growing community of designer toy enthusiasts. Pop Mart’s decision to launch its first Canadian flagship at CF Richmond Centre signals a shift toward immersive, experience-focused retail, aligning with its strategy in global markets.

Unlike previous resellers or “Binggo” stores that carried Pop Mart products in the past, this location will offer the full Pop Mart experience, including authentic figures, frequent product drops, and the latest global releases. The brand is known for its vibrant store interiors, interactive displays, and carefully timed launches that often attract long lines of collectors.

Pop Mart construction hoarding beside Apple at CF Richmond Centre. Photo: Ritchie Po

Community Anticipation and Product Drops

Collectors are already buzzing on social media about the upcoming opening. Local toy enthusiasts expect the debut to include either a special product drop or a lottery ticket system to manage demand for limited releases. Popular figures such as Labubu from “The Monsters” series and the ever-popular Molly will likely be available at launch, alongside collaborations with major global franchises such as Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

For Canadian fans, this store will provide more reliable access to products that were previously difficult to obtain. Pop Mart has maintained an official Canadian website and app, but demand often outstripped supply during online drops. Having a permanent storefront at CF Richmond Centre will allow the brand to maintain better inventory, create in-store events, and build a direct relationship with its Canadian consumer base.

Popular items from Pop Mart

Pop Mart’s Global Presence and Strategy

Founded in Beijing in 2010, Pop Mart has become a global leader in the collectible toy market, pioneering the “blind box” format that has since been emulated by other companies. The concept is simple yet addictive: customers buy a sealed box without knowing which character they will receive until they open it, creating excitement and encouraging repeat purchases to complete sets.

Globally, Pop Mart operates more than 570 retail stores in 18 countries and over 2,600 “Roboshop” vending machines, with a strong presence across Asia, Europe, and the United States. The opening of Pop Mart CF Richmond Centre marks the first step in what may become a broader Canadian expansion, bringing the brand’s artist-driven collectibles to major urban markets.

Labubu dolls, image: Pop Mart

CF Richmond Centre as a Strategic Location

CF Richmond Centre is one of the most strategically placed shopping centres in Canada. Owned and managed by Cadillac Fairview, the centre features over 200 stores and services, including Uniqlo, Zara, Aritzia, Apple, Sephora, and Muji. Its central location, direct connection to the Canada Line SkyTrain, and role as a community hub make it an ideal launchpad for Pop Mart’s first Canadian location.

The mall has undergone significant redevelopment over the past decade, including the transformation of the former Sears site into a mixed-use community with more than 1,800 residential units. This evolution has increased foot traffic and reinforced the centre’s position as a lifestyle destination. 

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TRUBAR announces continued retail expansion in Canada

Photo: TRUBAR website
Photo: TRUBAR website

TRUBAR Inc., a “better-for-you snacking company” which says it is focused on delivering high-quality, plant-based protein products with exceptional taste and made with clean, recognizable ingredients, is continuing to expand its presence in Canada with launches in Costco, Pattison Food Group and Healthy Planet stores.

The recent expansions increase the availability of TRUBAR in more than 3,750 retail doors across Canada, said the company.

The latest TRUBAR launches are now underway in:

  • Costco Canada East, expansion into 71 stores in Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador.
  • 242 Pattison Food Group stores operating under the retail banners Save-on-Foods, Urban Fare and Buy Low Foods. Pattison is Canada’s largest Western-based provider of food and health products.
  • 37 Healthy Planet stores, Ontario’s leading health and wellness retailer featuring a full selection of better-for-you products.

The inclusion of Costco, Pattison Food Group and Healthy Planet further enhances TRUBAR’s  retail footprint across Canada.

These additions join an already extensive network that includes Walmart, Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, Fortino’s, Zehrs, Your Independent Grocer (YIG), Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Longo’s, Thrifty Foods, Fresh Street Market, Metro, Food Basics, Whole Foods, Shoppers Drug Mart, Bulk Barn, 7-Eleven, Nature Emporium, and many other Canadian retailers, as well as online availability through Trubar.ca and Amazon.ca, said the company.

Erica Groussman
Erica Groussman

“These recent launches build on our growing momentum in Canada, where we have a strong mix of regional and national retailer partners from coast to coast,” said Erica Groussman, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of TRUBAR.

“I’m very pleased with the progress we have made ramping up our North American distribution footprint over the last several months. With the additional resources and investment dedicated to the Canadian market, we are well-positioned to accelerate this growth and deepen our presence across the country.”

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Harden and Crombie Break Ground on Faubourg Contrecœur in Montreal

Faubourg Contrecœur, rendering via Harden

Real estate development and investment company Harden, in partnership with Crombie REIT, has officially broken ground on Faubourg Contrecœur, a major commercial project in Montréal’s Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough. The $30-million investment will introduce new retail and community amenities to the city’s growing east end and marks a significant milestone for residents seeking enhanced local services.

Located at 3553 rue de Contrecœur at the intersection of rue Sherbrooke Est and rue de Contrecœur, the development will transform over 240,000 square feet of land into a modern retail hub anchored by an IGA extra supermarket, which is expected to open in the summer of 2026.

Faubourg Contrecœur location in Montreal. Map via Harden

Faubourg Contrecœur will offer over 52,000 square feet of Gross Leasable Area (GLA) and is designed to integrate sustainability and convenience for the neighbourhood. The project will feature green spaces, bicycle paths, EV charging stations, and solar-powered rooftops. More than 170 parking spaces will be provided, ensuring accessibility for shoppers while supporting environmentally conscious infrastructure.

“Today marks a significant milestone for the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community. It is with great enthusiasm that we break ground on a development that will bring long-awaited amenities to residents,” said Tyler Harden, Co-CEO of Harden. “Our vision has always been to create a space that enhances daily life, supports local jobs, and fosters growth for the entire community. Partnering with Crombie to bring Faubourg Contrecœur to life allows us to support the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community and respond to a significant need.”

Faubourg Contrecœur location in Montreal. Image via Harden

IGA extra to Anchor the Retail Offering

The highly anticipated IGA extra supermarket will be the anchor tenant, taking up 40,000 square feet of GLA within the project. Its arrival will give east-end residents convenient access to a full-service grocery store featuring a butcher shop, bakery, Rachelle Béry section, and other amenities. The location is designed to be a local gathering place that not only provides fresh, high-quality products but also supports Quebec producers and creates new jobs.

“We are delighted to launch the construction of the future 40,000 sq. ft. IGA extra in Faubourg Contrecœur, which will offer a comprehensive and personalized experience,” said Geneviève Dufresne, AVP, Real Estate Development and Transactions Qc & Atl. at Sobeys. “With its butcher shop, bakery, Rachelle Béry section and sustainable features, this new store will create local jobs, promote our Quebec producers and become a true gathering place for families in the community by the summer of 2026.”

Two retail pads, approximately 10,000 square feet and 3,000 square feet respectively, remain available and are expected to complement the grocery anchor by broadening the site’s overall retail offering. These pads could host additional services and retailers providing affordable essentials and conveniences that meet the needs of area residents.

“Faubourg Contrecœur is an excellent example of Crombie’s commitment to working with our partners to enrich communities coast to coast through thoughtful and sustainable community hubs,” said Victor Settino, Executive Vice President, Development and Construction at Crombie. “We’re proud of the positive impact this project will have on Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve.”

Faubourg Contrecœur in Montreal. Floor plan via Harden

Building on Proven Development Expertise

The partnership between Harden and Crombie brings together two of Canada’s most experienced real estate developers. Harden, a second-generation, family-owned real estate company established in 1985, owns and operates a diverse portfolio of commercial, residential, and industrial properties across Quebec and Ontario. The company is vertically integrated, managing every stage of the real estate process including development, construction, leasing, and asset management—experience that will guide Faubourg Contrecœur from planning to completion.

Crombie contributes a national perspective with a portfolio that spans grocery-anchored retail, retail-related industrial assets, and mixed-use residential properties. As of June 30, 2025, Crombie’s portfolio included 306 properties representing approximately 18.8 million square feet, inclusive of joint ventures and a pipeline of future development projects. The company’s focus on building community-oriented retail nodes ensures that Faubourg Contrecœur will be aligned with long-term growth and sustainability objectives.

Faubourg Contrecœur in Montreal. Image via Harden

Strengthening the Neighbourhood’s Future

The east end of Montreal has seen rapid residential development over the past decade, and Faubourg Contrecœur aims to become a catalyst for additional economic activity and employment opportunities. By integrating sustainable features like solar panels and EV infrastructure, the project also supports the City of Montréal’s climate initiatives.

Once complete, the commercial hub is expected to attract shoppers from across the borough, drawing foot traffic to surrounding businesses and boosting local economic growth. The addition of a modern supermarket is expected to fill a key gap for residents who have sought improved access to groceries and other everyday essentials close to home.

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Canada’s Economy Expected to Grow Despite Tariffs: RBC

Andrea's Cookies on Ossington Avenue in Toronto. Image: CBRE Urban Retail Team

Canada’s economic outlook has softened but not stalled, according to RBC Economics’ latest Quarterly Canadian Outlook, which expects low but positive growth through the remainder of 2025. The report argues that tariff-exposed industries absorbed the sharpest blow in the second quarter, yet broader domestic demand and the protective role of CUSMA exemptions kept the overall economy from tipping into contraction. 

RBC notes that trade-sensitive sectors were the clear weak spot in the spring. Exports fell and manufacturing output contracted at an annualized rate of 8 percent, reflecting the bite from U.S. tariffs. Imports of Canadian steel and aluminum products that are subject to a 50 percent tariff dropped nearly 50 percent year over year in July, underscoring the severity within targeted categories. Even so, the report emphasizes that most Canadian exports still crossed the border duty-free, limiting the damage to specific sectors rather than the economy as a whole.

The labour market loosened but did not break. The national unemployment rate rose to 7.1 percent in August, the highest outside the pandemic in nearly a decade. RBC attributes much of the increase to longer job searches among new entrants, rather than a surge in permanent layoffs, and points to a moderation in the growth of job losses tied to permanent separations. 

Consumers Remain the Anchor

Household spending helped stabilize the picture. Consumer outlays jumped 4.5 percent in the second quarter, and RBC’s card-transaction tracking showed momentum carrying into the early part of the third quarter. This resilience in consumption, together with a modest improvement in housing activity, is central to RBC’s view that growth can remain positive even as net trade subtracts less from GDP than it did in the spring. 

Early third-quarter indicators add to that case. RBC highlights three consecutive monthly gains in export volumes through July, improving manufacturing sales, and signs of firming in existing-home markets. The report frames the third quarter as more constructive than the second, with a smaller drag from trade and manufacturing. 

Shopping Purchase Retail Customer Consumer Sale Concept

CUSMA’s Cushion and the Tariff Split

A key plank in the outlook is the continued protection afforded by the CUSMA framework. RBC estimates that 88 

percent of Canadian exports to the United States remained tariff-free in July. Within that split, tariff-targeted products were down 16 percent from a year earlier, while products that remained largely duty-free eked out a 0.5 percent gain. The bank argues that preserving the exemptions is critical to limiting spillovers from U.S. tariff policy into the integrated North American industrial base.

The policy message is symmetrical. RBC stresses that CUSMA matters to exporters north of the border and importers south of it, pointing to the risk that broader tariff escalation would shrink activity across a tightly linked supply chain. With formal CUSMA expiry not arriving until 2036, and discussions on extension slated to begin next year at the latest, the report casts the agreement’s continuity as a central stabilizer for planning and investment on both sides of the border.

On monetary policy, RBC does not build further interest-rate cuts into its base case, but it emphasizes that the Bank of Canada retains room to act if growth falters again. Given that the heaviest drag in the second quarter came from trade and manufacturing, and that consumption has continued to surprise on the upside, the bank sees the decision for near-term easing as close to even. The growing role of targeted fiscal support at the federal and provincial levels also shapes the macro mix heading into year-end.

Provinces Diverge as Trade Shocks Hit Unevenly

The national shock is not distributed evenly. RBC trims 2025 growth forecasts for provinces with heavier exposure to metals and manufacturing supply chains. Ontario’s projection falls to 0.9 percent from 1.3 percent, Quebec’s slips to 1.2 percent from 1.3 percent, and Manitoba’s is lowered to 1.0 percent from 1.2 percent, reflecting embedded metal content in transport equipment and machinery. British Columbia’s forecast is cut to 1.0 percent from 1.2 percent amid sharper lumber duties and the wind-down of major capital projects. By contrast, Prince Edward Island is revised higher to 2.0 percent from 1.7 percent on the strength of tourism and construction. 

RBC says Ontario is “in the eye of the trade war storm,” with localized recessions possible in municipalities where joblessness has moved into the double digits. Even there, the bank argues, household demand, a stabilizing job market, and a rebound in existing-home sales should keep provincial growth in positive territory, albeit at a low rate. 

Photo: Vancouver Fraser Port Authority

China’s Tariffs Complicate the Export Map

While U.S. measures dominate the headlines, RBC also flags the role of Chinese tariffs. Levies on seafood had already been incorporated into projections for Atlantic Canada and have not altered above-national growth expectations there. New canola tariffs that took effect in mid-August arrived too late in the growing season to materially change 2025 GDP profiles for the Prairie provinces, but RBC indicates these could influence the 2026 path depending on how trade talks evolve in the months ahead.

Risk Balance: Still Tilted to the Downside

The bank’s risk assessment remains cautious. If U.S. tariffs broaden or intensify, the integrated nature of continental manufacturing could pull activity lower even where Canadian tariff exposure is limited on paper. Domestically, a higher unemployment rate, still-elevated household debt burdens, and sector-specific stress in manufacturing, transportation, and lumber leave parts of the economy vulnerable to a renewed slowdown. The mitigating factors are tangible but narrow: resilient consumption, targeted fiscal programs, and the legal durability of CUSMA. 

What It Means for Retail

For Canadian retail, the contours of RBC’s outlook suggest a mixed operating environment. The consumer remains the core stabilizer, supported by wage growth and easing inflation, which is consistent with the bank’s evidence of elevated card spending through the summer. That helps categories tied to services, travel, essentials, and value-driven discretionary purchases. At the same time, uneven regional growth implies that national chains will see sharper contrasts at the store level, particularly in Ontario’s manufacturing belts and in British Columbia communities linked to forest products. Merchants exposed to tariff-affected inputs or to export-dependent industrial customers will feel the pinch more acutely than those focused on domestically sourced goods and experiences.

Against that backdrop, retailers may lean further into inventory flexibility, private-label value, and localized pricing and promotion. If the Bank of Canada opts to ease policy again because growth disappoints, borrowing costs could offer a modest tailwind to durable goods demand, but RBC’s base case does not assume that outcome. The bank’s central scenario is steadier rather than strong, with pressure concentrated where trade headwinds are most direct. 

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Jo Malone London debuts newest global ambassador, India Amarteifio

Jo Malone London's Scent Layering Ambassador India Amarteifio

Jo Malone London says British actor India Amarteifio is the face of its Scent Layering campaign.

A true Brit and unapologetic Londoner, India prefers tea to coffee and the Underground to black cabs. The actor rose to fame playing the young Queen Charlotte in Netflix’s Bridgerton prequel series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story and is widely regarded as one to watch, said the company.

“I’m so excited to be partnering with Jo Malone London, it feels incredibly special for me. As an actor, I’m always exploring ways to express character and emotion, and I’ve found that fragrance can be just as powerful in telling a story. The Scent Layering campaign is all about expressing yourself—and that’s something I really connect with,” said Amarteifio.

India Amarteifio
India Amarteifio

The campaign

Jo Malone London said every cologne is a blend of carefully chosen ingredients made to combine with one another to create a scent that is uniquely you.

As Céline Roux, Global Head Of Fragrance explained: ‘The way we create always takes Scent Layering into consideration. Right from the start, when the perfumers and I start the fragrances, we create them so they can be layered with our other scents. It’s about self-expression. It’s about play.’

The Scent Layering campaign invites you to layer your signature scent with Grapefruit, English Oak & Hazelnut or Peony & Blush Suede. These three Scent Layering combiners adapt your chosen cologne to suit your mood, the occasion or season. Add a twist of citrus with Grapefruit to feel uplifted and bright, add a burst of freshness with English Oak & Hazelnut for an elegant edge to a fun night out and, for feel-good days through to cosy nights in, add a layer of warmth with Peony & Blush Suede, said the company.

Céline Roux
Céline Roux

In the Scent Layering campaign, India immerses herself in these three Scent Layering combiners. With each new combination, she channels the scents’ effects as she playfully explores new ways to wear the scent and express different moods.

“Scent Layering is so playful and personal and gives you the freedom to experiment and create something that’s entirely your own. I love how I can combine the Jo Malone London fragrances, it’s fun, expressive and endlessly personal – which is exactly why this collaboration feels like such a natural fit for me,” added Amarteifio.

Since 1994 Jo Malone London has created a palette of scents. Acquired by The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. in 1999, today the brand is internationally known for its unexpected fragrances and distinctly British character.

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More than 80% of Canadians have permanently changed how they shop, says Kantar report

Photo: Alexandra Maria
Photo: Alexandra Maria

A significant majority of Canadians, over 80%, say they have made at least one permanent change to their buying behaviour, according to new insights from Kantar’s latest MONITOR report.

“What you’re looking at is a truly historical convergence of factors that have given Canadians a real reason to think deeply about how they want to engage as consumers,” said Casey Ferrell, Senior Vice President and Head of U.S. and Canada MONITOR at Kantar.

Casey Ferrell
Casey Ferrell

The shift in consumer mindset, he explained, is being driven by a combination of global and local pressures.

“Between the geopolitical tensions and drama unfolding with the Trump administration, persistent economic challenges, stagnation, and cost of living issues, and then a shifting global economic landscape where the benefits of globalism are being questioned, I think you sort of take those three big things and have Canadians really rethinking who they want to be as consumers.”

That reflection is showing up in the data, with many consumers reporting that their purchasing habits have changed for good.

“When they’re engaging in the marketplace, they’re really thinking about it in a considered way,” said Ferrell. “I think that’s probably behind the attitude that you’re seeing in that figure: eight in 10 Canadians say that some of their buying behaviours are permanently changed.”

The State of the Canadian Consumer report can be found here.

Still, the question remains: are these changes actually permanent?

“I think we have to take people at their word when they say they intend to make these behaviours permanent,” said Ferrell. “Whether they, in fact, are even happening now, let alone whether they’re permanent, I think is an open question.”

He pointed to early indicators that suggest a gap between aspiration and action.

“I’ve seen a number of clients reporting to us that their sales data is not necessarily telling the same story that consumers are about buying Canadian and the incidence of buying Canadian and the shift away from American brands,” he explained.

“I think these are aspirational attitudes, but the degree to which they can become permanent behaviours that’s a very big leap.”

Ferrell noted that practical realities, such as price, value, and convenience, remain dominant decision-making factors for most shoppers.

Photo: 
Borko Manigoda
Photo: Borko Manigoda

“Buying Canadian, for example, may be aspirational and it may well be exactly what the Canadian consumer would like to be able to do, but it may be difficult for them to get to the stores that carry those Canadian products sometimes. Or it may be challenging for their household budget to stretch and pay more for Canadian-made products.”

The Kantar MONITOR report aims to help businesses understand exactly these types of evolving attitudes. Ferrell leads the U.S. and Canadian divisions of MONITOR, Kantar’s proprietary consumer insights product. 

Kantar itself is a global leader in marketing data and analytics. “We partner with 96 of the world’s 100 biggest advertisers to help them understand how people around the world think and feel and act,” Ferrell said.

The longer-term implications are still unfolding.

“I think the longer-term, adaptive response is still taking shape,” Ferrell said. “Can you really stop shopping at Walmart? That may not be realistic in the long run.”

Instead, Ferrell suggests Canadians may start shifting their behaviours in more subtle, but sustainable, ways.

“There may be some other, more long-term sustainable types of shifts. They may even be a little bit more subtle, but more sustainable over the long haul.”

According to Ferrell, the market is in transition.

“We’re in the hard part, getting past the period of high emotion, and moving toward a future where attitudes and behaviours align. But align in a way that allows for consumers to live the lives they want to live.”

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Temple Lifestyle Brands acquires Rise Kombucha

Temple Lifestyle Brands Acquires Rise® Kombucha, Cementing Its Role as a Functional Beverage Leader in Canada (CNW Group/Temple Lifestyle Brands)

Temple Lifestyle Brands, parent company of Thirsty Buddha and one of Canada’s fastest-growing health and wellness companies, has acquired Rise Kombucha, the country’s leading kombucha brand.

This strategic union brings together two powerhouse Canadian beverage names and accelerates Temple’s mission to build a category-defining platform in functional beverages, said the company.

“According to Grand View Research, the Canadian functional drinks market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 9.4%, reaching almost USD 7.9 billion by 2030, driven by strong consumer demand. This acquisition positions Temple to capture more of that growth while reinforcing its commitment to innovation, quality, and delivering products Canadians can feel good about,” said Temple.

“Founded in Montreal in 2008, Rise Kombucha has earned national acclaim for its authentic, organic, unpasteurized kombucha, brewed with purpose, high-quality ingredients, and a deep commitment to gut health, innovation, and sustainability. From humble beginnings to national distribution in major retailers, Rise has become one of the most recognized functional beverage brands in Canada. With bold flavours and a passion for wellness, Rise is reshaping how Canadians experience better-for-you beverages.”

“We are thrilled about this transaction, as we’ve long admired what the team at Rise has built, a beloved brand rooted in quality, community, and wellness,” said Christopher Magnone, Co-Founder and CEO of Temple Lifestyle Brands. “Bringing Rise into our family is more than an acquisition, it’s a powerful step forward in our mission to revolutionize better-for-you beverages. It brings us closer to our north star: 100 million better-for-you beverages consumed annually by 2035. One beverage at a time, we’re inspiring healthier living across Canada.”

Christopher Magnone
Christopher Magnone

With Temple’s support, Rise is positioned to scale faster, expanding its reach, bringing new innovations to market, and unlocking additional value for consumers and retail partners. The combined strength of Temple and Rise creates immediate synergies across operations, retail, and distribution throughout Canada and beyond, explained the company.

Temple Lifestyle offers diversified manufacturing capabilities, a broad omnichannel distribution network, and a strong commercial engine. The addition of Rise strengthens Temple’s portfolio and cements its position as a functional beverage trailblazer. Temple’s flagship brand, Thirsty Buddha, is Canada’s #1 organic coconut water and a leader in functional hydration. Together, Rise and Thirsty Buddha form a powerful portfolio of better-for-you beverages, each maintaining its unique identity while benefiting from shared resources and reach, it added.

“This is a heartfelt milestone in Rise’s journey,” said Charles Chang, former Chairman of the Board of Rise Kombucha. “What began in Montreal with a simple idea, to craft a kombucha as bold and authentic as the people who drink it, has grown into something truly meaningful. Temple shares our passion for wellness, sustainability, and community, and is uniquely positioned to unlock the brand’s next phase of growth with the scale, operational strength, and expertise to make it happen. The future is bright, and we can’t wait to watch Rise continue to flourish.”

Mathieu Sasseville
Mathieu Sasseville

The acquisition is backed by Québec-based impact investors led by Fondaction, underscoring a strong commitment to sustainable growth and local economic development.

“As an impact investor, adding Rise to Temple’s family of brands makes a lot of sense and deepens the offering for Canadian consumers who want healthier products,” said Mathieu Sasseville, Director, Sustainable and Impact Investments, Fondaction. “We are thrilled to continue this journey and support Temple’s management team in their growth ambitions.”

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