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Staples Canada Launches EASY Bus for Back-to-School

By
Craig Patterson
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Staples EASY Bus. Image: Staples Canada

Staples Canada is taking its back-to-school campaign on the road this August with the launch of the Back to School Made EASY Bus. The travelling experience showcases interactive technology demonstrations, curated learning supplies, and expert advice designed to help families navigate the modern classroom.

The initiative begins at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), where Staples will donate classroom supplies through the hospital’s Sponsor a Family program. Families identified by social workers as being in need will receive items to support learning both at home and in hospital. Patient ambassadors and their families will also explore the EASY Bus, gaining hands-on experience with educational tools as they prepare for a new school year.

This donation aligns with the 20th annual Staples School Supply Drive, which has raised more than $17 million in partnership with United Way Centraide and the Kiwanis Foundation of Canada. Over two decades, the program has provided thousands of students across the country with essentials to start the school year with confidence.

“Donations like this bring meaningful support to patients and families as they prepare for the school year,” said Iris Garcia, a registered social worker at The Hospital for Sick Children. “We appreciate Staples’ commitment to making a difference.”

Hands-On Technology and School Essentials

Visitors to the Staples EASY Bus will encounter an array of educational innovations. Demonstrations include noise-cancelling headphones, AI-driven learning tools, and the chance to test products at an interactive pen-to-paper bar. Staples associates will also be on hand to provide expert guidance, reinforcing the company’s role as a destination for back-to-school readiness.

Guests can also take part in the Tech Trade-in by Allstate program, exchanging older electronics for Staples gift cards valued up to $500. The program helps families save on upgrades while reducing electronic waste, reflecting a growing emphasis on affordability and sustainability. Each visitor will also receive a coupon for in-store shopping, adding value to the overall experience.

“Back to school looks different today, and we’re bringing that experience directly to families with the Back to School Made EASY Bus,” said Brian McDougall, Interim CEO and Chief Retail Officer, Staples Canada. “From hands-on demos to expert advice and the latest in educational tech, the EASY Bus is designed to help families feel confident and prepared for the modern classroom.”

Greater Toronto Area Tour

The EASY Bus will travel across the Greater Toronto Area throughout late August. The schedule includes:

  • Thursday, August 21, at King Street West and Spadina Avenue, Toronto
  • Friday, August 22, at Scarborough Town Centre
  • Saturday, August 23, at Toronto Nautical Harbour Centre
  • Sunday, August 24, at Toronto Premium Outlets in Halton Hills

Each stop will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering parents and students convenient access to the experience.

Staples’ Wider Back-to-School Solutions

The EASY Bus complements Staples Canada’s broader back-to-school programs. In-store technology experts, trained by Microsoft, Google, Samsung, and Apple, help families navigate an ever-growing array of devices. Staples curates solutions by features and capabilities, enabling parents to find what best suits their children’s needs.

Alongside technology support, Staples has committed to keeping classroom basics affordable. Essential supplies are priced from 25 cents, with weekly promotions and price matching available throughout the season. Educators receive added discounts, while the School Tools program provides bundled supplies with special savings for parents.

Shopping flexibility is also a focus, with options ranging from same-day delivery through DoorDash and Instacart to buy-online-pick-up-in-store services. Whether browsing grade-specific tools online or visiting one of Staples’ 298 locations nationwide, families can expect a consistent emphasis on convenience and value.

Supporting Canadian Communities

Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Staples Canada positions itself as The Working and Learning Company. Its network includes retail stores, the Staples.ca e-commerce platform, Staples Print and shipping services, and Staples Studio co-working spaces. Through fundraising efforts such as Even the Odds, the company also invests in addressing health inequities across Canadian communities.

By combining community engagement with practical retail solutions, Staples Canada aims to make back-to-school a seamless experience for families nationwide. The EASY Bus highlights this strategy, bringing products, expertise, and charitable giving together under one mobile platform.

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The Beer Store announces more store closures

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo courtesy of The Beer Store

The Beer Store (TBS) said Monday it is making the difficult decision to close 12 retail stores effective end of business day October 19.

The Beer Store will close the following retail stores:

  • Bridgenorth – 882 Ward St., Bridgenorth, ON, K0L 1H0
  • Eganville – 8647 Hwy. #60, Eganville, ON, K0J 1T0
  • Forest – 89 Main St. S., Forest, ON, N0N 1J0
  • Grand Bend – 21 Ontario St. N., Grand Bend, ON, N0M 1T0
  • Harrow – 398 King St. W., PO Box 249, Harrow, ON, N0R 1G0
  • Little Current – 53 Meredith St. E., PO Box 210, Little Current, ON, P0P 1K0
  • Markdale – 33 Argyle St., Markdale, ON, N0C 1H0
  • Noëlville – 142 David St. N., Noëlville, ON, P0M 2N0
  • North York – 3078 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON, M2J 3C1
  • Sauble Beach – 704 Main St., Sauble Beach, ON, N0H 1P0
  • Toronto – 900A Don Mills Rd., Unit #100, Toronto, ON, M3C 1V6
  • Toronto – 800 Gerrard St. E., Toronto, ON, M4M 1Y7
Ozzie Ahmed
Ozzie Ahmed

“Where we sell beer and collect empties in Ontario is changing. The Beer Store is modernizing to meet the changing marketplace and unfortunately this means making the hard decision to close retail locations. We know this is difficult news for customers and employees,” said Ozzie Ahmed, Vice President Retail, TBS.

“As The Beer Store modernizes, our locations will continue to provide friendly customer service and a deposit return system that gets consumers their money back.

“The Beer Store recognizes the contributions our employees make to the business and in the communities where we operate. All efforts will be made to support employees through this process in alignment with commitments and agreements.”

The Beer Store is encouraging customers to continue returning more than the 1.6 billion alcohol containers it processes annually to one of its local TBS locations or an empty return dealer located close by. The following alcohol containers purchased in Ontario can be returned to collect a deposit back: beer, wine and spirits bottles, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, tetra packs and kegs.

“All grocery stores that sell alcohol will be required to accept the return of empties and refund customer deposits starting January 1, 2026. This is part of consumer retail alcohol modernization, found in the Early Implementation Agreement and provincial regulations,” it said.

To help ensure that customers can still purchase beer and return empties conveniently, TBS is encouraging customers to use one of the following resources:

Owned by Ontario-based brewers and named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers 2025, the Beer Store is the largest beer retailer in Ontario. Its logistics division has 26 points of distribution strategically located across the province to meet the needs of customers. The Beer Store distributed 2.92 million hectoliters of beer to over 13,000 customers in 2024. In 2024, The Beer Store added over 5,300 new customers to its distribution network. The Beer Store employs 6,500 people.

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AI Tool to Help You Create Personalized Thank You Clips

By
Retail Insider
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A note of gratitude can help you strengthen connections. It demonstrates genuine consideration and effort when you make a personal video message. As opposed to plain text, video puts your tone, facial expressions, and emotions in perspective. It gives the appreciation a sense of reality.

Nowadays, artificial intelligence assists you in making your gratitude creative. The AI caption generator on the CapCut App brings your text to life as a video caption. It enhances clarity and provides your video with an emotional rhythm. With the blend of individuality and AI creativity, your thank you note will no longer be a message, but a moment. CapCut App can assist you with this process by providing an intelligent toolkit that allows you to edit easily, while still keeping your voice natural.

CapCut enables you to create something that is considered thoughtful, warm, and visually pleasing. You feel good regardless of whether you are recognizing a friend, a customer, or a mentor. The app will enable you to take your story to the next level, even if you have never edited a video before.

Choosing an AI Template for Thank You Notes

The templates provided by CapCut offer a solid foundation. These templates fall under different categories, ideal for showing gratitude with a heart, for fun, or in a professional setting. No matter what you want to express gratitude (a gift, a service, or emotional support), there is a template.

One way is to go to the AI lab tab in the CapCut App and use one of the ready-to-edit templates. Here, you will find over 50 styles to suit your mood and occasion. You can preview various visual effects and select a template that aligns with your tone. It makes you consistent with the emotion you need to convey.

Try the animation and music against your message before you commit to them. This allows you to check whether the images and the flow are correct. A thank-you video from a mentor may require a respectful and non-excited tone. A video to a close one may take a lighter or humorous direction. When you match the emotion to the occasion, it makes your message more sincere.

Development of AI Visual Styles Unique Messages

Thank-you notes do not need to be generic. You can transform simple messages into great visual narratives using CapCut AI video maker. Using AI visual styles, such as Warm Watercolor or Cinematic Inspiration, your message turns into art.

Select a style that suits your narrative. A Warm Watercolor picture is suitable for expressing emotional or sentimental gratitude. Cinematic Inspiration effect suits an intense or dramatic appreciative note. All these styles enrich your story and make it memorable.

You may use the AI text-to-video engine in combination with your anecdotes. Include a brief statement of the way the gift benefited or that the support was adequate. These minor details contribute to a stronger emotional appeal, making the viewer feel understood and appreciated.

Inserting Photos, Video Clips, and Personal Details

The thank-you video is even more special with the inclusion of personal footage. You can add clips of the gift unboxing, event highlights, or things you are thankful for. These additions make the story come to life.

CapCut features an AutoCut tool that helps with editing transitions between clips. It also manipulates pace and rhythm to suit the template, which makes your message fluent and refined. You do not need to perform complicated editing. The tool manages transitions, music timing, and the flow of vision.

To enhance the mood, consider using AI-generated music choices and cinematic filters. Soft-toned background music can enhance thankfulness. Warmth can be added using filters such as soft glow or vintage colors. Such minor alterations facilitate the creation of a touching and individual message.

Enhancing Emotional Delivery Using AI Voice-over and Captions

Your voice counts. You can document your thank-you note in the app. If you prefer not to speak, CapCut offers an AI voiceover feature that reads your text with a sincere and clear voice. Pick a tone that suits your story, whether relaxed or jovial.

Your captions should be designed according to the voiceover. To make a viewer focused, utilize animations, emojis, or handwriting fonts. Subtitles can also be turned on. They enhance transparency and convenience, particularly when sharing videos across nations or devices.

Captions can also make your message hit even when the sound is off. Adding a motion or style to your thank-you note makes it seem more alive and professional.

Where and How to Share Thank You Videos

Once your video is ready, you can send it via chat apps or embed it in emails. If the message is more public, share it on social platforms like TikTok or Instagram. You can even compile multiple messages into a Thank You Highlights reel. This works well for client thank-you videos or recap messages after events.

Save your favorite templates for future use. This saves time and helps maintain a consistent tone in future messages.

Design Heartfelt Messages in Seconds

Step 1: Launch and select template Begin by opening CapCut and tapping the “AI Lab” tab from the bottom. This brings you to the smart “AI story maker” feature tailored for fast video creation. Scroll to see templates like “Create story video”, “Create with AI avatar”, or “Create video with scripts”. Pick one that suits the tone of your thank you message.

Step 2: Create and customize note After picking a template, hit the “Try AI workflow” button. Type your message idea into the “creating a video story about” section. Choose a visual aesthetic such as “Realistic film”, “Cartoon 3D”, or “Anime”. Then press “Generate” to produce your thank you video.

Within seconds, you’ll see the result. To personalize more, go to the “Music” tab and add a suitable track. Modify captions using “Caption style”—try adding animations or changing font styles. For full creative access, tap “Go to Edit” and explore CapCut’s advanced features like filters, stickers, and transitions.

Step 3: Save and send Once you’re done editing, tap “Export” in the top-right corner. Your personalized video will be stored on your device. Share it via social media or send it directly as a heartfelt thank-you.

Conclusion

CapCut’s AI tools make meaningful video thank-you notes effortless. You can blend your emotions with smart editing features. This blend of technology and personal touch makes your appreciation stand out. Thoughtful video messages help build trust, connection, and lasting gratitude in both personal and professional settings.

AI-Powered LMS: When Your Business Requires It and How to Utilize

By
Retail Insider
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In today’s fast-changing business world, investment in employee development is not an advantage—it’s essential. But traditional learning management systems (LMS) often fall short when it comes to engaging people, addressing specific requirements, and delivering measurable results. This is where AI-based LMS platforms come into play, transforming rigid training portals into intelligent systems that learn and evolve in tandem with your business.

So, when does your company actually require one? And how do you choose or design a solution that will be successful in the long term?

What is an AI-Powered LMS?

An AI-based LMS begins with the well-proven architecture of a traditional learning management system—course authoring, content display, and user management—and pairs it with the flexible intelligence of modern AI technology. The result is a solution that doesn’t merely display learning content, but engages the learner as an individual, evolves according to their needs, and improves the process with time.

In practice, the system can real-time adjust learning paths and guide every single person to the best subjects based on their level of capability and performance. Instead of static lists of courses, students receive clever suggestions of material that engages and inspires them, like how a streaming service suggests the next program you would enjoy. Automatically, AI can also grade and provide feedback, providing immediate feedback on quizzes or assignments and rescuing teachers from repetitive evaluation work.

From an analytical perspective, predictive software tracks against goals, identifies areas of knowledge deficiency, and even predicts possible issues ahead of time before they affect performance. Students can search for content in simple, natural language—typing or speaking out questions as if asking a human—while artificially intelligent chatbots or virtual instructors wait to help answer questions and advise around the clock.

Instead of pushing everyone through a locked, one-size-fits-all system, an AI-powered LMS builds a dynamic, customized experience. It learns at the pace of the learner, listens to their tastes, and changes with their progress. The end result is training that is less lectured and more conversational, responsive, interactive, and effective at scale and in engagement.

When Does Your Company Need an AI LMS?

A traditional LMS would suffice for compliance training or one onboarding. However, if any of the following scenarios sound familiar, it may be time to switch to an AI LMS:

1. You Have Varied Roles and Skill Levels

If your staff resides across departments, locations, or skill levels, crafting one shared learning experience is a plain challenge. An AI LMS is able to segment users by behavior, role, or department and automatically combine and blend content that meets specific needs.

2. Training Needs Change Frequently

Industries like healthcare, tech, and finance face constantly evolving regulations and skills requirements. AI can help keep training materials current by flagging outdated content and suggesting updates. It also speeds up the process of rolling out new training company-wide.

3. You’re Experiencing Engagement Drop-off

Low completion and user disengagement rates are common LMS problems. AI reverses this by creating the content to feel personalized and relevant. From progress-based nudges to gamified challenges and adaptive quizzes, the learning process becomes more participative.

4. You Want Better Learning Insights

With a conventional LMS, you’re stuck with basic metrics like course completion and log-in rate. AI-driven systems track micro-behaviors—how long a learner spends on a topic, where they struggle, and what content leads to mastery—so managers can act with data.

How to Build or Choose the Perfect Solution

If you’re sure that your business is prepared to adopt an AI-powered LMS, the next thing then is choosing the proper strategy. There are usually two paths: off-the-shelf systems or tailored systems.

Off-the-Shelf vs. Custom LMS

There are some out-of-the-box AI LMS options to choose from. They’re often cheap and simple to set up, but occasionally not customizable enough for advanced enterprise needs. You may end up bending your workflow to accommodate the tool instead of the other way around.

By contrast, a custom learning management system allows you to design features to your very business processes, roles, and content requirements. You choose the AI components that fit you (recommendation engine, chatbot, analytics) and stitch them seamlessly into your systems of record (CRM, HR, payroll, etc.).

A well-executed custom LMS is more scalable and future-proof, especially for mid-to-large organizations that view learning as a strategic asset rather than a compliance task.

What Features to Look For

Whether you’re buying or building, a modern AI-powered LMS should include:

  • Personalization Engine: Tailors content delivery based on performance and preferences.
  • AI Analytics Dashboard: Delivers real-time insights about learners, courses, and outcomes.
  • Natural Language Processing: Enables users to query and search for content in natural language.
  • Automation Tools: Automates processes like reminders, certification tracking, and content updates.
  • Mobile Compatibility: Enables the system to be accessed on devices.

You might also want to include other AI-based accessibility tools (e.g., voice input or text-to-speech), which aid in WCAG compliance and accessibility for learning.

Who Can Help You Get There?

If your in-house team is not AI or enterprise-class LMS architecture-expert, it’s well worth partnering with a successful development company.

Best-in-class top AI software development companies do more than write code—they offer strategic expertise, agile development, and a proven education technology background. 

Choose a vendor that:

  • Has LMS development experience across various industries.
  • Strong UI/UX capability.
  • Strong AI/ML capabilities.
  • Security and compliance focus.
  • Maintenance and support in the long term.

Having a full-service partner ensures your AI integration won’t just work—it’ll be secure, scalable, and aligned to your business goals.

Final Thoughts

AI is no longer a buzzword but a usable tool that can improve learning performance, boost engagement, and allow your company to respond more nimbly to change. For organizations with high turnover, complex skill gaps, or rapid growth, an AI-powered LMS is a smart investment.

Success isn’t just about jumping on the AI bandwagon. It really comes down to thoughtfully weaving it into your learning environment. So, whether you’re updating an existing setup or starting fresh, it’s a good idea to collaborate with people who truly know both learning design and how automation fits in. When the time arrives to switch out your LMS, you’ll want a solution that’s not only clever but also carefully planned, safe, and built to last. It might sound obvious, but these things matter more than you might think.

iScanner’s Office Filter Is Here to Lend Small Businesses a Helping Hand

By
Retail Insider
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The newest iScanner’s feature is designed to mimic the professional and clean look of documents scanned by stationary office devices. This is especially valuable for those who mostly rely on their smartphones to manage their diverse documentation.

iScanner, one of the leading apps in the document scanning and management segment, has launched its newest feature—the Office Filter, which makes mobile scans look as if they were taken by stationary scanners in a regular office environment. For small business owners, who often lack access to the bulky equipment or simply don’t have the space to place it, the feature will be especially useful. The effect of an authentically scanned document is achieved through adding signature artifacts, such as black dots and small lines, to a PDF file. As a result, documents gain a professional look.

The Office Filter was developed specifically to help small businesses appear more solid on the market. According to a survey conducted by iScanner before the feature’s development, businesses operating from a physical office with professional equipment are often viewed as more trustworthy. Besides, half of the interviewed small business owners are convinced that physical offices create a tangible value for clients. As a result, some businesses feel that offering those perfectly scanned documents enhanced with the AI filters of mobile applications isn’t what their clients expect. Most importantly, around 30% of the survey participants expressed their interest in a different filter that adds the effect of an authentically scanned document.

“The goal of our survey was to collect real-life feedback from small business owners. We discovered that some owners find it inconvenient to work with no physical offices. While remote work has become a new standard in the post-COVID years, and mobile apps have proven to be an efficient substitute for stationary office equipment, some clients still expect small businesses to operate from physical offices. When they find that there are no such spaces, they may label such remote businesses as less professional. Our team decided to address this new reality and offer iScanner users a tool to create an illusion of a document scanned by a traditional stationary scanner. We believe that the Office Filter will help businesses build client trust, allowing them to choose how their documents appear,” says Matt Svetlak, Product Director of iScanner.

The Office Filter is currently available on iOS devices to all users. This is an excellent addition to the already established AI-powered iScanner filters that can automatically erase fingers from scans or deblur and polish any documents for high-quality presentation.

iScanner is an award-winning app with over 125 million downloads across iOS and Android devices and a Web version with cross-platform support. The app’s functionality includes scanning paper documents, converting files, editing and e-signing PDFs, splitting PDFs, merging PDFs, and making images editable and interactive via the in-house OCR (Optical Character Recognition), among other powerful AI-based tools.

The iScanner app was developed by BP Mobile (AIBY Group).

Joseph Tassoni Builds a Global Canadian Fashion Brand

By
Craig Patterson
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Joseph Tassoni. Photo: Charlene Arianna

Canadian fashion designer Joseph Tassoni has become a prominent advocate for sustainability, quality craftsmanship, and inclusivity in an increasingly fast-paced industry. Since launching his namesake brand in 2017, Tassoni has worked tirelessly to position Canadian-made fashion as a force on the global stage. His philosophy is rooted in creating garments that combine elegance with functionality while preserving the integrity of local manufacturing.

“Everything we do starts with a commitment to quality, fit, and design,” says Tassoni from his Burlington, Ontario atelier. “Our customers invest in pieces that last a lifetime, support Canadian workers, and reflect their individuality.”

From Montreal Roots to Fashion Industry Experience

Born in Montreal and educated at Toronto Metropolitan University, Tassoni entered the fashion industry at a young age. His early career included roles at Pink Tartan, Joe Fresh, and other major Canadian labels, where he gained comprehensive experience across design, pattern-making, and brand management.

“I started working as a teenager,” he recalls. “I handled roles from junior pattern maker to brand manager because I wanted to understand every position. Knowing the value of everyone’s time makes you a better leader.”

After years in corporate fashion, Tassoni launched a successful consultancy, supporting Canadian and U.S. labels with design and brand development. This diverse experience provided the foundation for his own brand, which debuted during Toronto Women’s Fashion Week in 2017 to critical acclaim.

Tassoni’s early collections established outerwear as a defining symbol of Canadian identity.  His runway presentations have expanded to showcase a full spectrum of product categories, celebrating inclusivity and sustainability while now pioneering the integration of AI into fashion.

The Ethos: Luxury with Purpose

Tassoni’s brand philosophy centres on community-driven luxury. His collections reflect an inclusive design approach, ensuring that pieces suit diverse identities without being restricted by traditional gender norms. Each garment is engineered for versatility, often featuring reversible elements, detachable components, and multiple styling options.

“For me, functionality is everything,” explains Tassoni. “Clients should feel empowered to reinvent their look without compromising quality. If someone loves a piece, I want them to wear it in different ways—maybe a suit that doubles as separates or a veil that transforms into a scarf.”

This practical creativity extends to materials. Tassoni prioritizes sustainable, locally sourced fabrics, allowing clients to make purchases that align with environmental values while supporting Canadian manufacturing.

At age 5 1/2, Joseph Tassoni cut up curtains in his parent’s house to create a dress for his sister — he says his family has been very supportive from the beginning. Image: Tassoni Family.

Canadian Craftsmanship at the Core

Unlike many upscale brands that rely on overseas production, Tassoni insists on creating everything in Canada. His flagship atelier at 390 Pearl Street in downtown Burlington doubles as a boutique and production facility, giving clients a rare behind-the-scenes look at the fashion process.

“When customers visit, they see the cutting tables, the sewing machines, and the craftsmanship in action,” he says. “It’s part gallery, part showroom, and it reminds people why Made in Canada matters.”

The space opened in late 2019 and now operates by appointment only, allowing for highly personalized service. 

“People think that by appointment means you need to spend a certain amount, but that’s not the case,” Tassoni clarifies. “Often, if you add up what you spend on fast fashion, it equals or exceeds the cost of an investment piece made to last.”

Balancing Style and Functionality

Tassoni’s approach challenges the disposable nature of fast fashion. His garments, particularly outerwear, are designed for Canadian weather while maintaining elegance. “Too many coats on the market are expensive but lack substance,” he says. “They look good, but they’re not water or wind resistant. My goal is to combine beauty with performance.”

His collections often feature technical elements such as innovative closures, adjustable lengths, and lightweight packable fabrics. This emphasis on adaptability ensures that clients can maximize the value of their wardrobe while reducing overconsumption.

Community and Mentorship

Beyond design, Tassoni is deeply invested in community engagement and mentorship. He collaborates with local businesses, participates in philanthropic initiatives, and supports emerging talent through partnerships with institutions like Toronto Metropolitan University and George Brown College.

“I want to show the next generation what’s possible,” he says. “Respecting their time and encouraging creativity is crucial. I’ve had interns travel great distances to work here because they know they’ll be challenged and inspired.”

His commitment to mentorship contrasts with his own early experiences in the industry, which sometimes lacked meaningful learning opportunities. “When I was 16, I spent a summer organizing buttons,” Tassoni laughs. “Now, I ensure students see the full scope of what fashion can be.”

Resilience and Adaptability in Challenging Times

Operating a Canadian-made brand is not without challenges. Economic fluctuations, rising costs, and global tariffs have impacted many businesses, but Tassoni’s local production strategy insulated him from supply chain disruptions during the pandemic.

“Being based in Canada and sourcing locally gave us stability,” he explains. During COVID-19, Tassoni repurposed his atelier to produce personal protective equipment, donating proceeds to local healthcare facilities—a gesture that earned him both the Inspire Award from the City of Burlington and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Community Hero Award.

A Vision for Global Growth

Looking ahead, Tassoni’s ambitions are clear: he plans to expand across North America and into international markets, focusing on regions with strong trade agreements with Canada. “I want to build long-term relationships with retailers that value craftsmanship,” he says. “It’s about finding partners who share our commitment to quality and sustainability.”

While wholesale and e-commerce are integral to this strategy, Tassoni emphasizes the enduring importance of physical retail. “Bricks and mortar creates human connection,” he notes. “Our Burlington atelier proves that clients crave that personal experience.”

One long-term goal is to establish a presence in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood, Canada’s luxury retail epicentre. “The timing has to be right,” Tassoni says. “My name is on every garment. This isn’t a seasonal project, it’s my life’s work.”

The Heart of Canadian Fashion

For Joseph Tassoni, fashion is more than clothing; it’s an ecosystem of creativity, community, and sustainability. His mission is to show that Canadian-made luxury can compete on a global scale without sacrificing ethics or quality.

“When clients choose us, they’re investing in more than a garment,” he says. “They’re supporting Canadian jobs, sustainability, and a vision for what fashion should be—timeless, inclusive, and deeply connected to the people who create it.”

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Jollibee and Global Girl Group KATSEYE partner to create joyful new connections with North American fans

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: KATSEYE website
Photo: KATSEYE website

 Jollibee, the global restaurant brand, has announced a new partnership with the internationally-acclaimed girl group, KATSEYE.

This landmark collaboration unites the restaurant brand’s rich heritage of bringing families and communities together through delicious food with the dynamic girl group’s vibrant energy and rapidly growing global fanbase of EYEKONS, said the brand.

“This collaboration is a natural fit, rooted in Jollibee and KATSEYE’s shared ability to spark joy among their global fanbases. Jollibee, with its unique flavors, universally loved offerings like its crispy, juicy Jolly Crispy Chicken, and welcoming service, has cultivated a loyal following across generations and cultures. Its journey from a humble ice cream parlor in the Philippines to a global QSR powerhouse mirrors the aspirational rise of KATSEYE, a group known for its youthful pop sound, diverse talent, and dedication to connecting with devoted fans worldwide,” it said.

“Both Jollibee and KATSEYE are currently taking the world by storm. Recently named the “best fast food fried chicken” by USA TODAY for the second year in a row, Jollibee is always looking for ways to bring joy to its community through next-level food and more. Having just sold out their Beautiful Chaos tour, KATSEYE continues to raise the bar, delivering hit after hit. With each brand at the top of its game, this collaboration is a moment fans won’t want to miss.”

PHOTO: JOLLIBEE

Complex, the media brand known for its sharp pulse on pop culture, will exclusively house the three custom Jollibee x KATSEYE items, which are designed to capture the upbeat and stylish nature of this perfectly fitting partnership. Quantities are extremely limited, so fans are encouraged to act quickly, as items are likely to sell out.

  • Shared Dream Tank Top: With its cosmic flair and clean lines, this tank captures the bold energy of EYEKONS chasing big dreams across galaxies, with a Jollibee twist.
  • Double Drop Denim Tote: Sturdy, stylish, and made to carry happiness, this two-sided denim tote flips between subtle flex and full fan mode.
Luis Velasco
Luis Velasco

“Jollibee always strives to bring people together through the universal language of delicious food and shared moments of joy,” said Luis Velasco, Senior Vice President and Marketing Head at Jollibee North America.

“This is precisely why partnering with KATSEYE, a group that deeply resonates with a diverse, global audience and embodies such positive energy, is a perfect match for our beloved brand. Their passion and vibrant spirit align seamlessly with our distinctive heritage of fostering community and happiness. We’re incredibly excited to join forces with such a talented group of women and create unforgettable experiences for our fans.”

Following the August 15 merch drop, Jollibee and KATSEYE will continue to surprise fans with exclusive, “joy-filled experiences that blend bold flavor and fierce style. From crave-worthy bites to limited-edition collectibles, the partnership is just getting started—so keep your eyes (and taste buds) ready.” More announcements to come.

“We could not be happier to partner with Jollibee, a brand that we’ve been truly obsessed with for a long, long time,” stated KATSEYE. “This collaboration feels incredibly authentic to us, and it’s all about good vibes, bold flavor, and making memories with our EYEKONS. We can’t wait to share this journey with both our fans and Jollibee’s – it’s going to be beautifully chaotic.”

Jollibee is the flagship brand of the Jollibee Group, which is on a mission to become one of the top five restaurant companies in the world.

KATSEYE – comprising Daniela (Cuban/Venezuelan-American, from Atlanta, GA), Lara (Indian, from New York, NY), Manon (Ghanaian-Italian, from Zurich, Switzerland), Megan (Chinese-American, from Honolulu, HI), Sophia (Manila, Philippines), and Yoonchae (Seoul, South Korea) – has quickly risen to international prominence with their captivating performances, unique sound, and dedicated fanbase. A powerhouse of diverse talent, KATSEYE embodies the spirit of modern pop, inspiring millions with their music and message. To learn more, subscribe to updates at katseye.world or follow them at @katseyeworld on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X.

Jollibee Foods Corporation is the one of the world’s fastest-growing restaurant companies. It manages and operates a portfolio which includes 19 brands with over 10,000 stores and cafés across 33 countries.

The Jollibee Group’s portfolio includes nine wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger and Tim Ho Wan), five franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, Yoshinoya, Common Man Coffee Roasters, and Tiong Bahru Bakery in the Philippines), and ownership stakes in other key brands like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (80%), Compose Coffee (70%), SuperFoods Group that operates Highlands Coffee (60%), and bubble tea brand Milksha (51%). The Company also has membership interests in Tortazo, LLC, along with Chef Rick Bayless, for Tortazo in the U.S. and has recently invested in Botrista, a leader in beverage technology.

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FYihealth group celebrates major milestone: 5 million orders processed at Delta Lab

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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FYihealth group. Delta, BC. 5 Million Orders Milestone. August 2025. (CNW Group/FYihealth group)

FYihealth group, recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies from 2020-2025, and one of Canada’s Top Growing Companies for three years in a row, recently reached a significant milestone: the company’s state-of-the-art Delta Laboratory completed over 5 million patient eyewear orders.

As the central hub for eyewear production across FYihealth group’s network — including FYidoctors, Visique, BonLook, and solis optics clinics and stores, totalling over 370 locations — the Delta Lab combines leading-edge technology with expert craftsmanship to deliver high-quality, custom prescription lenses and frames to patients across Canada. From its proprietary premium exactFit® lenses that are crafted with edge-to-edge clarity for sharper and more natural vision, to lenses made to manage Myopia, a growing vision epidemic that impacts about 30% of children aged 11-13, the Delta Lab has provided millions of Canadians with eyewear solutions that ehance their lives, explained the company.

Nancy Morison
Nancy Morison

“This milestone is a reflection of the exceptional work and commitment of our Delta Lab team,” said Nancy Morison, VP of Delta Ophthalmic Laboratories. “From the very first order to our five-millionth, their dedication to precision, innovation, and patient care is unmatched.”

The Delta Lab, located in British Columbia, has long been recognized as one of the most advanced optical laboratories in Canada. In 2022, the Delta Lab made a series of changes to reduce its environmental impact with lens production including changing over its flourescent lights to LED, saving 45% in engergy usage, and using 50% less water to produce its lenses while simultaneously recycling 95% of the water that is used. With a focus on continuous improvement, minimizing it’s environmental footprint and investment in technology, the lab ensures every order meets the highest standards of quality while helping patients see their world more clearly, said FYihealth.

Dr. Alan Ulsifer
Dr. Alan Ulsifer

“This isn’t just about numbers,” said Dr. Alan Ulsifer, CEO & Chair of FYihealth group, “It’s about the lives improved through better vision and the people behind every pair of glasses. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited for what’s next.”

FYihealth group is Canada’s leading diversified healthcare organization comprised of FYidoctors, Visique, BonLook, and solis optics. Doctor-led, professionally managed, and patient-focused, the organization concentrates on delivering eye care with patient-centric products and services. Recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies from 2020-2025, the organization operates over 370 locations across the country.

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Lab-Grown Butter Sparks Debate on Future of Food

By
Sylvain Charlebois
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Image: Savor

Producing butter without cows, pastures, or even crops—using only carbon and hydrogen synthesized in a laboratory—sounds like science fiction. Yet, in the era of climate urgency and resource constraints, it’s increasingly being framed as the next frontier in food innovation. A new generation of philanthropists and investors is betting on disruptive technologies to reimagine how we produce food.

One such player is Savor, a Chicago-based company backed in part by billionaire Bill Gates. The firm claims it has developed a product indistinguishable in taste and texture from traditional butter. Unlike margarine—made from plant-based oils such as soybean or canola—this “butter” is created entirely without animals or crops. Its fat molecules are reconstructed in a lab from carbon dioxide captured from the air and hydrogen extracted from water, processed through heating and oxidation. The result mimics the molecular structure of fats found in beef, cheese, or vegetable oils—without a single acre of farmland.

From an environmental standpoint, the footprint could be dramatically smaller. Commercially, Savor is targeting a market launch within 12 to 18 months but has yet to reveal pricing. It’s reasonable to expect a premium positioning, perhaps in the organic butter range. On nutritional value, however, the company remains silent.

Molecular agriculture—sometimes called synthetic or cellular food production—has gained significant traction in recent years. Meat, coffee, cocoa, seafood—virtually every category is being replicated. These innovations are often marketed as climate saviours. But the variables that truly shape consumer decisions—labelling, price, taste, and nutritional value—are often treated as secondary considerations.

Occasionally, the race for novelty veers into the absurd. In 2023, a UK company announced it could make ice cream from recycled plastic. Yes—plastic. One has to wonder how far we’re willing to go in the name of saving the planet.

Food science also has a history of unintended consequences. Consider trans fats: once hailed for improving texture and shelf life, they were ultimately banned due to their impact on public health.

And here lies the economic and cultural tension: food is not merely a matter of calories produced with minimal resources. It is an expression of culture, heritage, and pride—rooted in centuries-old traditions. According to the Food Sentiment Index published by our lab earlier this year, just 9% of consumers identify the environment as their primary purchase driver.

Cellular and molecular agriculture research certainly has its place, but it must be guided by the right motivations. Projects that attempt to “play God” or adopt eco-authoritarian narratives risk alienating the very consumers they aim to serve. Any credible pathway for these technologies must incorporate the cultural, economic, and sensory dimensions of eating. After all, we don’t just eat to reduce carbon footprints—we eat to support our farmers, our food businesses, and the communities they sustain.

The future of food will not be defined solely by lab breakthroughs or carbon math. Success will hinge on taste, transparency, affordability, and respect for culinary traditions. In the end, not all of us aspire to eat like Greta Thunberg.

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30 Minute Hit expands with focus on community and strategic growth

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: 30 Minute Hit
Photo: 30 Minute Hit

Founded in 2004 in North Vancouver, 30 Minute Hit has grown from a single women-only fitness studio into an international franchise with about 90 locations – an expansion rooted in organic growth and a strong sense of community.

“We opened the first location in North Vancouver,” said Deanna Loychuk, co-founder of 30 Minute Hit. “Two years later, one of our clients loved it and opened a location. Then one of her members wanted to open a location, and so on. Locations kept opening like that.”

Deanna Loychuk
Deanna Loychuk

Initially structured through licensing agreements, the model quickly evolved.

“At the time, we were starting them as licensing agreements. Then our legal team said, ‘You know, I think you’ve got something here – you should really look at the franchise model.’ That’s when we began franchising,” explained Loychuk. 

The company sold its first franchise in 2006. 

Loychuk credits much of the brand’s Canadian growth to a grassroots, member-driven model.

“In Canada, we don’t have the big broker systems or networks like in the U.S., so you grow very organically,” she said. “Members in B.C. would move to Alberta, want to take it with them, and open one there. Then others would see that and open more. That’s how we grew to Montreal – we now have 16 locations in Quebec. That’s how we got into Halifax, Nova Scotia.”

The approach shifts significantly south of the border.

“In the U.S., it’s a different market. We’re more strategic there, using broker networks to reach more people. So it’s a different ball game.”

When asked about Canada’s broader franchise environment, Loychuk was candid: “Canada just doesn’t have that same franchise network base.”

As a long-time member of the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA), Loychuk acknowledged the organization’s value, especially during challenging times.

“Honestly, we were members of the IFA (International Franchise Association) in the U.S. before joining the CFA (Canadian Franchise Association). We saw the CFA at an IFA conference one year and they asked, ‘When are you joining CFA?’” she recalled. “The CFA has been good for helping us connect with other franchisors.”

Photo: 30 Minute Hit
Photo: 30 Minute Hit

She praised their support during the pandemic. “Through COVID, they were amazing. They gave updates and were our lifeline, working closely with government officials across Canada. That helped a lot because during COVID we were busy trying to figure out how to reopen in Texas, Seattle, Ohio – all with different rules and regulations. It was a lot of work.”

The pandemic proved to be the toughest test of all.

“Going through COVID was really tough. The fitness industry is still feeling the aftermath. Running a business pre-COVID versus post-COVID is completely different,” she said. “What they built pre-COVID was amazing. Then they had to shut down for a year or two, depending on the province or state, and start again from scratch. That was mentally draining.”

Still, there was strength in unity. “Even within the fitness industry, there were perks. We all came together and supported one another because we believed there was enough room for everyone to be successful. And there is. But that hard work, the shift in mentality, it impacted a lot of people.”

At the heart of 30 Minute Hit is a brand with a clear identity.

“One thing that really sets us apart is that we’re women-only. We offer an incredible, effective workout in just half an hour. And our model is very community-based,” said Loychuk. “Our trainers and owners know the members by name and often, their life stories too. That connection is a huge part of what brings women back to fitness.”

Even as home workouts and digital fitness surged, Loychuk believes the value of community can’t be replaced. “A lot of people bought Pelotons or started walking more, but they still wanted community. Through our training, we ensure our owners and trainers build those connections. I think our world needs more of that right now.”

Photo: 30 Minute Hit
Photo: 30 Minute Hit

Looking ahead, she sees a resurgence in fitness.

“I believe the fitness industry will boom again in the next five years. People are realizing that health is wealth. If you don’t have your health, you have nothing,” she said. “We know sitting all day at desks or in front of screens isn’t healthy. People want to move more, but also want fitness with a community aspect. That’s what we offer.”

30 Minute Hit is also expanding globally.

“We opened in Dubai last October. The women there love it. We’re looking to expand further in the Middle East, and of course, the U.S. is still our biggest market.”

For Loychuk and 30 Minute Hit, the path ahead remains firmly rooted in connection and empowerment, one 30-minute session at a time.

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