Dr. Phone Fix Expanding Rapidly Across Canada with Ambitious Growth Plans
Dr. Phone Fix, a Canadian electronics repair and certified pre-owned device retailer, is in rapid expansion mode across the country, with plans to hit 125 locations by 2030.
The company, founded in August 2019, opened its first store in St. Albert, Alberta, and has grown quickly since then to 35 locations stretching “all the way from Victoria to Ontario.”
Piyush Sawhney
“There was always a demand for certified repair services. Electronics are getting expensive—cell phones, iPads—they cost an arm and a leg these days,” says Piyush Sawhney, Founder and CEO of Dr. Phone Fix.
“That’s where we saw the market demand. People are moving toward repair services and certified pre-owned devices. With phone prices rising, repair just makes sense.”
Sawhney says the company is currently working through new leases and has “a few locations in the pipeline coming soon.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Phone Fix is targeting “125 locations by 2030.”
The company’s growth strategy includes focusing on shopping plazas with high-traffic anchor tenants. “Our primary focus is shopping plazas with strong anchor tenants. Those anchors drive traffic to the plaza, and that’s where we get more customers,” explains Sawhney.
Dr. Phone Fix recently earned national recognition by being named to the Financial Times list of fastest-growing companies.
“It’s definitely exciting,” says Sawhney. “It distinguishes our business from others in the same category. I’m really thankful to our customers and employees who contributed. We have about 27,000 positive online reviews and a large customer database. We’re very excited to be on the list. Only 48 Canadian companies made it, and I’m proud to say we’re one of them.”
Dr. Phone Fix
This comes on the heels of the Globe and Mail recognizing the brand twice on its annual company growth list.
Adding to its momentum, Dr. Phone Fix officially became a publicly traded company on the TSX Venture Exchange on March 4, 2025.
“The response has been great,” says Sawhney. “It’s another distinction for us in our category, and we’re quite happy with it.”
He believes the move to go public offers a compelling opportunity for investors.
“Phones are something everyone has—people can relate,” he says. “Investors who missed the bus when Apple or Samsung went public now have the opportunity to be part of the telecom industry at an early stage. It’s exciting.”
The company, which is based in Edmonton, continues to see strong demand for its services and products as the cost of new electronics rises and consumer interest in sustainable options like repair and refurbishment grows.
Restaurants Canada is welcoming the Ontario government’s tabling of legislation to remove its Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) exceptions, adopt mutual recognition with reciprocating provinces, liberalize labour mobility and allow direct-to-consumer sales of alcohol.
Kelly Higginson
“Every premier in Canada should be looking to Ontario and doing what it did (recently) on interprovincial trade,” said Kelly Higginson, President and CEO of Restaurants Canada. “It’s also important to highlight the leadership of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick on this issue. We’ll only have true free trade within our borders once every province acts.
“Right now, there is real opportunity for Canada to modernize its internal trade framework, and the momentum is strong. Yesterday’s move by Ontario is an important first step, but we need a real Team Canada approach from all provinces and territories.”
Restaurants Canadasaid it has been advocating for the removal of interprovincial trade barriers for years. With the U.S. tariff war threatening Canada’s food supply chains, it’s more important than ever that Canadian businesses and producers can trade freely across provincial borders, it said.
Kris Barnier
“We’re very pleased that the Ontario government is lifting all of its CFTA exceptions and adopting a mutual recognition framework with provinces willing to do the same,” added Kris Barnier, Vice-President for Central Canada at Restaurants Canada. “This will allow Ontario businesses to diversify their supply and client networks, do business more efficiently and ultimately make them more competitive and resilient in the face of economic upheaval.”
Restaurants Canada said the announcement comes on the heels of a commitment from Premier Ford and Finance Minister Bethlenfalvy at Restaurants Canada’s RC Show in Toronto last week to increase the discount restaurants and bars receive at LCBO from 10% to 15%.
Restaurants Canada is calling on all provinces to use the tools at their disposal, such as removing internal trade barriers, to help foodservice businesses regain their footing amid the ongoing trade dispute with the U.S.
Restaurants Canada is a national, not-for-profit association advancing Canada’s diverse and dynamic foodservice industry. Restaurants are a nearly $120 billion industry employing 1.2 million Canadians and is the number one source of first-time jobs in Canada.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) also welcomed the Ontario government’s ground-breaking legislation to eliminate internal trade and labour mobility barriers, and allow direct-to-consumer sales of alcohol products.
“CFIB has long advocated for these three actions. Since 2022, we have released The State of Internal Trade: Canada’s Interprovincial Cooperation Report Card, an annual report where we grade federal, provincial and territorial governments on their interprovincial cooperation efforts. Grades include progress on mutual recognition, direct-to-consumer sales of alcohol products, and removing CFTA exceptions.
“In addition, mutually recognizing all provincial and territorial regulatory standards and applying the province’s “As of Right” health care professionals’ regulatory principles to other sectors were both included in CFIB’s 2025 Top 10 Ontario Election Prioritiesdocument.
“The U.S.-Canada trade war is a wake-up call for becoming more economically independent. We can’t control or predict the Trump administration’s next moves, but we can control what’s within our own borders.
“The government’s measures announced (recently) are about more than just creating opportunities – they’re also about creating a way for provinces to unite economically to stand up to the U.S. and together make Canada a more attractive international trading partner.”
The CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses with 100,000 members across every industry and region, including 39,000 in Ontario.
Luxury resale brand Mine & Yours has partnered with Holt Renfrew to bring high-end pre-loved fashion to Calgary for the very first time. The Spring/Summer pop-up, which takes over the Brunello Cucinelli section of Holt Renfrew’s Calgary store, introduces a fresh concept to the local luxury market: curated second-hand designer fashion, sold in Canada’s most prestigious department store.
The pop-up represents a major move for both retailers. For Mine & Yours, it signals expansion into Alberta and a broader national footprint. For Holt Renfrew, it continues a recent evolution toward offering diverse, contemporary luxury experiences that go beyond traditional new-season inventory.
A New Chapter for Luxury Resale in Calgary
“We couldn’t be more excited to team up with Holt Renfrew and bring Mine & Yours to Calgary for the first time,” said Courtney Watkins, founder of Mine & Yours. “Expanding into this market through such a renowned luxury retailer is an incredible milestone for our brand. This partnership allows us to connect with a new audience that values both high fashion and sustainability, while also reinforcing our mission to make luxury resale more accessible. We can’t wait to showcase our curated collection and provide a unique shopping experience for Calgary’s fashion community.”
Located on the second floor of Holt Renfrew Calgary—the level dedicated to women’s ready-to-wear—the Mine & Yours pop-up features a signature bag wall, showcasing an assortment of coveted handbags. Shoppers can browse collectible pieces and rare finds from luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Loewe, and more.
Importantly, the partnership offers more than just shopping. Customers can also sell their own designer items at the pop-up, receiving a 10% bonus payout—a promotion exclusive to the Calgary location.
Courtney Watkins in front of the new boutique. Image: Mine & Yours
Mine & Yours: From Vancouver to National Prominence
Founded in 2013 by Courtney Watkins, Mine & Yours began in downtown Vancouver with a clear mission: to create an accessible space for people to buy and sell authenticated luxury fashion in a stylish and welcoming environment. Watkins, who began her career in fashion at age 17 in Los Angeles, returned to Canada with a vision for circular fashion that prioritizes sustainability, community, and style.
Over the past decade, Mine & Yours has grown into one of Canada’s leading resale fashion retailers, operating three standalone boutiques: two in Vancouver (including one downtown/Yaletown and one in Kitsilano on West 4th Avenue), and one in Toronto’s Yorkville, the city’s upscale luxury retail neighbourhood.
The brand operates on a hybrid model, buying most of its inventory outright while also offering consignment options. Sellers can opt for immediate cash payouts, store credit, or traditional consignment, giving flexibility to those looking to part ways with designer items. The result is a curated offering that blends high-end fashion with modern consumer values around reuse and waste reduction.
Image: Mine & Yours
Holt Renfrew Embraces Second-Hand Luxury
While this collaboration is a first for Mine & Yours in Calgary, it’s not Holt Renfrew’s first foray into the resale category. As part of a broader transformation, Holt Renfrew has increasingly embraced new retail models. Over the past few years, its stores have hosted an evolving roster of pop-ups, collaborations, and brand experiences aimed at attracting younger, sustainability-minded shoppers.
This is also a return to form for Holt Renfrew, which once included vintage designer departments in select stores during the early 2000s. Now, with consumer sentiment increasingly focused on sustainability, luxury resale is regaining prominence—and Holt is choosing its partners carefully.
A Strategic Location in Western Canada
The Calgary Holt Renfrew store, located at Core Shopping Centre, opened in 2009 and spans approximately 150,000 square feet across three floors. It replaced a smaller, older location across the street that had served Calgary since the 1990s.
The main floor of the current store houses concession spaces for global luxury brands like Chanel, Hermès, Gucci, and Loro Piana, making it the most significant concentration of luxury retailers in Calgary. This environment offers an ideal backdrop for Mine & Yours, whose collection includes iconic designer pieces that sit naturally alongside Holt Renfrew’s traditional offerings.
The second-floor location of the pop-up ensures it reaches Holt’s core womenswear clientele, many of whom already appreciate high-end design and are increasingly drawn to sustainable fashion practices.
Image: Mine & Yours
Exclusive Offerings
The Calgary pop-up includes a selection of rare and new-to-market designer items, some of which are exclusive to the pop-up. These include collectible handbags, ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories, carefully selected to appeal to Calgary’s discerning fashion community.
The Holt Renfrew collaboration is timely. Luxury resale is experiencing significant growth in Canada, as consumers seek both value and ethics in their purchasing decisions. Resale platforms have expanded beyond digital marketplaces and begun to claim space in brick-and-mortar retail—a movement Holt Renfrew is now clearly part of.
Global sports retailer Lidshas launched its reinvented retail store concept, designed to elevate the shopping experience with a strong focus on personalization.
The new store format features a modernized layout, an enhanced ‘Custom Zone,’ and an expanded selection of localized and exclusive products with increased attention on fashion headwear – reinforcing Lids’ commitment to empowering customers to showcase their individual style, said the retailer.
Developed based on customer insights, the redesigned concept introduces a more immersive in-store environment featuring enhanced visuals and a reimagined Custom Zone offering shoppers even more personalization options for their hats and jerseys. Each store will deliver a best-in-class “personalize everything” customization experience. Additionally, for the first time, customers will be able to digitally personalize headwear directly in store through “Build-A-Cap” kiosks, it said.
Bob Durda
“Customization has always been at the heart of our brand, and this new store design takes it to the next level,” said Bob Durda, President of Lids. “We’re offering more ways for customers to make their gear uniquely theirs – whether it’s stitching, patching, or curving. This rollout represents our commitment to a dynamic, customer-centric experience where every visit feels personal, engaging and tailored to each individual.”
Key New Features:
Custom Zone: A redesigned customization hub featuring interactive “Build-A-Cap” kiosks and a new hat-curving machine, available at select locations, allowing customers to stitch, patch, and curve their hats to match their personal style. Customers can save and revisit their designs online and order through customlids.com.
The “Build-A-Cap” kiosk allows customers to create their own unique designs in seconds and once completed have their designs emailed to them with a barcode. Employees then scan that barcode and work with the customer on final design details before ordering. The kiosk can also be utilized to place bulk orders of any customized, non-licensed headwear.
Customization starts at $10 for hat curving, $12 for stitching, and $15 per patch.
Each store will offer approximately 40 unique patches tailored to the local market.
Jersey customization is also available in select stores, starting at $50 per jersey.
T-Shirt Wall: A curated assortment of trendy and hyper-localized apparel reflecting the latest styles and regional fan favorites.
Kids’ Corner: A dedicated children’s section featuring an expanded selection of youth-focused apparel and headwear available in team branding.
Headwear Accessories: Lids is increasing its focus on demand for accessories, specifically shoppers increasing desire for a full assortment of cap cleaning and treatment products. Each store will feature a vast array of products to help consumers keep their hats looking fresh.
Source: Lids
The new store format was rolled out to an initial 20 stores across the United States starting in April. The first wave of stores includes the following (asterisk indicates store with hat curving machine):
5th Avenue (New York, NY)
Arden Fair (Sacramento, CA)*
Arundel Mills (Hanover, MD)
Burlington Mall (Burlington, MA)
Castleton Square (Indianapolis, IN)
Coronado Center (Albuquerque, NM)
Cumberland Mall (Atlanta, GA)
Fashion Show (Las Vegas, NV)
Glendale Galleria (Glendale, CA)
Haywood Mall (Greenville, SC)
Jersey Gardens (Elizabeth, NJ)*
Mall of America (Bloomington, MN)*
Memorial City Mall (Houston, TX)
Northpark Center (Dallas, TX)*
Northstar Mall (San Antonio, TX)*
Ontario Mills (Ontario, CA)
Orlando Premium Outlets (Orlando, FL)
Park Meadows (Lone Tree, CO)
Polaris Fashion Place (Columbus, OH)
Scottsdale Fashion Sq. (Scottsdale, AZ)*
“The new stores feature an expanded selection of local and exclusive merchandise, offering products that are uniquely relevant to the surrounding market. Looking ahead, Lids will use key learnings from these initial store openings to continue evolving and expanding the concept throughout 2025 and beyond,” said Lids.
Lids Sports Group is the largest licensed sports retailer in North America, selling fan and fashion-oriented headwear and apparel across the North America, Europe and Australia through over 2,000 retail locations. Indianapolis-based Lids Sports Group carries officially licensed and branded gear aimed at empowering customers to represent their unique and individual style, team, passion and fun. Lids Sports Group operates stores under the Lids, Locker Room by Lids, Fanzz, Yankees Clubhouse Shops, Dodgers Clubhouse, Cardinals Clubhouse, and numerous other nameplates. Lids also has locations within select Macy’s department stores in the US.
London Drugs at Brentwood Village Mall in Calgary. Photo by Mario Toneguzzi
From taking back packaging, batteries and electronics for recycling, increasing buy-local initiatives to a soon to launch partnership for sustainable refill stations, London Drugs says it is continuing to empower eco-conscious shopping.
As the Western Canadian retailer celebrates 80 years, it is rolling out a new store concept in Burnaby in May, which includes a first of its kind product refill station, in partnership with SC Johnson. London Drugs consumers can reduce single-use plastic waste through reusable packaging while also saving money by easily refilling popular hand soaps and dish soaps with the world’s first mess-free smart refill solution, it said in a news release.
Clint Mahlman, President/COO of London Drugs at the Brentwood Village Mall location in Calgary. Photo by Mario Toneguzzi
“As we prepare to launch our innovative refill station concept with SC Johnson in a few weeks, we remain committed to our core philosophy of ‘Customer for Life’—delivering sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers and their communities,” said Clint Malman, President and COO.
“At London Drugs, sustainability isn’t just a goal—it’s how we’ve operated for decades. Together we’re proving that retail can drive meaningful environmental change while empowering customers to make a difference. These efforts are vital because they reflect our responsibility to the communities we serve—not just today, but for generations to come.”
The company said this latest addition to its commitment to sustainability builds onto its eco-credentials which includes recycling over 10 million pounds of materials each year and provides shoppers with more sustainable purchasing options:
Greener Choices – Helps consumers identify items that feature real environmental benefits including third party certification (Fair Trade, B-Corp), reduced packaging, are biodegradable or compostable and use organic ingredients. London Drugs own line of EcoEssentials is a line of products formulated to be more sustainable and easier on consumers’ wallets.
Recycling – London Drugs is the only major retailer in BC that accepts back all flexible plastics through a partnership with Recycle BC. This keeps many hard to recycle items like stand-up pouches, plastic bags, outer packaging and even candy wrappers out of the landfill. London Drugs’ customers across western Canada can check online at www.londondrugs.com to discover the range of items that are recycled instore including soft plastics, white Styrofoam, electronics, and small appliances.
Battery & Electronics Recycling – Since 1999, London Drugs has diverted over 800,000 kg of batteries thanks to a partnership with Call2Recycle and enables secure data destruction for electronics. As well, all electronics collected back to London Drugs are broken down and recycled locally.
Light Bulbs – Including Christmas and decor lights, incandescent bulbs, florescent tubes and LED bulbs are all recycled easily at London Drugs, thanks to a partnership with ProductCare Light Recycle, where components are separated and toxic materials safely handled.
Medication Disposal – By collecting unused pharmaceuticals, London Drugs is helping safeguard waterways, impacted when old meds are flushed down drains or toilets.
Even the pallets used to move goods to and from London Drugs stores are sustainable thanks to a partnership with CHEP Pallet Rental. CHEP’s circular business model is based on the concept of “share and reuse.” With CHEP’s ‘pooling’ system, London Drugs receives the pallets they need by renting them and returning them so they can be used again.
The company said its responsible purchasing policy also prioritizes vendor partnerships who can reduce emissions, have ethical labour policies and minimize packaging. Shoppers can make easy, sustainable choices with Local Central and London Green promotions.
“Currently London Drugs also diverts over 90 per cent of its own waste from landfills, with a goal of reaching a 95 per cent diversion rate. Since 2015, the retailer has been using specialized software to help track store level diversion rates to assist with greater transparency and insight into the diversion performance of each of its 80 store locations,” it said.
The RONA Foundation, which oversees the philanthropic activities of RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers, operating and servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores, will launch the 2025 edition of its Build from the Heart campaign next week.
The goal of this campaign is to help seven Canadian non-profit organizations with a project that aims to revitalize a living environment or facilitate access to housing for victims of domestic violence and their children, low-income families and people with disabilities or mental health issues, said the Foundation.
From April 21 to May 31, 2025, customers will be invited to donate to the fundraiser in RONA+ and RONA corporate stores, as well as online at rona.ca.
A new feature this year is the “Win Your Renovations” contest. Throughout the campaign, store customers who make a donation of $15 or more to the Foundation will get the chance to win one of three RONA gifts cards: one for $25,000 and two for $1,000. Contest rules are available on the website, said the Foundation.
For the first time, the Foundation is partnering with several vendors of major appliances. From April 17 to May 28, Amana, Bosch, Electrolux, Frigidaire, Frigidaire Gallery, GE – MABE, KitchenAid, LG, LG Studio, Maytag, Midea, Samsung and Whirlpool will give $5 to the Foundation for each major appliance sold in store and online, said the Foundation.
Josée Lafitte
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to each of our vendor partners for their generosity and support. Together, we are making a difference,” said Josée Lafitte, Director of the RONA Foundation.
On July 7, several RONA vendors will take part in the RONA Foundation’s Annual Golf Day. Funds raised during this event will go to the Build from the Heart campaign.
Following a call for applications, a selection committee chose seven building projects submitted by non-profit organizations, one for each region where RONA operates stores. The goal is to distribute $1,000,000 to these organizations in support of their projects.
Province
Name of organization
Alberta
Habitat for Humanity Edmonton
British Columbia
Hollyburn Community Services Society
Manitoba
South Central Committee on Family Violence Inc. (Genesis House)
Nova Scotia
Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia
Ontario
Lanark County Interval House
Québec
La traversée centre de crise et de prévention du suicide
Saskatchewan
Moose Jaw Women’s Transition Association Inc.
Campaign funds will be presented in the province where they were raised, and amounts presented to each organization will be revealed on July 8.
The RONA Foundation is a charitable organization created in 1998 whose mission is to contribute to improving the quality of life of Canadians in need by revitalizing their living environments and facilitating access to housing. More specifically, it aims to help the victims of domestic violence and their children, low-income families, and individuals with specific needs or mental health issues.
RONA inc. is one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers, headquartered in Boucherville, Québec. The RONA inc. network operates and services some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the RONA+, RONA, and Dick’s Lumber banners. With a long and rich history, RONA inc. has been supporting Canadians in their home improvement and construction projects since 1939.
Retail Insider is streamlining its Canadian retail news from around the web to include a handful of top news stories that can be viewed quickly during the day. Here are the top stories from the past 48 hours.
Hudson’s Bay Company ULC, the corporate parent of Canadian department store Hudson’s Bay, has announced plans to auction off some of its most historically significant artifacts. The move comes as the company continues to navigate its ongoing restructuring under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA), following its March filing for creditor protection.
The proposed auction, which remains subject to court approval, will be conducted separately from the company’s broader Sale and Investment Solicitation Process (SISP). According to a press release issued by Hudson’s Bay on Wednesday evening, the auction will include a range of culturally and historically significant items—among them, the Company’s Royal Charter granted in 1670 by King Charles II, a foundational document in the formation of Canada.
A Separate Auction for Canada’s Corporate Heritage
Hudson’s Bay and its financial advisor, Reflect Advisors, LLC, in consultation with the court-appointed monitor Alvarez & Marsal, determined that the art and artifact sale should be handled independently of the broader restructuring process. This separation will allow the auction to receive the specialized attention it demands.
“The care, consideration, and expertise required for these pieces can be fully prioritized through a separate process facilitated by a fine art auction house,” the company said in the statement.
While details about the timing and format of the auction are still to be announced, the intention is to invite interested parties to participate in what could be one of the most important corporate heritage sales in Canadian history.
Hudson’s Bay point blanket from the 1930s. Image: Narrative Threads
The Hudson’s Bay Company Collection: A Window into Canadian History
The sale will include items drawn from Hudson’s Bay’s corporate collection, which includes a vast range of artifacts tied to Canada’s colonial past, the fur trade, and the company’s extensive relationships with Indigenous peoples.
Much of the collection dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when HBC began informally accumulating artifacts from its trading posts across Rupert’s Land—a territory once granted to the company under the Royal Charter. These materials later formed the basis of the Hudson’s Bay Company Archives (HBCA), formally established in 1920.
The collection has been described by historians as one of the most significant corporate archives in North America, containing thousands of items that trace Canada’s economic, territorial, and social development.
Trappers arrive with furs at an HBC store in northern Manitoba around 1947. (Richard Harrington/Hudson’s Bay Company Archives/Archives of Manitoba)
Key Artifacts of Note
Among the types of items potentially up for auction are:
Indigenous artifacts, including beadwork, tools, carvings, clothing, snowshoes, and ceremonial objects. Many of these were obtained through trade or collected by employees working in remote posts and are of deep anthropological and cultural importance.
Fur trade memorabilia, such as beaver pelts, trade tokens, scales, ledgers, and navigational tools, that offer a glimpse into the operations that once drove Canada’s colonial economy.
Paintings and portraits, including commissioned works depicting HBC governors, Indigenous leaders, and early explorers. These artworks have both historical and aesthetic value.
Corporate memorabilia, including historic uniforms, promotional materials, and documents from key corporate milestones, such as mergers and anniversaries.
While the bulk of the HBCA was transferred to the Province of Manitoba in 1994 and is housed at the Archives of Manitoba, Hudson’s Bay retained some artifacts and contemporary materials that may form the basis of the upcoming auction.
Hudson’s Bay Charter from 1670
The Royal Charter: A Centrepiece of the Auction?
The inclusion of Hudson’s Bay’s Royal Charter is particularly noteworthy. The document, issued in 1670 by King Charles II, granted the company trading rights over a vast swath of North America and effectively gave birth to one of the world’s oldest corporations.
The Royal Charter is widely regarded not merely as a corporate document, but as a foundational piece of Canadian history. Its potential sale could generate substantial funds for Hudson’s Bay, while also prompting debate around the privatization of artifacts tied to Canada’s national and cultural heritage.
Indeed, the auction may prompt responses from institutions such as the Archives of Manitoba or Indigenous organizations, who could view the sale of heritage artifacts as controversial or inappropriate amid efforts toward reconciliation.
An Auction with Repercussions Beyond Retail
The upcoming auction raises profound questions about the custodianship of Canadian history, especially as it intersects with the commercial imperatives of a struggling corporation.
The Hudson’s Bay Company has long marketed itself as a symbol of Canadian heritage. Its name and branding evoke the nation’s colonial legacy and deep historical ties to Indigenous communities—relationships that remain complex and, at times, fraught.
Over the years, HBC artifacts have been featured in permanent and touring exhibitions at major institutions such as:
The Manitoba Museum, home to a Hudson’s Bay Gallery with over 600 displayed items;
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), which has included HBC materials in exhibitions related to trade and colonization;
The Canadian Museum of History, where the company’s role in the fur trade and early settlement is explored.
Artifacts from the collection have also toured through regional museums such as the Glenbow in Calgary.
Vintage Hudson Bay Blankets. Image: Archers Antiques
Reactions from the Heritage and Museum Community
Although the auction process is still in early stages, concern is already mounting in academic and cultural circles.
One museum official, who requested anonymity, said, “We understand the financial context, but we hope that due diligence will ensure that these artifacts do not disappear into private collections abroad.”
There is growing speculation that some cultural institutions may attempt to acquire key items to keep them within the public domain, or that private Canadian collectors with a sense of civic duty could step in.
The Canadian government may also face pressure to intervene or fund acquisitions, especially in light of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, which include the preservation and repatriation of Indigenous cultural heritage.
Court Proceedings and What Comes Next
Hudson’s Bay is currently under creditor protection through the CCAA, a legal framework that allows companies in financial distress to restructure under court supervision. The art auction is a key component of the company’s broader effort to unlock value from its remaining assets.
Information about the auction process, once court-approved, will be made available via the Monitor’s website (www.alvarezandmarsal.com/HudsonsBay), where public documents related to the proceedings are being published.
For additional information:
Visit the court-appointed Monitor’s website: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/HudsonsBay Or contact the hotline at (416) 847-5157 / email: hudsonsbay@alvarezandmarsal.com
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
Toronto-based activewear and loungewear boutique Relevé has opened its second location in the city, choosing the affluent Summerhill neighbourhood as the site for its expansion. The new boutique at 1 Rowanwood Avenue W. brings the brand’s distinctive blend of high-end, comfort-driven fashion to one of Toronto’s most exclusive enclaves, joining a growing cluster of upscale retailers and restaurants catering to the city’s elite.
Gillian Medina, founder of Relevé
“Summerhill has a very strong appreciation for fashion and wellness, so it was a perfect fit for our store,” said Gillian Medina, founder of Relevé, in an interview with Retail Insider. Medina, a former dancer and mother of two, launched Relevé in 2021 during the height of the pandemic, seeing an opportunity in the growing demand for elevated, wellness-focused clothing.
The brand name itself—“Relevé,” a French ballet term meaning “to rise”—pays homage to Medina’s background in dance. The boutique’s merchandise and design philosophy reflect that ethos, focusing on functional yet fashion-forward clothing that seamlessly transitions from workouts to daily life.
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
Serene Design, Thoughtful Curation
The new 1 Rowanwood Avenue location was designed in collaboration with interior designer Shirley Meisels of Mhouse, who also created Relevé’s flagship store in Leaside. The boutique, though compact, is intentionally serene and airy.
“It’s a very small store, but it feels open and calming. People walk in and immediately comment on how beautiful it is,” said Medina. “We trusted Shirley completely—she knows what I like, and she did a perfect job again.”
Previously a darker space, the store has been transformed into a tranquil environment with soft tones and open sightlines. Its inviting atmosphere aligns with the Relevé brand, which emphasizes well-being, comfort, and quiet luxury.
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
Merchandise That Moves With You
Relevé’s Summerhill location carries a similar assortment to its original Leaside boutique at 1727 Bayview Avenue. According to Medina, the curated product mix has translated well between neighbourhoods, attracting a loyal clientele in both locations.
“We’re offering pieces that are high quality, functional, and stylish. The same things that work in Leaside are working here too,” she said.
The boutique features a range of activewear and loungewear brands known for both performance and fashion sensibility. Labels include Alo, Aviator Nation, P.E. Nation, Beyond Yoga, The Upside, APL, Splits59, On Running, Year of Ours, and Vitamin A—many of which use sustainable or recycled fabrics. The store also carries resort wear to meet the evolving travel needs of its clientele.
“Our clients are constantly travelling, so the demand for resort wear isn’t just seasonal anymore,” Medina explained. “We’re definitely leaning into that.”
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
A Rapidly Changing Area
Summerhill is one of Toronto’s wealthiest neighbourhoods, bordered by other affluent areas such as Rosedale and Forest Hill. The immediate vicinity is seeing significant luxury residential development, including ultra-luxury condominiums like One Roxborough West, where seven full-floor units recently sold for between $16.5 million and $18 million. The nearby 1140 Yonge Street development will add 66 of Toronto’s most expensive condominium residences.
This elevated residential context has fuelled a demand for boutique retail experiences, especially those with a personal touch.
“There’s a strong sense of fashion in this area,” said Medina. “The people who shop here also support the other independent shops nearby. It’s a fashionable community, and they value what we bring.”
Seven full-floor units recently sold for between $16.5 million and $18 million at One Roxborough West. The building will be built a block south of Relevé.Rendering of the ultra-luxury 1140 Yonge Street, which will be built close to Relevé’s new store. Photo: 1140yonge.com
Building a Brand During a Pandemic
Medina’s journey with Relevé began in March 2021, a bold move considering the uncertain retail environment at the time. But the timing turned out to be right.
“There was this surging demand for stylish, comfortable activewear as people prioritized wellness,” she recalled. “A lot of others were hesitant to start something new during the pandemic, but I saw it as an opportunity.”
Opening during a period of upheaval meant Relevé was able to tap into a market hungry for quality and comfort—and that appreciation has only grown.
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
Local Appeal with National Reach
While the boutiques serve local clientele in Leaside and Summerhill, Relevé also ships across Canada and into the U.S. Its online platform has helped the brand build a following in major Canadian cities like Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal.
“We see a lot of orders from across Canada. Vancouver is especially strong,” said Medina. “It’s nice to know that the brand resonates in other markets.”
Despite online interest from other provinces, Medina said expansion outside of the Greater Toronto Area isn’t immediately in the cards.
“There’s a lot of opportunity here in the GTA. Having two stores close together makes operations more manageable—especially with young kids,” she laughed. “I don’t think I could handle commuting back and forth to the West Coast!”
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
Prioritizing Personalization and Service
One of Relevé’s key differentiators is its focus on customer service. Medina credits the store’s success not just to its curated product selection, but also to its emphasis on creating a warm, welcoming environment for shoppers.
“We really do help women feel their best—comfortable, confident, and stylish. Our customer care is part of the reason we’ve grown,” she said.
As large department stores struggle to maintain relevance, boutique brands like Relevé are gaining traction by offering curated experiences and deeper client relationships.
“People don’t want to feel anonymous. They want to be remembered, and they want that personal connection,” Medina said.
Relevé at 1 Rowanwood Avenue West in Toronto. Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography
Looking Ahead: Growth With Intention
Relevé’s second location comes at a time when many small businesses are still struggling with pandemic aftershocks, rising costs, and changing consumer habits. Medina acknowledges the challenges, but remains focused on steady, intentional growth.
“It’s a grind,” she admitted. “But we’ve created a niche in the athleisure space that sets us apart. There’s always room for thoughtful, well-executed retail.”
As the brand continues to evolve, its blend of style, wellness, and genuine customer care will likely continue to attract those seeking quality over quantity.
“There’s a reason people keep coming back,” Medina said. “We’re not trying to be like everyone else. We’re just trying to be really good at what we do.”
eBay, a global commerce leader that connects millions of buyers and sellers around the world, has announced a strategic partnership with Checkout.com, a leading global digital payments platform.
Through this partnership, eBay said it expands its global payment platform to deliver seamless commerce experiences for its customers.
“With more than 2.3 billion live listings, eBay is one of the world’s largest online marketplaces. Millions of customers across 190 markets buy and sell hard-to-find collectibles, pre-loved fashion, electronics, car parts, and more on the marketplace,” it said.
Avritti Khandurie Mittal
“eBay operates at a significant global scale, and our customers value speed, convenience, and safety while shopping on our marketplace. Our strategic partnership with Checkout.com enables us to continue delivering fast, reliable, and frictionless payments experiences to millions of customers globally. The addition of Checkout.com to our partnership ecosystem highlights our continued commitment toward accelerating customer and business growth through uniquely eBay payments and financial services,” saids Avritti Khandurie Mittal, VP & General Manager of Global Payments and Financial Services at eBay.
Guillaume Pousaz
“eBay is an iconic global commerce leader which continues to push the boundaries of digital commerce. Payments performance is critical at this enterprise-level scale, and our technology, data, and acquiring expertise will help eBay maximize acceptance in global markets and drive efficiency across its platform. Together, we’re shaping the future of the digital economy,” said Guillaume Pousaz, CEO at Checkout.com.
Checkout.com processes payments for thousands of companies that shape the digital economy. Its global digital payments network supports over 145 currencies and delivers high-performance payment solutions across the world, processing billions of transactions annually. The company helps enterprise businesses boost acceptance rates, combat fraud, and turn payments into a major revenue driver. Headquartered in London and with 19 offices worldwide, Checkout.com has worked with leading brands such as eBay, DocuSign, Vinted, Uber Eats, Klarna, Wise, Sainsbury’s, Financial Times, Grab, and Sony.
