Rabba Fine Foods announced Thursday an innovative new partnership with DoorDash which will provide even more convenient access to groceries on-demand.
The collaboration brings customers a wide array of products from the beloved Canadian grocer at in-store prices, including fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, bakery goods, dairy products, and everyday essentials – plus alcohol delivery on-demand, which marks a first for Rabba Fine Foods, said the company.
Over 30 Rabba Fine Foods locations are available for customers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to shop from on DoorDash, spanning Brampton, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Oakville, North York, Toronto, and Milton. Rabba Fine Foods is open for in-store shopping 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including on holidays – and now offers on-demand delivery via DoorDash around the clock from most locations, making it easier than ever for customers to shop on their own schedule.
“Time is an incredibly precious resource and customers appreciate flexibility to order on-demand grocery delivery when it’s most convenient for their schedule – no matter if it’s late night or early morning,” said Lewis Matthews, Head of Grocery and Retail Partnerships at DoorDash Canada. “With deep roots in Southern Ontario communities, we’re looking forward to introducing the trusted local grocer to even more customers in the Greater Toronto Area and providing Canadians with access to the best of their neighbourhoods.”
Lewis Matthews
“Built on a tradition of service that spans six decades, Rabba Fine Foods has continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of its communities by prioritizing quality and convenience. This new partnership with DoorDash reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to providing customers with greater flexibility and easier access to their favourite products, fresh foods, household staples and everyday essentials, any time of day or night,” said the company in announcing the partnership.
DoorDash is one of the world’s leading local commerce platforms that helps businesses of all kinds grow and innovate, connects consumers to the best of their neighborhoods, and gives people fast, flexible ways to earn. Since its founding in 2013, DoorDash has expanded to over 30 countries, using technology and logistics to shape the future of commerce. Through its Marketplace and its Commerce Platform, DoorDash is driving economic vitality in the regions it serves worldwide.
Rabba Fine Foods and the Rabba family have been serving the grocery and convenience needs of millions of customers throughout the GTA since the ‘60s – open year round, 24 hours a day with a network of 37 neighbourhood markets.
IKEA Pride 2025 Couchside Chats campaign. Image supplied
IKEA Canada announced Thursday the renewal of its partnership with Rainbow Railroad for a second consecutive year, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to a fairer and more inclusive world.
This continued collaboration supports Rainbow Railroad’s mission to help LGBTQI+ individuals facing persecution and violence find safety through emergency relocation, crisis response, and advocacy, said the retailer.
This year, IKEA Canada said it will donate up to $200,000 from the proceeds of its Rainbow Cake, available in stores nationwide from June 1 to July 31, 2025. Every purchase of this colourful dessert directly supports Rainbow Railroad’s lifesaving efforts, helping approximately 300 LGBTQI+ individuals find safety and resettle in Canada—more than twice the number typically supported in a single year.
Selwyn Crittendon
“Our vision at IKEA is to create a better everyday life for the many people – a vision that holds even greater significance today,” said Selwyn Crittendon, CEO & CSO, IKEA Canada. “Supporting the 2SLGBTQ+ community is deeply rooted in our values. The Rainbow Cake initiative reflects our belief that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and truly at home in every aspect of their lives. Pride is not just a moment; it’s a movement, and we’re proud to stand as allies every day of the year.”
Through this partnership and others, IKEA Canada said it continues to be a vocal advocate for those facing persecution for simply being who they are. Over 70 countries still criminalize same-sex relationships, and in many, LGBTQI+ people are targets of violence and exclusion at home, at work, and in their communities.
Scott Ferguson
“We are proud to continue our partnership with IKEA Canada during this Pride season,” said Scott Ferguson, Director of Corporate Partnerships at Rainbow Railroad. “Thanks to the leadership of IKEA and the generosity of Canadians, we are helping more LGBTQI+ individuals than ever before escape dangerous situations and begin new lives where they can live freely and authentically.”
In recognition of IKEA Canada’s long-standing commitment to 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion and the strength of this partnership, the collaboration with Rainbow Railroad has been recognized with North American honours, reaffirming the impact of aligning purpose with action, explained the retailer.
John Williams
“Rainbow Railroad’s mission to support people fleeing anti-LGBTQI+ violence closely aligns with IKEA Canada’s ongoing efforts to welcome and support refugees and newcomers,” said John Williams, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Leader, IKEA Canada. “Together, we have a great opportunity to create meaningful change in local communities and help build a more inclusive and compassionate Canada.”
This year, IKEA Canada said it will continue championing everyday allyship of the 2SLGBTQ+ community by:
Raising the Progress Pride Flag at all stores across Canada on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT);
Sponsoring and participating in Pride parades in cities across Canada;
Partnering with Pride at Work Canada and the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion to foster inclusion and intersectional education in the workplace;
Donating $40,000 to local 2SLGBTQ+ organizations across Canada within the communities in which we serve;
Providing safe spaces where co-workers can be themselves and support one another through internal forums such as the Rainbow Connections Co-worker Resource Group;
Encouraging customers to take part by supporting purpose-driven campaigns, such as the Rainbow Cake.
To learn more about how to support this initiative or get involved, visit: IKEA.ca/pride.
Rainbow Cake makes a sweet return to IKEA stores across Canada on June 1st and every slice contributes to a good cause (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)
Rainbow Railroad is an international non-profit organization with headquarters in New York and Toronto dedicated to helping LGBTQI+ people escape state-sponsored violence and persecution. Since its founding in 2006, the organization has helped more than 20,000 LGBTQI+ individuals find safety through emergency relocation, crisis response, cash assistance, and other forms of support. Rainbow Railroad is a registered Canadian charity and 501(c)(3) organization in the United States. For more information, visit .
IKEA Canada is part of Ingka Group which operates 574 IKEA stores, shops and planning studios in 31 countries, including 16 in Canada. Last year, IKEA Canada welcomed 32.6 million visitors to its stores and 162.6 million visitors to IKEA.ca.
IKEA Canada renews partnership with Rainbow Railroad to support at-risk LGBTQI+ individuals for a second year (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)
Canadian luxury outerwear brand Moose Knuckles has appointed seasoned fashion executive Ellen Kinney as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal step in the company’s global expansion and brand evolution.
The Montréal-based label, widely recognized for its high-performance outerwear and bold design ethos, made the announcement this week, citing Kinney’s extensive leadership experience and proven ability to scale premium fashion brands.
Kinney brings over two decades of senior leadership in fashion and retail to the helm of Moose Knuckles. Most recently, she served as President and CEO of A.L.C., where she led growth across direct-to-consumer and wholesale channels, while enhancing the brand’s operational execution. Her previous executive roles include CEO of Kendall + Kylie and Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant at Derek Lam International, with additional senior positions at Rebecca Taylor, Scoop, and other contemporary fashion labels.
Ellen Kinney
“Moose Knuckles is a brand with tremendous creative energy, global resonance, and untapped potential,” said Kinney in the announcement. “I’m honored to take on this role and excited to work alongside such a talented team as we shape the next chapter of growth, innovation, and cultural impact.”
Kinney will be based out of the brand’s global headquarters in Montréal, overseeing product development, operations, and international retail expansion efforts across North America, Europe, and Asia.
A Strategic Appointment to Drive Global Ambitions
The appointment comes as Moose Knuckles continues to expand its retail footprint internationally. The brand operates more than 30 stores globally and is stocked by leading department stores and boutiques in over 25 countries. Offices have been established in key markets including New York, Milan, London, and Shanghai.
“Ellen is a dynamic and proven leader with exceptional merchandising instincts and a deep understanding of premium consumer brands,” said Victor Luis, Chairman of Moose Knuckles. “Her ability to blend creativity with commercial strategy makes her the ideal CEO to lead Moose Knuckles through this continued phase of growth.”
Backed by Global Investment and Strategic Partnerships
In 2019, private equity firm Cathay Capital took a minority stake in Moose Knuckles, injecting capital and strategic guidance to support global growth initiatives, particularly in the Asian market. More recently, Chinese apparel conglomerate Bosideng became the brand’s largest shareholder, acquiring over 30% of the company.
“Since Cathay Capital partnered with Moose Knuckles, the brand has leveraged its status as a bold Canadian icon to become a truly global name,” said Jean-Marc Prunet, Partner at Cathay Capital. “Ellen combines exceptional creative talent with a sharp understanding of today’s consumer, enabling her to make the brand even more desirable and culturally relevant.”
Prunet added, “Her proven ability to scale premium fashion houses while honouring their DNA makes her the ideal leader to accelerate our geographic and consumer expansion.”
Moose Knuckles has opened a flagship at Royalmount in Montreal. Photo: Moose Knuckles
Deep Roots in Canadian Heritage and Craftsmanship
Founded in 2009 in Montréal by Noah Stern and Ayal Twik, Moose Knuckles was built on a family legacy dating back to 1921, rooted in the manufacturing of cold-weather apparel. The brand name combines symbols of Canadian identity—“moose” for resilience and “knuckles” for toughness.
From its inception, Moose Knuckles set out to redefine luxury outerwear by fusing extreme cold-weather performance with edgy, fashion-forward design. Each coat undergoes over 70 production steps involving more than 90 skilled artisans, with many pieces manufactured in Canada using premium materials including 90/10 down fill, YKK zippers, and wind-resistant fabrics. Signature details such as detachable fur trims and the “MK” metal logo have become visual hallmarks.
Evolving with Creative Direction and Cultural Currency
Under the creative leadership of Carlos Nazario—appointed Global Creative Director in 2023 until February 2025—the brand has continued to push its urban lifestyle appeal. Recent campaigns have featured Canadian icons like Alanis Morissette and Mustafa the Poet, while high-profile collaborations with designers including Telfar and Eckhaus Latta have positioned Moose Knuckles at the intersection of luxury and streetwear.
Kinney’s appointment signals a continuation of this strategic focus on cultural relevance, fashion-forward design, and customer experience.
Beyond fashion, Moose Knuckles has actively pursued initiatives supporting community engagement and ethical business practices. Coat drives benefiting underserved communities, commitments to ethical sourcing, and investments in sustainable manufacturing practices reflect the brand’s alignment with modern consumer values.
Moose Knuckles Montreal (Image: Moose Knuckles)
Positioning for the Future
With Kinney at the helm, Moose Knuckles appears poised to enter a new phase of global scaling and brand development, building on its strong Canadian foundation while resonating with international audiences.
The company will continue to operate from Montréal, further anchoring its brand identity in its Canadian roots while expanding its presence in global fashion capitals.
Edmonton has officially welcomed a new destination for luxury skincare with the grand opening of Loshen & Crem, a 3,400-square-foot flagship boutique at Currents of Windermere. The location represents a significant milestone for the brand, blending a curated retail experience with comprehensive facial and body treatments—marking Edmonton’s first truly integrative skincare boutique.
“This is more than just a retail store or a spa,” said Sarah Cabana, founder and owner of Loshen & Crem. “It’s a space where skincare meets education, community, and wellness—where people feel empowered to learn about their skin and take care of themselves.”
Sarah Cabana, founder and owner of Loshen & Crem
Founded in 2019 by Cabana, Loshen & Crem began as an online retailer, rooted in a strong social media following and a commitment to customer service. Originally from Montreal, Cabana relocated to Edmonton and found herself struggling to re-establish a career in skincare education.
“I told myself I wouldn’t rebuild my name again, but I couldn’t find the right fit,” she explained. “So I pivoted. I started promoting skincare brands on social media. People began asking where they could buy the products, so I launched an online store. From there, demand just exploded.”
The business quickly evolved, offering facials out of a small space and building a loyal client base. Today, Loshen & Crem ships Canada-wide, with Ontario and British Columbia among its strongest markets. The new flagship store, designed by Troy Dashney of Bold Design, reflects Cabana’s Italian heritage and her vision of a modern European wellness retreat.
Loshen & Crem in Edmonton. Photo: Loshen & Crem
Design Meets Experience
Stepping into the new location, customers encounter more than product shelves—they’re welcomed into a thoughtfully designed, serene space that reflects the boutique’s wellness philosophy.
“The design is soft and minimal, with beige tones and wood elements,” said Cabana. “We wanted it to feel like a high-end Italian spa.”
The centerpiece is a striking olive tree surrounded by a community table, used for skincare masterclasses and product education events. “We’ll have brand educators fly in and host sessions here,” Cabana added. “It’s all about building customer knowledge.”
The boutique includes five treatment rooms: four for facials and one for body treatments—a European-inspired offering that sets the business apart in Edmonton.
“In France, body care is just as important as facial skincare,” said Cabana. “We want to bring that philosophy here.”
Loshen & Crem in Edmonton. Photo: Loshen & Crem
Customer Service as a Brand Pillar
Loshen & Crem’s reputation has been largely built on its unparalleled approach to customer service, both online and in-store.
“We customize every order with samples suited to the customer’s purchase,” said Amy Witoshynski, Director at Loshen & Crem. “First-time buyers receive handwritten cards sealed with wax—like receiving a gift from a friend.”
Amy Witoshynski, Director at Loshen & Crem
This personalized experience continues with a live chat staffed entirely by real skincare professionals, not bots.
“We have Cassandra, our customer service specialist, who chats with people all day, helping them select products based on their skin concerns,” said Witoshynski. “It’s all human, and it’s all personal.”
Retail Meets Professional Skincare Services
The boutique carries an elite lineup of skincare brands including Biologique Recherche, iS Clinical, Augustinus Bader, Elta MD, Colorescience and other brands. Every brand is handpicked for performance and philosophy, tested by the team before being offered to customers.
“Behind every product is a story,” Cabana explained. “It has to be effective and align with our values.”
The boutique’s treatment offerings are just as refined. Services include advanced facials using the Biologique Recherche methodology, Fire & Ice facials from iS Clinical, microneedling, LED light therapy, chemical peels, and exosome treatments. Targeted services address concerns like acne, pigmentation, and skin tightening using high-end technologies like Exilis Ultra and NeoSkin by Aerolase.
Loshen & Crem in Edmonton. Photo: Loshen & Crem
Eyes on Expansion—With Caution and Care
With a growing national online presence and a flagship brick-and-mortar location, expansion is part of Loshen & Crem’s long-term vision—but with a carefully curated approach.
“Toronto and Yorkville are on our radar,” Cabana noted. “Old Montreal is another possibility. And downtown Halifax—people there are deeply connected to skincare, but there’s not much at our level.”
British Columbia is also being considered, particularly underserved areas like Invermere. “But this Edmonton location will always be our flagship,” she emphasized. “It’s where it all began.”
The team had originally eyed U.S. expansion for 2025, but paused due to tariff uncertainty.
“There are strict regulations with skincare exports,” said Cabana. “But the U.S. is more flexible. That’s still a goal once the environment stabilizes.”
A Skincare Boutique Rooted in Edmonton Pride
While Cabana is originally from Montreal, she speaks with genuine affection for her adopted home in Edmonton.
“I much prefer Edmonton,” she said. “The people, the cleanliness, the sense of community—it’s just different in the best way.”
Located in a high-visibility spot in Windermere, next to Edmonton retailer Shades of Grey, the boutique is already drawing curiosity and foot traffic. The location was previously occupied by a tanning salon that only lasted a year—a stark contrast to the premium service model Loshen & Crem brings.
“People were peeking in while we were still under construction,” said Witoshynski. “We’re so excited to welcome everyone inside now.”
Loshen & Crem in Edmonton. Photo: Loshen & Crem
Looking Ahead: Filling the Gaps in Canadian Skincare
One area of focus for the next year is identifying a suitable makeup line to complement the skincare offerings.
“Finding the right makeup brand has been difficult,” said Cabana. “We want something that’s skin-friendly and aligns with our minimal, effective philosophy.”
A brand has been selected, but shipments have been delayed due to international tariffs.
“It’s frustrating,” Cabana admitted. “But we’re patient. When we do bring makeup in, it has to be perfect.”
The boutique also plans to enhance awareness across Canada through refined marketing, education campaigns, and strategic media outreach.
A Boutique Built on Purpose
At its core, Loshen & Crem is more than a skincare destination. It’s a brand built on purpose, community, and connection.
“Skincare is personal,” said Cabana. “It’s self-care, it’s health, and it’s emotional. Every touchpoint with our customers—whether it’s a facial, an online chat, or a package in the mail—has to feel special.”
And so far, that approach is working. Bookings are full, customers are loyal, and the brand’s reputation continues to grow across Canada.
“Our success comes from never compromising on who we are,” said Witoshynski. “And that’s what will guide us as we grow.”
Payroll employment in retail trade decreased by 8,400 (-0.4%) in March, continuing an overall downward trend that began in February 2023. From February 2023 to March 2025, payroll employment in retail trade has fallen by 53,400 (-2.6%), said the federal agency.
The largest contributors to the net decline since February 2023 were sporting goods, hobby, musical instrument, book, and miscellaneous retailers (-14,600; -6.7%), furniture, home furnishings, electronics and appliances retailers (-13,800; -12.0%), clothing, clothing accessories, shoes, jewelry, luggage and leather goods retailers (-8,700; -4.1%), general merchandise retailers (-8,500; -3.2%) and building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers (-7,100; -4.7%), it explained.
Statistics Canada said payroll employment in accommodation and food services (-8,400; -0.7%) decreased for the third consecutive month in March, bringing the cumulative decline to 22,100 (-1.7%) since January 2025. This decline was driven by full-service restaurants and limited service eating places (-18,300; -1.8%).
On a year-over-year basis, payroll employment in accommodation and food services was down by 20,800 (-1.6%) in March 2025, it added.
The federal agency said payroll employment in wholesale trade (-4,200; -0.5%) fell for the fourth consecutive month in March 2025, bringing the cumulative loss to 7,300 (-0.9%) since December 2024. Machinery, equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers (-4,200; -1.7%) recorded the largest decline over this period.
On a year-over-year basis, payroll employment in wholesale trade was down by 6,000 (-0.7%) in March 2025, it said.
Overall, the number of employees receiving pay and benefits from their employer—measured as “payroll employment” in the Survey of Employment, Payrolls and Hours—decreased by 54,100 (-0.3%) in March, following a decline of 40,200 (-0.2%) in February. On a year-over-year basis, payroll employment was up 32,800 (+0.2%) in March, said the report.
Year over year, average weekly earnings were up 4.3% to $1,291 in March, following an increase of 5.1% in February. In general, growth in average weekly earnings can reflect a range of factors, including changes in wages, composition of employment, hours worked and base-year effects. Month over month, average weekly earnings were little changed in March. Average weekly hours (33.5 hours) were little changed on a month-over-month and year-over-year basis in March, it said.
In March, there were 529,700 job vacancies in Canada, the seventh consecutive month of little change. On a year-over-year basis, job vacancies were down by 72,800 (-12.1%), according to the report.
“The job vacancy rate—which corresponds to the number of vacant positions as a proportion of total labour demand—was 3.0% in March, up 0.1 percentage points from February (2.9%), but down 0.4 percentage points from March 2024,” explained Statistics Canada.
“There were 2.9 unemployed persons for every job vacancy in March, up by 0.1 since February. On a year-over-year basis, the unemployment-to-job vacancy ratio was up by 0.7. This increase was the result of a decrease in job vacancies (-72,100; -12.0%, excluding territories), coupled with an increase in the number of unemployed persons (+166,500; +12.4%). Over the same year-over-year period, the unemployment rate rose from 6.1% to 6.7% (according to theLabour Force Survey).”
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
“Total labour demand—which corresponds to the sum of filled and unfilled positions—fell by 64,400 (-0.4%) in March. On a year-over-year basis, it was up by 48,500 (+0.3%).
“In March, job vacancies were up in three sectors: transportation and warehousing (+3,300; +13.8%), utilities (+800; +51.8%), and management of companies and enterprises (+300; +19.6%). The increase in transportation and warehousing partially offset the decrease that took place in January ( -5,600; -18.4%). Retail trade was the only sector that recorded a decrease in job vacancies (-4,400; -8.4% to 48,200) in March. The number of job vacancies in retail trade was at its lowest since November 2024 (45,700).”
Year over year, vacancies were down in 11 of the 20 sectors in March 2025. The largest declines were recorded in health care and social assistance (-17,600; -14.4%), retail trade (-11,500; -19.3%), and transportation and warehousing (-8,200; -23.0%). Despite the year-over-year decline, job vacancies in health care and social assistance remained elevated in March (105,000) compared with pre-pandemic levels (73,200 in March 2020), noted Statistics Canada.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Finance and insurance (+2,700; +13.7%) and public administration (+1,500; +11.9%) were the only sectors to record year-over-year increases in March.
In March, monthly payroll employment declines were recorded in 10 of the 20 sectors, including educational services (-10,400; -0.7%), health care and social assistance (-9,500; -0.4%), accommodation and food services (-8,400; -0.7%), retail trade (-8,400; -0.4%), wholesale trade (-4,200; -0.5%), and construction (-4,000; -0.3%). These declines were partially offset by gains in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas (+2,500; +1.1%), arts, entertainment and recreation (+1,800; +0.5%), and management of companies and enterprises (+900; +0.7%). The remaining seven sectors were little changed.
General Products Outdoor Patio Furniture in Richmond Hill. Image: Google Maps
After nearly five decades as one of Ontario’s most respected names in outdoor furnishings, General Products Outdoor Patio Furniture (GP Patio) is winding down operations with a significant public liquidation sale. The Richmond Hill-based retailer, located at 160 East Beaver Creek Road, is closing its doors following the retirement of the founding Brown family, who have led the business since its establishment in 1979.
Founded by Sydney Brown, General Products became a trusted resource for high-quality, stylish, and durable outdoor furniture—serving both residential customers and commercial clients. The company earned a reputation for excellence, furnishing patios for high-profile clients including Prime Ministers, Premiers, celebrities, and major hospitality operators. Their clientele also included families across Ontario, many of whom have remained loyal for generations.
“It was incredibly special and fortunate to work alongside my father until his passing in 2017,” said Stuart Brown, the second-generation owner of the business. “Three generations of Browns have proudly contributed to this business, and it’s been an honour to serve Canadians.”
The family-run business became synonymous with customer service and quality, offering premium patio furniture collections sourced directly from top manufacturers. The retailer was featured nationally, with appearances on HGTV and Mike Holmes’ Ultimate Deck, reinforcing its reputation for expertise and thoughtful design.
General Products store in Richmond Hill. Image: Brad Poechman via Google Maps
Store Closing Sale Begins March 29
To mark the conclusion of nearly half a century in business, GP Patio is hosting a store-wide closing liquidation sale, offering significant discounts on its complete inventory. The sale—managed by Danbury Global—officially begins on Thursday, March 29, and is open to the public.
Shoppers will find steep markdowns on the retailer’s full selection of high-end outdoor furniture, including patio loungers ideal for summer relaxation, elegant dining sets built to withstand Canadian weather, and stylish umbrellas that combine function with aesthetic appeal. The sale also features fire tables designed to extend outdoor enjoyment into cooler evenings, as well as an array of carefully curated outdoor accessories and décor items.
The entire inventory of premium outdoor products is being sold at reduced prices as part of the closure. According to the company, delivery will continue to be available across the Greater Toronto Area and into cottage country, ensuring convenience for long-time and new customers alike.
“For over 47 years, we’ve had the privilege of serving a loyal customer base that spans generations,” said Stuart and Wendy Brown in a joint statement. “As we retire, we invite the public to celebrate with us during this once-in-a-lifetime sale.”
Danbury Global Manages High-Profile Liquidation
To oversee the sale, GP Patio has engaged Danbury Global, a leading Canadian asset disposition and retail liquidation firm. The company is known for managing major transitions for well-known retail brands and has brought its experience to the Richmond Hill showroom to ensure a smooth and successful wind-down.
“This is truly a rare opportunity,” said Jonathan Ordon, CEO of Danbury Global. “You don’t often see premium, brand-name outdoor living furniture being liquidated to the public—especially at the start of patio season. This sale is an unmatched chance to furnish your outdoor space with quality pieces at a fraction of the cost.”
Danbury Global’s store closing liquidation sale kicks off Thursday, March 29, from the 160 East Beaver Creek Road showroom, and will run seven days a week until all inventory is sold.
This marks the first time produce from Montreal’s Lufa Farms will be sold through a retailer and the first time Walmart Canada will sell produce from a store’s rooftop greenhouse. Harvested on demand each morning, the rotating crops of tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers will be available for sale in-store in as fast as an hour after being picked, said the retailer.
“Rooftops are one of the most underused spaces in cities – and yet they’re perfect for growing food,” said Mohamed Hage, founder and CEO of Lufa Farms. “Walmart has a huge network of rooftops across the country, and by transforming just one of them into a greenhouse, we’re showing what’s possible: fresh, local vegetables grown sustainably and sold just downstairs, the same day they’re harvested. This is how we can reimagine the future of food in cities.”
The project is rooted in Lufa Farms’ commitment to fresh, local, responsible farming and Walmart Canada’s continued focus on working with local suppliers to deliver innovative and more sustainable options for customers. According to Lufa Farms, their state-of-the-art rooftop greenhouse uses half the energy of a conventional ground-level greenhouse, recycles up to 90 per cent of its water, and relies on energy-efficient LED lighting – all while making use of underutilized urban space.
Customers in Walmart’s Marché Central Supercentre can now purchase boxes of this rooftop produce grown and harvested by Lufa Farms each day, while quantities last.
Walmart Canada and Lufa Farms launch local produce collaboration in Montreal (CNW Group/Wal-Mart Canada Corp.)
“Across the country, we’re proud to work with local farmers and producers to bring their products to Walmart Canada’s shelves. This collaboration with Lufa Farms brings that approach even closer to home by offering our customers the opportunity to purchase hyperlocal produce grown in the greenhouse above our Marché Central store,” said Sam Wankowski, chief merchandising officer, Walmart Canada. “Our customers will be delighted by the local crops that are grown with more sustainable farming practices and then harvested on-demand each day – available at our every day low prices.”
“We are invested in Quebec and are proud to employ more than 14,000 associates across this province. Last year alone, Walmart purchased more than $3.8 billion worth of products from more than 460 Quebec suppliers, and we’re excited to add Lufa Farms to this list,” said Cyrille Ballereau, vice president, operations, Walmart Canada. “It’s a proud moment to see us collaborating so closely with another local Quebec supplier to bring this innovative program to market.”
Walmart has more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day.
MINISO's New Store in CF Don Mills, Toronto, Ontario
Global lifestyle brand MINISO has opened its new store at CF Don Mills, marking a significant expansion of its presence in Ontario.
“This location stands out as the first plaza store and outdoor street shop for MINISO in the province. Situated within an upscale community shopping center at 28 Karl Fraser Rd, North York . . . this opening represents not just an increase in MINISO’s store count but also a pivotal step towards diversifying the retail experience and deepening local engagement,” said the retailer in a news release.
Creating an Immersive New Retail Experience that Blends Shopping and Play
“Spanning over 4,000 square feet, the Don Mills store is designed to offer a unique shopping experience that transcends traditional retail boundaries. The store features a diverse product selection, including popular categories like plush toys, blind boxes and more than 20 trending makeup and skincare brands celebrated for offering quality and style at accessible prices.
“Notably, by integrating entertainment and leisure elements into its layout, this location embodies MINISO’s “Joy Philosophy.” The immersive environment encourages social interaction while shopping. Among its many features is a dedicated area for claw machines that combines fun with consumerism, creating an engaging “shop-and-play” atmosphere.”
Grand Opening of the Store
This new location marks MINISO’s first-ever store in Canada to offer an ice cream section, enhancing lifestyle consumption by providing customers with a comprehensive one-stop experience encompassing shopping, playtime activities, and refreshment options.
“During the grand opening, MINISO debuted its latest vinyl plush blind box collection, which quickly became a standout success, with over one hundred units sold in a short period. Beloved Disney characters such as Stitch and Winnie-the-Pooh emerged as fan favorites, drawing significant attention from shoppers and collectors alike. Excitement will continue to build as the new Stitch series is set to launch across all MINISO stores in Canada by the end of May, positioning these locations as must-visit destinations for dedicated fans of the iconic blue alien,” said the company.
Expanding a Global Retail Vision that Blends Lifestyle, Design, and Fun
The CF Shops at Don Mills serves as Toronto’s renowned high-end outdoor shopping destination that seamlessly blends boutique retailing with fine dining and recreational entertainment options. Its open-air design reflects modern lifestyle trends while establishing itself as a new urban landmark, a perfect match for MINISO’s youthful and playful brand identity. Looking ahead, plans are already underway for additional stores across Toronto and Edmonton to further solidify MINISO’s footprint in Canada’s dynamic market landscape, explained the retailer.
“As of March 2025, MINISO has successfully entered over 100 global markets with more than 7,400 stores worldwide, including over 370 locations across North America alone. The mission of the company emphasizes that “Life is for fun,” while aspiring to become the world’s leading IP design retail group through continuous focus on affordability, globalization efforts, and innovative product designs (IP Design). With these principles guiding operations globally, consumers everywhere can expect enhanced daily living experiences through engaging products offered by MINISO.”
The Element by Westin Calgary Downtownhotel will open in the city’s west end early this summer, showcasing the first hospitality conversion of former office space.
The building, which was formerly Canadian Centre, has transformed 170,000 square feet of underutilized office space on 4th Avenue SW into a modern, eco-friendly hotel featuring 226 spacious suites.
The project is designed to meet the growing demand for hotel accommodation and stimulate economic activity in Calgary’s downtown core, they say.
Patricia Phillips
“As Calgary’s first hospitality conversion, the Element embodies the spirit of transforming existing spaces to serve new, meaningful purposes,” said Patricia Phillips, CEO of PBA Group of Companies. “Revitalizing urban areas and embracing sustainable design features are both critical to reinforcing the strength and adaptability of Calgary’s downtown. As an award-winning hotel developer and longstanding member of the community for over 60 years, PBA is proud to support progressive urban development through this innovative project.”
The hotel will be a unique offering for guests looking to stay in downtown Calgary, with spacious suites featuring fully equipped kitchens, It will also provide bicycles for guests to use and is in a walkable location next to the Bow River.
Next to the lobby, guests will also find the gym, a bright space with tall ceilings and ample cardio equipment, weights and floor space. Each guest floor of The Element Calgary Downtown has a filtered water station next to the ice machine, and each room has refillable glass bottles, effectively eliminating plastic water bottle waste.
Tim Ostrem
“Bringing a refreshed and exciting new offering to Calgary’s Downtown West neighbourhood has been an incredibly rewarding experience—one that’s only just beginning,” said General Manager of The Element by Westin Downtown Calgary, Tim Ostrem. “We look forward to introducing the Element brand to Calgarians as the ideal place to stay and relax with many wellness features, and as a place they can confidently recommend to friends and visitors.”
“The Element Calgary Downtown’s Studio Commons features four private bedrooms, all connected to a shared main space making it an ideal option for travelling families, wedding parties and small corporate or social groups. The hotel offers suites with fully equipped in-room kitchens, allowing for the comforts of home-cooked and healthy meals while away from home,” said the company.
Source: PBA Group of Companies
Wander Coffee & Cocktails, located directly beside the hotel lobby, will be a bright and airy cafe space on street level with plenty of outdoor patio space. The café will be open to both hotel guests and the public.
The rooftop level of the Element will also be home to the newest west end restaurant, bar and patio lighting up Calgary’s dining scene – Bow & Bend. Located high above the Bow River on the 12th floor, Bow & Bend will be an inviting social and dining experience with a view for Calgarians and hotel guests alike. The space will seat 150 guests, with indoor open-air seating, outdoor patio and private dining room options.
PBA Group of Companies is a full-spectrum real estate company based in Calgary, providing integrated commercial real estate solutions for the past 60 years. In 2021, PBA expanded its offerings by introducing a hospitality portfolio with the unveiling of The Dorian, a $115 million, 27-storey, dual-brand Marriott Autograph Collection and Courtyard Marriott hotel.
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