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3 Ways Automation Is Making Retail Smarter (and Safer) in 2025

By
Retail Insider
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Retail stores are changing fast. Technology is making shopping easier for customers and running stores simpler for owners.

In 2025, smart automation isn’t just about speed. It’s about making better choices and keeping businesses safe from mistakes and fraud.

Three big trends are helping retailers work smarter while protecting their companies. Let’s look at how these changes are making a real difference.

Smarter Point-of-Sale: Cloud-Based POS Systems

Store checkout systems used to be simple cash registers. Now they’re powerful computers that track everything happening in your business.

Cloud POS systems work from the internet instead of just one computer. This means you can check your sales, inventory, and customer info from anywhere. Your phone, laptop, or tablet becomes a window into your business.

These systems talk to other tools you already use. Your accounting software gets sales data automatically. Your customer service team sees purchase history right away. Marketing teams know which products sell best.

Real-time inventory tracking stops you from selling items you don’t have. When someone buys the last shirt in size medium, the system updates instantly. Online and in-store inventory stays in sync.

Modern cloud-based retail POS systems also help with customer service. Staff can look up past purchases, apply discounts, and process returns faster. Happy customers come back more often.

Store managers get reports that actually help them make decisions. Which products sell best on weekends? What time of day brings the most customers? The data is there when you need it.

Automated Bookkeeping: Closing the Loop Between Sales and Accounting

Bookkeeping used to mean hours of typing numbers from receipts into spreadsheets. Smart retailers don’t do this anymore.

Automated systems take sales data from your POS and put it directly into your accounting software. No typing. No math errors. No staying late to balance the books.

This connection happens in real-time. When a customer buys something, the sale goes to your accounting system right away. Your daily totals are always current and correct.

Tax time becomes much easier. All your sales data is organized and ready. Receipts are stored digitally. Monthly reports take minutes instead of days to create.

Business owners can see profit margins on specific products. Which items make the most money? What’s your busiest sales period? Automated bookkeeping gives you answers without guessing.

Compliance gets simpler too. Sales tax calculations happen automatically. Financial reports follow standard formats. Audits become less stressful when your records are complete and organized.

Cash flow tracking improves when everything connects. You see money coming in and going out without delays. This helps with ordering inventory and planning for slow periods.

Content Integrity & Fraud Prevention: AI That Thinks Ahead

Online stores face new problems that didn’t exist before. Copied product descriptions can hurt your search rankings. Fake customers try to steal money through your checkout process.

AI tools now scan product descriptions to find copying. If someone steals your content or you accidentally copy someone else’s, the system flags it. This protects your website from search engine penalties.

Original content helps customers trust your brand. When product descriptions are unique and helpful, people feel confident buying from you. Generic copied text makes your store look unprofessional.

Search engines reward original content with better rankings. Stores with unique descriptions show up higher in search results. More visibility means more customers find your products.

Fraud prevention tools watch customer behavior during checkout. Unusual patterns trigger alerts. Someone trying to use stolen credit cards gets stopped before completing the purchase.

These systems learn from each attempt. The more fraud they see, the better they get at spotting it. False alarms decrease while real threats get caught more often. Behind these smarter AI systems is high-quality data training, often supported by specialised providers like Oworkers, whose annotation services help improve accuracy in machine-learning models used for detection and analysis.

Consequences of plagiarism in retail go beyond search rankings. Legal problems can arise from using copyrighted content. Brand reputation suffers when customers notice identical descriptions across multiple stores.

Payment processing becomes safer when AI monitors transactions. Suspicious activity gets flagged for review. Legitimate customers have smooth experiences while fraudsters get blocked.

Looking Ahead: Smart Automation for Smarter Business

These three automation trends work better together than alone. Your POS system feeds clean data to your bookkeeping software. Content integrity tools protect your online reputation. Fraud prevention keeps your payment processing safe.

The goal isn’t to replace human workers. It’s to free them up for more important tasks. Staff can focus on helping customers instead of counting inventory. Managers can plan strategy instead of fixing data entry mistakes.

Smart automation protects your business in ways you might not expect. Better data leads to better decisions. Fraud prevention saves money and reputation. Original content builds customer trust and search visibility.

Retail leaders should look at their current systems honestly. Where do manual processes slow things down? What tasks take too much time? Where do errors happen most often?

The right automation tools pay for themselves quickly. Less time on paperwork means more time growing your business. Fewer mistakes mean happier customers and better profits.

2025 is the year to make these changes. The technology is ready. The benefits are clear. The only question is whether you’ll lead the change or follow behind your competitors.

Laser Clinics Canada Opens in Vaughan Amid National Expansion

By
Craig Patterson
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Opening of Laser Clinics Vaughan Mills. Image: Laser Clinics

Laser Clinics Canada is marking another milestone in its rapid national expansion with the opening of a new location at Vaughan Mills, one of the country’s busiest shopping centres. The clinic opens its doors to the public on May 21, becoming the eighth Canadian location for the Australia-founded medical aesthetics brand.

“Vaughan Mills was the obvious next step for us,” said Toby Milton, Managing Director of Laser Clinics Canada, in an interview. “From a mall analytics perspective, it’s a perfect location — high foot traffic, strong co-tenancy, and an ideal demographic fit. We’re really excited to open.”

Toby Milton, Managing Director of Laser Clinics Canada

Laser Clinics entered the Canadian market in early 2022, opening its first clinic at Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill, Ontario. Since then, the brand has expanded across the Greater Toronto Area, as well as Ottawa’s Rideau Centre, with plans to continue that momentum in the years ahead.

“We currently have seven clinics across Ontario, and Vaughan Mills will be our eighth,” said Milton. “We plan to grow to around 40 locations nationwide. We see tremendous opportunity across Ontario, but also westward into Alberta and British Columbia, as well as the Atlantic provinces. We really do see this as a coast-to-coast brand in time.”

Global Expertise, Local Delivery

Founded in Sydney, Australia in 2008, Laser Clinics quickly became one of the leading global brands in the medical aesthetics space. The company offers a wide range of services, including laser hair removal, advanced skin treatments, and cosmetic injectables — all administered by trained professionals such as doctors and registered nurses. With over 200 clinics worldwide, the brand is backed by KKR, one of the world’s largest private equity firms.

“Globally, we’re known as leaders in laser hair removal, skin treatments, and cosmetic injectables,” said Milton. “And we bring that same level of expertise and care to every Canadian location.”

Each Canadian clinic, including the new Vaughan Mills site, provides a consistent customer experience and access to advanced medical-grade technologies. Services include popular treatments such as HydraFacials, LED light therapy, microdermabrasion, and cosmetic injectables like anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.

Tailored Services for a Broad Demographic

Despite the clinical nature of its offerings, Laser Clinics aims to make medical aesthetics accessible and affordable.

“All of our services are transparently priced and competitively positioned,” said Milton. “We also offer free consultations so clients can understand what treatment is best suited for them.”

The demographic of Laser Clinics’ customer base is remarkably broad. “We see both men and women, and clients of all ages,” said Milton. “There really is something for everyone. Whether it’s laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, or injectables, we tailor our services to meet individual needs.”

Toby Milton in the new Vaughan location. Image supplied

Vaughan Mills: Strategic Retail Placement

The new Vaughan Mills clinic is strategically located in a high-traffic section of the centre, alongside tenants such as Shoppers Drug Mart, Puma, Specsavers, and Mountain Warehouse. The surrounding co-tenancy was a strong factor in the decision to open at the site.

“We’re excited about the co-tenancy and the energy of that part of the mall,” said Milton. “It offers the kind of exposure and accessibility we look for.”

With high visibility and a built-in customer base, the location offers Laser Clinics a prime opportunity to connect with new clients.

Technology and Innovation at the Core

Laser Clinics continues to invest in cutting-edge technology and treatment innovation. While Vaughan Mills will offer the brand’s core suite of services, the company is always evaluating new product developments to enhance its offerings.

“We’re constantly on the lookout for new treatments, especially in the skin category,” said Milton. “From LED therapy to HydraFacials, we offer the latest non-surgical options. Innovation is central to what we do.”

In Canada, the brand has already introduced specialized treatments like Melanopro reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and injectables targeting hyperhidrosis. All treatments are guided by Laser Clinics’ global Medical Advisory Committee, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Franchise Model and Real Estate Strategy

The company is actively seeking franchisees across Canada. On the real estate front, shopping centres remain the brand’s primary focus — for now.

“We really look for high-footfall environments,” said Milton. “Right now, we’re primarily in enclosed malls because of the consistent year-round traffic. But we’re absolutely open to streetfront opportunities if the right space becomes available.”

The company is targeting areas with a combination of high foot traffic and a lack of similar services. “We look for white space opportunities,” added Milton. “Where there’s strong demand and limited competition, that’s where we want to be.”

A Vision for Nationwide Presence

With the Vaughan Mills clinic opening this May, Laser Clinics Canada is only accelerating its national expansion.

“We’re aiming for 30 more clinics in the next few years, and we’ll see where that takes us,” said Milton. “The demand is there, and we’re ready to meet it.”

The company’s strategy is as much about accessibility as it is about beauty. “Our mission is to democratize medical aesthetics,” Milton emphasized. “These treatments used to be exclusive or expensive. We’re here to change that — to offer safe, effective, and affordable treatments to Canadians coast to coast.”

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World’s Largest Global Cosmetic Clinics Company Enters Canadian Market with 1st Location and Plans for More

ICSC Honours John Crombie with Distinguished Service Award

By
Craig Patterson
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John Crombie talked with students at an ICSC LAS VEGAS roundtable event in 2024. Photo courtesy of John Crombie

John Crombie, Executive Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield, has been awarded the prestigious Trustees’ Distinguished Service Award by the ICSC. The honour is the highest level of volunteer recognition granted by the ICSC Board of Trustees and acknowledges individuals whose long-standing commitment has left a significant and lasting impact on the marketplaces industry. Crombie is the sole Canadian recipient of the award this year.

Crombie’s journey in retail real estate began somewhat unexpectedly in 1999, when he attended his first ICSC event in Whistler, British Columbia. At the time, he was branch manager at Royal LePage in Edmonton, Alberta, transitioning from over a decade in office sector brokerage and property management. That first conference, he noted, was a turning point.

“My boss thought I knew something about retail, and I didn’t know what I was getting into,” Crombie said. “But I could see the business opportunities were abundant. It’s something I look back on as a milestone in my life.”

From that moment, Crombie became increasingly involved in ICSC activities. He joined one committee, which led to another, and eventually became a fixture in the organization’s leadership. He has since served on multiple ICSC committees and has become a well-known speaker at industry events.

“I met some amazing people and found that retail was much more in-depth than other disciplines. ICSC allowed me to flourish. I started sharpening my skills and expertise and eventually became known as the go-to retail person.”

Pioneering Research and Industry Excellence

Crombie’s analytical acumen led him to join the ICSC Canadian Research Group and later, the North American Research Group. His passion for data and insights culminated in receiving the ICSC Gold Medallion Award in 2016, which recognizes excellence in retail real estate research.

Over the past decade, Crombie chaired or co-chaired the ICSC@Canada conference four times, contributing to the event’s prominence and value within the industry. He also served as a director on the Canada Marketplace Council and was actively involved in ICSC’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, helping guide efforts to broaden representation and opportunity within the sector.

Empowering the Next Generation

While Crombie has taken on various leadership roles, one of his most impactful contributions has been through mentoring. He has consistently dedicated time at ICSC events to support students and early-career professionals. Whether guiding them through networking opportunities or offering career advice, his commitment to mentorship has been unwavering.

“Helping that next generation pursue a career in retail real estate remains a great pleasure,” Crombie noted. “It’s a way to give back, and I’m delighted I have those opportunities.”

A quarter century after John Crombie’s first ICSC event — in 1999 in Whistler, British Columbia — he was still attending, manning the Cushman & Wakefield booth at ICSC@WHISTLER in January 2024. Photo courtesy of John Crombie

His dedication extended to ICSC Foundation Canada, where he served on the board for six years, stepping down in 2023. During that tenure, he played a leading role in fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, chaired the Foundation’s nominating committee, and helped shape strategic goals.

ICSC Foundation president Lauri Novick remarked on Crombie’s broad contributions: “John was incredibly passionate about the mission of the Foundation and took it upon himself to volunteer for every opportunity we had, whether it was meeting with students and advising them on a potential career or how to land an internship or helping to plot the Foundation’s strategic goals. He was a leader but also a doer. He’d roll up his sleeves and get to work.”

Continuing to Shape Canada’s Retail Landscape

Today, Crombie leads Cushman & Wakefield’s Canadian retail services platform, with a focus on strengthening and expanding the firm’s presence in key markets. He is also managing a significant national assignment involving the disposition of surplus HSBC Bank Canada branches following the financial institution’s acquisition by RBC.

Crombie’s role in this major transition reflects his trusted expertise in navigating complex retail and property scenarios, underscoring his influence across both brokerage and corporate real estate strategy.

Cushman & Wakefield’s John Crombie prepares to take the plunge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Photo courtesy of John Crombie

A Lifelong Commitment to Excellence

Outside his professional commitments, Crombie continues to pursue his lifelong passions. He is a skilled guitarist and plays in a band called the Warehouse Boys, which covers artists ranging from Bob Dylan and Neil Young to Blue Rodeo and ZZ Top. He also maintains a balance between work and family, alongside his wife Judith, and their two children, Andy and Anne.

“When you love something enough, you give everything to it,” Crombie said. “It’s easy to be dedicated and persevere when you really like what you are doing in both life and work. It’s what I did with guitar playing and skiing, and it’s what I did with ICSC.”

From scaling snowy slopes to climbing the ranks of Canada’s retail real estate elite, Crombie’s dedication over decades has reshaped the industry. The ICSC Trustees’ Distinguished Service Award is a fitting tribute to a career rooted in curiosity, service, and passion for the marketplace community.

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Icebug Takes Over Canadian Sales and Operations

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: Icebug

Swedish traction footwear brand Icebug has announced a strategic shift in its North American operations, with the company set to take direct control of its Canadian sales and customer service beginning in June 2025. The move marks a significant milestone in Icebug’s expansion strategy as the brand strengthens ties with the Canadian market, which has long demonstrated a strong appetite for high-performance, grip-oriented footwear solutions.

Previously, the brand’s Canadian operations were managed by Alberta-based Rock Gear Distribution (RGD). Icebug’s decision to internalize operations is aimed at building closer relationships with both new and existing customers across the country.

“We are excited to deepen our engagement with the Canadian community,” said Andreas Håkansson, Chief Commercial Officer at Icebug. “Our goal is to build even closer ties to a market where our products, such as studded winter boots, have potential to play an important role in people’s lives helping them stay active 365 days a year.”

A Continued Partnership with Rock Gear Distribution

Despite the operational change, Icebug emphasized that its long-standing Canadian partner, Rock Gear Distribution, will remain closely involved in supporting the brand’s presence in Canada. RGD, which also owns spry, one of Canada’s top specialty running stores, will work alongside Icebug to further grow awareness and distribution.

“We look forward to working together in new and exciting ways,” said Ian Lowe-Wylde, President of Rock Gear Distribution. “This transition represents a shared vision for delivering quality products and outstanding customer experiences.”

The evolution of this partnership underscores a mutual commitment to bringing Icebug’s innovative footwear to more Canadians—particularly those seeking reliable solutions for winter walking, trail running, and all-season outdoor pursuits.

Photo: Icebug

Building on a Swedish Legacy of Grip and Sustainability

Founded in 2001 by a mother-son duo in Jonsered, just outside Gothenburg, Sweden, Icebug emerged from a simple but serious frustration: the lack of safe, reliable footwear for icy and slippery conditions. In the two decades since, the brand has evolved into a global leader in traction footwear and sustainable design.

Icebug remains privately owned and has become known for engineering products that perform in the harshest of conditions—while also setting a high bar for environmental accountability. The brand’s design philosophy is deeply tied to function and purpose, with the goal of enabling year-round outdoor activity without compromise.

Cutting-Edge Traction Technologies

Icebug’s success stems largely from its proprietary traction technologies, which are widely used by outdoor athletes, winter walkers, and trail runners. These include:

  • BUGrip®: A hallmark of the brand, this sole system incorporates 13–19 carbide steel studs that dynamically adapt to varying surfaces, retracting or protruding depending on the pressure applied by the foot. It offers unmatched grip on icy terrain.
  • RB9X™: A high-friction rubber compound that provides outstanding traction on both wet and dry surfaces, ideal for trail and mountain runners.
  • OLX: Found in Icebug’s off-trail running and orienteering shoes, OLX features fixed steel studs for extreme grip in rugged conditions.
  • Nordic Traction™: Specifically formulated for the Nordic winter, this rubber compound maintains reliable grip even in sub-zero temperatures.
  • Biosole™: A sustainability-driven outsole made from 90% non-oil-based materials, including 62% natural rubber, offering traction across all seasons with reduced environmental impact.

Sustainability as a Core Value

Icebug’s commitment to sustainability is central to its identity. The company became the first climate-positive outdoor footwear brand in 2019, meaning it offsets more emissions than it produces.

Recycled and natural materials are used throughout its products. Examples include PET bottles, recycled wool scraps, and even algae-based foams. Icebug’s manufacturing processes incorporate solution dyeing, reducing water usage by up to 45% compared to conventional techniques.

Customers can track the environmental impact of each product through Icebug’s “Follow the Footprints” transparency initiative, which details everything from sourcing to carbon footprint.

The brand was certified as a B Corporation in October 2022, earning a score of 93.9 on the B Impact Assessment. Icebug is also a member of 1% for the Planet, committing a portion of its revenue to verified environmental initiatives.

E-Commerce Expansion and Future Plans in Canada

In November 2024, Icebug launched its Canadian e-commerce platform, making the brand’s complete collection of traction footwear available nationwide. The direct-to-consumer offering allows Canadians in urban and remote areas alike to access shoes designed to support safe, active lifestyles in all conditions.

This newly announced operational transition aligns with the company’s long-term ambitions in Canada. With climate uncertainty and interest in outdoor activity both on the rise, Icebug’s value proposition—footwear that helps prevent slips and falls while supporting a sustainable planet—resonates more than ever.

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Icebug Launches Canadian E-Commerce Platform

Trips to Canada declining: Statistics Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Timur Weber
Photo by Timur Weber

This isn’t good news for retailers that rely on tourism. In March, the number of trips to Canada by US residents decreased 6.6% year over year to 1.2 million trips. The number of trips to Canada by overseas residents fell 17.4%, marking a sixth consecutive month of year-over-year declines, reported Statistics Canada on Thursday.

The number of Canadian-resident return trips from abroad (United States and overseas combined) was also down in March, declining 14.9% compared with the same month in 2024, it said.

“In March, US resident trips to Canada (1.2 million) declined year over year for a second consecutive month, down 6.6% from March 2024. Arrivals by automobile (881,900) were down 8.7% year over year in March 2025, marking a second consecutive month of year-over-year declines. Over half (56.3%) of these arrivals were same-day trips. Meanwhile, air arrivals (321,200) were up 2.2% from March 2024. Other US residents disembarked in Canada from cruise ships (1,400) in March, marking the start of the 2025 cruise ship season,” stated Statistics Canada.

“In March, 286,600 overseas residents arrived in Canada, marking a 17.4% decline and the sixth consecutive month of year-over-year decreases. The majority (87.7%) of overseas-resident arrivals in March were by air. The year-over-year decline in overseas-resident arrivals in March was primarily attributable to fewer arrivals from the Americas (excluding the United States) (-19.5%), Europe (-18.6%) and Asia (-14.4%). Europe is Canada’s largest source market for overseas travellers, followed by Asia and the Americas (excluding the United States). In March, the top three countries of residence for overseas visitors were the United Kingdom (32,800), Mexico (28,500) and France (25,100), accounting for 30.1% of all overseas arrivals in Canada.”

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DAVIDsTEA Rebuilds with Canadian Roots and Fresh Energy

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: DavidsTea

With its roots in Canadian entrepreneurship and a bold vision for tea culture, DAVIDsTEA is once again steeping success. The Montreal-based retailer, once a fast-growing darling with over 240 stores across North America, is now navigating a new chapter under the leadership of CEO Sarah Segal, daughter of the late co-founder Herschel Segal. 

In an interview, Sarah Segal shared the company’s revitalized approach to product development, community engagement, and thoughtful retail expansion.

Sarah Segal

“DAVIDsTEA was never just about tea—it was about creating something new, energetic, and inclusive,” Segal explained. The company’s founding story is as vibrant as its teal branding. Herschel Segal, the renowned Canadian retail entrepreneur behind Le Château (who recently passed), partnered with his nephew David Segal to build a brand that would challenge the tea industry’s status quo.

“I always say we were the ‘fashion tea company,’” said Segal. “The early approach mirrored the fashion world—frequent new drops, seasonal excitement, and a strong focus on design.”

The first DAVIDsTEA store, opened in 2008, was a modest 300-square-foot space carved out of a Le Château storefront on Queen Street in Toronto. “From day one, the energy was incredible,” Segal recalled. “It immediately resonated with people.”

Rapid Growth, Then Reinvention

After explosive expansion, DAVIDsTEA went public in 2015. But by 2020, the company faced a major crossroads. Amid the pandemic, DAVIDsTEA filed for creditor protection and closed nearly all of its physical stores—including all U.S. locations. “It was a reset,” said Segal. “We had to rethink everything.”

The company pivoted swiftly to e-commerce and select wholesale partnerships, including an innovative shop-in-shop concept with Rexall pharmacies across Canada. “Our partnership with Rexall has been fantastic,” said Segal. “It’s a curated selection that introduces new customers to our brand in a welcoming setting.”

Manoomin tea, image: DavidsTea

Today’s Retail Footprint—and What’s Ahead

DAVIDsTEA currently operates 20 stores in Canada, up from 18 at the end of 2020. Two new stores opened in the past year, and more are on the horizon.

“We’re evaluating new opportunities but doing so strategically,” Segal said. “It’s about re-entering the communities where we had strong engagement and seeing how consumers shop today.”

That includes leveraging e-commerce, which remains a key channel for the brand. “We don’t obsess over the online vs. in-store split,” she explained. “Instead, we focus on being present wherever customers want to find us—whether that’s in a store, online, or through grocery retail.”

Innovation Through Blends and Origins

If there’s one area where Segal lights up most, it’s product development. “That’s what gets me going,” she said with a smile. “We launch over 100 new products a year. It’s about discovery, seasonality, and fun.”

DAVIDsTEA’s innovation isn’t limited to adding flavours—it also includes exploring new origins, health benefits, and functional blends. “We’ve been investing in matcha for over 15 years,” Segal noted. “In fact, we’re about to be onsite for a harvest in Japan.”

The product pipeline now includes teas aimed at wellness, immunity, sleep, women’s health, and energy. “Mighty Aphrodite, our women’s health blend, sold out three times,” she said. “We also launched probiotic teas like Vanilla Parfait. We’re responding to the real needs of customers in fun, accessible ways.”

Proudly Canadian, Globally Minded

Throughout the conversation, Segal returned often to the company’s Canadian roots—not as a marketing gimmick, but as a cultural anchor. “We’ve always been proudly Canadian,” she said. “Our headquarters and distribution centre are still in the same three-block radius in Montreal. And our team reflects Canada’s multicultural, multilingual spirit.”

Yet despite the local focus, DAVIDsTEA remains committed to serving customers across North America. “We still ship to the U.S. and have loyal customers there,” Segal added. “The demand for tea is growing everywhere.”

That’s good news for DAVIDsTEA, which views tea as more than a beverage—it’s a lifestyle. “We’ve seen interest grow as people reduce alcohol and caffeine or look for better sleep and anxiety relief,” she said. “Tea can play a role in all of that.”

DavidsTea at CF Pacific Centre in Vancouver. Photo: TripAdvisor

The Colour of Calm

The brand’s now-iconic teal hue, soft and inviting, wasn’t chosen at random. “My father actually saw the colour in a Ryerson fashion program’s student project,” Segal said. “There was science behind it—how it evoked calm and positivity. That became our signature.”

This blend of youthful vibrancy and emotional resonance became central to DAVIDsTEA’s appeal. “We wanted to be approachable, never intimidating,” she added. “Tea can be complex, so our design and tone were rooted in friendliness and warmth—very Canadian values.”

Giving Back, One Cup at a Time

Beyond commerce, DAVIDsTEA has made social impact part of its mission. “For every transaction, we donate a cup of tea to someone in need,” Segal shared. “It could be a teacher, a nurse, a patient—it’s part of how we stay connected to our communities.”

 In May, for example, DAVIDsTEA is offering free tea to nurses in honour of their service. “It’s small in the moment, but when you zoom out and realize we’re on track to donate three million cups of tea—it’s powerful,” said Segal.

The late Herschel Segal. Image: DavidsTea

Learning from the Pandemic

The pandemic forced the company to become more agile. “We had to change how we worked, how we delivered products, how we bought them,” Segal said. “We leaned heavily into listening mode. Our customers told us what they needed—and we acted on it.”

That included everything from building a digital-first supply chain to rethinking store placement. “Even in a city like Toronto, people’s movement patterns have changed. We’re studying that closely to determine how many stores are needed to truly serve an area.”

The Road Ahead: Brand Reconnection and Tea’s Rise

So what does the future hold?

“We’re in a period of reconnection,” Segal said. “People are rediscovering DAVIDsTEA—and tea in general. Our goal is to remain a platform for that discovery and continue offering fun, natural, and innovative products that fit into people’s lives.”

The brand is also exploring expansion opportunities—both online and through physical retail—with a measured, customer-first approach.

“As demand for tea grows, we’re ready,” said Segal. “We’ve always been passionate about this space. Now more people are joining that journey—and we’re excited to welcome them.”

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CFIB May Business Barometer: Small business confidence goes up, price plans go down 

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Anna Nekrashevich
Photo by Anna Nekrashevich

Long-term small business confidence is slowly regaining lost ground after crashing to historic lows in March. The 12-month indicator added 5.3 index points, reaching 40.0 in May, according to the latest Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)’s Monthly Business Barometer survey released on Thursday.

Simon Gaudreault
Simon Gaudreault

“Now that the federal election is over, there may be clearer guidance and renewed leadership on tariffs and other federal matters, and this and a somewhat de-escalating trade war may explain in part why small business sentiment is trending in the right direction again. However, these are just timid beginnings of a rebound. The indicator is still well below its historical average,” said Simon Gaudreault, chief economist and vice-president of research at CFIB.

“The optimism glass is not even half-full, it’s still fairly empty.”

The CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 100,000 members across every industry and region.

Inflation pressure indicators have eased, with small businesses planning to raise prices by an average of 2.9%, down from 3.5% in April. Wage plans remained unchanged at 2.1%, said the CFIB.

All provinces have their confidence levels below 50. Weak demand remains the top barrier to growth for 59% of businesses, while over two-thirds (68%) of firms are constrained by tax and regulatory costs. Hiring intentions are far below seasonal levels, with 14% of businesses looking to hire full-time in the next few months and 16% planning to lay off.

Andreea Bourgeois
Andreea Bourgeois

“Many small businesses are breathing a sigh of relief as it seems we’ve avoided the worst of tariffs. But there’s still lots of uncertainty around, putting long-term investments and business planning on hold,” said Andreea Bourgeois, CFIB’s director of economics.

As Parliament gets set to reconvene on May 26, nearly two-thirds (62%) of small business owners are not confident that Canada’s new federal government is committed to supporting small business, finds new data from the CFIB.

The organization said some of those key small business priorities that are urgently needed include:

  • Tariffs: Ensuring that the money collected through Canadian counter tariffs is returned quickly to affected Canadian small businesses.
  • Carbon tax: Passing legislation to formally eliminate the carbon tax and returning the remaining $600 million in 2024-25 carbon tax rebates to small businesses
  • Tax-free rebates: Ensuring the small business carbon tax rebates are delivered tax free as promised. Other employer rebates, such as Workers’ Compensation Boards (WCB) rebates, must also be delivered tax free to boost the economy.
  • Capital gains: Delivering on the promised increase to the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption to $1.25 million and implementing the promised Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive which would lower capital gains taxes on up to $2 million following a business sale.
  • Small business tax rate: Lowering the federal small business tax rate from 9% to 0% for the foreseeable future.
  • Internal trade: Working with provinces to capitalize on the current momentum towards the elimination of internal trade barriers by adopting mutual recognition.

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Canada’s 2025 dining trends: Restaurants Canada/Circana report

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Canadians’ dining preferences are shifting as cost-of-living concerns, an increasingly diverse population and Gen Z’s buying habits drive new consumer trends. Restaurants Canada and Circana LLC cover these new trends in their 2025 Hot 10 Restaurant Trends report, released on Thursday.

“Canadians are expecting more value for their dollars as they grapple with affordability and that’s reflected in many of the trends highlighted in this report,” said Kelly Higginson, President and CEO of Restaurants Canada. “In today’s competitive restaurant landscape, it’s more important than ever that restaurants understand these emerging trends and shifting consumer preferences.”

Kelly Higginson
Kelly Higginson

Report highlights:

  • Coupon culture is on the rise, but consumers are increasingly turning to social media to find discounts and deals as digital coupons have overtaken physical coupons for the first time.
  • While previous economic downturns led consumers to shift their dollars to less expensive table-service restaurants, in 2025, only one in six Canadians is doing that. Instead, they are opting for less expensive menu items, just water and fewer add-ons.
  • Gen Z is driving the digital revolution, as they seek out value through deals and loyalty programs and convenience through digital ordering and delivery.
  • The share of Canadians who are people of colour is expected to nearly double by 2041, which will change the dining landscape. Nearly half of South Asian diners (48%) and a third of Latin American diners (32%) say plant-based dishes are important to them when purchasing a meal or a snack, compared to just 21% of white diners.
  • While French fries and burgers still reign supreme as the most ordered category, the chicken sandwich is the fastest-growing menu item, with 26% more servings sold this year compared to 2020.
Vince Sgabellone
Vince Sgabellone

“As cost pressures persist and Canada’s population grows more diverse, we’re seeing a real shift in how and why Canadians dine out,” said Vince Sgabellone, industry analyst, Food and Foodservice at Circana. “Value no longer just means low prices—it’s about maximizing the experience, whether that’s finding the best digital deal, customizing a meal to fit your lifestyle, or choosing a menu item that feels worth it. The chicken sandwich’s surge, the rise of digital couponing, and Gen Z’s influence are all signals of a restaurant industry evolving to meet new expectations.”

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Lightspeed Commerce reports Q4 and Fiscal 2025 results

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Image: Lightspeed Commerce

Lightspeed Commerce Inc., the one-stop commerce platform empowering merchants to provide the best omnichannel experiences, announced Thursday financial results for the three months and fiscal year ended March 31, 2025.

Dax Dasilva
Dax Dasilva

“Fiscal 2025 was a transformative year for Lightspeed: we delivered revenue growth of 18% with annual revenue exceeding $1 billion for the first time, we adopted a more focused strategy, concentrating on the markets where we have a proven right to win, and we aligned our organization to execute on that strategy,” said Dax Dasilva, Founder and CEO. “With a strong financial foundation and our industry-leading commerce platforms, Fiscal 2026 will be dedicated to growing locations, expanding software revenue and enhancing Adjusted EBITDA profitability.”

Asha Bakshani
Asha Bakshani

“Our healthy balance sheet, improving Adjusted EBITDA profitability and free cash flow nearing break-even enabled us to return ~$219 million of capital to shareholders in the last year,” said Asha Bakshani, CFO. “At the same time, we strategically invested in product and go-to-market for retail customers in North America and hospitality customers in Europe, laying the groundwork for continued success.”

Fourth Quarter Financial Highlights

(All comparisons are relative to the three-month period ended March 31, 2024 unless otherwise stated):

  • Total revenue of $253.4 million, an increase of 10% year-over-year.
  • Transaction-based revenue of $157.8 million, an increase of 14% year-over-year.
  • Subscription revenue of $87.9 million, an increase of 8% year-over-year.
  • Net loss of ($575.9) million, or ($3.79) per share, as compared to a net loss of ($32.5) million, or ($0.21) per share. Net loss includes a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of ($556.4) million. After adjusting for certain items, such as goodwill impairment and share-based compensation, the Company delivered an Adjusted Income of $15.0 million, or $0.10 per share, as compared to Adjusted Income3 of $8.5 million, or $0.06 per share.
  • Adjusted EBITDA of $12.9 million versus Adjusted EBITDA of $4.4 million.
  • Cash flows used in operating activities of ($9.9) million as compared to cash flows used in operating activities of ($28.5) million, and Adjusted Free Cash Flow used of ($9.3) million as compared to Adjusted Free Cash Flow used of ($16.3) million.
  • As at March 31, 2025, Lightspeed had $558.5 million in cash and cash equivalents.

Full Fiscal Year Financial Highlights

(All comparisons are relative to the full fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 unless otherwise stated):

  • Total revenue of $1,076.8 million, an increase of 18% year-over-year.
  • Transaction-based revenue of $697.3 million, an increase of 28% year-over-year.
  • Subscription revenue of $344.8 million, an increase of 7% year-over-year.
  • Net Loss of ($667.2) million, or ($4.34) per share, as compared to a net loss of ($164.0) million, or ($1.07) per share. Net loss includes a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of ($556.4) million. After adjusting for certain items such as goodwill impairment and share-based compensation, the Company delivered an Adjusted Income of $69.5 million, or $0.45 per share as compared to an Adjusted Income of $24.5 million, or $0.16 per share in 2024.
  • Adjusted EBITDA of $53.7 million versus Adjusted EBITDA of $1.3 million in 2024.
  • Cash flows used in operating activities of ($32.8 million) as compared to cash flows used in operating activities of ($97.7 million), and Adjusted Free Cash Flow used of ($11.2) million as compared to Adjusted Free Cash Flow used of ($64.5) million in 2024.

“As announced at its Capital Markets Day in March, Lightspeed expects to grow its outbound sales team to over 150 outbound sales representatives by the end of Fiscal 2026 in addition to increasing its investment in product and technology development by over 35%. The benefits of these investments will likely be reflected in the latter half of the year as the new sales representatives ramp through the year,” said the company.

“Lightspeed remains confident in its ability to execute its strategy of focusing on retail customers in North America and hospitality customers in Europe and expects to increase Customer Locations within these growth engines. With its increased investment in product and technology development, Lightspeed also expects to increase software revenue.

“Finally, the financial outlook reflects our most recent view of the macroeconomic environment and is consistent with our three-year target gross profit CAGR of approximately 15-18% and three-year target Adjusted EBITDA CAGR of approximately 35% presented at our Capital Markets Day in March.”

Overall, the company’s outlook is as follows:

First Quarter 2026

  • Revenue of approximately $285 million to $290 million.
  • Gross profit growth of approximately 13%.
  • Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $14 million to $16 million.

Fiscal 2026

  • Revenue growth of approximately 10% to 12%.
  • Gross profit growth of approximately 14%.
  • Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $68 million to $72 million.

Lightspeed, based in Montreal, was founded in 2005.

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Lesley Conway appointed Head of Walmart Connect

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Source- Walmart
Source- Walmart

Lesley Conway has been named Head of Walmart Connect, effective May 5. In her new role, she will oversee the Walmart Connect business and is responsible for the Canadian strategic direction, operations and growth projects.

Conway brings over 25 years of experience spanning media, marketing and advertising and has a proven track record of executing highly effective strategies and driving innovation and growth, said the company. 

Lesley Conway
Lesley Conway

Conway previously served as CEO of Mindshare Canada, leading the agency through a transformative period, adopting a full-funnel approach to media and digital-first mentality. Conway also previously served as President of Hatch64 – a performance marketing agency – and Senior Vice President of Sales for Bell Media. Her expertise will be instrumental in enhancing Walmart Connect’s advertising solutions, strengthening partnerships and delivering exceptional value to Walmart Connect clients, added the retailer.

“I’m thrilled to join the team and be a part of Walmart Connect’s journey of connecting brands and customers in meaningful ways,” said Conway. “Retail is a dynamic and ever-evolving space, and I couldn’t imagine a more exciting time to step into the world of retail media. I look forward to building strong partnerships with our brand and agency partners and collaborating with our talented team to create unique solutions for customers, fostering innovation and growth.”

Conway has held numerous positions across industry boards including the Canadian Media Director’s Council, the Board of Directors for the Radio Marketing Bureau, the Canadian Outdoor Bureau of Measurement and the Broadcast Bureau of Measurement’s Portable People Meter Committee.   

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