Arlington’s $450M Vision and the 17th Avenue SW Revival: A Street Transformed (Images)

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July 25, 2025

Calgary’s 17th Avenue SW is in the midst of a major transformation—one driven by bold private investment, visionary planning, and a renewed push toward a vibrant mix of retail, residential, and services.

At the heart of it all is Arlington Street Investments. CEO Frank Lonardelli isn’t shy about his ambitions.

“We’ve got a bunch of stuff going on,” he said.

The company’s latest completed project is Enzo, where occupancy was granted a few weeks ago, and residents began moving in shortly thereafter. “We opened Chipotle, and then we’ve got Running Room, Anian, and Silk and Snow,” Lonardelli said.

Anian, he explained, is a Vancouver-based competitor to DUER jeans, while Silk and Snow is owned by Sleep Country, part of Prem Watsa’s Fairfax empire. “Chipotle is the second-largest quick-service restaurant in the world. Running Room has been around for a long time, and Anian is a strong retail brand.”

But Enzo is just one part of a much broader strategy.

Four Developments, One Bold Vision

Lonardelli laid out Arlington’s real estate footprint along 17th Avenue:

“The four projects are: Fifth (our first, right across from my office), Francesco (the old Fishman’s Dry Cleaning site), Enzo, and then Sentinel at 17th Avenue and 14th Street SW which is the biggest assembly in the Beltline at 66,000 square feet.”

By the numbers:

743 residential units across the portfolio
60,000 square feet of retail across all sites
25 new retailers introduced
$450+ million in construction enterprise value

“Fifth is complete,” he continued. “Francesco will be the first 16-storey concrete building on the 17th Avenue corridor. It’ll have 209 rental units, 12,000 square feet of retail, and a public amenity with public art.”

Enzo, which is also complete, has 70 residential units and 8,500 square feet of retail.

Completion of Francesco is targeted for Q4 2026, with the building topping off before Christmas this year. “You’ll see a 16-storey building with a podium setback. It’s going to look spectacular,” Lonardelli said.

Sentinel, Arlington’s most ambitious project yet, breaks ground in the near future.

The scope?

312 rental units
13,000 square feet of retail
Completion: Q3 2027

“Technically it’s one building but designed in three sections with a courtyard and interior amenity space.”

The Philosophy Behind the Billions

“We’ve been at this for eight years. People thought I was nuts,” said Lonardelli. “But I’ve always believed every great city has a great street. For Calgary, 17th Avenue has that potential—to be a live-work-play-shop environment.”

Back in their first CBC feature almost a decade ago, Arlington made a bold claim: buy 42 buildings, create eight development sites, and generate $1 billion in enterprise value. “People thought I was crazy—some said worse. But here we are.”

The transformation is evident. “There are new restaurants, retail, and more density. People are moving in. The city feels safer when it’s activated..”

Lonardelli added, “Once 17th is punched through into the Entertainment District (connected through Calgary Stampede Park), the street becomes even more important. It’s the coolest street in the city, no doubt.”

A Retail Bellwether: Lululemon Moves In

One high-profile new arrival: Lululemon.

“It’s going to be a flagship location,” said Tulene Steiestol, Executive Director of the 17th Avenue Business Improvement Area (BIA). “It’s significantly larger than their current store on 4th Street.

“Retail is always good. The trend that we’re seeing for 2025 is that there are more retailers that are coming on the avenue.”

Lonardelli agrees. “It’s a serious data point—a bellwether of confidence from the retail market. And as a Canadian success story, it’s great to see them investing here.”

Steiestol noted the corridor’s shift toward a more retail-oriented mix. “In 2025 alone, 33 new businesses have opened, and the majority are retail.

“There’s an energy that’s here.”

Construction taking place on site where lululemon will open. Photo by Mario Toneguzzi

Building a Safer, More Vibrant Street

The BIA, now 41 years old and home to 730 businesses across 40+ blocks, is committed to safety, cleanliness, and vibrancy.

“We want to be the safest, the cleanest, and the most welcoming of the BIAs,” said Steiestol. “When we host events or programming, we ensure it’s welcoming for families and everyone else who comes down here.”

Programs like Summer on 17th and the Extended Patio Program are aimed at enhancing street-level energy. “We run free programming every weekend from June through September—live music, performances, and more,” she added.

The patios—red-railed extensions now common along the street—are BIA-funded. “We wanted to ensure patios were accessible for everyone, especially those with mobility challenges.”

Still, challenges remain.

“It’s definitely the unhoused population,” Steiestol acknowledged. “There aren’t enough services, especially daytime services. We try to be respectful and inclusive, but it’s a fine balance.”

Also a recent survey indicated support for closing a part of 17th Avenue from vehicle traffic – a topic that has been discussed for years.

The site where the Sentinel is to be built.Photo by Mario Toneguzzi

Sentinel’s Role in the Western Revival

Much of 17th’s buzz traditionally centered around the stretch from the Ship and Anchor to Mount Royal Village. But with Sentinel coming to the corner of 14th Street, that’s about to change.

“A hundred per cent, it’s going to be a huge catalyst,” said Lonardelli. “When the buildings come down, people will realize how massive that 66,000 square feet site really is.”

He pointed out the area’s complexity—flanked by affluent neighborhoods like Scarboro and Lower Mount Royal, but historically less vibrant than the eastern stretch.

“Sentinel will be the anchor that transforms that entire corridor. Our hope is others between 8th and 14th follow suit, turning over buildings and creating a cohesive stretch.”

Steiestol echoed the sentiment. “Right now, if you look online, there are multiple development permits for small buildings to be demolished and replaced with mixed-use developments. Our eyes are definitely on the west side.”

The Enzo has brought four new retailers to the area. Photo by Mario Toneguzzi

The Future of 17th

Despite economic pressures, shifting demographics, and urban challenges, Calgary’s 17th Avenue is experiencing a retail and residential resurgence like never before.

“This is the time,” Lonardelli said. “The energy is back, and we’re proud to be part of building something iconic.”

For Steiestol and the BIA, it’s about keeping that momentum going: “We ask, how do we keep the neighbourhood relevant, safe, and clean so businesses stay—and new ones come in?”

If the past few years are any indication, 17th Avenue’s best chapters are still being written.

Michael Kehoe, Broker of Record, Fairfield Commercial Real Estate, said the densification of Calgary’s inner city districts continues at an unprecedented rate with many new mixed-use development and redevelopments.

“Numerous mixed-use projects along 17^th Avenue SW are under construction or in the final planning stages which have retail as a key component to the building’s infrastructure. The owners of these mixed-use projects are adding retailers and food service operators who will flourish in this successful pedestrian-oriented environment,” he said.

“Inner-city retail space is in high demand in Calgary and commands premium rents with high levels of occupancy. One of the current hotbeds for retail development and redevelopment in Calgary is 17^th Avenue SW often referred to as the Red Mile in homage to the NHL Calgary Flames.

“There seems to be a universal longing to find and recapture that special place – the main street – in many North American urban markets. 17th Avenue SW in Calgary is an excellent example of this process at work where all the elements of a vibrant main street have come together. The Red Mile is a retail and entertainment focused pedestrian oasis . . . 17^th Avenue SW has a human scale, it is a pedestrian-oriented place with a diversity of uses and users. It’s not a formula place but it is definitely the unique place that you will find in every Canadian city where the merchants, the bars and restaurants are unique. This is the street level, public realm where people come together and the diversity of people, buildings, retailers, restaurants, signage, sights and sounds truly create the special place called main street. It’s a seven day a week, 15 to 18 hour day environment where the abundance of coffee of shops add to the street dynamics by creating motion and energy.“

As a retail real estate broker, Kehoe said he sees renewed interest in urban business districts such as 17th Avenue SW.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Enzo: Image courtesy of Arlington Street

Fifth: Image courtesy of Arlington Street

Francesco: Image courtesy of Arlington Street

National: Image courtesy of Arlington Street

Sentinel: Image courtesy of Arlington Street

From Bartender to Beauty Franchise Powerhouse: The Entrepreneurial Rise of Kyla Dufresne and Foxy Box

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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July 25, 2025

When Kyla Dufresne first launched Foxy Box Laser & Wax Bars, she didn’t have a storefront or a polished business plan. What she did have was a massage table in her dining room, four skeptical roommates, and a vision that’s now grown into 24 locations across Canada.

“I used to give my customers a shot of tequila or whiskey to make them relax while I practiced doing Brazilians on them,” Dufresne recalls with a laugh. That was back in 2012, when she first saw a gap in the waxing market while bartending in Victoria.

“Back then the only places to get waxed were either you found someone awesome that worked out of their home, or you would go to a high-end spa and you’d be in a room with someone who probably didn’t want to be there, and spend over a hundred bucks and not get a very good job… or the back of a nail salon, which probably didn’t have the best hygienic standards.”

From those humble beginnings—working out of her home and then the back of a jewelry store—Dufresne has grown Foxy Box into a national franchise.

“Technically I started Foxy Box back in 2012, I had a little room in the back of a jewelry store and then I was only there for maybe three or four months before I knew I needed a bigger space.”

Of the 24 current locations, Dufresne owns two. “I have owned five. I’ve since sold three of them off to franchisees. It’s good for me to own corporate stores because then we get to test out things before we roll them out to the system.”

But Foxy Box wasn’t her first entrepreneurial venture. “My first business I owned a T-shirt line,” she says. “I put like funny music sayings on T-shirts. And then I sold them at music festivals and at markets.” That venture, while creatively fulfilling, didn’t prove scalable. “I was probably just breaking even with the amount of time that I was putting into it.”

Still, it was part of a larger pattern. “I guess I’ve always been like a hustler,” she says. “I dropped out in grade 10 and started working full-time… I wanted to become a mental health worker, and so I needed some credits to upgrade.”

She did eventually earn her high school diploma, became certified, and worked with youth with behavioural disorders for nearly a year. “I loved the boys and they were the best behaviour with me. But it was stressful… It wasn’t my forever game.”

Now living in Mill Bay on Vancouver Island, Dufresne juggles her role as CEO with life as a mother of three—including a toddler. “I have a one and a half year old boy as well and lots of nephews,” she says. Her stepsons are 14 and 17.

So how does she balance the demands of motherhood with a growing business?

“I don’t like the word balance,” she says. “You have to find your flow… Nothing has changed for me. I just now have a baby on my hip.” She even signed a lease for a new store in Vancouver two days before giving birth. “We built out that store over in Vancouver while he was just a few months old.”

The key, she says, is support and structure. “I have childcare two days a week… That’s when I schedule all my meetings, like back to back. And then in between, I’m checking my email or working while he naps.” She adds, jokingly: “The way that you run a successful growing company is—you hire people that don’t have kids.”

Dufresne credits her Chief Operating Officer, Cheryl (Laing), with helping run the day-to-day. “She’s been my business partner for a long time… She doesn’t want to have kids. She’s the best in the whole world and she’s just got time and is focused on Foxy Box.”

As for advice to young people uncertain about their path? Dufresne keeps it simple: “It doesn’t matter what you do, you just got to try shit. Just try it and if you don’t like it, then try something else… Everything is a learning experience.”

She brings the same philosophy into her leadership style. “Fun. Have fun,” she says. “As soon as we’re not having fun, I don’t think I want to do it anymore.”

Her approach combines fun with radical transparency. “We share all the weekly KPIs with all 24 locations every week with the entire system because we believe we can lean on each other and learn from one another.”

Two core values guide the company: “Humour is critical,” and “Don’t beat around the bush.” Dufresne elaborates: “Transparency is everything to me… We own it and we put it out right away.”

From dropping out of high school to leading a Canada-wide beauty brand, Kyla Dufresne’s story is a testament to entrepreneurial grit, creative vision, and staying true to your values—even if that means bringing your baby to a boardroom.

As she puts it, “If I were to look back, it would be really challenging to start this with a one and a half year old… But I built up the infrastructure to support the system. And then had Bronson.”

And what a system it’s become.

In a LinkedIn post, Dufresne said she didn’t grow up thinking she would be a CEO.

“I just knew I never wanted to settle.I watched my mom run a bakery for 12 years. She worked hard, day and night, and still struggled to get ahead. That lit something in me. Not just to build something of my own…But to build something that lifts other women with me. Entrepreneurship gave me freedom, confidence, and a way to rewrite the rules. Not just for myself but for every woman who’s ever thought, “Can I really do this?”

“Here’s what I’ve learned:

✅ You don’t need perfect. You need momentum.

✅ Failure isn’t a red flag. It’s part of the process.

✅ The goal isn’t just profit—it’s purpose, power, and potential.”

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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For July 25, 2025

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Retail Insider

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July 24, 2025

News at a Glance

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

Statistics Canada reports May retail sales down 1.1 per cent at $69.2 billion (CityNews)

Loblaw’s Q2 profit rises as shoppers continue to flock to discount (The Canadian Press)

CBC investigation finds some big grocers promoting imported food with Canadian branding (CBC)

Cadillac Fairview “Resolutely Opposed” To Selling HBC Leases To Central Walk (Storeys)

New car sales tumble in Canada as trade war bites, new data shows – National (Global)

Walmart opens its first western Canada pharmacy clinic in South Edmonton Common (CityNews)

Shoplifting on the rise in B.C., but one group says stores have given up reporting (Global)

Strong Vancouver data helps B.C. top Canada for retail sales growth (Western Investor)

‘There’s no foot traffic’: Downtown comic shop set to close its doors (Edmonton Journal)

B.C. convenience store becomes global sensation with social media (CCentral)

Thieves steal thousands worth of high-end Scotch from LCBO (Orillia Matters)

Vancouver boutique reimagines what’s old with reworked vintage collection (Vancouver Sun)

Roots and Canada Dry Launch Limited-Edition Summer Capsule

By

Craig Patterson

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July 24, 2025

image - 2025-07-24T112927.992 — Image: Roots

Two iconic Canadian brands, Roots and Canada Dry, have partnered to release a limited-edition summer capsule collection designed to celebrate the spirit of Canadian summers. The collaboration blends nostalgia, style, and tradition with apparel crafted for comfort and inspired by the outdoors.

The goal of the collaboration is to capture the feeling of connection and carefree relaxation associated with summer in Canada. “For over a century, Canada Dry has provided Canadians with moments of refreshment and been a staple of Canadian summers, so we’re thrilled to be coming together with another iconic brand for this one-of-a-kind collaboration,” said Ruben Beltran, Senior Brand Manager at Canada Dry.

Roots echoed that sentiment. “Roots and Canada Dry are two iconic brands woven into the fabric of Canadian life,” noted Leslie Golts, Chief Marketing Officer at Roots. “This partnership is more than just style and refreshment; it is about capturing the feeling of summer and nostalgia that has brought people together for generations.”

Design Elements Inspired by Vintage Summers

The collection’s visual identity combines design details from both brands. The most notable feature is a playful logo mash-up merging the Roots beaver with the crown from Canada Dry’s emblem. Inspired by vintage advertisements, the capsule incorporates retro-themed prints featuring classic Canadian imagery, including a green car, custom license plate, and a “Welcome To Canada Dry Country” sign. Each graphic captures a different part of the country, highlighting the East and West in equal measure.

The capsule includes two hero pieces:

A hoodie made from organic cotton fibres with the collaborative logo, priced at $138 CAD.
Two soft, graphic T-shirts featuring vintage-inspired artwork, priced at $54 CAD each.

Both are gender-free, designed for a relaxed fit, and made in Canada, reflecting a commitment to comfort and sustainability.

The Well in downtown Toronto. Photo: The Well

Celebrating Canadian Heritage

Canada Dry began in 1904 when founder John J. McLaughlin developed a lighter version of the ginger ale popular at the time. Marketed as “the champagne of soda,” it quickly gained popularity and became a mainstay during Prohibition for its versatility as a mixer. Today, Canada Dry remains a trusted household brand under the Keurig Dr Pepper portfolio.

Roots’ story started in 1973 in a small Ontario cabin and has evolved into a globally recognized lifestyle brand with over 100 corporate stores in Canada and an expanding international presence. Known for premium leather goods, relaxed apparel, and timeless style, Roots continues to celebrate craftsmanship and the natural Canadian aesthetic.

Where to Shop the Collection

The Limited-Edition Canada Dry x Roots Summer Collection will launch on July 25 at Roots.com. For shoppers in Toronto, the brands will host a pop-up at The Well from July 25 to 27, offering an immersive experience inspired by Canadian summers, complete with complimentary Canada Dry Ginger Ale.

More from Retail Insider:

Simons to open 1st Toronto store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre on August 14

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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July 24, 2025

La Maison Simons-Simons to Open First Urban Toronto Store - York — Rendering of the Simons Yorkdale Shopping Centre location, set to open to the public on August 14, 2025 (CNW Group/La Maison Simons)

Simons, the oldest private, family-run business in Canada, announced Thursday its highly anticipated Yorkdale Shopping Centre store will officially open its doors to the public August 14 at 10 a.m. EST. The store will occupy two levels of the mall’s former Nordstrom store.

The first of two new urban Toronto locations opening this year, the Yorkdale store will span more than 118,000 square feet across two floors and feature labels exclusive to Simons, international designers, as well as local brands and artists to be revealed at the opening. True to Simons’ uniquely Canadian approach and inspired by natural elements, the structure will leverage architecture by Lemay-Michaud Architecture, and interior design by Toronto-based Gensler Design, said the retailer.

“At Simons, serving our customers is our greatest privilege,” said Bernard Leblanc, President and CEO of Simons. “On August 14, we’re proud to open our doors at Yorkdale Shopping Centre and invite Torontonians to discover the distinctive blend of fashion, art, and design that defines Simons. Our history and success have always been rooted in exceptional service — a commitment to our customers, our employees, and our partners — and we can’t wait to share it with Toronto firsthand.”

As Simons’ 18^th coast-to-coast location, the opening marks a major milestone in the brand’s continued national expansion and reaffirms its investment in the Greater Toronto Area and the future of Canadian retail, said the company.

The retailer was founded in 1840 by John Simons in Quebec City. Originally a dry goods store, the family company is known today for accessible and inspired fashion. It is committed to cultivating creativity and building meaningful relationships with its staff, partners, and clientele. The company cares about the environment and about the communities in which it does business, it said.

“Simons is recognized as a fashion authority with an original shopping concept. The company offers an extensive array of avant-garde fashions and exclusive private collections for men and women, complemented by a selection of nationally recognized brands and top designer names. Simons also carries home fashions for the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen.”

There are 17 Simons stores – 10 in Quebec, including the company’s head office in Quebec City; three in Alberta; one in British Columbia; one in Nova Scotia; and soon four in Ontario.

The second Toronto Simons store will open in September at CF Toronto Eaton Centre. The 110,000 square foot multi-level store will also occupy space in the mall’s former Nordstrom, alongside Eataly and Nike. Simons also has a store in the GTA at Square One in Mississauga, which opened in 2016.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Retail sales decline in May: Statistics Canada

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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July 24, 2025

image - 2025-07-18T101118.871 — Downtown Montreal. Image: Toonie Tours

Retail sales decreased 1.1% to $69.2 billion in May. Sales were down in three of nine subsectors and were led by decreases at motor vehicle and parts dealers, reported Statistics Canada on Thursday.

Core retail sales—which exclude gasoline stations and fuel vendors and motor vehicle and parts dealers—were relatively unchanged in May. In volume terms, retail sales decreased 1.4% in May, noted the federal agency.

“Feedback from respondents for May highlighted the effects of trade tensions between Canada and the United States on Canadian retail businesses. Supplementary questions asked to respondents show that 32% of retail businesses were impacted by the trade tensions in May, compared with 36% in April. The most common impacts in May were price increases, change in demand for product and increased expenses for raw materials, shipping or labour,” said Statistics Canada.

Following gains in each of the previous two months, motor vehicle and parts dealers (-3.6%) recorded the largest decrease in retail sales in May. The decrease was led by lower sales at new car dealers (-4.6%), which fell for the first time since February. The largest increase in the motor vehicle and parts dealers subsector in May came from automotive parts, accessories and tire retailers (+1.7%), said Statistics Canada.

Sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors (-1.4%) decreased in May for a third consecutive month. In volume terms, sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors fell 2.1%, it said.

“Core retail sales were relatively unchanged in May for a second consecutive month. The only subsector within core retail sales to post a decline was food and beverage retailers (-1.2%), which fell for the third month in a row. The decrease in this subsector was led by lower sales at beer, wine and liquor retailers (-2.9%), followed by supermarkets and other grocery retailers (-0.6%),” explained Statistics Canada.

“The largest increase to core retail sales in May came from building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers (+1.9%), which followed a decline of 0.3% in April. Sales were also up at health and personal care retailers (+0.7%) in May. This was the 11th consecutive month of gains in the subsector.”

On a seasonally adjusted basis, retail e-commerce sales decreased 1.7% to $4.3 billion in May, accounting for 6.2% of total retail trade, compared with 6.3% in April, added the federal agency.

“Statistics Canada is providing an advance estimate of retail sales, which suggests that sales increased 1.6% in June. Owing to its early nature, this figure will be revised. This unofficial estimate was calculated based on responses received from 52.7% of companies surveyed. The average final response rate for the survey over the previous 12 months was 90.4%,” it said.

Maria Solovieva, Economist, TD Economics, said the two-month surge in auto sales came to an abrupt halt in May.

“While we expect some rebound in June, the reversal will likely be limited. Core sales activity remains soft. On a real per capita basis – a metric that gained attention last year as a recession signal when adjusted for rapid population growth – sales are now in contraction for the second straight month,” she said.

“Consumer caution remains the dominant theme. Despite some recovery in traditional confidence measures, Canadians appear to be treading carefully as they assess the impact of tariffs. The Bank of Canada’s new sentiment index declined in Q2, weighed down by soft consumer spending data. Similarly, our internal Spend data suggests only a weak recovery in June, with quarterly momentum still muted. This persistent weakness in household demand will weigh on growth in the second quarter.”

An expected pullback in autos drove a soft retail sales figure for May. However, a decent flash estimate for June suggests the downward momentum in spending could be stabilizing. As Canada and the U.S. work towards a trade deal, it’s clear that more trade certainty can help support Canadian consumers and broader economic activity, said Shelly Kaushik, Senior Economist, BMO Capital Markets.

Andrew Grantham, Senior Economist, CIBC Capital Markets, said the rebound in retail sales during June is a good signpost for a return to GDP growth heading into the second half of the year, although with no detail available yet we don’t know how much of this advance is being driven by volatile elements such as auto and gasoline sales.

“Moreover, in inflation-adjusted terms June’s increase likely only just offsets the decline seen in May. While the Bank of Canada is widely expected to keep interest rates on hold next week, further rate reductions may still be needed later in the year to ensure growth is strong enough to close the slack that has built up in the economy, which should start to put downward pressure on core inflation,” he said.

Related Retail Insider stories:

A&W Food Services of Canada announces Q2 results for Fiscal 2025

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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July 24, 2025

Food Court A&W Photo by Matthew at Best Edmonton Mall

A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. announced Thursday its financial results for the 12 and 24-week periods ended June 15, 2025.

“We are pleased to report a stronger second quarter for A&W,” said Susan Senecal, Chief Executive Officer. “We successfully opened 4 new restaurants and achieved 3.4% System Sales Growth and Same Store Sales Growth of 1.6%. The growth in Same Store Sales was driven by increases in both average check and guest counts, reflecting the success of our marketing campaigns, including a two-week Canada-wide Teen Burger promotion.

“We continue to be pleased with the performance of our value offerings and marketing initiatives, which have effectively appealed to the needs of our guests today. A significant highlight of the quarter was the launch of A&W Rewards, our new loyalty program, on April 22nd. A&W Rewards provides guests with access to offers, discounts and free rewards, only available on the mobile app, giving them even more reasons to visit A&W.”

Q2 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For Q2 2025, compared to Q2 2024

System Sales of $452.3 million increased by $15.0 million (3.4%)
Revenue increased by $4.5 million (7%) to $68.8 million
Income before income taxes increased by $6.6 million (63%) to $17.2 million
Adjusted EBITDA increased by $4.0 million (18%) to $25.5 million
Operating costs increased by $3.5 million (11%) to $36.0 million, largely attributable to increased marketing-related costs incurred by the National Advertising Fund (“NAF”)
General and administrative expenses decreased by $0.5 million (4%) to $11.1 million
Cash Dividend of $0.480 per share declared June 2, 2025 and paid June 30, 2025
Opened 4 new A&W restaurants

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Loewe Opens Experiential Perfume Pop-Up at Holt Renfrew Toronto

By

Craig Patterson

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July 24, 2025

LOEWE Perfumes Holt Renfrew Bloor Pop-Up 006 — LOEWE Perfumes Holt Renfrew Bloor Pop-Up. Image: Michael Muraz

Luxury Spanish brand Loewe has introduced a striking new concept at Holt Renfrew’s Bloor Street flagship in Toronto, unveiling an exclusive 2,000-square-foot pop-up dedicated to Loewe Perfumes. This unique installation, described as an immersive “Crafted Garden,” opened July 21 and will remain in place for nearly a year, making it a major brand milestone in North America.

Positioned within Holt Renfrew at 50 Bloor Street West, the pop-up occupies a high-profile space with a separate entrance on Bloor Street. Previously, the space housed a Saint Laurent “World of” boutique until that brand relocated to its newly expanded standalone flagship at 110 Bloor Street West.

“This is the biggest Loewe Perfumes pop-up we’ve launched globally since introducing this concept,” said Lucia Kittlein, Loewe’s Training and Trade Marketing Manager for the Americas, in an interview with Retail Insider. “It’s the only one of this scale in North America, and we see it as more than just a pop-up. It’s like an art gallery for the brand.”

A Sensorial Experience: Nature Meets Craft

The Crafted Garden design draws inspiration from Renaissance gardens, creating a labyrinth-like installation where fragrance, nature, and artistry intersect. The concept is immersive, encouraging visitors to not only explore scents but also engage multiple senses through tactile elements and visually striking displays.

Key to the design is a modular system created by Molo Design, a Vancouver-based studio known for sustainable, sculptural interiors. Molo’s honeycomb structures, crafted from recyclable materials, transform the space into an organic environment reminiscent of botanical manuscripts and gilded texts. This Canadian connection underscores Loewe’s commitment to sustainable artistry while adding a local design narrative to the Toronto pop-up.

“From the moment you enter, the idea is to evoke curiosity and play,” explained Kittlein. “We want people to touch, explore, and experience fragrance in a completely new way.”

LOEWE Perfumes Holt Renfrew Bloor Pop-Up. Image: Michael Muraz

Exclusive Collections and Seasonal Highlights

The pop-up features Loewe’s full fragrance portfolio, including the Botanical Rainbow range, the Home Scents collection, and the Un Paseo por Madrid series inspired by iconic Spanish locations. The space also introduces limited-edition pieces exclusive to Holt Renfrew during the installation’s run.

Among these are beeswax candles in honey and bronze tones, part of the Paula’s Ibiza summer campaign, and collectible candleholders that merge utility with artistry. Upcoming exclusives include Palo Santo, a scent joining the Loewe lineup in August, and a renewed collaboration with Spanish design house Therow, introducing unique floral elements integrated into fragrance caps.

“Our intention is to refresh the space seasonally,” said Kittlein. “If you visit in October or during the holidays, you’ll notice changes reflecting our latest campaigns. This flexibility keeps the experience dynamic and aligned with Loewe’s creative evolution.”

Street-facing entrance for the LOEWE Perfumes Holt Renfrew Bloor Pop-Up. Image: Larry Leung

Engaging In-Store Experiences

The Loewe Perfumes pop-up at Holt Renfrew Bloor Street offers more than just fragrance shopping — it is designed as a space to linger and connect. The Holt’s Café To-Go Counter adds a culinary dimension to the experience, serving freshly baked croissants, savoury snacks, macarons, and whimsical touches such as chocolate lollipops shaped like the Loewe logo.

Visitors can also enjoy a curated flower shop and participate in seasonal workshops that highlight craftsmanship and creativity. These rotating experiences, combined with exclusive in-store activations, reflect Loewe’s ethos of personalization and play. “It’s about creating moments where people feel part of the brand’s world,” said Lucia Kittlein. “The idea is to make fragrance discovery both interactive and inspiring.”

Holt’s Café To-Go Counter in the Loewe pop-up at Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor St. W. in Toronto. Photo: Larry Leung

Why Toronto and Why Holt Renfrew?

Toronto’s Bloor Street has long been regarded as Canada’s premier luxury retail corridor, making it a strategic choice for Loewe’s first large-scale fragrance pop-up in the country. The partnership with Holt Renfrew was a natural extension of Loewe’s selective approach to retail.

“Holt Renfrew is the ideal partner for us in Canada,” Kittlein emphasized. “The clientele is sophisticated and appreciates the artistry behind the brand. We also value Holt’s ability to create experiences beyond transactional retail, which aligns with our vision.”

Loewe Perfumes debuted in Canada two years ago through Holt Renfrew, initially launching with a smaller activation in Vancouver. Since then, the brand has expanded with pop-ups at Square One in Mississauga and a permanent counter in Vancouver, though nothing compares in scale to the Bloor Street installation.

“This Toronto concept is a benchmark for us,” Kittlein noted. “It’s where we experiment, learn, and bring our most ambitious ideas to life.”

LOEWE Perfumes Holt Renfrew Bloor Pop-Up. Image: Holt Renfrew

Engaging the Community Through Craft

Beyond fragrance, the pop-up encourages interaction and personalization. A curated library invites visitors to browse books on art, nature, and design — sources of inspiration for Loewe’s visual identity. Seasonal workshops, in-store activations, and collaborations with Holt’s Café further enrich the experience, transforming shopping into an educational and cultural encounter.

“Every detail is intentional,” said Kittlein. “From the materiality of our displays to the stories behind each scent, it’s about creating a dialogue between heritage and modernity.”

This approach reflects Loewe’s broader positioning as a brand rooted in modern craft, blending traditional techniques with innovative forms. Even the choice of materials, such as marble caps for perfume flacons, vegetable wax for candles, and sustainable paper-based structures, reinforces a narrative of authenticity and artistry.

LOEWE Perfumes Holt Renfrew Bloor Pop-Up. Image: Larry Leung

An Artistic Dialogue with Scent

One of the most compelling aspects of the Toronto pop-up is its multi-sensory journey, designed to immerse guests in Loewe’s world. Highlights include the Home Scents greenhouse, featuring fragrances like Oregano, Cucumber, and the cult-favourite Tomato, as well as the Madrid Collection, which translates Spanish cultural landmarks into olfactory form.

“Tomato is our bestseller,” revealed Kittlein. “It’s playful, fresh, and very true to nature. We like to take the ordinary and make it extraordinary—whether that’s through scent, design, or storytelling.”

The space also introduces the Aura Collection of textured candles, each handcrafted using unique glazing techniques that ensure no two pieces are alike. These limited-edition designs will be available until October, after which Loewe will debut new tactile concepts.

A Year-Long Chapter in Loewe’s Canadian Story

The Loewe Perfumes pop-up at Holt Renfrew Bloor Street will run until May 2026, offering Canadian consumers an extended opportunity to engage with the brand. Looking ahead, Loewe aims to solidify its presence in Canada through additional pop-ups and potentially a permanent boutique within Holt Renfrew.

“For us, Canada is an exciting market,” Kittlein said. “Consumers here are curious, design-conscious, and open to experiential retail”.

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Loblaw reports revenue growth of 5.2% in Q2

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

July 24, 2025

Loblaw Companies Limited announced Thursday its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended June 14, 2025, indicating that revenue growth reflected higher customer traffic and unit sales as well as larger baskets.

Loblaw said it delivered a strong performance this quarter by continuing to provide Canadians with quality, value, service, and convenience across its nationwide network of stores and digital platforms.

Strong sales growth was driven by new store openings and improved same-store sales, with everyday value offerings, personalized PC Optimum^TM loyalty rewards, and impactful promotions driving higher customer engagement, it said.

“In the Food Retail business, consumers continued to focus on value, which resulted in outperformance by Hard Discount and Real Canadian Superstores banners. Same-store traffic, basket size, and item count all increased compared to the same quarter last year. Food Retail tonnage volume also increased, reflecting solid market share gains within both discount and conventional segments. In Drug Retail, robust pharmacy and healthcare services drove continued strength, led by specialty drug growth. Front store sales momentum continued, particularly in prestige beauty categories, partially offset by the strategic exit from certain electronics items. Loblaw advanced its full-year plan to open approximately 80 new stores and 100 new pharmacy clinics, providing access to affordable, quality groceries and healthcare to more communities across Canada. This included opening 10 stores and 12 pharmacy clinics in the quarter, bringing the year-to-date total to 20 new stores and 23 new pharmacy clinics. In addition, the Company continued to successfully execute the ramp-up of its East Gwillimbury distribution centre, said the company.

Loblaw also separately announced Thursday a 4-for-1 common share stock split to ensure its common shares remain accessible to retail investors and the thousands of employees who participate in the Company’s employee share ownership program. The stock split will not dilute shareholders’ equity. The stock split will be implemented by way of a stock dividend.

“Canadians are seeking value, quality and service and are increasingly rewarding us for delivering on their needs, resulting in sales and market share growth,” said Per Bank, President and Chief Executive Officer, Loblaw Companies Limited. “We are bringing our value focus to more and more communities across Canada through our new store openings, with 61 new stores opened since last year.”

2025 SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

Revenue was $14,672 million, an increase of $725 million, or 5.2%.
The sale of Wellwise by Shoppers was completed in the first quarter of 2025. Revenue related to Wellwise in the second quarter of 2025 was nil (2024 – $21 million). Excluding the impact of revenue related to Wellwise, revenue increased by 5.4%.
Retail segment sales were $14,389 million, an increase of $731 million, or 5.4%.
Food Retail (Loblaw) same-stores sales increased by 3.5%.
Drug Retail (Shoppers Drug Mart) same-store sales increased by 4.1%, with pharmacy and healthcare services same-store sales growth of 6.2% and front store same-store sales growth of 1.7%.
E-commerce sales increased by 17.5%.
Operating income was $1,239 million, an increase of $371 million, or 42.7%.
Adjusted EBITDA was $1,840 million, an increase of $127 million, or 7.4%.
Retail segment gross profit percentage was stable at 32.0%.
Net earnings available to common shareholders of the Company were $714 million, an increase of $257 million or 56.2%. Diluted net earnings per common share were $2.37, an increase of $0.89, or 60.1%. The increase was primarily driven by the impact of lower costs related to certain intangible assets associated with the 2014 acquisition of Shoppers Drug Mart Corporation which are now fully amortized and lapping of prior year charges.
Adjusted net earnings available to common shareholders of the Company were $721 million, an increase of $57 million, or 8.6%.
Adjusted diluted net earnings per common share were $2.40, an increase of $0.25 or 11.6%.
Net capital investments were $239 million, which reflects gross capital investments of $409 million, net of proceeds from property disposals of $170 million.
Repurchased for cancellation 2.05 million common shares at a cost of $445 million. Free cash flow from the Retail segment was $640 million.

Loblaw is Canada’s food and pharmacy leader, and the nation’s largest retailer. Loblaw provides Canadians with grocery, pharmacy and healthcare services, other health and beauty products, apparel, general merchandise, financial services and wireless mobile products and services. With more than 2,800 locations, Loblaw, its franchisees and Associate-owners employ more than 220,000 full- and part-time employees, making it one of Canada’s largest private sector employers.

It has more than 1,100 grocery stores that span the value spectrum from discount to specialty; full-service pharmacies at nearly 1,400 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix locations and in close to 500 grocery stores; PC Financial services; Joe Fresh fashion and family apparel; and four of Canada’s top-consumer brands in Life Brand, Farmer’s Market, no name and President’s Choice.

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Alpine Park retail taking shape as demand for suburban development surges: CBRE’s Alistair Corbett (Images)

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

July 24, 2025

After years of planning, Alpine Park — a major new urbanist community on Calgary’s west side — is finally breaking ground with its multi-phased retail development now underway.

Alpine Park is a $2.5 billion mixed-use development by Dream Unlimited.

Speaking with Retail Insider, Alistair Corbett, Senior Vice President at CBRE, who is handling the retail leasing side of the mega project, shared insights into the scope of the development, current leasing momentum, and the strength of Calgary’s suburban retail market.

“It’s interesting — finally a lot of stuff getting in the ground and going after years of planning,” said Corbett. “This stuff takes so long for everybody to put together.”

Alpine Park is located off Stoney Trail at 154th Avenue — the interchange that takes drivers east into Evergreen and west into the new community of Alpine Park.

A Three-Phase Retail Strategy

Corbett outlined a thoughtfully staged retail strategy for Alpine Park, designed to evolve alongside the growing community.

“This has been more than a decade in the making, but essentially there are three retail components to that community,” he said.

Phase One: The Convenience District
Construction is already underway on a single-level, 60,000-square-foot centre focused on daily needs. “It’s gas and drive-thru and daily needs, daycare, that kind of format,” Corbett explained.
Phase Two: The Service District
Coming in 2027 and beyond, this 65,000-square-foot mixed-use space will be “grocery anchored, some extra retail and medical and services like that.”
Phase Three: The Social District
Planned for further down the line, this phase will be adjacent to a village centre housing up to 12,000 residential units. “That brings on the food and the entertainment portion,” he added.

Population Growth and Market Catchment

The development will serve both the Alpine Park community and neighbouring areas underserved by retail.

“The community itself of Alpine Park when it’s fully developed would be over 20,000 people,” Corbett said. “What’s really interesting about this site is the east portion of Stoney Trail, where Evergreen and Bridlewood is — that’s really under-retailed if you think about it.”

Corbett noted that the existing retail in the area is concentrated along 162nd Avenue, on the south end of Evergreen, meaning many residents will pass directly by the new retail area to access their communities.

“You’ve kind of got an existing base of people that are under-serviced that are coming past it every day. Plus you’ve got the growth of Alpine Park on the west. Bridlewood and Evergreen brings you about 25,000 people.”

Leasing Momentum and Tenant Mix

On the leasing front, the project is gaining traction with several deals secured and more in negotiation.

“I think it’s fair to say that they’ve announced the Petro Canada deal, the McDonald’s deal, a large, 12,000-square-foot daycare,” said Corbett. “We have active paper with wine stores, vets, physiotherapies, martial arts.”

While food tenants are confirmed, Corbett couldn’t yet name them. “There’s a lot going on that’s kind of underneath the paper.”

As for the Service District, advanced negotiations are ongoing with grocery and other retail anchors. “Those are lengthy discussions,” he said.

A Tight Retail Market with Surging Demand

Alpine Park is launching into a suburban retail environment marked by extremely low vacancy rates and strong consumer demand.

“There is almost no vacancy down in the south end — well, in most of the suburban areas of the city,” Corbett explained. “The south trade zone is a 2.2% vacancy number. That’s almost functionally zero.”

“Lots of residential growth. This is what the retailers and the service providers are looking for — sites that will be successful on day one,” he added.

He noted that new retail development has lagged in recent years, despite high demand. “We normally bring on about 1.3 million square feet of space a year in the retail market in Calgary, and last year was just over half a million,” said Corbett. “This conventional stuff has been really hard to bring to market just because… the interest rates and the construction costs and what tenants were willing to pay — it just hadn’t been penciling.”

But things are shifting. “Good sites with really good tenants, with good rates. The rates are recalibrated,” he said. “The retailers can understand that Calgary’s a really desirable market to get space — it’s competitive and it’s tough, but it’s also expensive. And those rates have now recalibrated back up.

Strong Fundamentals Driving Calgary Retail

Asked to describe Calgary’s retail sector overall, Corbett pointed to a city with fundamentals working in its favour.

“We’re not an overbuilt city. In fact, on the contrary, the vacancy rate overall — including downtown — is 4.6%. And downtown is 12% vacant. But this kind of grocery-anchored, high-quality suburban retail is almost nothing vacant.”

Population growth is another factor. “We’re coming up with our six and seven per cent growth rates, right? But with no new space being delivered. Everybody’s same-store sales were, on the whole, great because all of these new people are shopping at the same number of shops.”

Mixed-use urban areas face a different trajectory, but the suburbs are booming. “The demand in the suburbs is insane,” Corbett said.

Looking Ahead

With its careful planning, rapid leasing activity, and strategic location, Alpine Park is poised to become one of Calgary’s key suburban retail hubs — a rare new project in a market starved for supply.

“It’s just been really carefully thought out by Dream,” Corbett concluded. “Some of the team have already been on it for a decade, getting this ready to go. And now — here we are.”

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