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How Email Marketing Can Drive Engagement for Publishers

By
Retail Insider
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Email marketing remains an indispensable tool for publishers aiming to build a loyal readership and increase engagement. In an age dominated by an abundance of digital content, the personal touch of an email can help you stand out in a crowded inbox. The benefits of using email marketing for publishers include driving traffic to your latest content, reinforcing your brand’s voice, and strengthening your community of readers. By leveraging email campaigns, publishers can maintain direct communication with their audience, fostering a sense of exclusivity and belonging. Below, we explore how you can effectively use email marketing to captivate and grow your subscriber base.

Understanding the Role of Email Marketing in Enhancing Audience Engagement

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Alt text: Team members discussing how email marketing plays a vital role in enhancing audience engagement and communication strategies

Email marketing offers publishers a unique channel to connect with their audience more personally than social media or standard web content. Emails can create a deeper relationship with subscribers with tailored messages and exclusive insights. This sense of intimacy encourages continuous engagement, inviting readers to interact with content beyond the inbox.

To support deliverability and protect audience trust, many teams also use an email verification tool to routinely check list quality by removing invalid addresses and reducing bounce rates. This kind of hygiene helps ensure engagement metrics reflect real reader interest and makes feedback loops from campaigns more reliable.

Email campaigns provide readers a direct line, allowing publishers to gather valuable feedback, fine-tune their content strategy, and implement changes that resonate with their audience. Subscribers feel valued when their opinions are sought and catered to, leading to increased loyalty and engagement rates.

Promotions, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes glimpses offered exclusively through email can incentivize subscribers to remain active and attentive to a publisher’s offerings. This exclusivity drives engagement and can increase word-of-mouth referrals as excited subscribers share unique benefits with others.

Strategic planning and understanding audience preferences are essential in crafting email campaigns that resonate and engage. With robust analytics tools, publishers can trace which topics garner more attention and refine their approach, leading to content that continually captivates their audience’s interests.

Crafting Compelling Content to Boost Email Open Rates

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Alt text: Employees in a meeting discussing strategies for crafting compelling email content to boost open rates and audience engagement

Creating content that compels subscribers to open and read emails is critical to the success of a publisher’s email marketing strategy. The subject line acts as the gatekeeper – an engaging and intriguing headline can significantly affect open rates. It’s a publisher’s first impression, offering a glimpse into the quality and relevance of the content within.

The email’s content must deliver on the promises of the subject line. It should be concise, visually engaging, and rich with value, providing reasons for subscribers to continue reading and to click through to the publisher’s website. Whether an informative article or a thrilling piece of fiction, the content should reflect the publisher’s brand consistency in tone and quality.

Interactivity within emails, such as embedded videos or graphics, can further captivate readers, encouraging them to engage more deeply with the content. This multimedia approach caters to diverse subscriber preferences, ensuring something for everyone in each campaign.

Persistence and consistency in delivering quality content via email endear publishers to their audience, establishing trust and anticipation for future communications. This long-term strategy aims to convert casual readers into dedicated followers who look forward to each new email.

Segmenting Your Subscriber List for Targeted Email Campaigns

One size does not fit all in email marketing – understanding this is key to enhancing subscriber interest and engagement. Segmenting your subscriber list based on preferences and behaviors allows for more tailored and effective email campaigns. Publishers can send targeted content that aligns with what different reader segments find compelling.

Categorizing subscribers by demographics, content consumption patterns, or engagement levels empowers publishers to deliver personalized messages. For instance, regular readers might receive more detailed and frequent updates, while casual subscribers get high-level summaries designed to pique their interest.

Segmentation also allows for successfully promoting specific genres, products, or services to those most likely interested. This level of precision in targeting reduces the risk of emails being dismissed as irrelevant or spam, fostering a positive relationship between the publisher and the audience.

 To support this effort, using an email warm up tool helps establish sender reputation before launching segmented campaigns, improving inbox placement and ensuring your messages actually reach engaged subscribers.

Overall, email marketing empowers publishers to build meaningful, sustained relationships with their readers through personalized and consistent communication. Publishers can significantly boost engagement and loyalty by strategically segmenting audiences and delivering compelling content.

RONA mobilizes in support of communities affected by forest fires in Western Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Credit: Pixabay
Credit: Pixabay

RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers, operating and servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated stores, is once again this year lending a helping hand to communities affected by forest fires in Western Canada.

Until June 30, RONA+ and RONA corporate stores in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan will be collecting donations for victims of the forest fires that have been raging in these provinces over the past few days. The RONA Foundation will then donate these funds to the Canadian Red Cross, which provides immediate and ongoing assistance to Canadians in need. This is the retailer’s third campaign of this kind, it said.

“This fundraising campaign truly hits home, as RONA learned on Wednesday that one of its affiliated dealer stores, RONA La Ronge in Saskatchewan, owned by Matthew Klassen and Krista Funk, was destroyed by fire,” said the company.

J.P. Towner
J.P. Towner

“Each year, forest fires cause thousands of victims across the country, and it’s important for RONA to support fellow citizens who are impacted. But when tragedy strikes at home, I must admit that it gives a whole new meaning to our commitment,” said J.P. Towner, President and CEO of RONA inc.

The company said it received word that Krista and the children had been evacuated and were safe, while Matthew chose to stay behind to help firefighters and offer his support to the community.

Alain Ménard
Alain Ménard

“As I often say, our dealers are people with big hearts who do what they do because they want to help their peers and contribute to building stronger communities. Matt is the perfect example of this. I take my hat off to him for his courage and exemplary dedication,” said Alain Ménard, Senior Vice-President, RONA Affiliated Dealers, RONA inc.

“To see the fruit of your labour go up in flames and still choose to help is simply remarkable. I want to tell Matt and Krista that our hearts go out to them and their employees, and that RONA will be there in the weeks and months to come to support them through this ordeal and help them get back on their feet,” he added.

Those who wish to make a donation for victims of the forest fires can do so on the Canadian Red Cross website or in a store in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

  

The company is one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers, headquartered in Boucherville, Québec. The network operates and services some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the RONA+, RONA, and Dick’s Lumber banners. It has supported Canadians in their home improvement and construction projects since 1939.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Enhancing Retail Visibility: The Power of SEO in E-Commerce

By
Retail Insider
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A small electronics store saw its online sales jump 127% after implementing basic SEO strategies across its product pages. If you’re running an e-commerce business, you can’t afford to ignore search engine optimization’s impact on your bottom line. With 93% of online experiences starting with a search engine, your visibility directly affects your ability to attract and convert customers.

Getting Seen Online: Why E-Commerce Visibility Matters

Millions of online stores compete for attention, but only those with strong visibility capture their share of the $5.5 trillion global e-commerce market. Your digital footprint determines your success in today’s competitive landscape.

When customers can’t find your products, they quickly move to competitors who’ve invested in their online presence. Many successful retailers now rely on professional Search Engine Optimization services to enhance their visibility strategy. Building brand awareness through strategic visibility isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being found by the right customers at vital purchasing moments.

Your success depends on how effectively you position your store in front of motivated buyers. Without proper visibility, even exceptional products risk disappearing in the vast digital marketplace.

What Exactly is SEO? The Basics for E-Commerce

When you optimize your e-commerce site for search engines, you translate your store’s content into a language that search algorithms understand and rank. Your product descriptions, categories, and technical setup need to align with what potential customers type into search bars.

Helping Search Engines Understand Your Store

Search engines can’t physically browse your inventory. You need to implement proper metadata optimization and ensure every image includes descriptive alt text. These elements act as translation layers between your store and search engines.

Focus on providing clear, structured information about your products: accurate titles, detailed descriptions, and proper categorization. This digital roadmap guides search engines through your inventory. When you make your content easily interpretable, you increase the likelihood of appearing in relevant search results.

Matching Your Products with Customer Searches

Product alignment begins with understanding search intent—what your customers actually seek when they type specific phrases into search engines.

Identify the exact terms your target customers use when searching for products like yours. Research common search phrases, analyze competitor keywords, and incorporate relevant terms into your product descriptions. By aligning your pages with natural search patterns, you’ll appear in relevant results more frequently.

Maintain authentic descriptions while strategically placing keywords where they make logical sense. This approach satisfies both search engines and customers.

The Goal: Higher Rankings, More Visibility

The higher your website ranks in search results, the more potential customers will see your products. When your online store appears on the first page, you capture substantially more traffic than competitors on page two or three.

To achieve top positions, align your marketing strategy with search algorithms by understanding how they evaluate and rank your product pages. These higher rankings represent an opportunity to connect with customers actively searching for products like yours.

The Power Trio: Key Areas of E-Commerce SEO

Success in e-commerce SEO requires mastering three essential areas: strategic keyword research to match customer search intent, technical optimization for flawless performance, and compelling content that drives engagement and conversions.

Keyword Magic: Finding the Words Customers Use

How do potential customers search for products like yours? Understanding keyword trends reveals valuable insights into their search behavior.

Examine search volumes, competitive metrics, and seasonal patterns for product-related keywords in your niche. Focus on both broad terms and specific long-tail phrases that indicate clear purchase intent. Prioritize keywords that balance search volume with competition levels.

Tools like Google’s Keyword Planner and SEMrush help identify high-potential search terms. Account for regional variations and industry-specific terminology to align your product pages with actual customer search patterns.

Website Wellness: Making Your Store Search-Engine Friendly

Search engines evaluate your store’s technical health beyond keywords. Website speed, code optimization, and site structure directly impact rankings and customer experience.

Start with thorough technical audits using reliable SEO tools. Optimize loading times through image compression and streamlined code. A slow website can drive customers away before they even see your products.

Mobile usability is non-negotiable in today’s market. Implement a responsive design that adapts across all devices. This improves search rankings while providing a secure shopping environment that customers expect.

Content Strategy: Engaging Your Audience

Compelling content drives both search visibility and customer engagement. Create informative articles that educate customers about your products while maintaining a consistent brand voice.

Effective storytelling connects you with your audience on a deeper level, building trust and encouraging informed decisions. Incorporate multimedia content like product videos and high-quality images to enhance engagement.

When crafting product descriptions, address customer pain points and provide solutions. Balance keyword optimization with natural readability to establish your store as a trusted resource in your niche.

More Visibility, More Sales: The Real-World Impact of SEO

When you invest in e-commerce SEO, you tap into a powerful stream of organic traffic that boosts your visibility without ongoing ad costs. Your optimized store builds trust with search engines and shoppers, creating a foundation for sustainable growth.

Reaching More Potential Customers

As more shoppers turn to online markets, effective SEO expands your customer reach beyond traditional boundaries. By optimizing content and improving user experience, you connect with your target audience more effectively.

Your enhanced online reputation builds brand loyalty while guiding potential customers through your sales funnel naturally. Think of SEO as your 24/7 digital sales team, continuously working to increase your visibility where it matters most.

Driving Organic Traffic

Organic traffic represents your biggest opportunity for sustainable growth without advertising costs. Users trust organic search results more than paid advertisements. When you invest in SEO, you build a foundation that continues delivering results long after implementation.

Focus on creating an exceptional user experience with fast loading times, proper mobile display, and detailed product information. This approach satisfies search engines and customer expectations, leading to higher conversion rates.

Building Trust and Staying Ahead

Strong SEO practices establish your e-commerce site as a trusted authority in your niche. High rankings signal credibility to potential customers. Implement trust signals like secure payment badges, customer reviews, and detailed product information to reinforce this authority.

Monitor competitor keywords, analyze top-performing content in your niche, and study competitor site structure to optimize your user experience. This competitive analysis helps identify opportunities and stay ahead of industry trends.

Easy Steps to Boost Your E-Commerce Visibility with SEO

Start with strategic keyword research to discover what potential customers are searching for. Optimize product pages with detailed descriptions that naturally incorporate target keywords. Focus on mobile optimization, creating a seamless shopping experience across all devices.

Create diverse content types that address customer needs and answer questions. Include detailed specifications, clear instructions, and comparison information. Maintain a consistent publishing schedule with fresh content that reflects current market trends.

A well-executed SEO strategy protects your market position and ensures steady traffic growth. Rather than relying on short-term tactics, develop robust practices that align with search engine guidelines and customer needs to secure your store’s future success.

Buy Canadian movement gains momentum as consumers shift

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Mario Toneguzzi
Photo by Mario Toneguzzi

As talk of U.S. tariffs heat up, something else is quietly bubbling across Canada: a shift in consumer behaviour that could reshape the fast-moving consumer goods landscape.

In the face of growing economic uncertainty and political tensions, a clear message is emerging from Canadian households: support homegrown products or go without, according to a NielsenIQ (NIQ) recent report – Tariffs, Tensions, and the Rise of the “Buy Canadian” Consumer.

“Retailers and brands, take note—this is more than a moment. It’s a mindset. And it’s reshaping what loyalty, value, and national identity look like in the Canadian aisle,” it said.

“The “Buy Canadian” movement is a growing consumer-led shift toward prioritizing domestically made products over imported alternatives—especially those from the U.S. Sparked by political tensions, trade disputes, and rising tariffs, the movement reflects a broader desire among Canadians to support their local economy, protect domestic jobs, and assert national pride through their purchasing decisions. And this movement isn’t anything to scoff at. 

“A new NIQ study reveals that nearly half of Canadian consumers are taking a stand. From boycotting U.S.-made goods to choosing Canadian products even when they’re not the easiest or cheapest option, shoppers are putting their wallets where their values are. This sentiment is influencing everything from food and beverage categories to household goods, prompting both retailers and manufacturers to rethink their positioning in a climate where Canadian-made has become a competitive advantage.”

“Buy Canadian” may be more than just talk, said the report. 

“This behavioral shift is starting to show up in self-reported shopping preferences—particularly in categories like beer, BBQ sauce, sugar substitutes, and low-alcohol beverages—areas that are important to Canadian Loyalists. Meanwhile, U.S. brands are seeing heightened risk as 45% of consumers are either Canadian Loyalists or American Good Avoiders. This is especially true in categories like wine, backache treatments, and processed cheese spreads, particularly among American Goods Avoiders, who are more likely to live in Quebec and skews older. This group has the highest average monthly spend of all which presents significant risk to U.S. products,” it said.

A sign encouraging shoppers to buy Canadian products at a liquor store in Vancouver on Feb. 2, 2025. Shoppers have been caught up in the buy Canadian fervour since U.S. President Donald Trump began threatening to apply tariffs on imports from Canada. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns

In the report, Made in Canada: How are Canadians responding to U.S. Tariffs?, NIQ found:

  • Majority Awareness: Most Canadians are aware of the potential tariffs that may be imposed by the U.S. government. 
  • Boycott Movement: Many Canadians state they will boycott U.S.-made products, refusing to purchase them regardless of availability or price. 
  • Impact Perception: 92% of Canadians believe tariffs will negatively impact daily life in Canada. 
  • Product Identification: Are Canadians finding it easy to identify “Made in Canada” products on the shelf? What are the potential implications?  
  • Store Switching: A segment of Canadians is ready to switch to stores that make it easier to find Canadian products

“What matters is how they vote with their wallets. Some are going to say they’re not going to buy American products or they’re going to boycott them… At the end of the day… we see it in the stores. We see the way they’re behaving,” said Mike Ljubicic, Managing Director of NielsenIQ Canada.

Mike Ljubicic
Mike Ljubicic

“Those people that are saying they are going to avoid or be a little bit more aware of what they’re buying and looking at things that are Product of Canada or Made in Canada… they are voting with their wallets.”

He noted visible shifts in consumer behaviour across stores: “You probably saw yourself as you’re shopping—there’s people looking at apps, people looking at products in the stores.”

The movement is not limited to consumers. Major retailers and brands are leaning into the trend with “Buy Canadian” signage and product labeling.

And companies are taking advantage of that. You walk into a Safeway and there are big signs to Buy Canadian. Loblaw has products marked with a T to identify tariffs. 

“I don’t think it’s a blip in time. I think it’s something that’s going to last. Now what the magnitude of it will be, I’m not sure,” he said. “But I think it’s just adding to a snowball that already started.”

Prior to COVID, consumer behaviour was cyclical—shifting toward discount and private label during tough times, then swinging back as conditions improved. But that pattern is changing.

“What we’re seeing though in the last four or five years is consumers just have less money in their wallets,” explained Ljubicic. “Everything’s gone up—not just food. And people are just being more frugal with their money.”

Photo by Mario Toneguzzi
Photo by Mario Toneguzzi

Retailers have responded accordingly, expanding discount banners. “They’ve added well over 60 stores in those footprints in the last 18 months.”

Notably, 50% of volume in Canada is now sold on promotion—double that of the U.S.

Even more surprising? “The highest income households in Canada are growing penetration and baskets faster at those discount outlets than anyone else,” said Ljubicic. “That’s telling me that even people with the money are actually becoming more frugal.”

Discount’s rise is more than a phase. “In 2008, discount was one-third of the market in Canada. Conventional was two-thirds. Today, they’re 50/50—and discount’s going to tip the scale. It’s not going to revert back.”

Tariffs, then, are only one part of a broader shift in consumer mindset—toward frugality, local products, and price-conscious loyalty.

“It might be the opportunity where we’re going to see some Canadian brands emerge, local companies emerge,” said Ljubicic. “And if they can stay price-competitive, I think people will continue to vote and support that moving forward.”

Related Retail Insider stories:

Rennaï launches Clinique Le 1620 at Royalmount – Canada’s 1st in-store medical aesthetics clinic

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Clinique Le 1620 at Rennaï, ROYALMOUNT (CNW Group/SEC Quartier Royalmount Beauty Hall Operating LP)

Rennaï, Canada’s premium destination for elevated beauty and self-care, has unveiled Clinique Le 1620 at Royalmount — the first full-service medical aesthetics clinic in Canada to be seamlessly integrated into a luxury beauty retail environment.

This first-of-its-kind concept redefines a new vision for today’s sophisticated beauty consumer, combining clinical precision alongside a sensory shopping journey at Rennaï’s luxurious 36,000-square-foot space, said the company.

“Led by renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Mirko Gilardino, celebrated for his surgical artistry and anatomical expertise, Le 1620’s new satellite location delivers signature results-driven ethos within a refined, immersive 1,200-square-foot sanctuary. By merging cutting-edge medical care into Rennaï’s holistic retail experience, Clinique Le 1620 ushers in a new era of self-care—where science meets indulgence, and beauty is redefined as highly accessible and convenient,” said the company.

“Known for its individualized treatment plans and commitment to natural, confidence-enhancing results, Le 1620 Royalmount offers a range of advanced medical aesthetic services, including neuromodulators, dermal fillers, laser treatments, PRP/PRF and skin-boosting injectables. For clients interested in surgical rejuvenation or more invasive treatment plans, consultations with plastic surgeons are available on site. Exclusive to this location are Le 1620’s facials, featuring its proprietary CollageneX medical grade skin care line, along with LED therapy, chemical peels, and advanced non-invasive energy-based skin rejuvenation technologies by InMode.”

Dr. Mirko Gilardino and Laurence Trepanier, Managing Director, Clinique Le 1620 (CNW Group/SEC Quartier Royalmount Beauty Hall Operating LP)

“This expansion allows us to grow our expert team, integrate new technologies, and deliver a truly holistic experience for our patients in a beautifully designed, accessible setting,” said Gilardino. “It’s a natural extension of our mission to redefine beauty and wellness while reflecting our vision of beauty as both science and self-care.”

Another standout feature is the introduction of advanced digital body mapping and skin surveillance technology, supporting early skin cancer detection and in-depth skin aging analysis in partnership with a team dermatologist, added the company.

Christopher Novak
Christopher Novak

Christopher Novak, Rennaï President and CCO said: “Rennaï brings beauty, wellness, and expert services under one roof. Our partnership with Le 1620 takes this vision further, offering clinical-level care in a restorative space.”

Appointments can be booked at: info@le1620royalmount.com / (438)788-2999

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Clinique Le 1620 at Rennaï, ROYALMOUNT (CNW Group/SEC Quartier Royalmount Beauty Hall Operating LP)

Corbeil Appliances lowers prices and expands consumer protections to support Canadians amid inflation

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Courtesy of Corbeil
Courtesy of Corbeil

With the season of spring renovation, moving, and home improvement projects approaching, Corbeil Appliances is stepping up as a specialist to reassure, support, and take action. 

Given the current environment marked by persistent inflation, fluctuating tariffs, and economic uncertainty, the company made a strong move at the end of March by lowering prices of all appliances from its private label, Ellipse. This initiative is accompanied by five additional commitments aimed at protecting consumers and building a relationship of trust with them.

Anthony Amiel
Anthony Amiel

“At Corbeil, we believe that the role of a specialist is to make it easier for Quebecers and Canadians alike to access home appliances that meet their everyday needs. As a Quebec leader in the industry, we have a duty to step up. Guaranteeing the best purchasing conditions, along with lowering prices for our Ellipse brand, represents our tangible contribution to protecting our customers’ purchasing power,” said Anthony Amiel, President of Groupe Amiel.

“This is a well-thought-out choice, consistent with our mission to be a trusted partner, especially at a time when purchasing decisions are particularly important.”

The results of this initiative were remarkable right at the beginning: in just a few weeks, many consumers have placed their trust in Corbeil, driving a 30% increase in units sold for the Ellipse brand.

Beyond price reductions, Corbeil reaffirmed its commitment to consumers through its Parole de Spécialiste campaign, putting forth several commercial initiatives designed to bring greater peace of mind to customers:

  • A best price guarantee for 30 days after purchase;
  • A protection plan that allows customers to recover 50% of its value in store credit if unused;
  • Interest-free financing plans for up to 24 months;
  • Free delivery on purchases of $699 or more;
  • Free pickup and recycling of old appliances in partnership with GoRecycle.
Courtesy of Corbeil
Courtesy of Corbeil

Corbeil Appliances also launched a new line called Corbeil Éco-Choix, aimed at offering second-hand products, end-of-line models, “as-is” items, and the most accessible brands on the market.

“Protecting purchasing power is a holistic approach that goes well beyond simply lowering prices. We also want to offer flexibility, peace of mind, and responsible options to our customers,” said Amiel.

Corbeil Appliances has a diversified supply network, sourcing products from Europe, Latin America, Asia and North America. This model helps mitigate the impact of tariff increases and maintain greater price stability.

Founded in 1949, Corbeil is a 100% Quebec-owned company held by Amiel Group since 2017. It is currently the largest home appliance network in Quebec, with some 30 stores across the province and in Ontario. 

Groupe Amiel is a portfolio company founded by Anthony Amiel in 2017. It was created to bring together Distinctive, Corbeil Appliances and Termonas under one entity.

Amiel said he is seeing some uncertainty in consumers for larger renovation projects due to some budgetary challenges these days.

“They’re not executing them right now. They’re more adopting a wait and see for big renovations.,” he said. 

Amiel said the recent campaign is meant to get closer to consumers, and reassure them.

“I’m passionate about the kitchen and everything that happens in the kitchen. It’s where you host families, where you host friends, the centre of the home often, and you’re using these appliances on a daily basis, it’s almost an intimate object, because you’re touching and using them every day,” he said. 

Courtesy of Corbeil
Courtesy of Corbeil

“And consumers are worried about making the wrong decision, which is the right fridge for the size of family or the kind of cooking that they do . . . We want to accompany them and reassure them through this promise. We’re going to accompany them throughout the whole journey from the pre-selection to selecting to delivery in the lifecycle of the appliance. That’s a 30-day price match guarantee. If the price drops within 30 days from when we deliver the appliance to you, we’ll refund the difference. We take on that commitment. 

“We offer protection plans because we know that repairs to appliances are getting increasingly more expensive, increasingly more complicated. But then what’s different with us is we offer credit on those protection plans if they don’t get used by the end of the protection plan, and we’ll offer 50% credit of the value of the protection plan on the purchase of the next appliance. So in five years, six years, seven years, if you want to change your appliance again, the protection plan comes to an end, we’d have a credit for that.

Courtesy of Corbeil
Courtesy of Corbeil

“We also offer through a partner, Fairstone Financial interest free financing options, six months, 12 months, and we go up to 36 months, but at 36 there is some interest to be paid, but it’s still competitive, less expensive than a credit card, and we’ve had great success with that. We’ve also stepped up with delivery, free delivery on purchases of $699, or more, and that’s throughout our extended network of stores.”

Amiel said Corbeil is in the process of renovating some of its stores with more planned and the company continues to actively look at other markets to expand.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Courtesy of Corbeil
Courtesy of Corbeil

Krispy Kreme Expands in Montreal with 2 New Stores

By
Craig Patterson
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Signage at the Montreal Eaton Centre for Krispy Kreme. Photo: Victor DiLallo Balsis

Krispy Kreme is making moves in Quebec with the upcoming opening of two new retail locations—one next to the revitalized food court at downtown Montreal’s Centre Eaton de Montréal, and another immersive Hot Light Theatre Shop in the city of Laval. The expansion comes as the brand continues to grow its Canadian footprint, offering signature doughnuts and experiential retail to a broader audience.

The Laval community will soon be home to a Krispy Kreme storefront. Located at 1140 Desserte Chomedey Ouest (near Highway 13), the 4,600-square-foot space will house one of the brand’s signature Hot Light Theatre Shops. These immersive locations offer customers a front-row view of the doughnut-making process, bringing the magic of the brand’s Original Glazed® doughnuts to life.

The new Laval shop will also include a drive-thru for added convenience and is expected to be a destination for both locals and visitors.

A job fair will be held at the Laval location on Saturday, June 7, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Interested candidates are encouraged to bring resumes and references for on-site interviews. Krispy Kreme is hiring across multiple roles, and more information can be found at krispykreme.ca/recruiting-laval.

Image: Krispy Kreme Canada

Downtown Montreal Location to Anchor Eaton Centre’s Food Court Redevelopment

In addition to its Laval expansion, Krispy Kreme is opening a new location at the Centre Eaton de Montréal, in the heart of downtown Montreal. The new store will be next to the centre’s upcoming revitalized food court, which is undergoing a comprehensive renovation by Ivanhoé Cambridge.

Krispy Kreme will operated just outside the doors that connect the Montreal Metro to the Eaton Centre, according to the company.

Set for completion in Fall 2026, the redesigned food court will combine contemporary architecture, sustainable design, and a curated mix of dining concepts.

A Strategic Fit for a High-Traffic Retail Hub

With nearly 30 million visitors annually, Centre Eaton de Montréal is one of Canada’s busiest shopping destinations and is directly connected to Montreal’s underground pedestrian network and McGill metro station. The mall hosts an eclectic mix of tenants, including Montreal’s only Time Out Market, flagship stores from Uniqlo and Décathlon, and high-traffic brands like Sephora, Nike, and Aritzia.

Rendering of the renovated food court at the Montreal Eaton Centre. Image supplied

Krispy Kreme’s Continued Canadian Growth

Krispy Kreme first entered Canada in 2001 with a location in Mississauga, Ontario, followed shortly by an expansion into Montreal. Today, Krispy Kreme Canada operates 20 locations nationwide and continues to grow its presence across provinces.

The brand’s appeal lies in its ability to create memorable, multisensory experiences around a simple product: the doughnut. Whether through its signature Hot Light shops, pop-ups, or growing digital channels, Krispy Kreme is focused on creating joyful experiences that resonate with Canadian customers.

Its parent company, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, operates in 40 countries and maintains more than 17,500 fresh points of access. Krispy Kreme’s growth strategy in Canada reflects its broader international mandate: expanding thoughtfully through destination-style shops and strategic retail partnerships.

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Beertown heats up summer with ‘Smoke and Beers’ BBQ tour

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Courtesy of Beertown
Courtesy of Beertown

Beertown Public House is kicking off the summer with ‘Smoke and Beers’ – a sizzling series of events happening at Beertown restaurants across Ontario.

These mix-and-mingle events will be headlined by none other than Chef Ted Reader, famously known as ‘The Godfather of the Grill.’ He’ll craft a special menu served across five unique BBQ stations; each paired with craft beer and set to the soundtrack of live music, said the company.

Jody Palubiski
Jody Palubiski

“Summer is all about beer and barbecue,” said Jody Palubiski, CEO of the Charcoal Group of Restaurants, the parent company that operates all Beertown Public House locations. “There’s nothing better than great food off the grill, a cold beer in hand and good company. This is the perfect way to welcome the season.”

The Smoke and Beers tour will hit the following locations:

Newmarket (June 16th)
Cambridge (June 18th)
Guelph (June 23rd)
London (June 25th)
 
All events will be held at their respective Beertown Public House locations.

Courtesy of Beertown
Courtesy of Beertown

Based in Paris, Ontario, Reader is an award-winning chef, cookbook author (with 21 titles to his names), media personality and professor at Niagara College’s Canadian Food and Wine Institute. He also owns more than 75 grills and smokers.

“I’m really excited to partner once again with Beertown,” he said. “We’ve had a great relationship for years, and I can’t wait to fire things up across Southwestern Ontario.”

Tickets are $89 + tax + gratuity and include food and beer pairings.

Charcoal Group is an inspired group of full-service restaurants located across Southern Ontario with over 65 years in the hospitality industry. Its restaurants include Solé Uptown, The Charcoal Steakhouse, Martini’s, Dels Italian Kitchen, Wildcraft Grill & Long Bar, The Bauer Kitchen, The Bauer Bakery & Café, Moose Winooski’s, Beertown Public House, and Sociable Kitchen & Tavern.   

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Courtesy of Beertown
Courtesy of Beertown

Personal finance concerns rising significantly: BMO survey

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Mikhail Nilov
Photo by Mikhail Nilov

A special report from the BMO Real Financial Progress Index reveals Canadians’ concerns about their personal finances have surged amid increased economic uncertainty and market volatility.

The survey explored changes in Canadians’ concerns about their finances and current economic conditions between March and April 2025, and found:

  • Cost of Living Considerations: 78% reported growing concerns about the cost of living in April – a 17-point increase from 61% in March. 
  • Inflation Concerns Intensify Over three quarters (76%) say their concerns about inflation have increased – a 16-point increase from 60%.
  • Temperature on Tariffs: Concerns about the impact of US tariffs increased from 65% to 74%.
  • Rising Recession Risks: Canadians’ concerns about the prospect of economic recession increased from 60% to 74%.
  • Pulse on Personal Finances: Nearly three in five (58%) say they are more concerned about their financial situation – a 16-point increase from the 42% in March.  

In addition, nearly one quarter (24%) reported in April they are increasingly concerned about the prospect of losing their job.

Sal Guatieri
Sal Guatieri

“Canadian consumer confidence recently plummeted to the lowest depths in at least six decades on fear that the trade war will cost people their jobs and undermine their financial security. However, sentiment improved modestly in April amid a partial de-escalation of the trade war. A more recent recovery in equity markets should support confidence further in May,” said Sal Guatieri, Senior Economist, BMO. “While BMO Economics is concerned about the economic impact of tariffs, we are less worried about the inflation outlook, as retaliatory tariffs on imports from the U.S. have been restrained. CPI inflation will likely hold close to the Bank of Canada’s 2% target this year, paving the way for some further reductions in policy rates.”

Anthony (Tony) Tintinalli
Anthony (Tony) Tintinalli

“Many Canadians and their families are understandably more concerned about their finances and are taking proactive steps to protect their financial future,” said Anthony (Tony) Tintinalli, Head, Specialized Sales, BMO. “With planning and a disciplined approach to spending, Canadians will be empowered to navigate the challenging environment, achieve their financial goals and make real financial progress with confidence.”

Brent Joyce
Brent Joyce

“While navigating markets has been difficult amid the recent uncertainty, we remain committed to well-balanced and well-diversified portfolios,’ said Brent Joyce, Chief Investment Strategist, BMO Private Investment Council. “Uncertain times can also be a good time to reassess risk tolerance, but decisions should be made with a long outlook in mind.”

The BMO April survey also found Boomers are most concerned about the cost of living (84%), tariffs (83%), the prospect of an economic recession (82%) and inflation (80%), while Gen Z are the most concerned about the prospect of losing their jobs (37%).

BMO offers tips and resources to help Canadians stay on track towards their financial goals and make real financial progress during times of uncertainty:

  • Start Planning Early: Outlining short and long-term financial objectives and goals helps determine the appropriate investing and savings solutions to incorporate in a financial plan.
  • Practice Discipline: Manage spending, review budgets, and include any automatic contributions through pre-authorized contributions to savings plans as an expense. Monitoring spending with a monthly budget will allow flexibility to suspend or decrease the spending amount in the continuous savings plan when needed or increase the amount when a budget allows for it.
  • Build an Emergency Fund: Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses to help cover unexpected costs or loss of income.
  • Diversify Investments: Spread investments across different asset classes, sectors and geographies to reduce risk.
  • Stress Testing Strategies: Consider stress testing financial plans and investment strategies to help plan for economic, market and personal changes that can affect the progress towards financial goals such as saving for retirement, buying a home, etc.
  • Keep Calm and Stay the Course: During periods of market volatility, avoid panic selling and maintain a long-term perspective on investments in order to benefit from the power of compound growth.
  • Seek Professional Advice: Do not wait to seek help until a time of crisis. Working with a professional expert and meeting with them regularly can help Canadians and their loved ones create and maintain a financial plan that reflects their financial goals, sources of income and cash flow, risk appetite and time horizons, and adjust these plans as new goals emerge or circumstances change.

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Google Canada launches $13M AI Opportunity Fund to upskill over 2 million Canadians

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Photo by Mikael Blomkvist
Photo by Mikael Blomkvist

Google Canada has announced the launch of the AI Opportunity Fund, a $13 million initiative aimed at helping Canadians build the skills they need to thrive in an AI-powered economy. The investment will support four Canadian organizations—Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii), First Nations Technology Council, Skills for Change, and the Toronto Public Library—to scale AI skills training programs across the country.

Sabrina Geremia
Sabrina Geremia

“AI is transforming the way we work and can empower people across almost every field,” said Sabrina Geremia, VP & Country Managing Director for Google Canada. “Canada is uniquely positioned to capture the immense AI opportunity, by putting this technology to work. The AI Opportunity Fund will help upskill Canadians nationwide, strengthen our workforce, and prepare Canadians for an AI-powered economy.”

Together, the four organizations will reach more than two million Canadians with foundational AI skills and training, helping to close the country’s growing digital skills gap and bolster workforce readiness.

Broad National Impact

Cam Linke
Cam Linke

The Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute will lead a national effort to provide post-secondary students with foundational AI skills. “Canada has an incredible opportunity to translate decades of AI research excellence into fundamental AI literacy skills for a generation of post-secondary students because of the generous support of Google.org,” said Cam Linke, CEO of Amii. “Amii is proud to lead the effort to build a national AI Workforce Readiness Consortium…we’re ready to support educators with equitable access to curriculum resources across faculties, programs and domains.”

Natiea Vinson
Natiea Vinson

The First Nations Technology Council will focus on Indigenous inclusion in AI, offering training and resources to Indigenous students and communities. “Google.org’s commitment to supporting AI training programs for Indigenous Peoples represents a meaningful step toward reconciliation…empowering communities to leverage AI for nation-building while driving economic growth and fostering technology-enabled efficiencies that benefit Indigenous Peoples and Canada as a whole,” said Natiea Vinson, CEO.

Surranna Sandy
Surranna Sandy

Meanwhile, Skills for Change will direct its efforts toward communities with high unemployment. “Our new AI skilling project, made possible through Google.org’s generous support, represents a transformative opportunity to bridge the digital divide and create equitable access to the future of work,” said Surranna Sandy, CEO.

Vickery Bowles
Vickery Bowles

At the local level, the Toronto Public Library will bring free AI tools and training to the public. “As AI rapidly transforms our world, it’s crucial that members of society understand and have the skills and abilities to shape and leverage these changes,” said Vickery Bowles, City Librarian. “Through Google.org’s generous funding, we will launch an AI Upskilling Initiative, focused on the responsible and ethical use of AI.”

Government and Economic Impact

David Piccini
David Piccini

The move has also garnered support from the provincial government. “In today’s digital economy, it’s encouraging to see global leaders like Google.org supporting Ontario’s workforce,” said David Piccini, Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Their support for the AI Opportunity Fund will equip workers with the skills needed to seize the jobs of tomorrow—and ensures Ontario remains competitive in a fast-changing world.”

According to Public First’s Economic Impact Report on Google Canada, generative AI could add $230 billion to the Canadian economy and potentially save the average worker over 175 hours a year. While interest in acquiring AI skills is high—63 per cent of Canadian workers, and 72 per cent among youth—access to quality training remains a critical first step.

This latest initiative builds on Google Canada’s existing digital skilling programs, including Google Career Certificates and other Grow with Google offerings.

With the launch of the AI Opportunity Fund, Google Canada is aiming to ensure that Canadians not only keep pace with AI innovation but help shape its future across sectors and communities.

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