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TSN Launches Interactive Shopping in Canada

By
Lee Rivett
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TSN Shop website screenshot

TSN has unveiled a new digital storefront for sports fans. The TSN Shop, created in partnership with Shopsense AI, debuts during the CFL ON TSN’s Friday Night Football broadcast, offering viewers a seamless way to shop for products directly from their television screens.

This initiative expands Bell Media’s previously announced partnership with Shopsense AI, which had already introduced shoppable experiences across select entertainment properties. By extending the technology into live sports programming, Bell Media aims to transform how Canadians consume televised content, merging real-time sports with e-commerce.

The concept is straightforward. During TSN broadcasts, viewers can scan an on-screen QR code with their mobile devices. This code directs them to a curated shopping experience, where they can browse and purchase items tied to the broadcast. Offerings range from wardrobe pieces inspired by TSN personalities to official CFL merchandise and travel essentials.

The integration reflects a larger trend toward second-screen engagement, where audiences increasingly expect interactive, personalized features alongside traditional broadcasts. Once fans select their desired products, they are redirected to official websites to complete their purchases, keeping transactions streamlined and secure.

Bell Media’s Strategy

“With the expansion of our Shopsense AI partnership to include TSN, we’re continuing to redefine how viewers interact with Bell Media content,” said Matt McGowan, Senior Vice-President, Business Solutions, Bell Media. 

“This new collaboration allows sports fans to enjoy an interactive viewing experience, while we’re able to provide Bell Media clients with customized opportunities that connect them directly with TSN audiences.”

For Bell Media, this expansion is about enhancing the fan experience while creating fresh opportunities for advertisers. Brands are given a chance to integrate into the broadcast itself, sponsoring collections of curated merchandise and appearing in custom virtual storefronts.

Connecting Fans and Brands

The launch of the TSN Shop signals a broader ambition: to make sports broadcasts a hub of both entertainment and commerce. According to Shawn Redmond, Vice-President of Bell Media Sports, “With the launch of the innovative new TSN Shop, we’re giving Canadian sports fans a unique and exciting way to connect with their favourite teams and TSN personalities.”

Redmond added that the partnership makes the TSN Shop “the prime online destination for brands looking to reach fans across the country,” emphasizing its potential to expand into marquee sports properties beyond the CFL. Hockey, basketball, soccer, and international tournaments all represent likely future arenas for this model.

The TSN Shop builds on an emerging trend across the television landscape. Networks and streaming platforms worldwide are experimenting with ways to make content instantly shoppable. Whether through fashion, lifestyle, or live sports, the integration of commerce within programming promises to unlock new revenue streams and deepen engagement.

Shopsense AI provides the technology backbone for this transformation. Its platform allows media companies to activate shoppable experiences without requiring complex technical integration. By offering a low-lift, no-SDK solution, Shopsense makes it easier for networks like TSN to bridge the gap between content and commerce.

What It Means for Advertisers

For advertisers, the TSN Shop presents a fresh canvas. Rather than relying solely on traditional ad placements, brands can now become part of the storytelling process. They can sponsor curated collections of merchandise, link their products to specific broadcasts, and align themselves with the passions of Canadian sports fans.

The opportunity is particularly attractive in an era where audiences are increasingly fragmented across streaming platforms and social media. By embedding shopping experiences into live broadcasts, TSN creates a captive environment where fans are highly engaged and receptive.

Bell Media has confirmed plans to extend the model into additional sports properties in the coming year. The network’s deep programming portfolio, including hockey, basketball, golf, tennis, and international tournaments, provides ample opportunity for scaling the shoppable experience.

This expansion reflects a broader shift within Bell Media to integrate shoppability across its content library. Beyond sports, the company envisions applying the technology to award shows, dramas, and unscripted programming, paving the way for immersive experiences that blur the lines between entertainment and retail.

About Shopsense AI

Shopsense AI describes itself as a platform that “unlocks new revenues for media companies, like linear and streaming TV platforms, by making their original content instantly shoppable.” The company’s technology curates collections of clothing, home goods, sports gear, and other products inspired by what viewers see onscreen. By keeping consumers within a media company’s own ecosystem, Shopsense aims to drive both engagement and loyalty.

The company highlights its patent-pending enterprise SaaS model, designed to support media companies in monetizing their content. Its ease of activation allows broadcasters to quickly deploy second-screen shopping without disrupting their core operations.

The Broader Context of TSN

TSN, a fixture in Canadian sports broadcasting, operates across five national television feeds, the TSN+ streaming service, TSN.ca, TSN Radio, and the TSN app. Its programming lineup is unmatched in Canada, spanning the Grey Cup, NHL coverage, NBA games, MLS matches, the FIFA World Cup, UEFA competitions, golf majors, tennis grand slams, and NCAA March Madness, among others.

By layering the TSN Shop onto this existing portfolio, Bell Media leverages TSN’s established role as Canada’s Sports Leader. The integration aligns with TSN’s strategy of expanding beyond traditional broadcasting to include digital, interactive, and mobile-first experiences.

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Gen AI adoption now mainstream: Capgemini report

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Mikael Blomkvist
Photo: Mikael Blomkvist

Gen AI adoption is now mainstream, according to a new survey of business leaders by Capgemini, a global tech consultancy.

Harnessing the value of AI: Unlocking scalable advantage, the third edition in the Capgemini Research Institute’s annual research series on AI technologies, explores strategies for how organizations can scale AI implementation responsibly, ethically, and effectively.

The research brief is based on findings from a global survey of 1,100 leaders at organizations with annual revenue above $1 billion across 15 countries.

Key findings include:

  • Gen AI adoption is now mainstream, surging from 6% in 2023 to 30% in 2025. Today, 93% of organizations are exploring or enabling Gen AI capabilities – yet while benefits are rising, cost concerns persist.
  • AI agents are gaining ground, with 14% of organizations implementing them at partial or full scale, and 23% running pilots. Of the organizations already scaling AI agents, nearly 45% are piloting or scaling multi-agent systems.
  • AI is evolving from tool to teammate. Nearly six in 10 organizations are planning to integrate AI as augmenting or autonomous collaborators within the next year – yet most are underprepared for this shift.
  • Trust and governance are lagging: 71% of organizations say they cannot fully trust autonomous AI agents for enterprise use. While 46% have governance policies in place, adherence remains low.
  • AI’s environmental impact is under scrutiny. Only one in five organizations measures its Gen AI environmental footprint, though sustainability measures – like using smaller task-specific models – are gaining traction.

“As organizations shift from isolated pilots to enterprise-wide deployments of generative and agentic AI, they are unlocking transformative benefits in innovation and productivity. But mainstream adoption is bringing new challenges related to cost containment, workforce adaptation, governance, and sustainability,” explained the report.

“AI is in transition. The technology is moving from isolated pilots to sweeping, mainstream adoption at an unprecedented pace. Organizations are unlocking remarkable benefits, from accelerated innovation to transformative productivity gains. But this breakneck expansion also brings challenges such as cost containment, workforce adaptation, and governance complexities, with a growing emphasis on ethical, sustainable, trustworthy, and sovereign AI.”

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ALDO Unveils “Try Every Thing” Campaign for New Era

By
Lee Rivett
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Image: ALDO

ALDO, the Canadian-founded global footwear and accessories retailer, has unveiled a sweeping brand evolution under the banner Try Every Thing. The initiative, which officially launches this fall, positions ALDO for a new era of cultural relevance and consumer engagement after more than five decades in the global fashion industry.

The campaign introduces what the company describes as a new mindset rather than just a seasonal marketing effort. “This is more than a campaign. It’s a bold new mindset that takes the very best of ALDO — our craftsmanship, style, and spirit — and evolves it for today’s consumer,” the brand stated in its announcement. Rooted in themes of discovery, self-expression, and connection, the initiative seeks to resonate with a generation in flux, navigating first jobs, relocations, and early milestones of adulthood.

At the core of ALDO Try Every Thing is a comprehensive, global rollout that spans digital, retail, social, and experiential channels. The initiative is supported by a newly developed e-commerce platform that enhances product storytelling and simplifies the shopping experience, alongside updated brand guidelines that define a consistent tone of voice and visual identity across markets.

The marketing push includes cinematic storytelling, influencer partnerships, and immersive experiences. Outdoor activations and pop-ups will amplify visibility across key global markets, while an influencer event on September 3 was designed to ignite early conversation. In parallel, ALDO has restructured its Instagram feed and content strategy to align with the new brand direction.

TikTok at the Centre

Central to the campaign is a large-scale TikTok Branded Mission, which ALDO has positioned as the largest global activation of its kind. Launched September 4, the challenge invites the platform’s global community to step outside their comfort zones by documenting “firsts”, such as moments such as karaoke debuts or first job interviews, for the chance to win one of four $5,000 prizes.

The strategy reflects ALDO’s growing emphasis on digital-first engagement. The company previously saw success with its “Step Into Love” hashtag challenge, which generated more than six billion earned impressions. The new initiative builds on that momentum by encouraging younger audiences to embrace risk, discovery, and playful experimentation.

Real Stories in Cinematic Form

The visual centerpiece of Try Every Thing is a series of cinematic short-form vignettes. Shot in Montreal by David Picard, directed by Stefanie Soho, and styled by longtime collaborator Cary Tauben, the films feature everyday but transformative experiences. A woman approaches a karaoke stage for a solo number; a young man, hesitant at first, throws himself into an impromptu tuba performance.

The campaign aims to capture emotionally honest, relatable experiences. “Try Every Thing is our invitation to a new generation, one that is curious, self-expressive, and unafraid to live for the moment,” said Daianara Grullon Amalfitano, ALDO’s Chief Brand and Product Officer. “We are stepping into the lives of our customers not just with a product, but with purpose, encouraging them to go for it, especially if it is messy, new, or intimidating. Our hope is that our new brand ethos gives young people the inspiration to embrace new experiences and celebrate personal growth. That is where real magic happens. And we want to be there for every step of it.”

Building on a Five-Decade Legacy

The launch of ALDO Try Every Thing follows the company’s Retrospective campaign, which explored the brand’s 53-year history and celebrated its creative spirit. Founded in Montreal in 1972, ALDO has expanded into a global business with more than 1,400 stores across 110 countries. Its products reach over 250 million customers annually.

Over the decades, ALDO has built a reputation for cultural connection and boundary-pushing campaigns. From early initiatives promoting AIDS awareness to collaborations with global icons such as Barbie, Disney, and the WNBA, the brand has consistently sought to merge style with social relevance. The new chapter, the company suggests, reintroduces ALDO to a younger demographic while continuing to serve loyal customers worldwide.

A Campaign Rooted in Life Transitions

The company said the campaign reflects research showing that people make most of their major life decisions before the age of 30. For ALDO, this stage represents both a challenge and an opportunity. By positioning itself as a companion during moments of change — whether starting a job, moving to a new city, or experimenting with style — the retailer hopes to forge deeper connections with consumers at formative times in their lives.

The approach highlights ALDO’s effort to move beyond products alone, framing its shoes, bags, and accessories as part of a broader lifestyle of confidence, comfort, and experimentation. The campaign’s mantra, “you never know until you try,” is a call for audiences to lean into vulnerability and discovery.

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Canadians are spending within their own backyard: Moneris Interprovincial spend data

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Lando Dong
Photo: Lando Dong

This year, Canadians have decided to keep their tourism dollars in their own backyard, and local businesses have reaped the benefits nationwide. Moneris, Canada’s leading commerce provider, looked at interprovincial spend data. The data shows that within the same period in 2024, spending amongst visitors from other provinces was up five per cent from January through June 2025.

According to Moneris:

  • The Territories led the way, registering a +10% increase in spending volume; closely followed by Alberta (+9%); and Saskatchewan (+6%).

This may be a result of Canadians changing their travel plans. An Angus Reid survey commissioned by Moneris found that:

  • More than a quarter (26%) of Canadians changed, postponed or cancelled US travel plans in 2025.
  • Of those who changed their plans, 30% opted to travel to other Canadian provinces, while 44% stayed within their own province.

This increase in interprovincial spend volume across Canada was largely driven by an increase in the number of transactions made, which was up four per cent year-over-year, said the company.

Douglas Porter
Douglas Porter

BMO’s Chief Economist, Douglas Porter, on Moneris’ Just Good Business podcast, highlighted the positive impact domestic tourism can have, “Where it really matters is if you travel in say, Banff or Halifax, versus Florida or Arizona. That can be a difference of thousands of dollars. And that’s where Canadians can make a really big difference.”

Sean McCormick, Director, Business Development – Data Services and LAKA Sales Leadership at Moneris, said: “Canadians are clearly rethinking how and where they travel. With roughly a quarter of Canadians changing their US travel plans, we’re seeing a strong pivot toward domestic destinations. Whether it’s exploring new provinces or staying closer to home, this shift is creating real momentum for local tourism and local businesses.”

Sean McCormick
Sean McCormick

“What Canadians are saying is showing up in how they’re spending. Moneris’ data reveals a five per cent increase year-over-year in interprovincial spending. It’s a sign that Canadians are rediscovering their own huge, diverse backyard and investing in it as well by supporting businesses across the country.”

“While our latest report only looks at the first half of the year, domestic tourism isn’t just a seasonal trend, it’s a key contributor to the Canadian economy. As Canadians continue to invest their time and money within the country, this trend highlights the enduring value of local travel for businesses and supporting economic resilience.”

Moneris data: Year-over-year change in inter-provincial spending

Merchant ProvinceTransaction Volume ChangeTransaction Count Change
British Columbia3%3%
Ontario5%5%
Quebec3%0%
Alberta9%8%
Saskatchewan6%5%
Manitoba4%4%
Atlantic Canada5%1%
Territories10%12%
All of Canada5%4%

Angus Reid data: Have you done any of the following in 2025?

OptionResponse
Changed, cancelled or postponed US travel plans (including booked or anticipated trips, or other adjustments)26%
Maintained or proceeded with US travel plans as expected (including booked or anticipated trips, or made no changes)74%

Angus Reid data: What did you do as a result of changing your US trips?

OptionResponse
Travelled within the Province44%
Travelled to other Canadian Provinces30%
Travelled to Mexico/Caribbean/South America13%
Traveled to other destinations (Europe, etc.)20%
None of these28%
Not sure3%

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Crocs Expands in Canada with Mall Stores

By
Craig Patterson
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Crocs store at West Edmonton Mall. Image: West Edmonton Mall/Facebook

Crocs is preparing to expand its Canadian presence with a strategic push into super regional shopping centres. The globally recognized footwear brand, best known for its colourful clogs and growing range of lifestyle shoes, is seeking opportunities to open additional full-price stand-alone stores across the country. The move signals confidence in the Canadian market, where Crocs has already built a strong following.

The brand is currently best represented in outlet centres and downtown locations, including Toronto Premium Outlets, Vaughan Mills, and Tanger Outlets Cookstown. At present, its only full-priced mall locations in Canada are at West Edmonton Mall and Quartier DIX30.  This expansion marks a shift toward high-traffic shopping centres, particularly in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

Crocs has become a global footwear powerhouse since its debut in 2002, selling hundreds of millions of pairs worldwide. Despite its sometimes polarizing design, the brand’s reputation for comfort, accessibility, and versatility has driven significant consumer demand. Its stores have proven to be top performers, with industry insiders noting that sales productivity often surpasses that of many other footwear retailers.

Crocs is working with Tony Flanz of Think Retail, and a US broker, on the Canadian expansion. Store spaces between 2,000 and 2,500 square feet are being targeted in leading Canadian shopping centres, where Crocs could serve as a year-round traffic driver. The brand’s affordability, wide appeal, and strong sales history have positioned it as an ideal tenant for landlords seeking reliable retailers.

Crocs store at West Edmonton Mall. Image: West Edmonton Mall

Collaboration and Cultural Relevance

While Crocs is best known for its core clog, the brand has effectively reinvented itself through a mix of pop culture partnerships, limited edition drops, and collaborations with high-profile designers. By blending affordability with moments of exclusivity, Crocs has expanded its consumer base to include both mainstream buyers and fashion-conscious shoppers.

Collaborations have included luxury brands, musicians, and entertainment properties, further cementing Crocs’ reputation as a brand that straddles both practicality and trend. This strategy has helped the company remain relevant across generations, from children to adults, and has supported consistent growth across global markets.

Crocs store at West Edmonton Mall. Image: West Edmonton Mall

Canadian Expansion Strategy

In Canada, Crocs is working with retail brokerage firm Think Retail to secure new full-price locations. Spaces in super regional malls are the primary target, with an eye on markets that combine strong demographics and high footfall. According to industry observers, Crocs’ strong sales at outlet locations provide a benchmark for success in full-price formats, making the case for expansion into higher-profile shopping centres.

The opportunity-driven approach reflects confidence in the brand’s ability to succeed across Canada’s retail landscape. Given its performance in existing locations, insiders believe Crocs could eventually open dozens of full-price stores nationally, with potential for 40 to 50 units if the right spaces become available.

Crocs store at West Edmonton Mall. Image: West Edmonton Mall

From Humble Origins to Global Success

Founded in 2002, Crocs originated from a simple boating clog made from Croslite, a proprietary resin developed by Canadian company Foam Creations. Its initial success led to a rapid global rollout, followed by the acquisition of complementary brands such as Jibbitz, the maker of Crocs charms, and HEYDUDE, an Italian casual footwear label acquired in 2022.

The company has evolved from a niche comfort shoe brand into a global leader in casual footwear, offering a wide assortment of styles including sandals, slides, sneakers, and winter boots. Its products are now sold in more than 80 countries through wholesale, e-commerce, and direct-to-consumer channels.

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DUER opens 1st store in San Francisco, ushers in a new era of denim (Photos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto

DUER, the category creator behind Performance Jeanswear, has opened its first San Francisco store at 567 Hayes Street in Hayes Valley.

The Canadian brand, which pioneered Performance Denim, said it has since expanded the category by reengineering classic fabrics with technical features, and now brings its signature blend of versatility, performance, and style to one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities. 

Drawing inspiration from the golden era of iconic jeanswear, DUER has reinvented the five-pocket silhouette for the modern individual—someone constantly on the move but unwilling to compromise on style. Heritage fabrics like denim, canvas, and twill are infused with performance features such as cooling, stretch, and a signature gusset in the men’s collection for ultimate comfort, it said.

Gary Lenett (Image: Britney Gill / DUER)

“DUER started with a simple idea. I was biking to work and couldn’t find a pair of jeans that were comfortable enough to move in but still looked good at the office,” said Gary Lenett, Founder of DUER. “I’d spent years designing jeans for brands like Levi’s and Nordstrom, but nothing out there really reflected how people live today. That moment kicked off something bigger and led to a whole new kind of clothing that’s built to move and made to look great.” 

Situated in Hayes Valley, San Francisco’s most vibrant and sought-after retail neighborhood, DUER’s new store brings its trademark denim to a neighborhood known for bike-friendly streets and strong sense of community. Surrounded by like-minded brands including Peak Design, Cotopaxi, Buck Mason and All Birds, the space will feature DUER’s full men’s and women’s collections. The open and free-flowing 1,000-square-foot space features playful elements that encourage shoppers to move, test, and explore, mirroring the freedom DUER clothing provides in the real world, added the brand.

“We originally designed this apparel for the Pacific Northwest, where active, outdoor living is part of everyday life,” said Lenett. “Now we’re expanding across the West Coast and opening in cities that reflect that lifestyle. San Francisco fits that vision perfectly, with Portland up next and Seattle on our radar.” 

DUER will host a Grand Opening Weekend September 12–14 featuring live music, refreshments, and exclusive giveaways. Store hours are Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit: https://shopduer.com/pages/san-francisco. 

SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto

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SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto
SF Hayes Valley Store. Credit: Megan Bayley / @bayleyphoto

Align Custom Fit Expands With Toronto Flagship

By
Lee Rivett
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Align Custom Fit Footwear & Footcare at First Canadian Place in Toronto. Image supplied

Align Custom Fit Footwear & Footcare has arrived in downtown Toronto, opening its second location and first flagship at First Canadian Place. The 2,500-square-foot clinic and showroom, located at King and Bay, positions the Ontario-based wellness brand at the center of one of Canada’s most dynamic urban hubs. Moving beyond the conventions of a traditional foot clinic, the new space is designed as an ecosystem that merges preventive medicine, orthotic innovation, movement science, and fashion-driven retail.

It is an ambitious step forward for a company that began its expansion in Mississauga in 2019, when it unveiled an integrated foot care spa, clinic, and footwear boutique that reimagined how Canadians approach podiatric wellness. With its Toronto launch, Align Custom Fit signals a bid to claim leadership in an underexplored sector: holistic, style-conscious foot health designed for increasingly active, fashion-aware professionals.

“People are on the go more than ever—but they’re doing it in shoes that don’t support their gait, their posture, or their lifestyle. We designed this space to be as dynamic and modern as the people who walk through it,” said Teressa Dinshaw, Align’s Co-Founder and CEO, in a company statement announcing the opening.

Align Custom Fit Footwear & Footcare at First Canadian Place in Toronto. Image supplied

Expanding From Mississauga Roots

The Align journey began well before its Toronto flagship. Founded in 2013 by Teressa and Darius Dinshaw, the company developed a specialized approach to podiatric care and orthotics that quickly earned client loyalty. In October 2019, just months before the pandemic disrupted retail and health care routines worldwide, Align expanded its existing Mississauga clinic into a full-service foot care spa. That expansion introduced a blend of medical foot care with spa-style precision, alongside curated, fashion-forward brands that elevated footwear beyond mere necessity.

The Mississauga facility, known for its Paris-inspired spa interiors and advanced 3D scanning technology, became a testing ground for Align’s hybrid model. Clients could receive both medical-grade chiropody services and luxury pedicures while browsing a carefully chosen collection of biomechanically supportive shoes. The format distinguished Align from legacy orthotic providers, which often relied on utilitarian clinics or sports-medicine environments without the lifestyle-oriented design ethos.

Now, the Toronto flagship reflects the natural progression of that vision: a more immersive, accessible, and urban clinic that embraces the intersection of medical precision and fashionable self-expression.

First Canadian Place in Toronto. Image: Brookfield

Inside the Toronto Flagship

The new First Canadian Place flagship features six private treatment suites staffed by registered chiropodists, creating capacity for procedures ranging from diabetic foot assessments to precision medical pedicures. Patients are greeted not with sterile waiting-room settings but with a lounge-like environment intended to promote wellness and calm.

At the core of the space is the “movement lab,” an open-concept environment that incorporates sensory equipment, gait analysis platforms, and functional movement assessments. For urban professionals who spend long hours commuting, at desks, or in fitness programs, such evaluations uncover subtle biomechanical inefficiencies that can lead to chronic discomfort or injury over time.

Also central to the offering are Align Orthotics™, custom devices designed using digital scanning, CAD modeling, and precision engineering. While the laboratory crafting takes place offsite, final fittings and adjustments can now be handled directly at the downtown clinic. For those who favour fashion-heavy wardrobes, the patent-pending Pitch Perfect system—a high-heel-compatible orthotic—underscores Align’s commitment to merging biomechanical health with style.

The retail element complements the clinical services. The footwear gallery features brands selected for their blend of biomechanical functionality and contemporary aesthetics. Premium labels such as On, Cole Haan, Michael Kors, and Vivo Barefoot are displayed in a boutique setting that aligns with the habits and sensibilities of Toronto’s downtown professionals.

“Sedentary lifestyles are a modern health crisis—but how we move matters just as much as how often we move,” Dinshaw explained. “It starts with the feet, but our work impacts the knees, hips, spine, and even energy levels. It’s about moving smarter—aligned and in style.”

Align Custom Fit Footwear & Footcare team at First Canadian Place in Toronto. Image supplied

Foot Care for an Urban Lifestyle

The choice to open in First Canadian Place carries both practical and symbolic weight. Rising as Canada’s tallest office tower and serving as the centerpiece of Toronto’s PATH network, the 30-kilometer underground walkway that connects towers, restaurants, and shops, the site guarantees a steady stream of professionals each day. For those moving quickly between meetings, subway stops, and fitness classes, the new flagship provides convenience while also reshaping how city commuters think about everyday foot health.

The underlying philosophy is that foot health should never be treated as a reactive concern. Instead, Align emphasizes prevention and early intervention, particularly in a generation that integrates wellness tracking and personalized health optimization into daily routines. By merging podiatric care with spa-style surroundings and retail curation, the company is drawing parallels to how skincare and dental hygiene have become normalized categories of self-care. Foot health, likewise, is framed as a proactive discipline rather than a niche or remedial service.

Services Beyond Orthotics

Although custom orthotics in Toronto remain a flagship service, the scope of Align’s offerings is wide and integrative. Treatments include preventive spa-style services designed with sterilization and medical precision, along with minor surgical procedures and diabetic care conducted by licensed chiropodists. Surrounding services range from compression therapy to massage, injury rehabilitation, and functional training, creating what the company calls a “total alignment” ecosystem. The breadth reflects Align’s interdisciplinary team, which spans registered chiropodists, pedorthists, and athletic therapists.

Moreover, in keeping with its clientele’s elevated expectations, the experience is curated for both clinical excellence and comfort. Complimentary espresso, personalized treatment plans, and an emphasis on education distinguish the environment from traditional clinics while reinforcing the brand promise of holistic body alignment in luxury surroundings.

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Mississauga-Based Custom Fit Footwear Retailer Launches Unique Foot Spa Concept [Photos]

Ami Paris to Open 1st Canadian Store at Yorkdale

By
Craig Patterson
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Construction hoarding for the new Ami Paris store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Upscale French fashion brand Ami Paris will open its first standalone Canadian storefront this year at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, reinforcing the mall’s status as the country’s leading destination for luxury retail. The new boutique will span over 2,500 square feet in a prominent corner location, taking over space formerly occupied by Nespresso, which recently relocated within the mall.

The deal was arranged by Jeff Berkowitz of Aurora Realty Consultants, who represented Ami in the lease transaction. Oxford Properties, which owns and manages Yorkdale, continues to attract first-to-market international brands, expanding the centre’s growing roster of upscale and luxury tenants.

A Modern French Brand Arrives in Canada

Founded in 2011 by designer Alexandre Mattiussi, Ami has become a prominent force in contemporary fashion. Known for blending Parisian elegance with a relaxed, accessible style, the brand has built a loyal following across Europe, Asia, and the United States.

The name “Ami”, derived from Mattiussi’s initials as well as the French word for “friend”, reflects the brand’s ethos of authenticity, inclusivity, and effortless chic. Its collections include men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, accessories, and lifestyle items, often recognized by the signature “AMI de cœur” heart logo.

Mattiussi, who trained at the Duperré fashion design school in Paris, honed his skills at Dior Homme, Givenchy, and Marc Jacobs before launching his own label. His focus on tailoring, clean lines, and wearable luxury has helped Ami bridge the gap between casual dressing and elevated fashion.

Youtube video

Global Expansion

Since its first Paris boutique opened in 2012, Ami has expanded rapidly, supported by investment partners including Sequoia Capital China and Felix Capital. The brand operates 78 monobrand stores worldwide as of August 2025, alongside nearly 700 multibrand retail partners in over 100 countries.

Its largest footprint is in Asia, where 60 stores, including 26 in China and 22 in Japan, illustrate its strong momentum in that market. Europe remains a key region with 16 boutiques, including three flagships in Paris. The United States hosts four locations, while recent openings in Southeast Asia, such as Jakarta’s Plaza Senayan, mark a new frontier for the brand.

Recent store concepts highlight natural materials such as Euville stone and oak, paired with gold finishes, creating luxurious and immersive retail environments.

Construction hoarding for the new Ami Paris store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Gentle Monster will open next to it. Photo: Craig Patterson

Yorkdale as Canada’s Luxury Epicentre

The decision to open at Yorkdale further cements the mall’s reputation as Canada’s “church of luxury shopping.” With over 270 stores and more than two million square feet of space, Yorkdale attracts more than 18 million visitors annually.

Over the past decade, Yorkdale has developed the country’s largest concentration of luxury and upscale fashion brands. Boutiques for Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Prada, Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga stand alongside luxury watch and jewelry houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co. Recent additions have included Brunello Cucinelli, Loewe, and Maison Margiela, reflecting the mall’s status as the destination of choice for international names.

Ami joins this expanding roster at a time of continued investment in Yorkdale. The mall recently welcomed the first Toronto location of La Maison Simons, spanning 118,000 square feet in the former Nordstrom space. In addition, a new 11,000-square-foot Saint Laurent flagship is under construction in Yorkdale’s luxury wing.

Ami Paris operates within the upper-contemporary price point, offering a more approachable entry into the world of designer fashion while maintaining quality and exclusivity. The brand’s balance of elegance and ease aligns with Toronto’s increasingly international clientele and the city’s appetite for modern, trend-forward labels.

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Pet Valu opens Calgary Distribution Centre

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Pet Valu
Photo: Pet Valu

Pet Valu Holdings Ltd., the leading Canadian specialty retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies, announced Tuesday the completion of its four-year supply chain transformation with the official opening of its 295,000-square-foot, LEED Gold Certified distribution centre in Calgary.

The supply chain transformation provides Pet Valu with one of Canada’s most advanced and resilient distribution networks serving the pet specialty industry, positioning the company to efficiently support the growth of its franchisees, corporate stores and online channels over the next decade, it said.

Richard Maltsbarger
Richard Maltsbarger


“We are thrilled to officially unveil our new Calgary DC, the final pillar of our modernized supply chain, serving Canadian franchisees and devoted pet lovers coast-to-coast,” said Richard Maltsbarger, Chief Executive Officer of Pet Valu.

“I want to congratulate our cross-functional teams, who over the last four years, have poured countless hours to successfully make this bold vision a reality, and one that all our ACEs and franchisees can take pride in.

“With larger, modern distribution facilities, supported by industry leading technology and talent, we have never been better positioned to continue our long term track record of growth, as we continue to deliver the strategic, operational and financial benefits from this investment.”

Between 2022 and 2025, Pet Valu said it invested approximately $100 million to consolidate nine company-operated and third-party warehouses facilities into three new, partially automated distribution centres.

At 295,000 square feet, the Calgary DC is the third largest pet specialty distribution centre in Canada, exceeded only by Pet Valu’s own 670,000-square-foot distribution centre in Brampton, Ontario, which opened in 2023, and its 350,000-square-foot distribution centre in Surrey, British Columbia, which opened in 2024.

Photo: Pet Valu
Photo: Pet Valu

Like the GTA and Surrey DCs, the Calgary DC utilizes an advanced warehouse management system, and modernized machine handling equipment, safety systems and security systems. It also has ample wellness space to support the diverse needs of its employees, including a bright lunchroom with six-metre high ceilings, training space, a driver’s lounge, prayer and ablution rooms, first aid facilities and ample windows which bring in natural light, explained the company.

Nico Weidel
Nico Weidel

“With over 1.3 million square feet of distribution capacity, supported by industry-leading automation and technology, we have successfully built Canada’s strongest supply chain supporting the pet specialty industry,” said Nico Weidel, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Pet Valu.

“This platform unlocks value for us and all our stakeholders, through stronger productivity and efficiency, improved customer service levels and accuracy to our franchisees and stores, delivery simplification for our suppliers, enhanced wellness space for our employees, and job creation in the communities we serve. As these benefits continue to materialize in real-time, we plan to further leverage these investments over the next decade.”


Pet Value said the Calgary DC will provide more than 100 full and part-time skilled jobs in the Calgary
market and support Pet Valu’s future growth in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba for the next decade. The Facility is now fully operational and Pet Valu plans to scale down use and exit its legacy warehouse and third-party distribution space in the Calgary region by the end of September.


Pet Valu is Canada’s leading retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies with over 800 corporate-owned or franchised locations across the country. The company is headquartered in Markham, Ontario.

(Photos courtesy of Pet Valu)

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asmodee Canada Opens New Brantford Offices for 30th Anniversary

By
Lee Rivett
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From left to right: Myuran Sivapalan, Shelly Farrant, Kimberly Barlow, Jayson Pickford, Gabrielle Smits, Marcus Abreu, Michelle Mihaichuk, Paul Panciw, Vinitha Tellis, and Richard Godwaldt. Photo credit: Alissa Baltazar

asmodee, the global board game powerhouse, marked a major milestone in its Canadian operations this month with the inauguration of its new offices at 195 Henry Street in Brantford, Ontario. The September 10 event celebrated a new address as well as a symbolic shift for the company, which is working to transform how Canadian players and retailers experience its brand.

The opening coincided with the company’s 30th anniversary and the launch of its global “Inspired by Players” campaign, a rebranding effort designed to make the asmodee name more visible to consumers. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together business partners, media, and industry stakeholders for a look inside the facility, which will anchor asmodee’s Ontario operations alongside its state-of-the-art logistics hub in Vaudreuil, Quebec, which opened in 2024.

Jayson Pickford

“The inauguration of this facility marks a milestone for asmodee in Canada as we continue our commitment to improving our operations,” said Jayson Pickford, Country Manager for asmodee Canada. “We’re excited to share this inaugural event with our partners in our new premises, which offer a modern and efficient environment that will support our future growth and strengthen our position as an industry leader.”

A Consumer-Focused Evolution

The new Brantford offices signal asmodee Canada’s shift from a business-to-business distributor to a consumer-engaged brand. The company unveiled its new brand identity in June 2025, developed with Publicis Groupe’s Carré Noir agency. The refreshed logo and tagline, “Inspired by Players,” place consumers squarely at the centre of its messaging.

asmodee’s rebrand consolidated dozens of studio and distribution identities into a single, unified brand presence. Moving forward, the asmodee name will be prominently displayed on packaging, at retail points of sale, and across digital platforms. The goal is to create a clear, recognizable connection between the company and its catalogue of hit games, which includes global favourites such as Catan, Ticket to Ride, Spot It! and Pandemic.

Thomas Kœgler, asmodee’s global CEO, explained earlier this year that while the company had become an industry titan, its name was not always front-of-mind for consumers. The rebrand is designed to change that, positioning asmodee as a trusted seal of quality for families, hobbyists, and casual players alike.

Photo: asmodee Canada

Industry Growth and Strategic Moves

asmodee’s expansion in Canada comes at a time of sustained growth for the tabletop gaming sector, which continues to benefit from increased consumer interest following the pandemic. Demand for board and card games has surged over the past five years, leading to a wave of new titles, higher sales volumes, and deeper engagement through social play events and tournaments.

In response, asmodee has been investing in infrastructure and acquisitions to meet rising demand. Its 2024 opening of the Vaudreuil facility improved logistics efficiency, reducing shipping times for its roughly 1,500 retail customers nationwide. Earlier this year, asmodee completed its operational merger with Lion Rampant Imports, bringing together two major distribution networks under one roof. The merger unified sales, warehousing, and product catalogues, creating a more streamlined experience for retailers.

asmodee has also pursued strategic intellectual property acquisitions, most notably its June 2025 purchase of the Zombicide franchise from CMON. This deal gives asmodee full publishing rights to one of the world’s most popular cooperative board games and reflects the company’s ambitions to control more of its content pipeline.

Strengthening Retail and Consumer Connections

For Canadian retailers, the new Brantford facility is expected to enhance service levels and support a growing catalogue that now includes more than 16,000 product lines. The company has a deep presence across both mass-market and specialty retailers, with activations ranging from in-store demos to convention-style gaming events.

Industry analysts note that asmodee’s shift toward a consumer-facing identity could also help strengthen relationships with players, making them more likely to seek out asmodee-published titles and expansions. By giving its brand equal visibility alongside its most famous games, the company aims to build recognition and loyalty that extends beyond individual titles.

The Brantford inauguration also served as a celebratory moment for asmodee’s three decades in the global games industry. Founded in France in 1995, the company has grown into a multinational operation with more than 2,500 employees in over 50 countries. Its acquisition by Sweden’s Embracer Group in 2022 positioned asmodee within a larger entertainment conglomerate, though it retained operational independence and its own strategic direction. Earlier this year, asmodee completed an initial public offering (IPO) and is now an independent, publicly traded company.

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