Advertisement
Advertisement
Home Blog Page 196

IKEA Canada celebrates 40 years of the iconic Swedish Meatball with new menu launch

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
A new plant-based option is coming to IKEA stores this late fall: eight crispy falafel balls with couscous, mixed vegetables, garlic aioli and a lemon vinaigrette sauce for just $8.99. (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the IKEA Swedish meatball—a dish that has become as iconic to IKEA as its flat-packed furniture. With over 1.4 billion food balls sold annually, the meatball has evolved from a traditional Swedish staple into a global favourite, inspiring variations like the chicken ball and plant ball. To celebrate this milestone, IKEA Canada is launching a brand-new all-round menu in late Fall 2025, available in Swedish Restaurants and Swedish Delis nationwide. The refreshed menu honours the legacy of the meatball while introducing bold, globally inspired flavours that reflect the diversity of Canada.

Elena Pozueta
Elena Pozueta

“At IKEA Canada, we believe food should be joyful, inclusive, and accessible to all,” said Elena Pozueta Larios, Head of IKEA Food at IKEA Canada. “Our new all-round menu is a celebration of the beloved meatball in all its forms—bringing together bold global flavours and sustainable ingredients that reflect the rich diversity of Canada.

“Whether you’re craving something plant-based, pescatarian, or simply comforting, there’s something for everyone at our Swedish Restaurants and Swedish Delis. We’re proud to offer these new dishes at prices that make dining out affordable, without compromising on taste or quality. This is just the beginning—we’re excited to continue evolving our menu to reflect the tastes and cultures of the many Canadians we serve.”

IKEA said it first ventured into food in 1960, opening its first in-store restaurant in Älmhult, Sweden. Founder Ingvar Kamprad believed that well-fed customers were happier shoppers. In 1985, he invited Swedish chef Severin Sjöstedt to develop a meatball recipe that would appeal to the many. After nearly a year of testing, the final recipe was born—one that remains largely unchanged today.

“Ingvar had a knack for knowing what would resonate with the IKEA customers and introducing a classic Swedish meatball was his big idea,” said Severin. “I came from high-end restaurants before IKEA, and the idea of finding one recipe that would appeal to the many and stand the test of time was an exciting challenge. We must have tested one hundred recipes before we declared this one the winner. It’s still the recipe I use when making meatballs at home for my grandchildren.”

IKEA Canada Celebrates 40 Years of the Iconic Swedish Meatball with a Bold New Menu Launch (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)

By the 1990s, IKEA said its restaurants were expanding globally, offering affordable Swedish classics adapted to local tastes. In 2006, the Swedish Food Market introduced take-home frozen meatballs, sauces, and other Scandinavian favorites, allowing people to create a Swedish meal in their own home.

Over the years, IKEA said it tested and served different recipes, such as introducing chicken and veggies balls, innovating on the round food concept. The HUVUDROLL plant-based ball, designed to replicate the original flavour of the original meatball, launched in 2020 in an effort to offer healthier and more sustainable food choices.

“IKEA Canada is introducing a refreshed all-round menu that celebrates the entire meatball family, offering a variety of globally inspired dishes that reflect the rich cultural diversity of Canada. From plant-based nachos to Middle Eastern falafel and Scandinavian seafood options, the new menu brings bold flavours and sustainable ingredients to the forefront—available in IKEA Swedish Restaurants and Swedish Delis starting late Fall 2025,” said the retailer.

“Designed with affordability and accessibility in mind, the new menu offers six new dishes unique to Canada, alongside the classic eight-piece meatball dish that has long been a customer favourite. With prices starting at just $6.99, Canadians can enjoy high-quality, flavourful meals that suit a range of dietary preferences and budgets. This launch marks the beginning of an ongoing journey to bring more inclusive and globally inspired food experiences to IKEA customers across the country.”

IKEA Canada’s new Plant Ball Nachos dish will launch across Canada late this fall for just $6.99. (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)

In addition to the classic eight-piece Swedish meatball dish, the new menu will feature six new dishes, each offering a unique flavour profile and inspired by the diverse cuisine in Canada:

  • Plant ball nachos with pico de gallo and jalapeno aioli, $6.99
  • Eight-piece plant balls with roasted potatoes, scallions, pesto and parmesan cheese, $8.99
  • Eight-piece falafel balls with couscous, mixed vegetables, garlic aioli and a lemon vinaigrette, $8.99
  • Six-piece cod balls served alongside French fries and kale salad with Lingonberry vinegrette and tartar sauce, $9.99
  • Chicken ball tikka masala served with rice, yogurt and naan, $9.99
  • Salmon filet dinner with roasted pesto potatoes, peas, and lingonberry kale in a hollandaise sauce, $11.99

Canadians can enjoy the new all-round menu in IKEA stores nationwide starting late Fall 2025.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Tom Ford to Open 1st Standalone Store in Canada at Yorkdale

By
Craig Patterson
-
Construction hoarding for the new Tom Ford store at Toronto's Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson

Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre will become home to Tom Ford’s first standalone store in Canada. Construction is already underway, with signage now visible on hoarding within the mall’s newest luxury wing. The store will span approximately 3,100 square feet and bring together Tom Ford’s men’s and women’s collections under one roof, a first for the Canadian market.

Yorkdale, owned and managed by Oxford Properties, has become Canada’s premier destination for luxury retail, attracting global brands eager to establish flagship locations. This opening underscores Yorkdale’s position as the top choice for luxury retailers entering or expanding in Canada.

The upcoming Tom Ford boutique will occupy a prominent location in Yorkdale’s new luxury wing between Loewe, which opened at Yorkdale last year, and a Dior flagship that is set to open Tuesday of this week. Across the aisle, two of the mall’s largest luxury flagships are also on the way: Saint Laurent will unveil an expanded 11,000-square-foot location this fall, while Gucci is set to open a 12,000-square-foot store in 2026.

The new luxury wing has quickly become a hub for some of the world’s most prestigious brands, with recent openings including Brunello Cucinelli, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Maison Margiela, Rimowa, Loro Piana, and others. This cluster of top-tier retailers creates a critical mass of luxury offerings that is drawing both domestic and international shoppers.

Brokerage DWSV Realty, led by David Wedemire and Stan Vyriotes, represented Tom Ford in the lease transaction.

Tom Ford boutique in Singapore. Photo: Tom Ford

Tom Ford’s Canadian Presence to Date

While this will be the first dedicated Tom Ford store in Canada, the brand has maintained a presence through select wholesale partners. Tom Ford menswear is available in dedicated shop-in-shops at several Harry Rosen locations nationwide, and Holt Renfrew operates Tom Ford menswear boutiques at its Vancouver and Montreal flagships. Holt Renfrew previously carried the women’s collection in Toronto and Vancouver, but the Yorkdale opening marks the first time that Canadian shoppers will have access to the full range of men’s and women’s ready-to-wear collections, accessories, and footwear in a single standalone space.

Industry insiders have talked about Tom Ford seeking retail space for Canada for years, with Toronto and Vancouver often mentioned as key markets. While Yorkdale has now been confirmed, it remains to be seen whether Tom Ford will pursue additional locations in Vancouver or other Canadian cities.

The Rise of Tom Ford as a Global Luxury Brand

Tom Ford founded his namesake label in 2005 after his highly influential tenure as creative director at Gucci, where he was widely credited with revitalizing the brand. Under Ford’s direction, the Tom Ford brand quickly became synonymous with refined glamour, introducing menswear, accessories, eyewear, and fragrance lines that set a new standard for modern luxury.

One of the brand’s earliest successes was the 2006 launch of “Tom Ford Black Orchid,” a fragrance that remains a global bestseller. Tom Ford eyewear, produced in collaboration with Marcolin Group, has become a defining product category, instantly recognizable for its sleek design and signature “T” motif.

Over the years, Tom Ford has dressed celebrities, politicians, and cultural icons, including Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, and Daniel Craig in several James Bond films. The brand’s association with red-carpet style and popular culture has cemented its status as one of the most influential names in fashion.

New luxury wing at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson

Corporate Evolution and Brand Direction

In 2023, Tom Ford sold his brand in a landmark transaction: The Estée Lauder Companies became the sole owner of all Tom Ford trademarks and intellectual property, while Ermenegildo Zegna Group entered a long-term license to operate the global fashion business, including ready-to-wear, accessories, and retail. Tom Ford stepped down as creative director in April 2023 and was succeeded by Peter Hawkings, whose tenure lasted until July 2024; 

Haider Ackermann is the incoming creative director for 2025. Zegna now leads Tom Ford’s global fashion strategy, including direct-to-consumer expansion, with a target of approximately 100 stores worldwide by 2030, focusing on major luxury markets across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

Construction hoarding for the new Saint Laurent store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre, across from Tom Ford. Photo: Craig Patterson

More from Retail Insider:

Canadian Tire Corporation and Tim Hortons team up in strategic loyalty partnership

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Image: Canadian Tire
Image: Canadian Tire

Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited and Tim Hortons announced Monday a strategic loyalty partnership that brings together two of Canada’s most iconic and beloved brands. Launching later in 2026, this collaboration will enable members to link their Triangle Rewards and Tims Rewards accounts to unlock new benefits. 

Linked members will earn Canadian Tire Money (CTM) on eligible Tim Hortons purchases and enjoy exclusive offers through Triangle Rewards and Tims Rewards. Triangle Mastercard holders who link accounts will enjoy even richer opportunities to earn CTM when shopping at Tim Hortons locations, according to a news release.

Darryl Jenkins
Darryl Jenkins

“Tim Hortons and Canadian Tire are two of the country’s most recognized and beloved brands and we’re thrilled to join forces to bring even more value to Canadians,” said Darryl Jenkins, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer, Canadian Tire Corporation. “Our strategic partnerships are all about building our Triangle ecosystem to reward Canadians for their everyday activities – from shopping for essentials to now picking up their morning coffee.”

Hope Bagozzi
Hope Bagozzi

“We’re excited to give Canadians even more value on their daily Tims Run through this partnership with Canadian Tire,” said Hope Bagozzi, Chief Marketing Officer for Tim Hortons. “We’re proud of all the value we give Tims Rewards members as part of our loyalty program – including earning points on purchases, redeeming those points for their favourite Tims products, exclusive Members Only offers, and more. This partnership between our two iconic brands gives Canadians the ability to earn Canadian Tire Money on their order, alongside Tims Rewards points, and allows us to provide even more amazing everyday value.”

This marks the fourth marquee Canadian brand to join the Triangle Rewards ecosystem, following Petro-Canada, RBC and WestJet, cementing Triangle Rewards as one of Canada’s largest loyalty programs. With nearly 12 million Triangle Rewards members and millions of Canadians visiting Tim Hortons each day, the scale and reach of this partnership will ensure that more Canadians can earn and redeem rewards through the daily activities they already enjoy, said Canadian Tire.

“Triangle Rewards is a cornerstone of CTC’s new True North strategy – delivering meaningful rewards, deeper customer relationships and insights, and personalized offers that drive customer loyalty and engagement. With the addition of Tim Hortons, the reach of Triangle Rewards continues to expand into more aspects of Canadians’ everyday lives,” it said.

Millions of Canadians use Tims Rewards every week to earn points on their purchases at Tim Hortons. Tims Rewards members can redeem their points for their favourite beverages, baked goods, breakfasts, lunches or dinners at Tims. Tims Rewards also grants members access to contests and games including Roll Up To WIN™ and the Tims NHL Hockey Challenge, the ability to skip the line when ordering ahead on the app, and the Scan & Pay feature to earn points, redeem rewards, and pay for their order faster.”

Related Retail Insider stories:

Läderach to Open First B.C. Storefront at CF Richmond Centre

By
Craig Patterson
-
Läderach Yorkdale Store (Image: Läderach)

Swiss premium chocolatier Läderach is set to make its British Columbia debut with the opening of a boutique at CF Richmond Centre on Friday, September 19. The highly anticipated launch represents a key milestone for the brand as it continues its North American growth strategy.

The grand opening will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a chocolate giveaway for the first 200 customers, offering a warm welcome to chocolate lovers in the region. The Richmond store is Läderach’s first in British Columbia and follows a successful expansion wave across Canada, including last month’s opening at CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto.

“We are delighted to expand our presence of premium Swiss chocolate to British Columbia in this iconic shopping destination and look forward to continuing to expand our presence in Canada with our new Bloor St. location later this year,” said Warren Dunkelberger, President of Läderach North America.

The opening at CF Richmond Centre is part of Läderach’s growing retail network across North America, which has accelerated since 2019. After launching its Canadian flagship at CF Toronto Eaton Centre, the brand rolled out locations at Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Square One Shopping Centre, York Mills Centre, and Sherway Gardens, steadily building a presence in key Canadian markets.

Läderach’s North American expansion gained momentum after it acquired multiple leases vacated by Godiva following its exit from physical retail in 2021. This strategic move allowed the Swiss chocolatier to establish a footprint in prime shopping centres and introduce its “bean-to-bar-to-store” model, which emphasizes transparency and quality control from cocoa bean sourcing to final product.

A Distinctive Retail Experience

The new Richmond Centre boutique will showcase the full Läderach assortment within a bright, modern retail space designed to immerse customers in the world of Swiss chocolate. At the heart of the store is the brand’s iconic FrischSchoggi™ counter, where large slabs of fresh chocolate are displayed and broken to order by Läderach chocolatiers, allowing customers to select their favourite flavours and purchase by weight.

The shop will also offer pralines, truffles, single-origin tablet bars, seasonal assortments, and exclusive creations such as the bestselling milk chocolate Dubai. Each item is crafted in Switzerland using high-quality ingredients sourced directly from trusted suppliers.

Photo: Läderach
Photo: Läderach

Elevating Canada’s Premium Chocolate Market

Since its founding in 1962 in Ennenda, Switzerland, Läderach has earned an international reputation for excellence, operating more than 200 boutiques in 21 countries and maintaining a robust e-commerce platform. 

The company employs over 2,500 people globally and prides itself on its commitment to freshness, artisanal skill, and Swiss heritage.

Its focus on freshness sets it apart in the premium chocolate market, with products made bean-to-bar in Switzerland and shipped directly to stores. This dedication to quality has positioned Läderach as a favourite among chocolate connoisseurs seeking an elevated experience.

Läderach’s global profile has risen significantly in recent years, thanks to high-profile openings such as its flagship store on New York City’s Fifth Avenue and its first location in Puerto Rico. In Canada, its expansion is strategic, with a focus on flagship shopping centres and urban retail hubs that attract a mix of local and tourist traffic.

The upcoming Bloor Street boutique in Toronto will further cement its position in Canada’s luxury retail landscape, joining a corridor that includes leading global brands and top-tier chocolatiers.

More from Retail Insider:

IMGadgets Marks 10 Years with Strong Growth and Temu Partnership

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Photo: IMGadgets
Photo: IMGadgets

IMGadgets, the Mississauga-based e-commerce company, is celebrating its 10th year in business with impressive growth across multiple product categories, including fitness, home living, and its flagship e-mobility segment where it holds about 60% market share in Canada.

“We literally started with one product, you know, hoverboard,” said Meenu Seda, CEO and co-founder of IMGadgets. “So it’s part of the e-mobility category. We started with e-commerce right off the bat. We were selling on our website and on different marketplaces. Since then, we have grown into a multi-category e-commerce company.”

Meenu Seda
Meenu Seda

Seda described IMGadgets as a “full-fledged e-commerce company” that handles all operations in-house, from its 25,000-square-foot warehouse in Mississauga to pick, pack, and shipping to consumers. The company currently employs over 25 staff, with plans to double warehouse space to keep pace with growing demand.

Everything sold by IMGadgets is online, with no current retail footprint, though Seda says they are exploring retail options. “At present, it’s 100% online,” she confirmed.

When asked why the company chose to launch and remain online, Seda explained, “Online seemed to be the most economical way of doing business. It’s a little expensive to open a shop and have everything there. So we decided, let’s just start selling online and see how that goes. It just never stopped for us.”

IMGadgets has also found success on emerging marketplaces like Temu, which launched in Canada recently. “We recently launched on Temu, about April this year,” Seda said. “Traction has been really good. To our own surprise, our flagship category, e-mobility, is one of the top-selling products today on Temu.”

Photo: IMGadgets
Photo: IMGadgets

She highlighted how Temu attracted a new and distinct customer base. “They brought in people who really want to buy on Temu. It did not take any share from other marketplaces; it just added to the revenue we are generating.”

Beyond sales, Seda praised the support Temu provides to sellers. “It’s a true partnership because they have really aggressive account managers and category managers who we are in touch with on a weekly basis. They help sellers sell products, and the marketplace plays a really big role in that.”

As IMGadgets looks ahead, Seda is optimistic about continued growth and maintaining its position in Canada’s e-commerce market. With its strong foothold in e-mobility and expanding multi-category offerings, the company’s decade-long journey demonstrates the power of digital retail.

“IMGadgets is one of many Canadian businesses finding success by reaching a broader customer base through Temu. We offer a low-cost channel for consumers to access a wide range of products and for sellers to connect with new shoppers,” said a Temu spokesperson. 

Photo: IMGadgets
Photo: IMGadgets
  • Temu is a global e-commerce platform connecting consumers with millions of manufacturers, brands, and business partners. Since launching in Canada in February 2023, Temu has been about making quality products affordable and accessible for everyone. The platform now operates in more than 90 markets worldwide.
  • Temu fully opened to all Canadian sellers in February 2025 and has since rapidly expanded its network of local merchants. Sellers can list products across more than 600 categories, ranging from CDs and vinyl to furniture.
  • Temu is helping local businesses grow and strengthen their market presence, and continues to invest significantly in tools and support—from personalized seller guidance through a dedicated team to partnerships with leading ERP providers that help sellers streamline operations and fulfillment.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Elite Franchise Canada Partners with Canadian Franchise Association

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto

Elite Franchise Canada and the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) have launched a new media partnership designed to elevate visibility, education, and support the franchise community across Canada.

As part of this collaboration, the CFA has officially become the Official Awards Supporter of the EF100 National Awards Program, strengthening the credibility and recognition of one of Canada’s most prestigious franchise rankings. The EF100, with entries now open, celebrates the top franchise brands in the country, spotlighting innovation, leadership, and impact across the entire industry, according to a news release.

Scott English
Scott English

“We’re genuinely excited about this new partnership with the Canadian Franchise Association,” said Scott English, CFE, Global Director at Elite Franchise Canada. “As the national voice of franchising in Canada, the CFA brings incredible insight, reach, and credibility to the EF100 program, and having them on board as our official Awards Supporter is a real milestone. Together, we’re building something meaningful for the Canadian franchise community, and this is just the beginning. Let’s raise the bar, celebrate what’s great, and help more brands get the recognition they truly deserve.”

Sherry McNeil
Sherry McNeil

“The CFA is committed to championing franchising as a leading force in Canada’s economy,” said Sherry McNeil, President & CEO of the Canadian Franchise Association. “We are excited to align with Elite Franchise Canada and support the EF100 Awards, to recognize the outstanding contributions of diverse franchise brands and provide them with the exposure and recognition they rightfully deserve.”

The collaboration between Elite Franchise Canada and the Canadian Franchise Association underscores a shared commitment to advancing franchising in Canada. Together, the organizations will:

  • Strengthen industry collaboration and education
  • Provide greater exposure for franchise brands nationwide
  • Celebrate innovation, leadership, and the positive impact franchising has on the economy and within the communities they serve

The EF100 National Awards Program has quickly become one benchmark of excellence for the Canadian franchise industry, and with the CFA’s support, the platform is poised to deliver even greater recognition and opportunities for brands across the country, said officials.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Home Hardware Stores Limited celebrates Proud of My Home awards

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
John Pierce, Chief Retail Operations Officer, HHSL; Brent Seguin, Dealer, Essex HHBC; Larry Seguin, Dealer, Essex HHBC; Kimberly Seguin-Gauthier, Dealer, Essex HHBC; Ian White, President & CEO, HHSL; and Darrin Sayles, Senior Director of Retail Sales and Operations, HHSL at the Proud of My Home Achievement Awards. (CNW Group/Home Hardware Stores Limited)

Home Hardware Stores Limited has announced the recipients of the annual Proud of My Home Achievement Awards at the recent 2025 Homecoming event in Toronto. The highest honour of the evening, the Walter J. Hachborn Store of the Year Award, was presented to Essex Home Hardware Building Centre in Essex, Ontario. 

The Store of the Year Award recognizes the Home store that best upholds the values on which Home Hardware was co-founded by Walter J. Hachborn 60 years ago—value, service, and dependability. The Essex team was also recognized as Best Home Hardware Building Centre – Central Region. To accept the award on behalf of the store were Dealer-Owners Brent Seguin, Kimberly Seguin-Gauthier, and their father, Larry Seguin.

“This honour is the highlight of an unforgettable year for our family and our stores as we celebrated 60 years of serving our communities,” said Kimberly Seguin-Gauthier, Dealer-Owner, Essex Home Hardware Building Centre. “No matter how much we’ve grown, our heart is still in that small-town, spirit that connects us to our community.”

The Seguin family’s roots in retail stretch back four generations. Larry’s grandmother first ran a feed store in the region, providing the foundation for his father, Arthur, to partner with Home Hardware’s Walter J. Hachborn in 1965. Larry expanded the business in the 1980s, later welcoming Brent and Kimberly into the fold, who now proudly carry on the family tradition, said the retailer.

John Pierce
John Pierce

“The Seguin family exemplifies what it means to be part of the Home Hardware family,” said John Pierce, Chief Retail Operations Officer, Home Hardware Stores Limited. “Their leadership, dedication to their team, and commitment to their community represent the very best of our brand. We are thrilled to recognize them with this year’s Store of the Year Award.”

The Walter J. Hachborn Store of the Year Award is one of 18 awards presented at Homecoming 2025.

PROUD OF MY HOME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

All Proud of My Home Achievement Award recipients demonstrate strong staff performance, superior customer service, excellence in interior and exterior store presentation and active participation within their communities, said the company.

Paul Straus Public Relations Award: Coutts Home Hardware – Forestburg, Alberta

Best Home Furniture: Beck’s Home Furniture and Appliances – Montague, P.E.I.

Best Home Hardware:
Fennell & Gage Home Hardware – Hamilton, Ont. (Central)
Kinlock Home Hardware – Stratford, P.E.I. (Eastern)
Nowco Home Hardware – Lacombe, Alta. (Western)
Quincaillerie Home Hardware – Aylmer – Gatineau, Que. (Québec)

Best Home Building Centre:
Home Building Centre – Lindsay – Lindsay, Ont. (Central)
Blackville Home Building Centre – Blackville, N.B. (Eastern)
Winnipeg Beach Home Building Centre – Winnipeg Beach, Man. (Western)
Nadeau Materiaux de Construction Inc. – Cap-d’Espoir, Que. (Québec)

Best Home Hardware Building Centre:
Essex Home Hardware Building Centre – Essex, Ont. (Central)
Bennett’s Home Hardware Building Centre – Goulds, Nfld. (Eastern)
Meadow Lake Home Hardware Building Centre – Meadow Lake, Sask. (Western)
Renomax Roberval – Roberval, Que. (Québec)

Best Young Retailer:
Wellesley Home Centre, Jamie Kuepfer – Wellesley, Ont. (Central)
Richibucto Home Hardware Building Centre, Julien Richard – Richibucto, N.B. (Eastern)
Carlyle Home Hardware, Katie Gavelin – Carlyle, Sask. (Western)
Jean Denis, Limitee, Felix Antoine Moisan – Saint-Raymond, Que. (Québec)

Founded over 60 years ago in St. Jacobs, Ontario, Home Hardware Stores Limited is Canadian and the country’s largest Dealer-owned and operated home improvement retailer with more than 1,000 stores operating under the Home Hardware, Home Building Centre, Home Hardware Building Centre and Home Furniture banners.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Shoppers Drug Mart Opens 7 Pharmacy Care Clinics in Surrey, BC

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Image: Shoppers Drug Mart

Shoppers Drug Mart has officially opened the doors of all seven of the Pharmacy Care Clinics in Surrey, announced earlier this year. This significant milestone will provide the community with expanded access to primary care services at a time of rapid growth, ahead of the company’s original schedule, said the company.

“Shoppers Drug Mart is proud to do its part to help the residents of Surrey, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, by increasing access to the primary care services they need and deserve,” said David Markwell, President of Shoppers Drug Mart. “The seven new clinic locations, with extended, after-hours care, are designed to directly support the community and take pressure off local emergency rooms and physicians. This is about ensuring families can get the care they need, when they need it, right in their own neighbourhood.”

David Markwell
David Markwell

Thoughtfully designed to improve the overall patient experience, each of these seven clinics offer unique features such as child-friendly exam rooms, accessible waiting areas, and an onsite “care concierge” dedicated to providing personalized support and ensuring a smooth visit for every patient. The clinics also provide patients access to a range of pharmacy healthcare services, including the assessment and treatment of injuries and common conditions such as urinary tract infections and pink eye – free of charge with a valid British Columbia health card, said the company.

Josie Osborne
Josie Osborne

“Timely access to care and trusted health advice are at the heart of pharmacy care clinics,” said Josie Osborne, BC’s Minister of Health. “With the new Evergreen Mall location, along with others opening across Surrey, people will be able to get injections, medication reviews, and assessments for minor illnesses close to home – often with little or no wait.”

“As Surrey continues to grow, access to health care is more important than ever,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “These seven new clinics are improving access to care for residents, while helping ease pressure on emergency rooms and family doctors. Thank you to Shoppers Drug Mart for their commitment to our community and for helping to build a healthier future for Surrey residents.”

Brenda Locke
Brenda Locke

The seven Pharmacy Care Clinics opened by Shoppers Drug Mart in the community of Surrey are located at:

  • 7538 120th Street, Surrey, BC, V3W 3N1
  • 18677 Fraser Hwy, Surrey, BC, V3S 8E7
  • 5157 56 Avenue, Unit 100, Surrey, BC, V3S 9A5
  • 15691 104th Ave, Surrey, BC, V4N 2H4
  • 8962 152nd Street, Surrey, BC, V3R 4E4
  • 2830 96th Avenue, Surrey, BC, V3V 6A8
  • 7322 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC, V3W 5A5


The company is the licensor of full-service retail drug stores operating under the name Shoppers Drug Mart (Pharmaprix in Québec). With more than 1,350 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores operating in prime locations in each province and two territories, the company is one of the most convenient retailers in Canada. The company also licenses or owns more than 150 medical clinic pharmacies operating under the name Shoppers Simply Pharmacy (Pharmaprix Simplement Santé in Québec).

Related Retail Insider stories:

Flyer Delivery Stoppage Starts, RCC Urge Resolution

By
Craig Patterson
-
Paper fliers. Image: TC Transcontinental

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) halted the delivery of flyers and other unaddressed advertising mail as of early Monday morning, intensifying its ongoing labour dispute with Canada Post. The strike action, which began at 12:01 a.m. local time, has already prompted urgent warnings from the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) that the stoppage will disrupt one of the most important ways Canadians receive information about weekly sales and promotions.

“Flyers are a critical way for Canadians to plan their weekly shopping and save money. Canadians should not be caught in the middle of this dispute,” said Kim Furlong, President and CEO of the Retail Council of Canada. RCC said it has contacted federal ministers and is urging the parties to return to the bargaining table to prevent prolonged disruption.

Kim Furlong. Image supplied

The job action suspends delivery of all unaddressed admail, known as “Neighbourhood Mail,” which includes the weekly printed circulars used by grocers, pharmacies, and other major retailers. Canada Post confirmed that addressed letters, bills, and parcels continue to be delivered as usual but said it will not process any new flyer mailings during the ban.

Items already in the system are being held securely until the labour dispute is resolved. Canada Post expressed disappointment at the move, warning that the stoppage will hurt thousands of businesses that rely on direct mail to reach customers, especially ahead of the fall and holiday shopping periods.

Retailers Warn of Consumer Impact, Union Says Flyers Are a Burden

Printed flyers remain one of the most powerful marketing tools in Canada’s retail sector. RCC said members collectively invest millions of dollars annually in flyer campaigns, which are a key driver of store traffic and consumer spending.

The association warned that the strike will make it harder for Canadians, particularly seniors, lower-income households, and rural residents, to access promotions and plan their weekly shopping trips. This comes at a time when Canadians are already grappling with high food prices and cost-of-living pressures.

From CUPW’s perspective, the flyer stoppage is a pressure tactic aimed at forcing progress in stalled contract negotiations. Jan Simpson, CUPW’s national president, said postal workers have long raised concerns about the heavy physical burden of delivering bulk flyers, arguing that compensation has not kept pace with the demands of the job.

“The decision to stop delivering flyers is about fairness and about our members’ well-being,” Simpson said. The union maintains that wage increases and improved health and safety measures are needed to reflect the realities of today’s postal work, which has shifted heavily toward parcel delivery.

Photo: Canada Post

RCC Urges Federal Action

The Retail Council of Canada, which represents more than 54,000 storefronts nationwide, said it will continue advocating for a resolution that restores flyer delivery as soon as possible. The organization, founded in 1963 and headquartered in Toronto, is recognized as the “Voice of Retail™” in Canada and regularly engages with policymakers on industry concerns.

The retail sector is Canada’s largest private-sector employer, with more than two million jobs nationwide. RCC argues that flyer delivery is a crucial piece of the infrastructure that helps retailers communicate prices, drive store visits, and support household budgeting.

The flyer ban follows months of job action that began with an overtime ban in May. Postal workers rejected Canada Post’s latest contract offer in August, and both sides remain far apart on wages, staffing levels, and workplace safety issues.

Labour experts warn that CUPW could escalate further if talks continue to stall, potentially through rotating strikes or work-to-rule campaigns that could disrupt parcel delivery. For retailers, this comes at a critical time as they prepare for Thanksgiving promotions and the holiday shopping season.

Some retailers are already accelerating their use of digital flyer distribution through apps, websites, and email campaigns. However, RCC maintains that digital tools cannot yet replace print for many households. “While online tools are growing, printed flyers remain a cornerstone for many households,” Furlong said, emphasizing the potential impact on vulnerable populations.

More from Retail Insider:

SSENSE Secures Court-Approved Restructuring Plan

By
Lee Rivett
-
Montreal SSENSE store. Image supplied

Montréal-based fashion e-commerce retailer Ssense has secured a major reprieve in its battle to remain solvent, receiving court approval to proceed with a restructuring plan under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA). The decision by the Québec Superior Court grants the company interim financing worth nearly $40 million, giving it a critical window to stabilize operations and chart a new path forward.

“With the support of our lenders, we now have the foundation to develop and implement a restructuring plan aimed at securing Ssense’s long-term future,” said co-founder and CEO Rami Atallah in a statement. “We now have the time, resources, and structure in place to begin the process of rebuilding a stronger Ssense.”

The agreement prevents a forced sale that had been initiated by lenders in August, allowing Ssense to remain under the leadership of the Atallah brothers and preserve its 1,100-strong workforce.

The interim financing package includes $15 million from Ssense’s bank lenders, a group that includes the Bank of Montreal, Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank, National Bank of Canada, and JPMorgan Chase, and $25 million in new capital from the company’s founders. Court filings show Ssense’s assets total $387 million against liabilities of $371 million.

The liabilities include $135 million in maturing loans, $3.2 million in vacation pay for employees, $93 million owed to suppliers and trade creditors, and a $21 million loan from Investissement Québec related to the company’s fulfillment centre in Saint-Laurent, Québec. Ernst & Young has been appointed as the court monitor to oversee the restructuring process.

The court also granted a 30-day stay of proceedings, shielding the company from creditor actions until October 20. The order allows Ssense to fulfill online customer orders and maintain operations while negotiating with suppliers and creditors.

The Road to Restructuring

The restructuring process follows months of financial strain and tense negotiations. Ssense had hired investment bank Greenhill in July to design a refinancing plan that would appease lenders and keep the business afloat. However, lenders rejected the proposal, and on August 27, they sought to place Ssense under creditor protection to force a sale.

Ssense responded two days later with its own CCAA filing, pledging to fight for the company’s future. “We were deeply disappointed by the lenders’ decision,” a spokesperson said at the time, signaling that the company was unwilling to relinquish control.

Following intensive negotiations, both parties reached an agreement on September 6, paving the way for the court-approved plan.

SSENSE flagship in Old Montreal. Image: David Chipperfield Architects

Business Challenges and Market Pressures

Ssense’s troubles stem from a combination of slowing sales, rising interest rates, and persistent liquidity issues. The retailer reported net losses of $123 million in 2022, $67.7 million in 2023, and $132 million in 2024, despite generating $1.3 billion in revenue last year.

Consumer demand softened after the pandemic, leaving Ssense with a significant amount of unsold inventory. The company implemented several cost-cutting measures to control losses, including reducing purchases of lower-margin brands, marking down older stock, and using proprietary algorithms to reduce advertising spending.

Between January 2023 and May 2025, Ssense laid off nearly 350 employees, cut evening warehouse shifts, and shifted half its workforce into cross-functional roles. These moves generated $36 million in savings for fiscal 2025. The company also froze salaries and adjusted parental leave policies in a bid to conserve cash.

Another blow came in August with the expiration of the de minimis exemption, a loophole that allowed duty-free shipments into the United States under $800 USD. The U.S. is a key market for Ssense, representing 59 percent of its sales with an average order value of $549 USD.

The elimination of the exemption raised costs for U.S.-bound shipments and may have put additional pressure on margins.

Looking Ahead: Sale and Investment Process

Even with fresh financing, Ssense acknowledges that its liquidity problems persist. The company will now launch a Sale and Investment Solicitation Process (SISP) to explore potential buyers, investors, or financing partners.

This process could determine whether Ssense remains independent, finds a strategic partner, or sells a majority stake. The goal, according to filings, is to “stabilize operations and maximize value for stakeholders.”

The turnaround marks a dramatic reversal for the retailer, which was valued at $5 billion just four years ago when U.S. investment firm Sequoia Capital took a minority stake. At the time, Ssense was seen as one of Canada’s most promising global retail players, celebrated for its blend of luxury fashion and streetwear and its influential editorial platform.

Today, the focus is survival. If Ssense successfully navigates the restructuring process, it could reemerge as a leaner, more financially disciplined business better positioned to weather shifting retail trends.

More from Retail Insider:

1...195196197...1,283Page 196 of 1,283

FEATURES ON RETAIL INSIDER

spot_img
spot_img

About

Contact

Media

Follow

© 2025 Retail Insider Media Ltd. All Rights Reserved. The content on this website is protected by the copyrights of Retail Insider Media Ltd. or the copyrights of third parties and used by agreement. No part of any of the content of this website may be reproduced, distributed, modified, framed, cached, adapted or linked to, or made available in any form by any photographic, electronic, digital, mechanical, photostat, microfilm, xerography or other means, or incorporated into or used in any information storage and retrieval system, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of Retail Insider Media Ltd. or the applicable third party copyright owner.