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Apple Watch Series 11 Adds Sleep Score, Longer Battery Life

By
Lee Rivett
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Apple Watch Series 11. Photo: Apple.

Apple announced the Apple Watch Series 11 on Tuesday, highlighting new health features, extended battery life, and a more durable design. The latest iteration of the world’s most popular smartwatch introduces a sleep score function, providing users with greater insight into nightly rest, while delivering up to 24 hours of battery life and a display that is twice as scratch-resistant as its predecessor.

The launch underscores Apple’s ongoing strategy to position the Apple Watch as both a health monitor and a fashion accessory, with new case finishes, bands, and environmental commitments reinforcing its place at the centre of the company’s ecosystem.

A Smarter Approach to Sleep

Apple Watch Series 11 debuts a new sleep score, designed to give users a comprehensive picture of their sleep quality. Built into watchOS 26, the feature draws on data including heart rate, wrist temperature, respiratory rate, and blood oxygen levels to produce an overall rating each night.

The score breaks down factors such as duration, consistency, and time spent in each sleep stage, aligning its algorithm with guidance from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and other health bodies. Apple said the feature was tested using more than five million nights of sleep data gathered from participants in the Apple Heart and Movement Study.

The results are presented in the Sleep app on Apple Watch, with longer-term trends viewable in the Health app on iPhone. Users can also add the sleep score as a complication on their watch face for quick access, a move Apple hopes will encourage more active engagement with health data.

Longer Battery Life and Stronger Glass

One of the main limitations of earlier models has been battery performance. Apple Watch Series 11 extends usage to a full 24 hours on a single charge, a significant improvement for those who wear their device overnight to monitor sleep. Fast charging enables up to eight hours of battery life from just 15 minutes of charging, reducing downtime for active users.

Durability has also been enhanced. The aluminum models feature Ion-X glass that Apple says is now twice as scratch-resistant, made possible by a ceramic coating bonded at the atomic level using physical vapour deposition. Titanium models continue to feature sapphire crystal, long considered the most robust display protection in the industry.

The design remains thin and comfortable, a crucial consideration for overnight wear. Apple has also introduced refinements to the cellular antenna, which now covers more bands and can engage dual antennas simultaneously to improve reception in weak signal areas.

Fitness Powered by Apple Intelligence

watchOS 26 brings Workout Buddy, a new feature powered by Apple Intelligence, Apple’s suite of generative AI tools. The system provides real-time spoken motivation during exercise sessions, using metrics such as heart rate, pace, and distance. Workout Buddy will initially launch in English across popular exercise categories and requires Bluetooth headphones paired with a nearby iPhone.

The Workout app has been redesigned for easier customization, supporting features like Workout Views, Race Route, and Pacer. For added motivation, users can integrate music and podcasts directly within workouts, with Apple Music suggesting playlists tailored to workout type and listening history.

More Ways to Stay Connected

Beyond fitness and sleep, watchOS 26 introduces a variety of new software enhancements. The redesigned interface, dubbed Liquid Glass, brings expressive visuals to notifications, widgets, and in-app navigation. Two new watch faces — Flow and Exactograph — expand personalization options, while over 20 existing faces gain continuous seconds hands.

New gestures enhance usability, with a wrist flick gesture joining the double tap for one-handed interaction. Live Translation in Messages allows incoming texts to be translated in real time, while Hold Assist and Call Screening bring more efficient phone call management when an iPhone is nearby.

The Notes app also makes its debut on Apple Watch, enabling users to jot down or access reminders directly on their wrist.

Lineup, Pricing, and Availability

Apple Watch Series 11 will be available in 42mm and 46mm sizes. The aluminum models come in space grey, jet black, rose gold, and silver, while the titanium lineup offers natural, gold, and slate finishes. Prices start at $549 CAD.

The Hermès edition continues with new bands, including the Faubourg Party knit design and the elegant Grand H metal link band. This season’s band collection also features new colours such as forest, anchor blue, neon yellow, and purple fog. Nike’s lineup includes updated Sport Bands and Sport Loops, with reflective yarn woven into the latter.

Pre-orders opened September 9, with in-store availability beginning Friday, September 19.

Sustainability Commitments

Apple emphasized the role of sustainability in the Apple Watch Series 11. The new models incorporate 40 percent recycled content, including 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery and recycled aluminum or titanium in the case. Titanium models use a 3D printing process that reduces raw material use by half compared with previous generations.

The watches are manufactured using 100 percent renewable electricity across the supply chain, while packaging is now entirely fibre-based. These measures are part of Apple’s broader Apple 2030 initiative, which aims for carbon neutrality across the company’s operations and product lifecycle by the end of this decade.

Apple Watch and the Canadian Market

Canada has been a strong market for Apple Watch adoption, driven by high rates of iPhone ownership and consumer interest in health technology. With the Apple Watch Series 11, the company is targeting both early adopters of its sleep-tracking features and customers looking for a more durable, all-day device.

At $549 CAD, the device occupies the premium end of the smartwatch spectrum, a segment Apple continues to dominate. Financing options, trade-in programs, and bundled services such as Apple Fitness+ and Apple Music are expected to further drive uptake.

As wearable technology grows more sophisticated, Apple is betting that its integration of health, fitness, and AI-powered features will keep its smartwatch ahead of competitors. The Apple Watch Series 11, with its emphasis on sleep, durability, and convenience, represents the latest step in that strategy.

Apple Unveils iPhone 17 With Bigger Display and A19 Chip

By
Lee Rivett
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iPhone 17. Photo: Apple.

Apple introduced the iPhone 17 on Tuesday, presenting a device that the company says represents one of the most significant upgrades in recent years. With a new Center Stage front camera, a larger and brighter ProMotion display, and the next-generation A19 chip, the latest iPhone signals Apple’s continued push to refine design, performance, and photography while also doubling down on durability and sustainability.

A Focus on Photography

One of the defining features of the iPhone 17 is its all-new Center Stage front camera, a square sensor designed to provide a wider field of view and greater resolution, up to 18 megapixels for photos. This shift allows users to take selfies and videos in either portrait or landscape orientation without rotating the device, while also providing improved stability and framing during video calls on FaceTime and other platforms.

The rear camera system has also received a significant upgrade. For the first time, every rear lens on the iPhone is equipped with 48-megapixel resolution. The Fusion Main camera delivers detailed shots with an integrated 2x Telephoto function, essentially offering the equivalent of two lenses in one. The Ultra Wide camera now captures four times the resolution of its predecessor, supporting macro photography and wide-angle landscapes with a level of sharpness not previously available.

Video capabilities remain a strong emphasis. The iPhone 17 records in 4K at up to 60 frames per second with Dolby Vision. Apple has added creative tools such as Action mode and Cinematic mode, along with improved audio features like Spatial Audio recording and wind noise reduction. The device also supports spatial photo and video capture, a feature designed to complement the Apple Vision Pro headset.

Bigger, Brighter, and More Durable

The iPhone 17’s display measures 6.3 inches, with thinner bezels and a redesigned contoured edge. The Super Retina XDR display now supports ProMotion with an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, improving scrolling, gaming, and video playback. Its Always-On capability allows users to view widgets and live activities without waking the phone fully.

Ceramic Shield 2, Apple’s latest glass technology, enhances scratch resistance by three times compared with the prior generation while reducing glare outdoors. At 3,000 nits of peak outdoor brightness, Apple calls it the most visible iPhone screen under direct sunlight.

The Power of the A19 Chip

Central to the new model is the A19 chip, built on third-generation three-nanometer technology. Apple said the chip delivers performance 1.5 times faster than the A15 Bionic used in the iPhone 13, while its graphics processor is more than twice as fast.

The improvements go beyond speed. The A19 integrates advanced neural accelerators designed to support Apple’s growing suite of generative AI features. Combined with iOS 26, the chip powers Apple Intelligence, the company’s in-house artificial intelligence system, enabling real-time translation, smarter photo editing, and personalized recommendations.

Battery life also benefits from the new processor and iOS 26’s Adaptive Power Mode. Apple claims up to 30 hours of video playback, eight hours more than last year’s model, with rapid charging that brings the battery to 50 percent in just 20 minutes using Apple’s new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter.

eSIM Expansion in Canada

Apple continues its transition toward eSIM technology, offering an eSIM-only iPhone 17 in markets including Canada, the United States, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates. Canadian carriers such as Bell, Rogers, Telus, and Freedom Mobile are supporting the feature.

The eSIM-only model eliminates physical SIM trays, a move Apple says enhances security and simplifies international travel. Customers can connect to local networks more easily, while eSIMs cannot be physically removed in the event of loss or theft.

Software Upgrades With iOS 26

The iPhone 17 launches with iOS 26, featuring a redesigned user interface called Liquid Glass that brings a more fluid visual language across apps. Apple Intelligence, integrated deeply into the system, now powers tools like Live Translation and expanded on-device visual search.

Apple has also added new privacy tools for managing calls and messages, as well as updates to Apple Music, Maps, Wallet, and CarPlay. A new Apple Games app centralizes gaming content, reflecting the company’s continued interest in the mobile gaming market.

Accessories and Design

Apple is also releasing a suite of new accessories alongside the iPhone 17. A clear case with MagSafe and a redesigned silicone case in five colours will be available, along with a crossbody strap crafted from recycled yarn. The strap can be adjusted using embedded magnets and stainless steel hardware and will come in ten colours, offering a hands-free way to carry the device.

The iPhone 17 itself will be offered in black, lavender, mist blue, sage, and white. Storage options begin at 256GB, doubling the entry-level capacity from last year, with a 512GB model also available.

Sustainability and Apple 2030

Apple continues to highlight environmental responsibility in its product launches. The iPhone 17 is made with 30 percent recycled materials, including 85 percent recycled aluminum and 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery. The packaging is now entirely fibre-based.

The company said the iPhone 17 is manufactured using 35 percent renewable electricity across the supply chain and is designed for durability, repairability, and long-term software support. These measures are part of Apple’s broader Apple 2030 plan, which commits to carbon neutrality across the company’s entire footprint by the end of this decade.

Canadian Pricing and Availability

In Canada, the iPhone 17 starts at $1,129 or $47.04 per month. Pre-orders open Friday, September 12, with availability beginning September 19. Trade-in options will allow customers to receive up to $985 in credit for devices as recent as the iPhone 13.

Apple’s strategy to increase entry-level storage to 256GB may help offset the rising demand for higher-capacity devices as consumers store more photos, videos, and apps locally. The company is also leaning on its financing and trade-in programs to encourage Canadian customers to upgrade.

The Broader Context

For Apple, the iPhone remains its most important product line, generating the majority of the company’s revenue. With global smartphone competition intensifying, especially from Android manufacturers in Asia, Apple is seeking to reinforce its position with improvements in design, performance, and sustainability.

In Canada, Apple continues to dominate the premium smartphone market, though it faces increasing pressure as carriers push aggressively priced alternatives. The iPhone 17’s emphasis on AI-driven features, display quality, and camera improvements reflects broader industry trends toward integration of artificial intelligence and enhanced visual experiences in mobile devices.

As the iPhone 17 reaches consumers later this month, Apple will be closely watching adoption rates and how well Canadian customers embrace its eSIM-only model, sustainability initiatives, and premium pricing.

TSN Launches Interactive Shopping in Canada

By
Lee Rivett
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TSN Shop website screenshot

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

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

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

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

Bell Media’s Strategy

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

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

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

Connecting Fans and Brands

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

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

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

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

What It Means for Advertisers

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

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

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

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

About Shopsense AI

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

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

The Broader Context of TSN

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

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

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Gen AI adoption now mainstream: Capgemini report

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Mikael Blomkvist
Photo: Mikael Blomkvist

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

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

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

Key findings include:

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

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

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

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ALDO Unveils “Try Every Thing” Campaign for New Era

By
Lee Rivett
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Image: ALDO

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

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

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

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

TikTok at the Centre

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

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

Real Stories in Cinematic Form

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

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

Building on a Five-Decade Legacy

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

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

A Campaign Rooted in Life Transitions

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

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

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

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Lando Dong
Photo: Lando Dong

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

According to Moneris:

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

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

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

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

Douglas Porter
Douglas Porter

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

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

Sean McCormick
Sean McCormick

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Crocs Expands in Canada with Mall Stores

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

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

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

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

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

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

Collaboration and Cultural Relevance

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

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

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

Canadian Expansion Strategy

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

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

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

From Humble Origins to Global Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gary Lenett (Image: Britney Gill / DUER)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Align Custom Fit Expands With Toronto Flagship

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

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

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

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

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

Expanding From Mississauga Roots

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

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

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

First Canadian Place in Toronto. Image: Brookfield

Inside the Toronto Flagship

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

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

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

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

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

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

Foot Care for an Urban Lifestyle

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

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

Services Beyond Orthotics

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

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

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Ami Paris to Open 1st Canadian Store at Yorkdale

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

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

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

A Modern French Brand Arrives in Canada

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

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

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

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Global Expansion

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

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

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

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

Yorkdale as Canada’s Luxury Epicentre

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

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

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

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

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