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Cozey’s Sofa-Topped Car Brings Fun to Montreal Moving Day

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: Cozey

Montreal furniture brand Cozey is hitting the road this week with a playful new campaign designed to ease the stress of the city’s famously chaotic Moving Day. From June 26 to July 5, 2025, Montrealers may spot a curious sight weaving through neighbourhood streets: a branded Cozey vehicle with a dusty old sofa strapped to its roof.

Timed to coincide with Quebec’s July 1 Moving Day—a uniquely Montreal tradition where thousands of residents relocate on the same day—the campaign aims to draw attention to a better, more practical way to move furniture. With modular sofas designed for fast delivery, easy assembly, and apartment-friendly dimensions, Cozey is delivering both humour and a helpful reminder to the city’s movers.

Free Pizza and a Chance to Win a Cozey Sofa

The Cozey Car will visit several of the city’s busiest neighbourhoods, including the Plateau, Rosemont, Villeray, Verdun, Hochelaga, and Griffintown. The campaign hits its high point on July 1, when Cozey will distribute free pizza and cold drinks to weary movers working through the holiday.

In addition to the giveaway, residents can participate in a social media contest. Those who spot the Cozey Car and post a photo or video to Instagram, tagging @cozey and using the hashtag #choisiscozey, will be entered for a chance to win a new Cozey sofa delivered to their door.

The whimsical campaign captures the spirit of Moving Day, known for its traffic jams, packed stairwells, and worn-out furniture. Cozey is using the moment to highlight its core mission: providing furniture that is easy to move, easy to live with, and well-suited to urban life.

A Canadian Brand Rooted in Simplicity and Flexibility

Founded in Montreal in 2020 by Frédéric Aubé, Cozey has quickly gained national recognition as a disruptor in the Canadian furniture industry. Born during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company was created in response to consumer frustration with traditional furniture shopping—especially the challenges of moving bulky pieces into apartments and navigating long delivery wait times.

Cozey’s sofas are fully modular, allowing users to customize, expand, or reconfigure their setup as needs change. Each unit ships in compact, courier-sized boxes and can be assembled tool-free within minutes. The approach resonates strongly with young professionals and apartment dwellers looking for versatility without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.

Direct-to-Consumer Approach with National Reach

Unlike traditional furniture retailers, Cozey operates primarily through a direct-to-consumer model. This strategy allows the company to keep prices competitive and maintain control over the entire customer experience. Cozey offers fast, free shipping across Canada and provides a risk-free trial period, which has contributed to a loyal and growing customer base.

Positive word-of-mouth and strong online reviews have helped fuel Cozey’s expansion, with customers often highlighting the brand’s durability, ease of assembly, and pet-friendly materials. The option to buy individual modules over time has also been praised by those seeking a long-term, adaptable investment in home furnishings.

Cozey at 1026 Queen St W in Toronto(Image: Cozey)

Retail Expansion and Community Impact

What began as a purely online venture has now expanded into brick-and-mortar showrooms and pop-up locations in major Canadian cities, including Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Ottawa. These physical spaces offer customers the chance to see and test Cozey’s products firsthand, enhancing the overall buying experience. The company has a permanent storefront in Toronto with plans for permanent Vancouver and Calgary showrooms as well.

The company also takes a thoughtful approach to sustainability and social responsibility. Returned sofas in good condition are refurbished and resold at discounted prices, while others are donated to shelters and charities. Cozey has also supported LGBTQIA+ initiatives and community-focused campaigns as part of its broader mission.

Celebrating Moving Day with Purpose and Humour

Montreal’s Moving Day is often a source of stress for residents, but Cozey’s 2025 campaign injects humour and generosity into the experience. By drawing attention to the physical and logistical challenges of relocating bulky furniture, the company makes a compelling case for its modular solutions—and does so in a way that entertains and engages.

Through a combination of real-world visibility, digital engagement, and thoughtful giveaways, Cozey reinforces its position not just as a furniture brand, but as a Montreal-based company that understands—and shares—the lived experiences of its community.

Whether spotted cruising past in Griffintown or handing out pizza on a Hochelaga corner, the Cozey Car offers a reminder that there’s a smarter, simpler way to furnish a home in the city. And for one lucky Montrealer, it could mean a free upgrade to a modular setup that’s built to move, grow, and adapt—no stairwell strain required.

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Gather Packaging Gives Retailers Control with Local Bag Production

By
Craig Patterson
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High quality shopping bags from Gather Packaging/Luv2Pak

For Canadian retailers, packaging has quietly become a high-stakes problem. Global freight delays, inconsistent quality, sustainability mandates, and rising tariffs are squeezing margins and putting the customer experience at risk. It’s no longer just about what’s inside the bag — it’s about the bag itself.

Progress Luv2Pak, a century-old Canadian packaging company, has stepped up with a bold new solution: local, premium bag manufacturing through a major investment in a new brand, Gather Packaging. Designed for retailers seeking control, speed, quality, and sustainability, Gather aims to de-risk the supply chain and elevate packaging into a strategic brand asset.

“Retailers told us they needed faster response times, more consistent quality, and better alignment with their brand,” said Ben Hertzman, President of Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging. “So we built it — right here in Canada.”

Ben Hertzman, President of Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging

A Family Legacy of Packaging Excellence

The roots of Progress Luv2Pak go back to 1917, when an immigrant named Morris Lukofsky fled war-torn Russia and arrived in Canada. He found work in a hat factory and noticed that every hat was placed in a beautiful box. That insight sparked a business idea: he opened a hat box factory to build a future for his family.

By mid-century, the company was supplying packaging to nearly every major Canadian retailer: Holt Renfrew, Hudson’s Bay, Eaton’s, Simpsons, and others. In 1981, Ben Hertzman’s father acquired the business. “My dad wanted to run something of his own,” said Hertzman. “He bought a factory where everything we sold was produced in-house, from gift boxes to board game packaging. We even made boxes for Trivial Pursuit in the early ’80s.”

Over the following decades, Luv2Pak evolved into a design-led, globally sourced supplier of coordinated packaging programs, including shopping bags, tissue, ribbon, and seasonal items. “Most people have one of our products in their homes, even if they don’t know it,” said Hertzman.

The Lukofsky brothers at a trade show in the 1960’s showcasing Progress Luv2Pak’s historical products

Supply Chain Breakdown Sparks a New Vision

But when COVID hit, the model buckled. “Shipping a container from Asia used to cost us $4,000. Suddenly it was $20,000,” said Hertzman. “Goods were stuck off the coast, rail strikes disrupted delivery, and we couldn’t get product to customers on time. It was a wake-up call.”

The solution? Bring manufacturing back home.

In response, Luv2Pak launched Gather Packaging: a state-of-the-art, Toronto-based facility focused on premium paper shopping bags. The goal was clear: create a local option for retailers seeking quality, reliability, and sustainability without the risks of offshore sourcing.

Gather Packaging facility in Toronto. Image: Gather Packaging

Built for Retailers: Speed, Control, Sustainability

“We designed the factory from scratch with the needs of retailers in mind,” said Hertzman. “We’re not 11 time zones away. We answer the phone. We walk the floor. We deliver what we promised, when we promised it.”

Today, the facility has eight automated lines running daily. It uses FSC-certified paper, with every bag made to be 100% recyclable. The factory is pristine, built for flow, with full quality control and advanced colour consistency testing.

“Our customers care deeply about their brand. That means the logo must be the right colour every time, the handles can’t fall off, and the bag can’t tear. We built Gather Packaging to meet and exceed that standard,” said Hertzman.

Retailers across categories — from apparel and grocery to telecom and health — are already placing their trust in Gather Packaging. “One major retailer told us they had been burned by a missed shipment from overseas,” said Hertzman. “We turned around a critical order in just a couple weeks to keep them in stock. That’s the difference local makes.”

Branded packaging from Progress Luv2Pak

Your Most Overlooked Branding Tool? The Shopping Bag

“Packaging is a walking billboard,” said Hertzman. “You wouldn’t spend millions on stores and let a customer walk out with a flimsy bag that doesn’t reflect your brand. And yet, that’s what too many retailers are doing today.”

He emphasized that great packaging extends the retail experience beyond the store. “When your customer walks through a mall with your bag in hand, everyone sees it. At home, it continues to shape how they perceive your brand. That’s powerful.”

Even in e-commerce, he noted, packaging matters. “When you sell online, you only have two critical times to provide a customer experience. First, and most evident is when the customer visits your website. The second, and just as important, is when the product arrives at their home. Don’t let it come in a generic brown box. Make it feel special.”

Why Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging are Different

Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging don’t just supply packaging — they protect brands at scale.

“We have an in-house design team, custom inventory programs, and proactive quality control. We’re deeply involved from concept to delivery,” said Hertzman.

Take the company’s 70-year relationship with Harry Rosen. “They’ve trusted us from a single store on Parliament Street to today’s national footprint. Every piece of packaging they use — from boxes to tissue to bags — is made by us, and it’s all coordinated, recyclable, and perfectly matched to their iconic green.”

This consistency, sustainability, and attention to detail is what top retailers are seeking as they rethink packaging.

Progress Luv2pak/Gather Packaging headquarters in Toronto

A Smarter Supply Chain for a New Retail Era

Hertzman believes Canadian retail is at a turning point.

“Margins are tight. Expectations are high. Tariffs are uncertain. But consumers still expect excellence — and fast,” he said. “The smartest retailers are investing in brand and supply chain resilience.”

Progress Luv2Pak is ready. Its initial investment in domestic manufacturing with Gather Packaging is just the beginning. The company is expanding and continuously innovating to support retailers of all sizes.

“We’ve made countless products over all the years we have been in business. We know what can go wrong, so we’ve built the systems to get it right,” said Hertzman. “Some of our employees have been with us longer than I’ve been alive. That’s the kind of consistency we deliver.”

Final Word: Rethink the Bag

For retailers still importing their packaging, Hertzman has a clear message: rethink it.

“If you’re still sourcing bags from overseas, now’s the time to bring it home. Packaging is too visible, too important, and too strategic to leave in someone else’s hands,” he said.

With history, innovation, and a brand-first mindset, Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging are making the case for a new era of Canadian-made packaging: fast, sustainable, beautiful, and fully under your control.

How to Get in Touch

How to Get in Touch

For retailers interested in learning more, the company encourages reaching out directly through its website at gatherpackaging.com, luv2pak.com or contacting Ben Hertzman directly via LinkedIn or email ben@gatherpackaging.com

Canada’s First Online Department Store for Canadian Brands Launches

By
Craig Patterson
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Image: BuyCanadianGroup.ca

A new Canadian online department store is making it easier than ever for consumers to support local businesses while shopping from the comfort of home. BuyCanadianGroup.ca, officially launched this month, has positioned itself as Canada’s first online department store dedicated exclusively to Canadian-owned brands. The platform offers shoppers a one-click, multi-brand checkout experience that aims to keep consumer dollars circulating within the Canadian economy.

Unlike typical directories or product catalogues that simply link out to brand websites, BuyCanadianGroup.ca creates a cohesive, centralized shopping destination where customers can browse and purchase items from multiple Canadian businesses in a single transaction.

“Eighty-five percent of Canadians are actively looking for Canadian alternatives. Catalogues and directories aren’t enough. Canada needs a new department store—one that features all Canadian brands,” said Dave Lazar, Founder of Buy Canadian Group. “We give shoppers an easy way to fill their cart and know they’re buying Canadian.”

Momentum Grows as Brands and Shoppers Sign On

Since the soft launch, the response has been robust. Thousands of Canadian shoppers have already pre-registered, and the platform is seeing strong interest from domestic investors. According to the company, new brands are joining every day.

Some early participants include well-known names like Pluck Tea, Maker’s Clean—the cleaning line developed by YouTube expert Melissa Maker—and Indigenous-owned Cheekbone Beauty, a brand that has built a strong reputation for ethical and sustainable cosmetics.

The platform’s inclusive model allows brands of all sizes to apply, offering one-click onboarding for the more than 110,000 Canadian merchants currently operating through Shopify. This approach dramatically reduces the barriers for small businesses to gain national exposure while simplifying logistics for consumers.

Shopping Meets Streaming: Enter Buy Canadian TV

Adding a dynamic media component to the retail experience, Buy Canadian Group is also launching Buy Canadian TV, a shoppable video channel that blends entertainment with commerce. The service will feature livestreams and video replays where Canadian creators present and demo Canadian-made products—allowing viewers to shop directly from the screen.

This initiative is powered by Stage TEN, a Canadian live shopping and video commerce platform, and will include appearances by major digital personalities. Launch hosts include Melissa Maker of Clean My Space (with 2.1 million YouTube subscribers) and Harley Morenstein of Epic Meal Time (6.7 million subscribers), both bringing significant online audiences to the platform.

In addition, partnerships with Digital First Canada and Andromedia Distribution will soon make over 8,000 hours of Canadian video content fully shoppable with embedded links to Canadian products—further blending content and commerce for a more engaging retail experience.

An Ambitious Vision for the Future of Canadian Retail

BuyCanadianGroup.ca’s model marks a significant evolution in Canadian e-commerce, especially at a time when consumers are showing growing interest in domestic sourcing, sustainability, and economic nationalism. By consolidating local brands under one digital roof, the platform is attempting to recreate the magic of the classic department store—but adapted for a digital-first generation.

The initiative arrives at a time when Canadians are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact of their spending choices. Recent consumer sentiment surveys have shown that a large majority of shoppers would prefer to support Canadian businesses if given an easy and reliable way to do so—something this new platform directly addresses.

With seed funding already in place, a rapidly expanding roster of Canadian brands, and a shoppable media ecosystem gaining traction, Buy Canadian Group is aiming to become a central player in the Canadian e-commerce space.

About BuyCanadianGroup.ca

Buy Canadian Group is building the first all-Canadian online department store to make it easy for Canadians to discover and buy Canadian goods in a single checkout experience. The platform is currently accepting applications from Canadian-owned brands of all sizes and is compatible with over 110,000 Shopify merchants.

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Luca Faloni to Open First Canadian Store on Bloor Street

By
Craig Patterson
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Future Luca Faloni storefront at 130 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Luxury Italian menswear label Luca Faloni will open its first Canadian storefront later this year in downtown Toronto. The boutique will be located at 130 Bloor Street West, occupying a prime street-level space between Gucci and Lafayette 148 in the heart of the city’s luxury retail corridor.

This marks a significant step in the brand’s international expansion, as the Toronto opening will be Luca Faloni’s third standalone store in North America following locations in New York and Miami. The Bloor Street space, formerly occupied by American fashion house St. John Knits, spans approximately 2,500 square feet on a single level.

The lease transaction was facilitated by Casdin Parr of JLL, who has brokered several deals in the area. Kingsett Capital owns the 130 Bloor property.

Luca Faloni

Bloor Street Continues to Attract Global Flagships

Toronto’s Bloor-Yorkville district has seen a resurgence in high-end retail leasing since the pandemic, with several global luxury brands establishing or expanding their footprint. The stretch of Bloor Street between Bellair Street and Avenue Road has become particularly active, with numerous flagship openings over the past few years.

Luca Faloni’s arrival adds to a growing list of luxury retailers that have targeted this prestigious shopping corridor, reinforcing the area’s status as one of Canada’s leading destinations for high-end fashion. The addition of a high-quality Italian menswear brand further diversifies the mix, which increasingly includes both heritage luxury houses and modern direct-to-consumer players.

About the Brand: A Commitment to Italian Craftsmanship

Founded in 2014 by Turin-born entrepreneur Luca Faloni, the eponymous brand is rooted in the principles of traditional Italian craftsmanship, timeless style, and sustainable production. Faloni created the brand after recognizing a lack of access to high-quality, Italian-made menswear outside of Italy. His goal was to combine the legacy of Italian artisanship with a modern direct-to-consumer retail model.

The company sells exclusively through its own stores and website, bypassing third-party retailers to maintain tight control over quality and customer experience. The majority of its sales are generated online, with physical stores playing an increasingly important role in its global expansion strategy.

The brand is celebrated for using premium materials sourced from some of Italy’s most renowned textile mills. These include pure cashmere, silk-cashmere blends, brushed cotton, full-grain leather, and breathable linen. Every product is proudly made in Italy by family-run workshops and refined through years of development.

Signature Collections and Timeless Appeal

Luca Faloni has built a loyal customer base through a refined product line that prioritizes longevity over seasonal trends. The Portofino shirt—a soft, casual style made from brushed cotton—remains a flagship piece, while other bestsellers include silk-cashmere polos, Italian denim shirts, cashmere-cotton knits, and pleated wool trousers.

The brand has also introduced outerwear options, such as suede bomber and racer jackets, and is gradually expanding into tailored clothing and innovative fabric blends, including cashmere-denim jeans. Every piece adheres to the brand’s “slow fashion” philosophy, emphasizing enduring design, superior fit, and artisanal finishing.

Luca Faloni store. Photo: Luca Faloni

Strategic Store Expansion: From London to Toronto

The opening in Toronto follows a period of steady international growth for Luca Faloni. While e-commerce remains the core of its business, the brand has made deliberate moves into key luxury markets with flagship boutiques designed to provide a deeper customer experience.

Milestones include a flagship on King’s Road in London’s Chelsea neighbourhood, which opened in Autumn 2023, and a two-storey location in Zurich’s historic Storchen Quartier, which launched in early 2024. Other locations include Milan, Munich, and Miami’s Brickell City Centre, alongside a standalone shop in New York City at 386 West Broadway in SoHo.

Each new store is uniquely tailored to its locale, while maintaining the brand’s signature architectural elements—many of which are designed by Italian architects Davide Barreri and PlaC Studio. The boutiques often include lifestyle elements such as aperitivo bars and lounge areas to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the Italian concept of la dolce vita.

Experiential Retail with a Local Touch

As part of its omnichannel retail approach, Luca Faloni views brick-and-mortar stores as an essential brand-building tool. The in-store experience is designed not only to showcase products but to build community and offer hospitality in keeping with Italian traditions. Boutiques are intended to feel more like homes than stores, with soft lighting, artisanal furnishings, and a curated sense of place.

Design elements are also adapted to each market. For instance, the Munich location incorporates copper accents reflecting the city’s architectural heritage, while the Miami boutique embraces a more colourful palette suited to South Florida’s tropical vibrancy. It remains to be seen what aesthetic the Toronto store will adopt, though it is expected to honour both the city’s cosmopolitan edge and Luca Faloni’s Italian heritage.

Luca Faloni’s decision to enter the Canadian market aligns with its broader strategy of establishing a curated presence in select global cities. The Toronto opening reflects confidence in the Canadian luxury market, especially within a neighbourhood that continues to attract a mix of legacy luxury and innovative premium brands.

More from Retail Insider: 

This Canada Day, shop local: CFIB

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: cottonbro studio
Photo: cottonbro studio

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)’s annual Big Thank You Contest, encouraging Canadians to thank and celebrate small businesses, is back from June 30 to July 14 this year.

“Kick off Canada Day celebrations supporting your local, independent businesses. We’ve seen a very strong “Buy Canada” sentiment during the first half of the year. With continuing tariff threats, supply chain challenges and cost uncertainty, we want to make sure that momentum carries through the second half of the year. There’s no better way to support Canadian than to shop at your local Canadian-owned small businesses,” said Ryan Mallough, CFIB’s vice-president of legislative affairs.

Ryan Mallough
Ryan Mallough

New CFIB data shows that since the start of the trade war, nearly four in ten (39%) small businesses have seen increased sales of Canadian/locally made products – especially in the retail (44%), hospitality (43%) and wholesale (41%) sectors. Businesses that actively promote these products were more than twice as likely to see growth in sales of Canadian/locally made products (55% vs 23%).

The Big Thank You Contest is presented by CFIB in partnership with Scotiabank, Interac Corp. (Interac), and Chase Payment Solutions. Small business supporters can enter two weekly draws by visiting SmallBusinessEveryDay.ca and leaving a thank you message to their favourite small Canadian business. 

The CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 100,000 members across every industry and region.

Each week, one supporter and the business they thanked will be drawn as winners. The supporter will receive a $1,000 cash prize to spend locally, and a Big Thank You gift box filled with products from small businesses across Canada and the contest’s sponsors. The business will receive $3,000, a gift box, and a free one-year CFIB membership. An additional $3,000 bonus prize will go to the business with the most nominations at the end of the contest.

Photo: cottonbro studio
Photo: cottonbro studio

“Small businesses support a whole local ecosystem. They employ local residents, support local causes and source their goods and services from other local businesses,” added Mallough. “Sixty-six cents of every dollar spent local, stays local. Every time Canadians choose to shop at a small business, they strengthen their communities.”

To help businesses get involved, CFIB has created free digital toolkits, with printable posters and customizable social images to promote the contest and shopping local. For more information on how to support small businesses, check out SmallBusinessEveryDay.ca.

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GEE Beauty Launches at Holt Renfrew Bloor Flagship

By
Craig Patterson
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GEE Beauty at Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor St. W. in Toronto. Photo: Gee Beauty

Toronto-based GEE Beauty has officially launched at Holt Renfrew’s Bloor Street flagship store, marking a significant retail expansion for the beloved Canadian, female-founded brand. The announcement comes as GEE Beauty celebrates its 20th anniversary—a milestone punctuated by this strategic partnership with Canada’s top luxury retailer.

The brand’s sleek and curated cosmetics display is now located on the main floor of the iconic Holt Renfrew store, just across from Gucci and beside Bobbi Brown—placing it at the heart of luxury beauty retail in Toronto.

“This really is a full-circle moment,” said co-founder Celene Gee in an interview with Retail Insider. “We grew up going to Holt Renfrew. Our mom would take us there in strollers. It’s always been an aspirational place, so to now be featured on their main floor is such an exciting homecoming.”

GEE Beauty’s 20-Year Journey: From Toronto Studio to Global Recognition

Founded in 2005 by Miriam Gee and her daughters Natalie, Celene, and Stephanie Gee, GEE Beauty began as a family-run beauty studio in Toronto’s Summerhill neighbourhood. Today, it’s a multi-location, multi-generational brand with an international following and a growing retail footprint.

With flagship studios in Toronto and Miami, GEE Beauty offers brow, lash, and skincare services alongside a curated selection of global beauty brands. Over the past two decades, the company has expanded its influence through the development of its own line of high-performance skincare and makeup essentials.

“Our goal was always to make beauty and wellness more accessible and easy to integrate into daily life,” said Stephanie Gee. “It’s about real results and helping people feel confident in their routines.”

Left-to-right: Natalie Gee, Miriam Gee, Celine Gee, Stephanie Gee

Launching at Holt Renfrew: A Strategic and Emotional Fit

For the Gee family, the decision to partner with Holt Renfrew was not just a business move—it was deeply personal.

“We’ve always seen a natural alignment between our brand and Holts,” explained Celene. “There’s a shared value in service, luxury, and community. As Canadian founders, we felt strongly that Holt Renfrew was the right partner to celebrate our 20th year.”

According to the founders, early conversations with the Holt Renfrew beauty team began more than two years ago, with the partnership materializing fully over the past eight months. Spring 2025 was chosen for the official launch to align with the brand’s anniversary and to maximize seasonal traffic.

“We’ve felt so embraced by the team at Holt Renfrew,” said Stephanie. “They’ve been incredibly collaborative, and our clients are over the moon. They love seeing GEE Beauty at Holts—it validates their loyalty and helps us reach new audiences at the same time.”

What’s Available at Holt Renfrew

The GEE Beauty display at Holt Renfrew features an edited collection of the brand’s best-selling products, with an emphasis on its award-winning Prime Skin tint. Described as a hybrid between a skin tint and a foundation, Prime Skin offers hydration, blurring, and a natural finish that adapts to individual skin tones.

“Our Prime Skin product is our hero—it’s lightweight, flexible, and designed for real life,” said Celene. “It’s like a ‘no-foundation’ foundation that still gives you coverage and glow.”

Also available are GEE Beauty’s dual-ended brushes, colour sticks for contour and blush, vegan mascara, eyeliners, lipsticks, and glosses—all cruelty-free and paraben-free.

“We designed this line for the modern, on-the-go woman,” Stephanie added. “It’s performance-driven, but also feels effortless.”

The launch also includes personalized service: clients can receive shade matching and on-the-spot applications from trained sales associates stationed at the GEE Beauty counter.

Holt Renfrew at 50 Bloor St. W. in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Prime Floor Placement Reflects Brand’s Rising Influence

Unlike many beauty brands situated in Holt Renfrew’s concourse-level beauty hall, GEE Beauty is located on the main floor—a placement that underscores the retailer’s confidence in the brand’s market appeal.

“We’re right across from Gucci,” said Celene. “It’s a high-traffic area and we’re thrilled with the visibility. Being on the main floor means we’re right in the mix with fashion, fragrance, and accessories. That’s where our customer shops.”

The prominent location is also symbolic of Holt Renfrew’s growing focus on Canadian and independent beauty labels.

“There’s definitely a movement happening,” said Stephanie. “Holts is supporting more Canadian-founded and women-led brands. It’s exciting to be part of that shift.”

A Broader Retail Strategy Rooted in Community

In addition to its Toronto studio and its growing e-commerce platform, GEE Beauty has expanded its retail presence with U.S. partners Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. The brand is now in more than 10 Neiman Marcus locations across the U.S. and available online through Nordstrom.

“We’ve learned a lot from those partnerships,” said Celene. “We realized that our client appreciates luxury beauty, exceptional service, and a department store experience. That insight helped shape our approach with Holt Renfrew.”

While the Bloor Street store is the first Canadian department store presence for GEE Beauty, discussions are ongoing about expanding to other Holt Renfrew locations.

“We go where our clients are,” Celene explained. “We look at their lifestyle—where they shop, work out, meet friends. Our retail decisions are guided by their habits, not just sales projections.”

GEE Beauty at Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor St. W. in Toronto. Photo: Gee Beauty

A Brand Defined by Loyalty and Family

As a business built by four women of the same family, GEE Beauty has maintained a deeply personal connection with its clientele. Each co-founder plays a role in the day-to-day business, from product development to studio operations to content creation.

“Our community is everything,” said Stephanie. “We’ve always involved our clients in our journey—from launching products to opening stores—and they’ve shown up for us every step of the way.”

That community support was on full display at the Holt Renfrew launch, where long-time GEE Beauty fans came to celebrate and shop.

“It was emotional,” added Celene. “It felt like our clients were as proud as we were. That’s what makes this brand special—it’s a shared story.”

Looking Ahead: Staying True to Roots While Expanding

With a growing North American presence, GEE Beauty is poised for continued growth. But the founders insist they will remain true to the brand’s mission of simplicity, education, and care.

“We’re excited about what’s ahead, but we’re not rushing,” said Stephanie. “We grow where it makes sense. We listen to our clients. We stay focused on delivering exceptional beauty experiences.”

As GEE Beauty celebrates two decades in business, its expansion into Holt Renfrew signals both a milestone and a new beginning.

“Being at Holts is a proud Canadian moment,” said Celene. “It feels like home. And it’s only the beginning of the next chapter.”

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asmodee Canada Launches Consumer-Focused Rebrand

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: asmodee Canada

As the global board game and tabletop gaming industry continues its upward trajectory, one of its largest players is undergoing a transformation aimed at making it a household name. asmodee, long known as the quiet force behind blockbuster games like CATAN®, Ticket to Ride®, and Spot it!®, has officially rebranded with a new consumer-facing identity. At the centre of this evolution is asmodee Canada, led by CEO and Country Manager Jayson Pickford, who is spearheading efforts to elevate the company’s visibility and deepen its ties to both retailers and players nationwide.

In an interview with Retail Insider, Pickford described the shift as a milestone moment not just for the brand, but for the entire industry.

From Background Brand to Market Leader

“For the longest time, asmodee operated quietly in the background,” said Pickford. “We didn’t put our name on the box. We were a holding company, quietly acquiring studios and distributing titles, largely out of view. But we’ve always been the ones behind many of your favourite games.”

Jayson Pickford

That’s now changing. In February 2025, asmodee went public on Nasdaq Stockholm, marking its emergence as a standalone entity after years of private equity ownership. With the IPO came a new brand identity, a new tagline—“Inspired by Players”—and a new vision for the future.

“We’re not hiding anymore,” said Pickford. “Our mission now is to bring coherence and transparency to who we are. asmodee is not just a distributor—we’re a publisher, a studio partner, a curator of experiences.”

Canadian Market a Global Bright Spot

Canada plays a critical role in that strategy. asmodee Canada, based in Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec, serves nearly 2,500 customers across the country and offers more than 12,000 product lines, including both asmodee and non-asmodee titles. Notably, about half of its annual revenue comes from distributing non-asmodee games, giving it near-complete coverage of the most popular titles in the Canadian market.

“Canada is a standout performer globally,” said Pickford. “While markets like the UK and France have a longer board gaming tradition, we’re seeing tremendous momentum here. And what’s really unique is how diverse the landscape is—everything from school co-ops and small hobby stores to Walmart and Amazon.”

Pickford noted that Canadian sales often reflect regional tastes. “We’ve seen games succeed in French but not in English, and vice versa. There’s a cultural specificity here that we embrace.”

‘Drinking games’, image via asmodee Canada

Supporting Independent Retailers and Communities

Despite its size, asmodee Canada’s heart lies with small, independent retailers—many of whom Pickford says act as trendsetters in the industry.

“We work with about 2,500 retailers across Canada, and the vast majority are independents,” he explained. “Some are shops of one, owned and run by a passionate entrepreneur. These stores are where the next big hit starts—it’s where games like CATAN and Ticket to Ride began before becoming mainstream.”

To support these retailers, asmodee Canada offers programs like “Hobby Next,” which provides exclusive pre-release content and promotional items to hobby stores. “It’s about driving foot traffic and rewarding early adopters. And now, with our brand coming forward, we can tell consumers directly: go ask for this at your local game store.”

asmodee Canada warehouse in Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec. Image: Google Maps

A Brand Built to Engage Players

Central to the rebrand is a shift in philosophy—from logistics to storytelling.

“For years, we were focused on moving boxes,” said Pickford. “Now we’re focused on communicating with players, building brand affinity, and creating shared experiences. The games are still the heroes, but asmodee is becoming the connective tissue.”

The rebrand includes a sleek new visual identity developed by Carré Noir, a Publicis Groupe agency, designed to help players navigate an increasingly complex market. “There are thousands of titles out there. We want asmodee to be a mark of quality—a trusted point of reference,” said Pickford.

Navigating Tariffs and Trade Challenges

Pickford acknowledged ongoing trade tensions and tariffs affecting the industry, particularly in trading card production. While Canada has been relatively insulated, certain products printed in the U.S.—like Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering—face challenges.

“Our trading card line, Star Wars™: Unlimited, was initially produced in Texas,” he said. “We’ve since moved production to Belgium to avoid U.S. tariffs. Fortunately, asmodee controls much of its production, allowing us to adapt quickly.”

Image: asmodee Canada

Pickford sees continued growth ahead, both for asmodee and the tabletop gaming sector more broadly. While pandemic lockdowns initially dampened demand, a resurgence in the mid-to-late stages of COVID-19 drove record interest.

“People wanted to unplug. They rediscovered the value of sitting around a table, playing with friends or family,” he said. “That momentum hasn’t faded—we’re still growing year over year.”

He noted key trends shaping the market:

  • Light strategy and family games are expanding their audience, attracting players seeking accessible yet intellectually stimulating gameplay.
  • Cooperative play—games where players work together against the game—has become a major draw, especially for families.
  • Trading cards remain popular despite price pressures, driven by a vibrant secondary market.
  • Licensed collaborations, like asmodee’s work with LEGO, are opening doors to wider demographics.

“There’s a game for everyone,” said Pickford. “From quick $20 party games to deep strategy epics. And with more board game cafes popping up, the barrier to entry has never been lower.”

Staying Inspired by Players

While the new branding brings asmodee into the spotlight, Pickford says the company’s guiding principle remains unchanged: the players come first.

“‘Inspired by Players’ isn’t just a tagline. It’s how we think about product development, marketing, logistics—everything. We’re not just selling games; we’re building community, connection, and joy.”

He added, “The rebrand gives us a voice and a face. Now it’s our responsibility to make sure that when someone sees asmodee, they know they’re getting something meaningful.”

As asmodee marks its 30th anniversary, the company’s evolution reflects a broader shift in how games are perceived—from niche hobbies to cultural staples. And in Canada, with Jayson Pickford at the helm, that transformation is gaining momentum with every dice roll and shuffled deck.

More from Retail Insider:

Couche-Tard ends fiscal year with steady growth despite pressures

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Couche-Tard

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. has reported its financial results for its fourth quarter ended April 27, 2025 citing the resilience of the business despite difficult economic and geopolitical conditions.

Executive Comments on the Quarter

Alex Miller
Alex Miller

Alex Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “As we conclude this milestone year, the 45th year since we opened our first store, we are proud of the resilience of our business and the award-winning engagement of our team members. During the fourth quarter, in the face of difficult economic and geopolitical conditions, we held the line in same-store sales in the United States and had strong positive results in Canada and Europe.

“Our initiatives to provide compelling value to our customers with exclusive food and beverage offers are performing well across the network. Compared to the same period last year, in our fuel business, we had positive volumes in Canada, and in the United States, we maintained market share and margins aligned with recent quarters. As we move into the new fiscal year, we remain confident in the strength of our global scale, long-term strategy, and customer-centric teams.”

Filipe Da Silva
Filipe Da Silva

Filipe Da Silva, Chief Financial Officer, added: “We closed the fourth quarter and fiscal year with disciplined financial results that reflect the strength and operational effectiveness of our business, supported by continued investment in technology and customer value. The integration of our TotalEnergies assets progressed according to plan, and our focus on efficiency enabled us to pursue strategic initiatives while preserving healthy margins. As we enter the new fiscal year, we remain focused on controlling costs, delivering shareholder value, and making impactful capital investments to support our long-term growth agenda.”

Couche-Tard is a global leader in convenience and mobility, operating in 29 countries and territories, with close to 17,000 stores, of which approximately 13,000 offer road transportation fuel. With its well-known Couche-Tard and Circle K banners, it is one of the largest independent convenience store operators in the United States and it is a leader in the convenience store industry and road transportation fuel retail in Canada, Scandinavia, the Baltics, Belgium, as well as in Ireland. It also has an important presence in Luxembourg, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, as well as in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. Approximately 146,000 people are employed throughout its network.

Quarterly Highlights

  • Net earnings attributable to shareholders of the Corporation were $439.4 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 compared with $453.0 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024. Adjusted net earnings attributable to shareholders of the Corporation were approximately $441.0 million compared with $461.0 million for the corresponding quarter of last year, representing a decrease of 4.3%.
  • Net earnings attributable to shareholders of the Corporation were $0.46 per diluted share for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 compared with $0.47 per diluted share for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024. Adjusted diluted net earnings per share were $0.46, representing a decrease of 4.2% from $0.48 for the corresponding quarter of last year.
  • Total merchandise and service revenues of $4.2 billion, an increase of 2.0%. Same-store merchandise revenues decreased by 0.4% in the United States, while it increased by 3.4% in Europe and other regions, and by 3.5% in Canada.
  • Merchandise and service gross margin decreased by 0.2% in the United States to 33.9%, by 0.6% in Europe and other regions to 38.6%, and by 0.8% in Canada to 34.1%.
  • Same-store road transportation fuel volumes decreased by 1.9% in the United States, by 0.6% in Europe and other regions, while it increased by 3.7% in Canada.
  • Road transportation fuel gross margin of 43.27¢ per gallon in the United States, an increase of 4.48¢ per gallon, US 9.57¢ per liter in Europe and other regions, an increase of US 1.27¢ per liter, and CA 14.05¢ per litre in Canada, an increase of CA 0.37¢ per litre.

Fiscal Year 2025 Highlights

  • Net earnings per diluted share of $2.71 compared with $2.82 for fiscal 2024, a decrease of 3.9%, while adjusted diluted net earnings per share1 were $2.71 compared with $2.81 for fiscal 2024, a decrease of 3.6%.
  • During fiscal 2025, it repurchased 8.7 million shares for an amount of $518.9 million.
  • Solid pipeline execution with 97 new-to-industry openings, and 20 relocated or reconstructed stores during fiscal 2025. As of April 27, 2025, another 41 stores were under construction and should open in the upcoming quarters.
  • Increase in the annual dividend declared for fiscal 2025 of 14.3%, from CA 66.50¢ to CA 76.00¢.

In a commentary, Martin Landry, Managing Director, Stifel Financial Corp, said Couche-Tard’s fourth quarter results were “slightly below muted expectations” and the company’s results continue to be challenged in the United States.

“The convenience store channel has lost market share against other channels, in our view, as frugal consumers seek value and look to stretch their dollars,” he said.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For June 26, 2025

By
Retail Insider
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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web

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.

B.C. mall owner lays out plan for Bay leases. Landlords are unconvinced (The Canadian Press)

Ruby Liu lacks ‘foundational’ experience to run former HBC stores, Cadillac Fairview CEO says (Globe & Mail)

BuyCanadianGroup.ca Announces First All-Canadian Online Department Store (Newswire)

DHL Express Canada reaches tentative agreement with union (CBC)

Odd Burger partners with Vegan Supply (CCentral)

Independent grocers show resilience amid economic pressure reveals 2025 financial study (Grocery Business)

‘We are open’: Sunterra nears business as usual amid legal battles (Calgary Herald)

47,000 cruise ship passengers expected in downtown Vancouver this weekend (Daily Hive)

5 thieves arrested after targeting Billings Bridge, Place d’Orléans jewellery stores (CityNews Ottawa)

Navigating the Financial Side of Store Expansion

By
Retail Insider
-

Have you ever dreamed of growing your store into a larger space or opening a second location? Expanding a retail store can be an exciting way to reach more customers and increase sales. But while the idea of growth is appealing, it also comes with serious financial responsibilities. Many store owners jump into expansion without fully understanding the cost, and that can lead to stress, debt, or even business failure. Before taking the leap, it’s essential to explore the financial details involved in expanding your store.

In this blog, we will share important financial steps and tips to help you navigate store expansion wisely.

Understanding the True Costs of Expansion

Expanding a store involves more than just finding a new space. There are several upfront and ongoing costs that you need to be ready for. These include things like lease deposits, construction or renovation, buying more inventory, and hiring extra staff. You may also need to invest in new equipment, lighting, shelving, or technology. All of these add up fast and can catch business owners off guard if they don’t plan carefully.

On top of that, some costs will stick around long-term. You’ll be paying for rent or a mortgage, utilities, insurance, and salaries month after month. If your new location takes time to build steady customer traffic, you’ll need enough cash saved to cover these expenses. Creating a detailed budget before expanding can help you prepare and reduce surprises.

How Business Loans and Interest Rates Affect Your Budget

Many small business owners use loans to fund store expansion. Loans can be helpful, but they come with interest. Knowing how interest rates work will help you make smart borrowing decisions. Interest rates vary depending on your credit score, business history, and loan type. One important factor to look at is the average annual percentage rate (APR), which shows the yearly cost of borrowing, including fees.

The average APR for personal loans ranges from about 8% to over 23%, depending on your credit. If your credit is strong, you may qualify for a lower rate. If your credit is weak, the cost of the loan will be much higher. Understanding this helps you calculate how much you’ll owe over time. A loan with a high APR can make your monthly payments harder to manage, especially if your new store doesn’t bring in profit right away. Always compare lenders and read all the fine print.

Evaluating Your Current Business Health

Before you expand, check if your current store is truly ready. Is your business steady and profitable? Are your sales growing consistently? Expansion should build on a strong foundation, not cover up problems. If your store struggles with low cash flow, high debt, or slow sales, it may not be the right time to grow.

You should also look at your internal systems. Is your staff trained well? Do you have reliable suppliers? Are your operations smooth? If your current setup is messy or disorganized, expansion will only add stress. Fixing weak spots now will help your new location run better. Take time to measure performance, improve systems, and gather customer feedback before making the move.

Creating a Financial Cushion for Surprises

Even with careful planning, things rarely go exactly as expected. Construction delays, unexpected fees, or slow customer turnout can happen. That’s why you need a financial cushion. This is extra money saved to cover unexpected costs. Experts recommend having at least three to six months of expenses saved before you expand.

A cushion gives you breathing room. You won’t panic if your store needs more time to become profitable. It also helps you avoid taking out more loans or using credit cards, which can lead to long-term debt. Set aside a portion of your profits each month and treat it like a fixed cost. This habit can make a huge difference during expansion.

Exploring Other Funding Options

Loans are common, but they’re not the only way to fund expansion. You might qualify for small business grants, which don’t have to be paid back. Some local or state programs offer help to small businesses that are growing or creating jobs. You could also consider taking on a business partner or investor who shares your vision and brings in capital.

Crowdfunding is another option. It lets you raise money by offering early access or special rewards to customers who believe in your brand. While it takes work to set up a campaign, it can create buzz around your expansion and help build loyalty. Always research each funding method to understand the risks and rewards. The best choice depends on your goals, timeline, and financial health.

Projecting Revenue and Sales Expectations

When expanding, it’s important to set realistic goals. What do you expect your new location to earn? You can’t assume it will match your current store right away. Look at local market trends, competition, and customer demand in the new area. Create a detailed sales projection for at least the first year.

Include all expected income and compare it to your new expenses. Will you break even? How long will it take to see a profit? If your projection shows a shortfall, decide how you’ll cover the gap. These estimates will also help you plan marketing and staffing. Honest projections keep you grounded and help prevent poor financial decisions.

Managing Inventory and Supply Costs

With a second location or larger space, you’ll need more inventory. This means placing bigger orders and possibly paying for storage or faster shipping. Before you expand, talk with your suppliers. Can they handle your larger needs? Can you negotiate better prices for bulk orders?

Tracking inventory carefully becomes even more important. Over-ordering ties up cash, while under-ordering can lead to missed sales. Use tools to monitor stock levels and sales patterns. Inventory management software can save time and money. Strong inventory control helps you meet demand without wasting money, especially when cash is tight during expansion.

In conclusion, expanding your store can be a great way to grow your business, but it’s not something to rush. The financial side of expansion involves many details that can impact your long-term success. From setting a clear budget to understanding interest rates and creating a financial cushion, every step matters. Take the time to assess your current business, explore funding options, and plan carefully for new costs.

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