Canada’s digital economy is advancing at an incredible pace, but for many companies, innovation remains a challenge. Rapid shifts in technology, customer expectations, and global competition are raising the bar. Traditional digital transformation strategies are no longer enough to lead the market.
Enter generative AI—a transformative technology reshaping how Canadian businesses create, operate, and compete. And at the heart of this change is Sombra, helping organizations unlock new value with cutting-edge solutions tailored to the Canadian landscape.
Why Generative AI Is a Game-Changer for Canadian Businesses
Generative AI is not just a tool—it’s a business catalyst. It empowers companies to create content, code, designs, synthetic data, and even strategies at a scale and speed never seen before. This leap forward is already making a measurable impact in sectors like finance, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and logistics.
Here’s why Canadian businesses are leaning into this wave:
Productivity Boosts: Automate document processing, customer interactions, and internal communications.
Multilingual Market Fit: Serve English and French-speaking audiences with dynamic, localized content.
Creative Acceleration: Generate prototypes, marketing assets, and UI/UX ideas quickly and cost-effectively.
Developer Velocity: Speed up coding, debugging, and system design with AI pair programmers.
This is where generative AI development services make the difference. With the right partner and implementation strategy, businesses can move from AI curiosity to enterprise-grade innovation.
A recent McKinsey report estimates that Gen AI could add up to $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy, and Canada is well-positioned to capture a share of that value.
Sombra’s Generative AI Solutions: Driving Tangible Business Outcomes
At Sombra, we don’t just implement AI—we engineer value. Our generative AI solutions are designed around three key drivers of business transformation:
New Product Development
Canadian startups and scale-ups are under pressure to bring ideas to market quickly. Our Gen AI tools accelerate this journey through:
Rapid concept validation
Automated wireframing and code generation
Content-rich MVP development
Case in point: A SaaS company based in Toronto leveraged our AI platform to launch a prototype in three weeks—cutting time-to-market by 70%.
Process Optimization
Businesses across Canada are streamlining operations using Gen AI to:
Extract data from invoices and forms
Automate internal FAQs and employee support
Process customer tickets with intelligent routing
Example: A healthtech startup in Montreal used our custom Gen AI bot to cut patient intake time by 60%.
Competitive Advantage
Stay ahead of the curve with real-time insights, AI-enhanced personalization, and dynamic content creation.
Create custom market reports and summaries
Tailor messaging for local segments (English, French, or both)
Personalize ecommerce or retail experiences on the fly
Example: A national retailer used our AI engine to auto-generate regional promotions, increasing customer engagement by 30% during a pilot phase.
Why Canadian Companies Choose Sombra
What sets Sombra apart isn’t just our technical skill—it’s our deep understanding of Canadian business needs and our ability to turn AI potential into measurable outcomes.
What You Get with Sombra:
Domain Expertise: From finance to healthcare to retail, we’ve helped Canadian organizations across industries.
Collaborative, Agile Approach: We work with you—closely and iteratively—to deliver solutions that scale.
Security and Compliance Focus: From data residency to ethical AI use, we ensure your systems are aligned with Canadian standards.
Local Context: Whether you operate in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, or Halifax, we understand your challenges and opportunities.
Client feedback tells us that having a partner who understands both technology and business culture is key to successful innovation.
As AI evolves, so will the competitive landscape. Future-forward companies in Canada are already exploring:
Multimodal AI (text, image, video, code integration)
AI + IoT for smart infrastructure and predictive maintenance
Human-AI collaboration tools that boost productivity without replacing people
At Sombra, we’re committed to helping Canadian businesses lead, not just follow. Whether you’re an enterprise exploring your first pilot or a startup looking to disrupt, our team is here to guide, build, and optimize your generative AI journey.
Conclusion: Let’s Build the Future, Together
Canadian innovation has always been about creativity, resilience, and forward-thinking leadership. Generative AI offers a new frontier—and Sombra is your trusted partner in navigating it.
You have more than one way to see clearly in today’s world. Glasses remain a classic and even a fashion choice for many. Contact lenses offer an alternative that fits modern lives. Contacts give you a full, frame-free field of view and move with you, which can be especially handy if you’re active or spend long hours at work or on screens.
As lifestyles evolve and technology improves, contact lenses have become more comfortable, convenient, and accessible than ever. They’re no longer just for special occasions or for people who can’t wear glasses. They’re a flexible option that can support how you live, work, and see each day. Whether you use them full-time or switch between lenses and glasses depending on the situation, having choices means you can take care of your vision without compromise.
Vision Correction That Moves With You
Contact lenses today serve a broader purpose than ever before. Whether for full-time wear, athletic use, or occasional convenience, modern lenses cater to a variety of needs. Technological advances have led to breathable materials, improved moisture retention, and lens designs that reduce eye strain – even during extended screen time.
This has made them a go-to choice for people with busy, active lives or those simply looking for unobstructed vision without the presence of frames. According to data from the Canadian Association of Optometrists, contact lens use continues to grow among Canadians, especially younger adults, and professionals who prioritize function and freedom.
A Wide Range of Options for Individual Needs
From daily disposables to monthly wear, and from soft lenses to rigid gas-permeable ones, today’s offerings can match different visual and lifestyle requirements. Specialized designs such as toric contact lenses for astigmatism and multifocal lenses for presbyopia further expand the possibilities, making vision correction more personalized than ever.
Many users are exploring the flexibility of contact lenses as a complement to or replacement for glasses. For those who need correction for both distance and reading or who find wearing glasses inconvenient during physical activities, contact lenses provide a seamless alternative.
Online Access and Changing Consumer Behavior
Another major development is how users obtain their lenses. The digital shift in healthcare has enabled people to purchase vision products online. While it’s important to maintain regular in-person eye exams, the ability to order lenses online has improved accessibility and convenience, especially for those in rural areas.
Eye Health and Hygiene: Ongoing Priorities
Contact lenses are medical devices, and their safe use requires proper hygiene, storage, and replacement practices. Neglecting these steps can lead to complications such as dry eye, irritation, or even corneal infections. TheCanadian Ophthalmological Society strongly recommends annual eye exams for all contact lens users to ensure continued eye health and detect early signs of any issues.
Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about how lifestyle choices – such as extended screen use or low indoor humidity – can affect contact lens comfort. Many new lens materials are designed to mitigate these effects, but ongoing consultation with an eye care provider is key.
Comfort That Keeps Up With Your Day
Comfort plays a big role in whether you stick with contact lenses long-term. While glasses can be removed easily, contact lenses need to stay comfortable for hours at a time – often from early morning through long workdays, commutes, and evening plans. That’s why newer lens technologies are designed to work with your eyes, not against them. Many lenses now feature moisture-rich materials that maintain hydration throughout the day, helping to prevent that gritty or dry sensation that can come from extended wear.
If your eyes feel tired by the afternoon, it may not mean contact lenses aren’t for you—it might just mean you’re wearing the wrong type. Whether it’s daily disposables that stay fresh with every use or monthly lenses made for better oxygen flow, the right material and fit can make a major difference in how your eyes feel at the end of the day.
Vision That Works for Today’s Lifestyle
Contact lenses have come a long way from being a specialty product to becoming a central part of modern eye care. With greater variety, easier access through online platforms, and increasing awareness around eye health and sustainability, they offer a compelling solution for individuals seeking both functionality and freedom.
The key is staying informed -about lens types, proper hygiene, regular checkups, and responsible disposal. When used correctly, contact lenses can offer not just clearer vision, but a more adaptable and empowered way to see and live.
Supercar Parade in Niagara-on-the-Lake, 2024. Photo: Niagara 5000
The highly anticipated Niagara 5000 returns this August, and momentum is already building fast. Now in its second year, the Canadian supercar and private aviation showcase has gained national attention, with over 550,000 digital impressions and surging engagement ahead of its 2025 edition. Scheduled for August 7–9, the event is expected to attract more than 30,000 guests to a weekend that blends luxury, innovation, and philanthropy.
Among the most notable developments for 2025 is the confirmation of Grand Touring Automobiles as the event’s title sponsor. The dealership, which represents luxury marques including Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Bugatti, and Lamborghini, will anchor a series of exclusive experiences, including the Supercar Cruise & Parade, the STK Kickoff Party, and the signature Hangar Experience at Niagara District Airport.
The presence of these ultra-luxury vehicles positions Niagara 5000 among the top-tier supercar showcases in North America.
Cirrus Showcases Private Aviation Excellence
Private aviation will also take centre stage with Cirrus Aircraft named as the Personal Aviation Sponsor. Cirrus will exhibit its Vision Jet at both the Falls and the Hangar Experience. The company’s innovative design and luxury aircraft offerings align with Niagara 5000’s mission to celebrate high performance across all categories.
This aviation presence complements the automotive component of the event, offering guests a rare opportunity to engage with leading-edge transport technology in both air and land formats.
Cirrus planes, image: Niagara 5000
Financial, Tech and Insurance Brands Fuel Growth
Several major names in finance, insurance, and cybersecurity are backing this year’s edition. Sponsors for the Hangar Experience include RBC PH&N Investment Counsel, SentinelOne, HUB International Insurance Brokers, and CHUBB Insurance, reinforcing the event’s connection to excellence in both performance and security.
This high-level support from professional service sectors illustrates the growing interest from industries outside traditional luxury and automotive spaces, attracted by the event’s affluent demographic and elevated brand positioning.
Hospitality and Lifestyle Partners Enrich the Guest Experience
Hospitality and design will play an increasingly important role at Niagara 5000 this year. Among the featured partners:
Reif Estate Winery, the Official Wine Sponsor, will launch a limited-edition Niagara 5000 x Reif wine label and host a Bentley Cruise stop.
Coventry Transportation will provide VIP guests with premium shuttle service throughout the event. Roadside Flower Market will craft bespoke floral installations for the Hangar Experience with help from local floral artists.
Goldies Museum, the Official Design Sponsor, is curating the event’s overall aesthetic and spatial design.
These additions will enhance the event’s atmosphere, creating a sensory-rich environment that blends hospitality with luxury branding.
Automotive and Lifestyle Showcase Expands Across Niagara Region
Dozens of other automotive brands and service providers have signed on to support this year’s edition. McLaren Toronto, Pfaff Auto Group, Policaro Group (Porsche), Performance Mercedes-Benz, Lucid Motors, and others will display their vehicles at various destinations across Niagara, including Stratus, Southbrook, Peninsula Lakes Golf Course, and Ravine Vineyards.
Additional partners include UPS Niagara Falls (Print/Signage Sponsor), Zippy Golf Carts (Official Golf Cart Partner), Auto Business School of Canada (Education Partner), Engel & Völkers Niagara (Real Estate Sponsor), and Holt Renfrew (Gift Bag Sponsor). K1 Speed is featured as the Official Go Karting sponsor, while Atelier Munro will bring a made-to-measure menswear presence to The Hangar.
Notably, Oro Station, an emerging Canadian hub for motorsport innovation, will be offering an off-road driving experience with professional race car drivers during The Hangar Experience.
Hagerty, the premier insurer for collector and classic cars in Canada, will serve as this year’s Supercar Parade Sponsor. Their involvement adds credibility and a preservation-minded angle to the festivities, appealing to collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Supercar Cruise to local Niagara winery. Photo: Niagara 5000
Tourism and Government Support Reinforces Regional Focus
Backing from Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Falls Tourism, Experience Ontario, and the Niagara Parks Commission further strengthens the event’s roots in the region. The support highlights the increasing importance of luxury tourism and special events in driving economic development across Ontario.
With the Niagara 5000 shining a spotlight on the area’s world-class vineyards, hospitality venues, and scenic backdrops, local tourism agencies are seeing the event as a vehicle for sustained regional growth.
A Platform for Purpose: Supporting McMaster Children’s Hospital
Niagara 5000 isn’t just about prestige — it’s also designed to make a meaningful impact. This year’s charitable partners include McMaster Children’s Hospital and Cassie + Friends, both of which will be featured in fundraising and awareness campaigns throughout the weekend.
One of the highlights will be the Kids Festival, which is supported by TNG Capital and raises funds for MacKids.
“Supporting McMaster Children’s Hospital through the Kids Festival is a meaningful way to ensure this extraordinary gathering also delivers real impact,” said Angelo Paletta, Founder of TNG Exotics. “Niagara 5000 represents the highest standard of excellence from the vehicles to the values behind them, and I’m proud to help shape an experience that celebrates generosity, innovation, and community at every turn.”
Niagara 5000 Positioned for National Status
With a growing roster of luxury sponsors and surging demand for attendance, Niagara 5000 is solidifying its position as Canada’s most exclusive summer weekend for high-performance culture and luxury lifestyle. Founded by Alana Hurov in 2023, the event is already evolving into a high-impact annual tradition that blends elite car culture with philanthropic values and local economic uplift.
“We’re so grateful to our sponsors for helping bring this vision of creating a truly world-class event to life,” said Hurov. “Every detail of Niagara 5000 is designed to reflect excellence — from the partners and programming to the causes we support.”
About Niagara 5000
Founded in 2023 by entrepreneur Alana Hurov, Niagara 5000 is a three-day luxury event held each August that transforms Ontario’s Niagara Region into a destination for elite automotive culture, private aviation, and bespoke hospitality. The showcase includes a curated lineup of supercars, jets, private parties, vineyard tours, and charitable activations.
More than an event, Niagara 5000 is a platform for connection, innovation, and impact — drawing collectors, entrepreneurs, and families into a shared celebration of performance and purpose.
For more information, including ticketing and event schedule, visit niagara5000.com.
Loblaw cracks its way into Guinness World Records in 2014 - world record for the most Parmigiano Reggiano cheese wheels cracked simultaneously. Photo: Loblaws
In a celebration of culinary tradition and Italian heritage, Loblaw Companies Ltd. and Parmigiano Reggiano will attempt to break the Guinness World Records title for the Most Parmigiano Reggiano wheels cracked simultaneously (multiple venues) on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 12:00 PM EST.
The massive cheese-centric event will unfold in more than 450 Loblaw-affiliated stores across Canada, marking one of the most expansive retail food activations of the year and spotlighting the rich cultural legacy of Italy’s famed “King of Cheese.”
Timed to coincide with Italian Heritage Month, the record attempt not only honours a centuries-old food tradition but also brings together communities nationwide. Participants will witness the skilled and theatrical process of opening massive Parmigiano Reggiano wheels using traditional cracking tools—an art that dates back nearly a millennium.
The current record, set by Parmigiano Reggiano and Loblaw in 2014, saw over 1,000 wheels cracked in unison. The 2025 event is expected to exceed that benchmark, creating a new moment of international recognition for the PDO-certified cheese and its Canadian retail partner.
Toronto’s Loblaws at Maple Leaf Gardens as Hero Location
The hero venue for the event will be the Loblaws flagship store at Maple Leaf Gardens, located at 60 Carlton Street in downtown Toronto. Between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, 20 wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano will be cracked live on site. The event will feature appearances from representatives of The Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano, Loblaw Companies Ltd., and celebrity chef David Rocco, who will act as brand ambassador for the cheese.
Beyond the record-setting spectacle, shoppers will be invited to sample freshly cracked Parmigiano Reggiano and learn more about what makes the cheese unique. As a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, genuine Parmigiano Reggiano can only be produced in select Italian provinces—Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna (to the west of the Reno River), and Mantua (to the south of the Po River).
Store visitors can expect cheese tastings, photo opportunities, and, at select locations, appearances by local chefs and influencers. The event aims to both educate and entertain, providing insight into one of the world’s oldest and most revered cheeses.
Loblaws at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto. Photo: Loblaws
About Parmigiano Reggiano and Its Consortium
The Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano, founded in 1934, is the governing body that represents all Parmigiano Reggiano producers. The group safeguards the cheese’s authenticity, ensures quality control, and promotes global awareness of its PDO designation.
Parmigiano Reggiano is still made the same way it was nine centuries ago, using just three ingredients—milk, salt, and rennet—with no additives. The cheese is aged for a minimum of 12 months, and only those wheels that pass rigorous inspection are stamped with the official selection mark.
Each wheel carries a distinctive mark of origin—the dotted Parmigiano Reggiano name embedded into the rind—and from 2002 onward, a casein plate for traceability. These features assure consumers of the cheese’s heritage, quality, and adherence to EU standards.
Loblaw’s National Activation Strategy
As Canada’s largest retailer, Loblaw Companies Ltd. operates over 2,500 locations across the country, ranging from discount grocers to premium banners. The June 14 event will see coordinated activity across a wide swath of these stores, uniting customers coast to coast in a shared culinary experience.
“Our longstanding relationship with Parmigiano Reggiano reflects our commitment to bringing quality, authentic foods to Canadians,” Loblaw stated in its announcement of the event. “By participating in this world record attempt, we’re also supporting cultural appreciation and culinary excellence during Italian Heritage Month.”
The initiative falls under Loblaw’s broader purpose to Live Life Well, which includes efforts to create meaningful in-store experiences, promote health and wellness, and support community engagement through food.
A Multi-City Cheese Moment
While Toronto’s Maple Leaf Gardens location will serve as the visual epicentre of the activation, shoppers across Canada will have the opportunity to witness the event in their local stores. Every wheel cracked in-store will count toward the official Guinness World Records tally, with a formal adjudication process in place to certify the attempt.
Representatives from Guinness World Records will oversee the count and ensure that all participating locations adhere to the established guidelines for a simultaneous, multi-venue record.
Star Power and Culinary Influencers
To enhance public visibility and amplify the event across social platforms, Loblaw and Parmigiano Reggiano have enlisted celebrity chef David Rocco as an ambassador. Rocco is well known in Canada and Italy for his work showcasing Italian cuisine and culture, and his involvement adds prestige to the event.
Local culinary influencers are also expected to attend select locations to create real-time content and amplify consumer engagement.
T&T Supermarket to open the largest California store in Chino Hills. (CNW Group/T&T Supermarkets)
T&T Supermarket, Canada’s largest Asian grocery retailer, is continuing its rapid U.S. expansion with the announcement of a major new store in Chino Hills, California. The new 61,000-square-foot location, set to open in Fall 2026 at Crossroads Marketplace, will be the company’s sixth planned U.S. location and its second in Southern California.
Located at 13017–13021 Peyton Drive in Chino Hills, the upcoming store will occupy two former retail spaces—a Best Buy and a Bed Bath & Beyond—transformed into one unified supermarket space. T&T will join a prominent retail lineup at Crossroads Marketplace that includes Costco and PetSmart, further strengthening the centre’s regional draw.
“We’re so excited to continue our expansion in California,” said Tina Lee, CEO of T&T Supermarkets, in a release. “Chino Hills is a wonderful community to live, and we can’t wait to add to the local food scene. We’re transforming two vacant retail spaces… into one big food destination spanning 61,000 square feet. Get ready for the full T&T experience!”
Full-Service Grocery and Food Destination
The Chino Hills location will bring the full breadth of T&T’s signature offerings to Southern California, combining specialty Asian grocery products with an extensive prepared food program. The store will feature a sushi counter, as well as T&T’s well-known stations for Peking Duck and Roasted Papa Chicken. A self-serve hot food bar will provide restaurant-quality meals at supermarket prices, further enhancing the in-store experience.
T&T’s bakery will be a major highlight, with more than 150 types of breads and over 50 desserts available daily. Popular items include the chain’s viral Mango Pomelo Swiss Rolls, Napoleon Egg Tarts, and Lava Mochi Puffs, which have attracted considerable attention on social media and among food enthusiasts. The store’s product mix will also include a wide variety of Asian snacks, sauces, frozen goods, and pantry staples.
Shoppers will be able to explore a curated selection of Asian wines and spirits, with a particular emphasis on Japanese sake and Korean soju. Additionally, the location will carry more than 200 of T&T’s private-label items, such as juicy pork soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), green onion pancakes, Korean kalbi marinade, and a range of seaweed-based snacks. The combination of ready-to-eat food, hard-to-find ingredients, and cultural authenticity is designed to position the new Chino Hills store as a destination for both everyday shopping and culinary exploration.
Job Creation and E-Commerce Presence
The new location is expected to generate approximately 350 jobs in the local community. Hiring is already underway through the company’s U.S. recruitment site.
Crossroads Marketplace. Photo: Tait associates
While the Chino Hills store won’t open until 2026, California customers can currently shop online through the T&T app or website. The digital storefront includes dried goods, snacks, and Asian beauty products. Customers can also sign up for the T&T Rewards Program to access discounts and free shipping options.
T&T’s U.S. Growth Trajectory
T&T’s U.S. expansion began in December 2024 with the opening of a 76,000-square-foot flagship store in Bellevue, Washington—the largest grocery store in that state. That location marked a turning point in the retailer’s growth strategy, building on decades of success across Canada.
In the months following Bellevue’s launch, the company announced additional U.S. locations in Lynnwood, WA; San Jose, CA; San Francisco, CA; and Irvine, CA. Each new store is strategically placed in high-density areas with strong demand for authentic Asian food experiences.
The Chino Hills store, which will be the largest in California to date, represents a continued push into the Southern California market, following the previously announced 34,000-square-foot location in Irvine’s Great Park neighbourhood.
Canadian Retail Legacy
Founded in Vancouver in 1993 by Cindy Lee, T&T Supermarkets has grown from a single store in Burnaby’s Metrotown to over 38 locations across British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and now the United States. The name “T&T” is a nod to Lee’s daughters, Tina and Tiffany.
In 2009, the chain was acquired by Loblaw Companies Limited for $225 million, a move that accelerated T&T’s national expansion and modernization. Under the leadership of CEO Tina Lee since 2014, the brand has continued to evolve with a focus on experiential retail, private label innovation, and digital transformation.
T&T is widely regarded as a pioneer in the Asian grocery category, with its immersive shopping environments that include live seafood tanks, in-store dim sum stations, and hot food counters, helping to set a new standard in ethnic and specialty retailing.
A Strategic Move into Southern California
Chino Hills, located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, has become a popular suburban destination known for its quality of life, strong schools, and growing population. The area is home to a large and diverse Asian-American community—making it an ideal location for T&T’s latest expansion.
The Crossroads Marketplace store will allow T&T to build brand equity in the Los Angeles metropolitan area while catering to suburban shoppers who may have previously travelled long distances to access specialty Asian food retailers.
Looking Ahead
As it approaches the opening of multiple stores across California and Washington, T&T is positioning itself as a major player in the evolving U.S. grocery landscape. The brand’s mix of cultural authenticity, modern in-store experiences, and omni-channel convenience appeals to both first-generation immigrants and a growing base of North American customers interested in Asian cuisine and lifestyle.
The Chino Hills store is set to open in Fall 2026, bringing with it not only a broad assortment of food and household items, but also a community-focused destination for food lovers and families alike.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the world at a breakneck speed, with no sector insulated from its potency. While disruptive technologies and apprehension go hand in hand, most businesses agree that AI has immense potential.
In Canada, the impact of artificial intelligence on pharma retail is slowly becoming apparent. It can propel the sector, which is already growing at around 5 percent, toward more growth. Statista estimates Canadian pharmacies to generate around US$59.60 billion in revenue in 2025.
Some pharma companies have advanced further than others in this field. Sanofi, for example, has started implementing AI tools to support medical and business activities. The company views the technology as a catalyst for better treatments.
Likewise, many frontline retailers in Canada have adopted AI-powered tools to automate administrative processes linked to delivery, logistics, and payments. As the country experiences the full impact of all that AI can accomplish, businesses and the general public should assess what it means for them.
Streamlining Product Sourcing and Availability
The global pandemic revealed several shortcomings in the pharmaceutical sector’s supply chain management. In the present day, many pharmacies spend a giant proportion of their time on inventory tracking and management. The advent of AI has shown interested companies how to forecast demand for streamlining operations and reducing both stockouts and waste.
Gen AI tools, in particular, are enjoying popularity in Canadian retail. A KPMG report notes that 68 percent of the respondents who use AI apply it to predict product demand and optimize inventory levels. Around 38 percent of the respondents already have a generative AI solution, while approximately the same number plan to implement one in the future.
Moreover, automating these tasks frees up the staff’s team to focus on patient interactions and providing the required assistance through value-added services. These could be patient education or health consultation. AI-based automation also reduces the risk of manual oversight.
Making Accurate Knowledge More Accessible
One of the most far-reaching ways AI can strengthen pharma retail is by making medical knowledge readily available. AI-based chatbots can let patients address their queries about medication schedules and side effects. Knowledge empowers patients to advocate for themselves in interactions with their healthcare teams.
Enhancing the accessibility of knowledge can help the pharmaceutical industry garner more trust from consumers. A 2023 Pew Research survey found that many Americans don’t display trust in scientists—a situation that has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic.
In recent years, several healthcare interventions and products have faced negative scrutiny for safety concerns. For instance, Teva Pharmaceuticals has faced considerable backlash due to one of its products—an intrauterine contraceptive device called Paragard.
Many users have even filed a Paragard IUD lawsuit after suffering internal bleeding and infections while removing the product.
Globally, too, higher trust is essential to find public support for new drugs and treatments. AI tools that empower the public with knowledge can favour this situation. According to TorHoerman Law, pharma companies that fail to warn users of the risks are vulnerable to legal action. Integrating AI into their communication approach can be effective at minimizing such risks.
Personalizing Medication Management
Perhaps the most conspicuous advantage of AI in pharma retail is its personalization benefits. Artificial intelligence tools can help pharmacists quickly understand a patient’s medical history and help them provide adequate support in dosage and regimen.
Moreover, pharmacies can contact patients to discuss medication gaps and delayed refills. AI-based systems quickly identify drug-drug interactions that manual scrolling or research may take substantially more time.
The University of Toronto’s pharmacy faculty highlights how AI-powered solutions can assist frontline healthcare professionals. Ongoing research presents numerous possibilities, from AI-assisted drones that can deliver medicines to reducing time for drug discovery. Faculty members are considering how to incorporate artificial intelligence into the pharma studies curriculum.
Companies that have made sizable advances in AI recommend calibrating the technology carefully. For instance, Sanofi warns against AI washing by businesses and using the tech in “snackable” formats to benefit consumers in real life. Getting legitimate and reliable advice on managing their medication is an example of healthcare empowerment.
Stricter Compliance With Healthcare Regulations
Another consequence of AI-driven transformations in pharma retail is improved compliance. Artificial intelligence is helping pharmacies automate operational tasks and streamline crucial information related to payments. It ensures data recording and storage that adheres to the guidelines of the corresponding regulatory bodies.
In this context, pharma retailers are also ramping up privacy and security features to match the pace of growing data. AI-based technologies make exponentially more data available to healthcare communities—from electronic health records to real-time monitoring data. Establishing the ownership of this information is essential to prevent data leaks and their aftermath.
Pharma conventions in the US and Canada also emphasize the ethical aspects of increasing AI reliance in this sector. One cannot rule out the possibility of prejudiced results due to a biased predictive model.
AI adoption in pharma retail has many advantages for pharmacies, customers, and other members of the supply chain. It also has downsides if organizations don’t exercise caution in preserving the confidentiality of sensitive data.
It will be interesting to see how these possibilities pan out in the future, particularly amid a growing understanding of AI’s capabilities and limitations. The Canadian pharmaceutical retail landscape may look very different in a few years, and the stakeholder universe can help make this a good thing for everyone involved.
CookUnity announced Thursday the Canadian launch of its 100% chef-led premium meal delivery. The first-of-its-kind service delivers restaurant-calibre meals by A-List chefs, including Toronto Chefs Patrick Kriss and Hemant Bhagwani, directly to Canadians’ doorsteps.
Unlike other meal delivery platforms, CookUnity offers Canadians unparalleled access to an incredible roster of renowned and emerging Canadian and international chefs with over 100 menu items to nourish diverse palates. Customers can mix and match meals from different chefs, with fresh, never frozen, meals across the chef-crafted menu each week to satisfy dietary goals and cravings with no preparation and at accessible price points, said the company.
“For the first time, Canadians will have direct access to an ever-evolving menu of extraordinary meals crafted by top independent chefs, no restaurant reservation required. We’re reimagining how people experience chef-made food at home, and we’re just getting started. Ontario is step one, with investment plans to bring CookUnity to every major market across Canada by early 2026.”
CookUnity said its launch menu will feature standout dishes from top-tier Canadian chefs including “Grilled Chicken & Pine Nut–Chili Salsa” created by Michelin-starred Chef Patrick Kriss of Alo Food Group, “Pad Ka Praow Beef with Thai Holy Basil” by Canadian Chef Sand Tsoi, a graduate from Cookin and one of the hand-picked chefs to launch Toronto’s inaugural Smorgasburg market, “Jamaican Pepper Shrimp” by Chef Dadrian Coke, the chef de cuisine of Michelin-recommended Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen and “Mongolian Beef & Fried Egg Noodles” by award-winning Chef Trevor Lui of Highbell Hospitality Group. As well as dishes from prominent international chefs, including “Cod in Spicy Moroccan Tomato Sauce” by James Beard Award-semifinalist and Chopped winner Chef Einat Admony, and “Mission-Style Carnitas” by James Beard Award-winner Chef Jose Garces. Each chef brings their signature techniques and distinctive cultural influences to CookUnity’s diverse and dynamic menu.
Michael Baruch
“CookUnity meals are freshly prepared, never frozen, and delivered within 24 hours to maintain the integrity of each chef’s culinary vision,” said Michael Baruch, co-head of CookUnity Canada. “Our approach gives chefs the freedom to concentrate on what they do best: creating flavour-forward meals, without having to worry about expenses like rent or the complexities of sourcing ingredients and managing logistics.”
In line with its mission to redefine the future of food, CookUnity said its production model is convenient and sustainable, too. Meals are delivered in recyclable cooler bags that are picked up with the next delivery. And, with its weekly subscription model, chefs only prepare what has already been sold in local kitchens using locally-sourced ingredients to stop food waste before it begins and to reduce their kitchen’s overall carbon footprint.
The Toronto Waterfront is rapidly transforming into one of the city’s most dynamic growth corridors, presenting substantial new opportunities for retailers, restaurateurs, and service businesses. With an expanding residential population, major new developments, and targeted initiatives by a number of waterfront stakeholders, the district is positioning itself as an increasingly attractive commercial destination.
“Since 2010, the population along Queens Quay has grown from roughly 10,000 residents to over 30,000,” explained Tim Kocur, Executive Director of the Toronto Waterfront BIA. “During that same period, we’ve seen job locations along Queens Quay expand from about 10,000 to approximately 30,000 positions.”
This surge in both residents and office workers has created a significantly larger customer base for businesses in the area. As new residential towers continue to rise, particularly in the eastern waterfront districts, the commercial viability of the area grows stronger.
Vacancy Rates Falling Despite New Supply
According to the BIA’s most recent Broker Package for June 2025, the waterfront saw 25 new businesses open in the past year, with the total number of commercial units increasing by 21. While some churn occurred, vacancy rates have actually decreased year-over-year despite the arrival of newly constructed but as-yet unleased spaces in the eastern waterfront.
“A significant portion of the remaining vacancy is concentrated in new developments in the eastern waterfront, which aren’t fully built out yet,” said Kocur. “Some landlords are intentionally holding back space until the local customer base has matured and premium tenants can be secured.”
Wave of New Openings Expanding Retail Mix
Several new tenants have already chosen the waterfront as home. Queens Harbour Restaurant is scheduled to open on July 11, directly beside the successful Amsterdam Brew Pub, adding 600 indoor seats and an additional 160 patio seats. “It’s going to significantly increase the premium dining capacity right on the water,” Kocur noted.
Other recent or upcoming additions include the Ethos Climbing Gym, the new Farm Boy grocery store (which replaced Sobeys about three years ago), and a Shoppers Drug Mart location in the eastern waterfront. “These kinds of tenants are signs that a critical residential population has already moved in,” Kocur explained, adding that many more residents are still expected.
New mixed-use developments with commercial space on the East Waterfront. Photo: Craig Patterson
Wayfinding, Events, and Beautification Initiatives
The BIA has taken proactive steps to address longstanding challenges around navigation and visibility. “One issue we’ve consistently heard from businesses is that even visitors only a block away from major destinations like the ferry terminal were asking for directions,” said Kocur.
To combat this, the BIA installed its own network of wayfinding signage throughout the area, with permission from the City. The signs not only provide navigational support but also feature restaurant maps and monthly event calendars. “We’re highlighting where people can eat within 500 metres, and letting them know what’s happening next so they return to the neighbourhood,” Kocur added.
Complementary to the signage efforts, the BIA has partnered with The Bentway, CityPlace-Fort York BIA and the City of Toronto to pilot an enhanced lighting and public safety at the Dan Leckie underpass under the Gardiner Expressway, aiming to make pedestrian connections between downtown and the waterfront more inviting. “The system will be able to be temporarily removed during maintenance work, allowing for both flexibility and consistent safety,” Kocur explained.
New wayfinding signage on the Eastern Waterfront. Photo: Craig Patterson
Eastern Waterfront: A Development Powerhouse in Progress
The eastern waterfront continues to experience significant transformation, with much of its commercial inventory still in early stages.
“The density on the eastern waterfront will be significantly higher than on the western side,” noted Kocur. “There are effectively two full blocks of development between Queens Quay and Harbour Street, compared to only one on the west.”
Major projects include the Quayside development, where Dream CA —already the developer behind the Distillery District—is spearheading new retail and residential growth. “Dream’s adjacent properties and their expertise with the Distillery District give us confidence this will become another major waterfront destination,” Kocur said.
The area also benefits from emerging institutional partnerships. George Brown College now owns substantial property in the eastern waterfront, opening possibilities for collaborations with parks, cultural spaces, and foodservice providers. One early focus is activating the long-unused Sherbourne Pavilion, originally designed for foodservice but long repurposed for parks storage. “We’re now seeing opportunities for seasonal activations there—skate giveaways, hot chocolate stands—which hint at the longer-term potential,” said Kocur.
New skyscrapers and commercial space under development on the Eastern Waterfront. Photo: Craig Patterson
Major Long-Term Opportunities Identified as Part of the 2024 Waterfront Retail Review
Redpath Sugar Refinery: “This 300-metre industrial frontage could host retail or museum spaces highlighting Toronto’s food and industrial heritage when the office portions of the building are re-developed,” said Kocur.
Rees Street Parking Lot Redevelopment: Positioned just south of the Rogers Centre, this site offers what Kocur called “an incredible opportunity” for sports-themed activations, including potential partnerships with sports teams for game-day viewing and foodservice tie-ins.
Peter Street Basin: With hotel developments already planned, Kocur noted that the city and developer need to collaborate on activating this underutilized basin area, potentially expanding parkland or patio spaces for waterfront restaurants.
Peter Street basin, a target for suggested redevelopment that could include covering the water feature. Photo: Craig Patterson
Focused Vision for Rees Street Park and Peter Street Basin
As part of the ongoing planning for the western waterfront, the Waterfront BIA has placed particular emphasis on the future of Rees Street Park and Peter Street Basin.
“The Rees Street parking lot, located directly south of Rogers Centre, represents one of the best opportunities we have to create a vibrant public park with commercial activation,” said Kocur. The BIA advocates for a balanced design that incorporates playgrounds, dog parks, quiet areas, and highly valuable commercial uses, such as outdoor dining and sports event viewing zones. “We believe that including features like a large screen for sports games could offer 180 days of seasonal programming and draw significant foot traffic to local businesses.”
For the nearby Peter Street Basin, which sits adjacent to the future hotel development at 350-396 Queens Quay West, the BIA has formally submitted its position to the City of Toronto. In an April 29, 2025 letter to City Planning, the BIA emphasized that the basin is currently in disrepair, with deteriorating dock walls and no clear maintenance responsibility between municipal departments and PortsToronto. “Without substantial improvement plans, we recommend that the basin water lot be filled in or covered as part of the redevelopment,” the BIA stated. Such improvements would create new public space and better integrate the site with new retail and hospitality uses planned for the adjacent hotel development.
Queens Harbour, under construction. Photo: Craig Patterson
Western Waterfront Remains Stable with Targeted Growth Areas
While the western waterfront has fewer large-scale development parcels remaining, some important nodes of potential remain. The Bathurst Quay area near Billy Bishop Airport will likely see interest in a new hotel development and further activation around the historic Malting Silos.
The western waterfront has also been the focus of ongoing pedestrian enhancements, with colourful underpass murals and improved lighting aimed at increasing visitor comfort. “We’re trying to make it safer and more welcoming to cross under the highway and shop at our waterfront businesses,” Kocur explained.
Photo: Harbourfront Toronto
Tourism, Attractions, and Cultural Anchors Increasing
The waterfront is also strengthening its appeal as a tourist and cultural destination. “Harbourfront Centre has three important attractions this summer: a temporary Ontario Science Centre exhibit, a Museum of Toronto basketball history exhibit, and the long-standing Power Plant Gallery—and two of those are free,” said Kocur.
Further east, future attractions like the Parliament Slip redevelopment promise floating restaurants, boat tours, and more immersive water-based experiences.
Connectivity Improvements On the Horizon
The BIA is also preparing for major connectivity enhancements, including a pedestrian bridge opening in 2027 that will link the eastern waterfront directly to the new parks of the Port Lands. “That’s going to create a whole new zone of pedestrian activity and extend the reach of the waterfront experience,” said Kocur.
PATH network expansions are also under discussion, particularly in the eastern waterfront, to ensure year-round pedestrian access and support for indoor retail spaces.
This month, the TTC introduced dedicated rapid bus lanes along Queens Quay East, where the Waterfront East LRT — which will eventually connect Union Station to the new Port Lands development — is planned for future construction.
Connecting downtown to the Port Lands with an active transportation bridge. Image: Waterfront Toronto
An Ecosystem Approach to Future Retail Growth
For Kocur, the ultimate goal is to create a vibrant retail ecosystem that benefits from both residential density and tourism magnetism. “We want more condos, more hotels, more attractions—but it’s equally about making sure we have the right supporting retail, foodservice, and entertainment offerings that will allow people to spend full days here,” he emphasized.
As the Toronto waterfront continues to evolve, the BIA’s approach of marrying short-term leasing opportunities with long-term destination-building appears poised to unlock the area’s full potential. “We want people to explore the entire neighbourhood,” Kocur said. “That means filling in the retail gaps, telling the story of success, and making sure the waterfront becomes one of Toronto’s most vibrant districts for years to come.”
For more information on retail opportunities on Toronto’s Waterfront, the Waterfront BIA has prepared a broker package.
Harden has announced the strategic sale of a 27-acre portion of Méga Centre Notre-Dame in Laval to Rosefellow, a leading Montreal-based industrial real estate developer for a purchase price of $75 million.
This transaction marks a key milestone in the site’s transformation, supporting broader redevelopment efforts and reinforcing a long-term commitment to enhancing Laval’s economic and commercial vitality. Harden co-owns the property with RioCan in a 50% partnership which is dedicated to the site’s evolution and its strategic importance to the region, said the company in a news release.
“As part of a shared vision to unlock the full potential of this highly visible and accessible site along Highway 13, the Harden-RioCan partnership is reinvesting in the retail component of the property following the sale. The portion sold to Rosefellow was a less productive area of the site. This strategic disposition enables targeted reinvestment into the retail core of Méga Centre Notre-Dame, accelerating its transformation into a productive, dynamic destination for residents, workers, and visitors alike,” it said.
“This sale supports a broader redevelopment vision that brings new energy and economic growth to the area. With new retailers like Sephora already open, Krispy Kreme on the way, and major expansions by iconic brands such as Winners/HomeSense, Gap, Banana Republic, La Vie En Rose, Dollarama and Poulet Rouge, Méga Centre Notre-Dame is entering a new chapter that reflects our dedication to creating lasting value for residents and businesses alike.”
The company said the transformation includes the expansion of Winners/HomeSense into one of the largest stores of its kind in Quebec, with a footprint of approximately 70,000 square feet, and a significant expansion by Dollarama. These enhancements, coupled with the arrival of high-profile brands like Sephora, reinforce the centre’s appeal and solidify its role as a commercial anchor in Laval.
“This transaction highlights the strength of our retail portfolio and our ability to strategically unlock value from well-located assets,” said Jonathan Gitlin, President and CEO, RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust. “By monetizing a less productive portion of the site at an 80% premium to IFRS value and reinvesting in its high-performing core, we have strengthened the long-term viability of Méga Centre Notre-Dame and delivered meaningful value for our unitholders.”
Harden said Rosefellow’s planned $200 million redevelopment will introduce three state-of-the-art industrial buildings, meeting the growing regional demand for high-performance logistics and light industrial space. This development will complement the centre’s retail operations, creating a mixed-use hub that draws value from both sectors while serving the evolving needs of the community.
“A dynamic tenant reconfiguration is already underway, with established retailers like GAP, Banana Republic, La Vie En Rose, Carter’s OshKosh, Dormez-Vous, Dollarama, Sushi Shop, Thai Express, Service Canada, and SQDC relocating within the site to optimize layout and enhance the shopping experience. This reimagining also makes room for innovative new concepts, including Mondou’s next-generation store and a refreshed Second Cup café, adding renewed energy and tenant mix to the centre,” said Harden.
“Harden, in partnership with RioCan, continues to actively manage and enhance the remaining portions of Méga Centre Notre-Dame. A portion of these improvements is already complete, reflecting the partners’ ongoing commitment to improve the site’s layout, aesthetics, and visitor experience. This sustained effort underscores their dedication to shaping vibrant, welcoming spaces that support the community and long-term commercial vitality.”
Established in 1985, Harden is a second generation, family-owned real estate company whose primary focus is owning and operating commercial, residential, and industrial properties in many communities throughout the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. Vertically integrated, Harden specializes in all facets of the real estate development process, including, development, construction, leasing, and asset management.
Starting June 30, Executive Members in the US and Canada will receive a $10 monthly credit toward sameday.costco.com, sameday.costco.ca, or Costco via Instacart available on an order of $150 or more, said the company.
The company said it enables delivery of Costco’s warehouse items to members’ doorsteps in as fast as an hour, combining a flexible delivery experience with the value of Costco’s quality offerings. The monthly credit is automatically applied to a qualifying Costco order placed through sameday.costco.com, sameday.costco.ca, or Instacart and is available exclusively to Executive Members.
“Our new monthly credit makes it easier than ever for members across North America to get Costco’s warehouse items with the convenience of fast and reliable delivery through Instacart.”
Costco first partnered with the company for same-day delivery in 2017 and later expanded the partnership to include Costco’s same-day delivery website.
Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, works with grocers and retailers to transform how people shop. The company partners with more than 1,800 national, regional, and local retail banners to facilitate online shopping, delivery and pickup services from more than 100,000 stores across North America on its Marketplace.
“Instacart makes it possible for millions of people to get the groceries they need from the retailers they love, and for approximately 600,000 Instacart shoppers to earn by picking, packing and delivering orders on their own flexible schedule. The Instacart Platform offers retailers a suite of enterprise-grade technology products and services to power their e-commerce experiences, fulfill orders, digitize brick-and-mortar stores, provide advertising services, and glean insights,” it said.
“With Instacart Ads, thousands of CPG brands – from category leaders to emerging brands – partner with the company to connect directly with consumers online, right at the point of purchase. With Instacart Health, the company is providing tools to increase nutrition security, make healthy choices easier for consumers, and expand the role that food can play in improving health outcomes.”
