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The Importance of Social Media in Retail: How Canadian Brands Are Leveraging It

By
Retail Insider
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The most powerful driver of retail in 2025 is not a flashy storefront — it’s a swipe. Canadian consumers don’t wait for commercials or flyers anymore. They discover new brands through viral dances, memes, and product reviews, all while scrolling through TikTok or Instagram. Social media has become the frontline of retail, where visibility is currency and attention spans are the battleground.

The same instant gratification that fuels social shopping also drives the rise of online entertainment. Quick, visual, and rewarding — just like the fast-paced excitement of instant games you can play right now. If that’s your kind of experience, read more and dive straight into the action.

The Evolving Retail Landscape in Canada

Retail in Canada has changed fast over the past decade. Brick-and-mortar stores still matter, but digital-first strategies now lead the way. Consumers want speed, authenticity, and direct interaction. Online shopping no longer supports the retail experience — it defines it.

Shoppers take cues from peers and creators, not just ads. They trust real voices and follow people they relate to. That trust leads to faster conversions, especially when products are just a tap away. Canadian retailers now focus on building relationships, not just running promotions.

Why Social Media Matters in Retail

Brand Discovery

Social media platforms are now the first place many Canadians encounter a brand. TikTok’s For You page and Instagram’s Explore tab operate like dynamic, personal storefronts. A product video can reach millions overnight without paid promotion. For small and large retailers alike, this kind of organic visibility is priceless.

Community Building

Retailers use social media to foster brand loyalty by creating spaces where audiences feel seen. Comment sections, Instagram Lives, and interactive stories encourage conversations. Brands that build community — rather than just push content — see higher engagement and repeat customers. It’s not just about what you sell; it’s how people feel when they engage with you.

Social Commerce

Consumers can now purchase directly through platforms like Instagram Shops, TikTok Shop, and Pinterest’s buyable pins. The path from discovery to checkout is seamless and instant. This shift gives brands more control over the entire customer journey without leaving the app.

Customer Support & Feedback

Social channels double as customer service desks. Many consumers now expect brands to respond via DMs or comments. This creates opportunities for transparency and trust. Quick, helpful replies boost satisfaction, while public responses show accountability.

Canadian Brands Doing It Right

Canadian retailers have embraced the shift with innovation and cultural relevance. Here are standout examples of how they lead the charge:

  • Aritzia: Combines sleek visuals with behind-the-scenes content. Their Instagram feed is polished, but stories often show real-life fashion moments and staff insights.
  • Knix: Champions inclusivity and body positivity. Customer-led campaigns show real people. This approach builds emotional engagement and leads to high user-generated content.
  • Sport Chek: Leverages TikTok trends and seasonal sports moments to stay current. Their casual tone and influencer collaborations give them a fresh, accessible voice.
  • Peace Collective: Blends fashion with purpose. They use social media to promote social causes and showcase products. This mission-first approach draws loyal, cause-driven consumers.

These brands offer more than inspiration — they show how social media works as a strategic retail channel. Their success shows that connection drives conversion.

The Tools and Tactics They Use

Influencer Marketing

Canadian retailers increasingly collaborate with micro-influencers. These partnerships feel personal and authentic, especially when creators reflect regional identities or niche interests. By focusing on relevance rather than reach, brands maintain credibility and grow their visibility.

Paid vs. Organic Strategy

A balance of paid promotions and organic content delivers both reach and retention. Paid ads drive traffic during campaigns, but consistent organic posting builds brand familiarity. Successful brands understand when to boost posts and when to let quality content speak for itself.

Analytics and Listening Tools

Social media success depends on data. Tools like Hootsuite (developed in Canada) and Sprout Social help brands monitor engagement, track sentiment, and identify high-performing content. Social listening allows brands to respond to conversations in real time and adapt to changing consumer needs.

The future of retail on social media will focus on personalization, immersive experiences, and purpose-driven content. As platforms develop better AI tools, expect smarter targeting, faster feedback, and more seamless commerce. For Canadian brands, the key lies in staying culturally relevant while embracing technology at speed.

Consumers prices on the rise: Statistics Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Los Muertos Crew
Photo: Los Muertos Crew

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 1.9% on a year-over-year basis in June, up from a 1.7% increase in May, reported Statistics Canada on Tuesday.

Headline inflation grew at a faster pace, as gasoline prices fell to a lesser extent in June (-13.4%) than in May (-15.5%). Additionally, faster price growth for some durable goods, such as passenger vehicles and furniture, put upward pressure on the CPI in June, said the federal agency.

Year over year, the CPI excluding energy (+2.7%) remained higher than the CPI in June, partly due to the removal of consumer carbon pricing in April. On a monthly basis, the CPI rose 0.1% in June. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, the CPI was up 0.2%, it said.

“While consumers continued to pay less at the pump on a year-over-year basis in June (-13.4%), the decline was smaller than in May (-15.5%). The smaller decline was a result of a larger month-over-month decrease in June 2024 (-3.1%) compared with June 2025 (-0.7%). Gasoline prices were nearly unchanged in June, as lower refining margins were offset by higher crude oil prices amid geopolitical conflicts,” said Statistics Canada.

“Prices for food purchased from stores rose 2.8% year over year in June following a 3.3% increase in May. The slower growth was largely a result of fresh vegetable prices, which declined 3.1% year over year in June following a 1.0% increase in May. This decline was the first since October 2021 and was driven by lower prices for onions (-10.3%) and cucumbers (-18.3%).

“Prices for clothing and footwear rose 2.0% year over year in June after increasing 0.5% in May. This acceleration was largely due to the women’s clothing index, which was unchanged in June following a 2.5% decline in May. Uncertainty surrounding international trade put upward pressure on prices for clothing and footwear in June, as the industry faced higher costs in the wake of tariffs.”

Douglas Porter
Douglas Porter

Douglas Porter, Chief Economist, BMO Capital Markets, said: “Today’s result gives the Bank of Canada almost nothing to justify a rate cut in July. If the solid employment report was the icing on the cake for that decision, this is the cherry on top. Simply put, underlying inflation remains stubbornly strong. We’ll need to see a material deceleration in core for a cut in even the September meeting to be in play, barring a steep deterioration in the economy (which can’t be ruled out with the ongoing tariff uncertainty).”

Andrew Hencic
Andrew Hencic

Andrew Hencic, Director & Senior Economist, TD Economics, said it was another month of the inflation data coming in as expected.

“Top line price growth continues to be restrained by weak readings for gasoline. Moreover, “geopolitical conflicts” were cited as propping up crude prices in June, a factor that faded mid-month and should provide some offset in July. Meanwhile, core inflation held up on an annual basis, with the monthly figures also pointing to healthy price growth. The groundwork for July to continue June’s story (weak top-line price growth and more core strength) looks to be set,” he said.

“Healthy core price growth, coupled with last week’s surprisingly robust employment gains now make a July cut from the Bank of Canada unlikely. However, renewed trade threats add to the uncertainty that has lingered over the economy since the start of the year. Looking forward, the course of trade negotiations and evidence of whether June’s healthy labour market report was a one-off, or the start of a new trend, will be crucial. Ultimately, we believe that absent a quick resolution on trade, the economic backdrop should give the BoC space to deliver more easing this year.”

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Gentle Monster to Open First Canadian Store at Yorkdale

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: Gentle Monster

Innovative South Korean eyewear brand Gentle Monster will make its Canadian debut with a flagship store at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto. Slated to open in fall/winter 2025, the store will occupy over 5,300 square feet in one of the shopping centre’s dedicated luxury wings.

Known for its cutting-edge design and immersive in-store experiences, Gentle Monster’s new space is expected to deliver the same high-concept, gallery-style aesthetic that has captivated consumers in fashion capitals across the globe. Located near the likes of Louis Vuitton, Thom Browne and Acne Studios, the Yorkdale store is poised to attract both loyal followers and first-time visitors eager to experience the brand’s distinctive approach to retail.

Photo: Gentle Monster

Blending Fashion and Art in Retail

Founded in Seoul in 2011 by Hankook Kim, Gentle Monster has become one of the most influential names in global eyewear, celebrated for its experimental design philosophy and unique in-store environments. The brand’s dual identity, combining the “gentle” elegance of minimalism with the “monster” edge of bold expression, translates into eyewear collections that are fashion-forward yet wearable.

Gentle Monster is widely recognized for its oversized frames, use of premium materials, and commitment to innovation. Its product line includes over 50 silhouettes, with more than 20 new styles introduced each year. The frames, typically priced between $200 and $500, cater to a luxury clientele drawn to the brand’s boundary-pushing sensibilities.

Photo: Gentle Monster

Experiential Store Design Comes to Canada

What sets Gentle Monster apart from traditional eyewear retailers is its highly curated and often theatrical store environments. Each flagship is conceived as a one-of-a-kind space, blending conceptual art, kinetic sculpture, and interactive technology to create an immersive, sensory-rich experience.

Examples from around the world include robotic installations in London, hyper-realistic bison in New Jersey, and meditative waterfalls on simulated Martian terrain in Tokyo. These locations are not just stores; they’re destinations. In Canada, Yorkdale’s flagship is expected to follow suit, delivering an elevated experience that merges fashion with art and storytelling.

Photo: Gentle Monster

Global Retail Strategy Anchored in Flagships

Gentle Monster currently operates 78 flagship stores across 13 countries, along with over 200 retail partner locations globally. In the U.S., the brand has a presence in New York, Los Angeles, Houston, and at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, among others. Each flagship is custom-built with a distinct theme, allowing every store to feel like a new encounter with the brand.

Recent global expansions include the opening of a full-line boutique at Chadstone Shopping Centre in Melbourne, Australia, in late 2024, following shop-in-shops in Sydney and Hong Kong. The brand’s retail strategy centres on immersive storytelling and design, reinforcing Gentle Monster’s position at the intersection of luxury, technology, and contemporary art.

Photo: Gentle Monster

Yorkdale: Canada’s Launchpad for Global Luxury Brands

The arrival of Gentle Monster is the latest in a long line of exclusive brand debuts at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre. The mall has steadily built a reputation as the premier destination for first-to-Canada openings, particularly within the luxury and upscale fashion segments.

Yorkdale now hosts the largest collection of luxury retailers in the country, a distinction driven by multi-phase expansions and deliberate efforts to attract global flagships. Over the past decade, the centre has carved out several distinct luxury corridors, each offering a curated experience for high-end shoppers. Gentle Monster’s new location will join one of these wings, adding to a carefully cultivated environment that includes international labels, designer boutiques, and bespoke services.

Photo: Gentle Monster

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Amazon Calgary employees recognized for innovative safety solutions using Dragonfly tool

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Amazon
Photo: Amazon

Two frontline Amazon employees in Calgary were recently recognized by the company for successfully proposing safety ideas using Dragonfly, a tool that Amazon has made available at on-site kiosks and on employees’ devices, enabling them to make real-time safety suggestions stemming from their everyday work experiences.

In 2024, over 130,000 Amazon employees globally used Dragonfly to provide suggestions, with recommendations including changes like repositioning a package scanner so it isn’t accidentally knocked over, while others involve more complex safety measures like adding laser motion sensors to alert forklift drivers when people are nearby.

Photo: Amazon
Photo: Amazon

Preventing Slips and Falls

Jennifer E., who works in the inbound department at Amazon’s YYC4 robotics fulfilment centre in Calgary, was recently presented with a certificate recognizing her contributions to preventing workplace slips and falls.

Jennifer’s Dragonfly submission stemmed from Calgary’s harsh winter climate. Her role at YYC4 involves handling the arrival and processing of products into the fulfilment centre. During the winter months, when products are transported hundreds of miles in tractor trailers in snowy subzero weather conditions, some shipments can arrive at the site frozen, or covered in snow. After thawing, these shipments had the potential to leave puddles of water causing slip hazards at the inbound dock, explained Amazon.

Jennifer E.
Jennifer E.

Jennifer recognized the potential slip hazard, and reported it via Dragonfly. After reviewing Jennifer’s submission, the site’s leadership team worked to implement a dedicated storage location for frozen or snow-covered products received through the inbound dock, located away from employee traffic. In addition to designated storage areas, specialized spillage pallets are now used to collect dripping water from thawing shipments, preventing puddles from forming on the floor, said the company.

“I am so happy to see the positive impact that my idea is having on the safety of my colleagues. It was motivating to see my Dragonfly submission actioned by my manager, and I am now encouraging my colleagues to submit their own ideas,” said Jennifer.

Photo: Amazon
Photo: Amazon

Enhancing Pedestrian Safety

Alyssa M., a frontline employee at Amazon’s YYC1 fulfilment centre in Balzac, made a Dragonfly submission related to pedestrian safety at the 600,000 square foot site, where a high volume of employees move carts from the area where customer orders are fulfilled to the shipping dock. During a routine inspection of the site, Alyssa identified blind spots where employees moving carts might not see inbound pedestrian traffic, creating a potential collision hazard, said Amazon.

Alyssa M.
Alyssa M.

Alyssa submitted her observation in Dragonfly, and within a few short weeks, the site’s leadership had installed a number of spherical mirrors in low-visibility locations identified by the Workplace Health and Safety and Reliability and Maintenance Engineering teams. Thanks to these new mirrors, employees pushing carts are better able to spot incoming traffic, avoiding potential collisions, noted the company.

Alyssa’s contributions were recognized by senior Amazon leadership and celebrated internally at YYC1, where a growing number of employees are now taking advantage of Dragonfly to improve workplace safety from the ground up.

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RCVRI Wellness Studio opens in Toronto’s Entertainment District

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: RCVRI
Photo: RCVRI

RCVRI, a luxury wellness and recovery studio, officially opened its doors on July 1 in the heart of downtown Toronto.

Located on Mercer Street, the 2,300-square-foot space introduces a curated collection of science-backed health and recovery therapies — a first-of-its-kind concept for North America.

The studio is situated between King Street and Blue Jays Way, placing it among some of the city’s most iconic destinations.

Managing Partners Colin Hubley and Ashley Haraburda
Managing Partners Colin Hubley and Ashley HaraburdaEvoto

“We’re right between King Street and Blue Jays Way, so close to TIFF Bell Lightbox, and before you get to the stadium,” said Ashley Haraburda, Managing Partner of RCVRI.  “Right across from us is the new Nobu Hotel, and then our neighbours are the St. Germain and the Bisha Hotel. So we’re located in a destination area.”

RCVRI, which stands for “recovery,” was designed with both locals and visitors in mind. “When we were looking at different areas, we wanted to find somewhere that was walkable and easily accessible. But also, since we are a recovery and wellness destination, we wanted to serve both the local Toronto population and those coming in and out of the city,” she added.

“Everything is designed to help people feel their best and optimize both their physical and mental health,” she said. “So we carry a wide range of different recovery solutions, all that are going to harness the latest innovations but most importantly all backed by science and research.”

The studio features a wet and dry zone, offering a comprehensive menu of advanced wellness technologies. “In the dry area, we have compression therapy, we have red light therapy bed, we have PEMF machine therapy. And then we will be adding more modalities within that dry area as we open,” explained Haraburda.

The wet area includes a hot and cold plunge setup and a sauna. “We also have what we’re referring to as our Superior Suite,” she said. “So it’s a private suite that has a private cold plunge as well as a private sauna. And that space is bookable for about four people at a time — a private space separate.”

RCVRI’s arrival is timely, coinciding with the global rise in interest around longevity, wellness, and biohacking. As more fitness studios begin to incorporate recovery into their offerings, Haraburda believes the demand for dedicated wellness spaces is stronger than ever.

“I think in general right now, there’s so much interest in — I’m sure you’ve heard terms such as longevity and biohacking,” she said. “Speaking to longevity, I think that we’re just at a time where a lot of people are wanting to live longer, healthier. They’re more aware of understanding that if we take care of our body now, we’ll stay strong and more energized for years to come.”

She emphasized RCVRI’s mission to be a science-driven alternative in the growing wellness space. “There’s all these ways now that people are finding ways to hack or upgrade our body and mind, but that gets into where we’re more centered — of using science-backed tools to feel better and be able to perform at our best,” she said.

Photo: RCVRI
Photo: RCVRI

RCVRI’s launch in Toronto marks the brand’s North American debut, with future plans for growth. “RCVRI is a brand that actually started in Australia. We’ve partnered with the team there. Currently in Australia there’s four locations. Ours is the first here in North America,” said Haraburda. “And then there’s expansion plans for both the US and Canada on a wider scale as well.”

As a nod to its new Canadian home, RCVRI is incorporating local touches into the experience. “Just in terms of speaking to the Canadian aspect of it — the sauna, everything is completely Canadian made. We used a Canadian sauna company based out of Quebec,” Haraburda noted. “All the names of the suites we’re giving a nod to Canada and using the Great Lakes. So we’re finding really fun and creative ways to also give a nod to the Canadian ties and really highlighting that here in Canada.”

Youtube video

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Photo: RCVRI
Photo: RCVRI
Photo: RCVRI
Photo: RCVRI

Landmark Cinemas partners with Too Good To Go to fight food waste and offer discounted movie snacks

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo: Landmark
Photo: Landmark

Landmark Cinemas and the social impact company, Too Good To Go, has announced a major partnership, offering Canadian movie goers and food enthusiasts alike a way to save money at Landmark Cinemas, while helping to fight food waste. 

Several Landmark locations across Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario are live on the Too Good to Go app.

It marks the first cinema partnership for Too Good To Go in Canada and marks a milestone in the company’s growth across the country, embodying the company’s mission to combat food waste everywhere, according to a news release. 

Since launching in Canada in 2021 Too Good To Go, and its 16,000 partners have saved more than 10 million meals, across the country. The company has expanded operations to all provinces and continues to welcome businesses of any size to save food and recoup revenue from waste, it said.

Customers saving food via Too Good To Go at participating Landmark locations will have the choice to select from two Surprise Bags, which include surplus food, perfectly good to eat. For $7.99 consumers will receive $24 worth of food that could include nachos, popcorn, cookie bites and hot dogs. The larger bag will sell on the app for $10.99, representing a $33 retail value, and in addition to the movie snacks in the smaller bag will also include pizza and pretzels.

David Cohen
David Cohen

“As a company committed to delivering unforgettable movie experiences, we also recognize our responsibility to reduce our environmental impact. Partnering with Too Good To Go allows us to turn surplus concessions into an opportunity to fight food waste and take another meaningful step toward sustainability. We’re proud to be the first cinema chain in Canada to bring this innovative solution to our guests,” said Landmark’s President, Dave Cohen.

Chris MacAulay
Chris MacAulay

“This partnership with Landmark Cinemas brings our mission to more Canadians in a whole new way,” said Chris MacAulay, Too Good To Go, VP North America. “By saving surplus snacks and treats from going to waste, we’re not only helping the planet-we’re also making sustainability accessible and fun. This partnership shows that even the simple joy of going to the movies can be part of a larger movement toward a more waste-conscious, affordable future.”

Sarah Soteroff, Head of PR for Too Good To Go, North America, said the company is the world’s largest marketplace for selling surplus food. 

“We are an app-based service in North America—that’s how everyone would interact with us. In Europe, we have a number of other platforms, but currently, what you see here is the app,” she said.

Sarah Soteroff
Sarah Soteroff

“So, you would download it in the Google Play or Apple App Store, and we connect businesses who have any type of food that didn’t sell throughout the course of business—and would otherwise have to throw that away—directly to consumers, to purchase at a pretty steep discount.

“For example, I’ll take the Landmark example. We launched with them (recently) across the country, and they would have a ton of popcorn left over at the end of the night—probably some hot dogs, hamburgers, even candy that has a best-before date. That can’t be sold past that date and would otherwise typically get thrown out. All of that can now go into a Too Good To Go Surprise Bag.

“The Surprise Bag mimics the unpredictability of food waste. If I’m a bagel shop owner, I won’t know exactly how many bagels I’ll sell in a day—because if I did, I wouldn’t make extras. There’s always some margin for error and a bit of buffer. This allows those businesses to do something with that food rather than throw it away or heavily discount it in-store.

“This way, they can put it onto the app, sell it, and recoup what would otherwise be lost revenue. The consumer gets great deals, and there’s a bit of fun too because you get to see what’s in your bag only after you purchase it. So you’re kind of going into it a little blind, which people tend to love.”

The company was founded in 2016 in Copenhagen, Denmark, but came to Canada in July 2021.


“We are now national—we operate in every province across the country. (Recently), we crossed the 10 million meals saved milestone, which is huge. So, “meal saved” is our metric—it means bags purchased on the app. So we’ve sold 10 million bags of food that would have otherwise gone to waste. That food would’ve ended up in a landfill had it not been sold,” explained Soteroff.

“We work with partners across the country—everything from grocery stores, every Tim Hortons across the country, every Metro across Ontario, every Food Basics. We also work with partners that range from independent stores with one or two locations to large multi-location brands. We’re at around 16,000 partners nationally across Canada and have around 4 million users in Canada.

“Globally, we have over 175,000 partners, around 125 million users, and we’ve saved over 450 million meals from waste—that’s across 19 countries.”

Landmark is its first theatre partner across Canada. There are some theatre partners in Europe, but in North America, this is the first.

“The reason we partnered with Landmark is that when you go to the movies, you want fresh popcorn. You don’t want popcorn that’s been sitting there all day. So because of that, they’re constantly making fresh popcorn—but if it’s not sold, it becomes waste. That food would otherwise go into a landfill,” said Soteroff.

“And the environmental cost of sending that food to landfill contributes hugely to climate change. Our ultimate goal is to reduce the impact of food waste on the environment. At the same time, we help businesses recoup some money and help consumers get great food at lower prices.”

She said the concept is always launching with new businesses and adding new categories all the time. Two new launches are coming with FreshCo across Ontario and with Cora restaurants nationally.

“We’re always looking for more partners, and we encourage people to join the app. There’s always unpredictability with food waste, so the app looks different every day. We encourage everyone to check back often, see what’s in their area, and see how much food is actually being saved every day. It’s a great way to make an impact,” added Soteroff.

Youtube video

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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For July 15, 2025

By
Retail Insider
-
Canadian Retail News From Around The Web

News at a Glance

Retail Insider is streamlining its Canadian retail news from around the web to include a handful of top news stories that can be viewed quickly during the day. Here are the top stories from the past several days.

Hudson’s Bay fires back at lender seeking termination of Ruby Liu deal: court docs (CBC)

‘Keep your money in Canada’: Duty-free shop owner urges travellers to buy local (CTV)

Trump tariffs live updates: Canada struck with 35% tariffs, Trump floats higher blanket rates (Yahoo)

Aritzia Q1 revenue climbs 33% (Fashion Network)

Edmonton City Centre Mall ordered into receivership (MSN)

Loblaw opens 4 discount stores across 3 provinces (Fresh Plaza)

CHARLEBOIS: Everyone’s suddenly a supply management expert but few understand it (Yahoo)

New Maxi store opens in downtown Montreal (Grocery Business)

‘Not an easy decision’: The Beer Store is closing 10 more stores in Ontario, including 5 in the GTA (CP24)

ARI opens new Spectrum boutique at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (Global Travel Retail)

Toronto BIA warns business owners of ‘point of sale’ scam after thousands of dollars in thefts (CBC)

B.C.’s Meiga Supermarket to close its doors this summer (Canadian Grocer)

‘It’s getting out of hand!’ Jewellery store owners speak out after a rash of recent break-ins (CityNews Toronto)

Roadwork is costing Montague businesses some customers, store owners say (CBC)

Newmarket Costco set to open in August (Grocery Business)

How to choose the best long-distance movers?

By
Retail Insider
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Finding the right company to perform a long-distance move can be difficult and time-consuming, especially if you don’t know where to start. Here are some tips that will help you grasp the most important aspects of long-distance moves and help you understand what you should expect from a team of movers.

Verify licensing and insurance

Before you decide to choose a particular team to perform the move for you, make sure that they are licensed and operate legally, so that you know they can be trusted in the first place. Secondly, check if the company offers adequate insurance coverage for your belongings — although transits are generally consistent and safe, some unexpected situations can still happen, and you want to make sure that you won’t be left with nothing in that case.

Check experience with long-distance moves

During your search, you will quickly notice that there are many moving companies to choose from, but only a few boast impressive experience when it comes to long-distance moves. For example, High Stream Moving has performed over 1,000 of them, and it is something that the team always highlights. The reason why this matters is simple — long-distance moves are complex and have different requirements when compared to short-distance transits.

A lot of the time, a company that knows how to manage transportation but lacks cross-border experience will find itself in trouble, having to deal with unexpected delays due to having less experience with these sorts of situations. In short, the longer the road, the more things can go wrong, and an experienced team knows how to mitigate any arising issues without compromising the quality of the service. 

When you contact the team, ask them about their logistics, routes, and timelines, and if you feel satisfied with their answer, then it is a good sign.

Read reviews

We are blessed to live in an age where hundreds of people leave reviews for any particular company, highlighting both the good and the bad parts of the service. Although it might take a bit of time to read through reviews on Google, Yelp, or other third-party websites, it is incredibly valuable. 

Photo by Esmihel Muhammed / Pexels

If you find that a certain company has a low rating and its clients regularly speak about damaged items or delays, then there is no reason to risk contacting them at all — just look for a different option.

Get transparent quotes

Vague or lowball estimates are unfortunately quite common in the moving industry, and you have to protect yourself beforehand. If you don’t want to overpay, you will have to be proactive. Sometimes it means avoiding a shady company entirely, but even if the team seems reasonable, there are some things you can do to guarantee that everything goes well.

Ask for a binding estimate to avoid surprise charges. Mention what should be included in the quote. This way, you will ensure no wiggle room for unethical practices, and you’ll always know just how much you will have to pay for the work.

Understand their services and policies

Every company operates using its own guidelines, and it’s important to understand which team provides exactly what you need and that you agree with. When you narrow down your search to just a few teams, review their cancellation and refund policies, compare which services they offer, and ask representatives about delivery windows and different scenarios. Remember that staying informed means staying protected.

Smart & Stylish: How to Design a Home That Handles Pets Without Losing Its Charm

By
Retail Insider
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Let’s face it: pets bring joy, love, and a whole lot of mess. From muddy paw prints to shedding fur, it sometimes feels like your home is in constant cleanup mode. And if you’re also juggling kids, schedules, and a never-ending to-do list, the last thing you want is high-maintenance interiors.

But here’s the good news: it’s possible to create a beautiful, functional home that keeps up with everyday life. Just a few smart design choices will help you protect your space without giving up on style.

And a waterproof blanket for dogs can bring a small but mighty upgrade. Soft, stylish, and easy to wash, it’s a game-changer for busy pet parents. Whether your pup likes to curl up on the couch or sprawl on the bed, this simple layer protects your furniture from fur, drool, and accidents while blending in with your decor.

Read on for more clever ideas to make your living environment beautiful, pet-proof, and low-maintenance.

Choose Washable, Pet-Friendly Textiles

First rule of a home where pets live in: avoid anything that’s dry-clean only. Instead, focus on machine-washable fabrics that don’t trap fur and don’t require a lot of effort for cleaning. Go for furniture covers with stretch that hug your couch or armchair snugly, protecting its every corner, and stay in place, even when pets jump up and down.

Bonus tip: darker colors and textured patterns are great at hiding fur and little stains before washing.

Layer Like a Pro

Protect your space with stylish layers that are super easy to swap and clean. Some favorites:

  • Throw blankets on sofas or beds, especially a waterproof blanket for dogs in areas where pets sleep or play.
  • Washable rugs under coffee tables or in entryways where muddy paws land first.
  • Removable cushion covers that can be tossed in the wash when needed.

Layers make it easier to freshen up your space without deep-cleaning every surface.

Pick Pet-Proof Stuff

When shopping for new furniture, always consider your pets’ needs and habits. Leather is great for wipe cleaning, but some pets may scratch it. Performance fabrics from safe polyester, built to withstand stains and damage, are ideal for sofas and chairs in high-traffic rooms.

Already own a beloved couch? Use a stretch slipcover to give it a new life while protecting it from everyday pet damage.

Make Cleanup Quick & Simple

It doesn’t have to take hours to keep your home tidy and welcoming. Try these habits:

  • Keep a lint roller or handheld vacuum near common pet zones.
  • Use a designated waterproof dog blanket on their favorite spots to trap fur and drool.
  • Wipe paws at the door with a washable mat or towel to prevent dirt from spreading indoors.

And for busy mornings? Have one laundry basket just for pet-related items like blankets and cushion covers, so nothing gets missed.

Smart Storage Keeps Clutter Down

Toys, leashes, grooming brushes, treats—it adds up fast. Use baskets or bins to corral pet essentials in one place. Choose storage that looks like decor: woven baskets, vintage crates, or stylish bins on a shelf. This helps your space look tidy, even when life is anything but.

Blend Style with Practicality

You don’t need to sacrifice beauty for function. Match pet-friendly accessories to your home’s color scheme. Choose neutral or earthy tones that feel cozy and calm. Add personality through texture—think soft velvet pillow covers, chunky knit throws, and woven rugs.

And don’t be afraid to upgrade the little things: swap your old dog blanket for a chic, modern waterproof one that looks as beautiful as a decorative throw, not just a utility item.

Designate Pet Zones

Create special areas where your pet can relax, play, or eat—so they don’t take over the entire house. For example:

  • A cozy bed in a quiet corner with their favorite toys.
  • A blanket-lined crate in the bedroom.
  • A feeding station with a washable mat to catch spills.

When pets have their own space, it’s easier to keep messes contained.

Pet Protection That Still Feels Like You

It’s possible to have both: a home that looks good and works for real life. With a little planning and a few essential items—like stretch covers, washable rugs, and a waterproof blanket for dogs—you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your space.

And the best part? These changes don’t have to cost a lot or involve major renovations. A few thoughtful swaps can go a long way in making your home a peaceful, pet-friendly retreat.

Final Thought: Practical Can Be Beautiful

You shouldn’t have to choose between a space that feels like you and one that works for your family and pets. With smart design, functional materials, and easy-to-maintain layers, your home can stay stylish and sane, even on the messiest days.

So go ahead—invite the dog on the couch, let the kids snack during movie night, and relax knowing your home is ready for real life.

Why a T-Shirt Business Makes Sense

By
Retail Insider
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The T-shirt remains a cultural staple. It’s worn across all age groups, styles, and professions. But what makes it especially appealing as a business model is the low upfront cost, minimal inventory risk, and endless creative potential.

Here’s why this venture is ideal for new entrepreneurs:

  • Low startup investment
    You don’t need a warehouse or expensive equipment. Platforms like Shopify and Etsy let you start selling quickly with minimal overhead.
  • Mass appeal
    T-shirts are universally worn, making them perfect for targeting broad or niche audiences.
  • Highly customizable
    From bold political statements to funny graphics and personalized family reunion tees—your creativity is the product.
  • Scalable
    Start with a few designs and scale up as you learn what works. You can go from side hustle to full-time business with the right strategy.

Step 1: Find Your Niche

One of the biggest mistakes new sellers make is trying to appeal to everyone. Finding a niche allows you to tailor your branding and messaging and makes marketing more effective.

Examples of profitable niches include:

  • Local city or regional pride (e.g., “H-Town Originals”)
  • Fitness motivation or gym apparel
  • Pet lovers and breed-specific designs
  • Social causes and awareness shirts
  • Humor and meme-based graphics
  • Faith-based or spiritual apparel
  • School spirit and sports team gear

Ask yourself: Who is this shirt for? What message does it send?
Start narrow—you can always expand your audience later.

Step 2: Design Your First Line

Designing a shirt doesn’t mean you need to be a pro in Photoshop. Plenty of free and affordable tools (like Canva, Adobe Express, and Placeit) offer design templates, mockups, and downloadable assets.

Design tips:

  • Keep it simple and bold—avoid overly detailed graphics.
  • Use high-contrast color combinations for visibility.
  • Stick to 1–3 colors to keep printing costs low.
  • Test how it looks on both light and dark fabric backgrounds.

Once you’ve created a few designs, try showing them to friends or post anonymously on forums to get feedback before launching.

Step 3: Choose a Printing Method

The method you choose depends on your budget, order volume, and desired quality.

1. Print-On-Demand (POD)

Great for beginners. Upload your designs, choose a blank shirt, and the platform prints and ships it for you. No need for inventory or shipping logistics.

Pros:

  • Low risk
  • No inventory
  • Easy to scale

Cons:

  • Smaller profit margins
  • Less control over quality and packaging

Popular POD platforms: Printful, Printify, Gelato, and Teespring.

2. DIY Printing (At Home or Local Shop)

Ideal for those who want control or plan to sell in person. You can use heat transfer vinyl, screen printing kits, or even outsource to a local print shop.

Pros:

  • Higher profit margins
  • Full creative control
  • Can inspect product before shipping

Cons:

  • Time-consuming
  • Requires equipment and learning curve

If you’re going the DIY route, it’s crucial to source quality blank garments that are cost-effective. One great starting point is this resource for affordable custom shirts, which helps minimize production costs without compromising on comfort or print quality.

Step 4: Build Your Online Store

Once you’re ready to sell, choose a platform to set up your storefront.

Options include:

  • Shopify: Great for those wanting a professional store with lots of integrations.
  • Etsy: Ideal for handmade and custom items. Built-in audience.
  • Big Cartel: Simple and free for smaller catalogs.
  • Instagram/TikTok Shop: Perfect for growing brands using video and influencer marketing.

Add clear product descriptions, sizing charts, and multiple product images—including mockups on different people if possible. SEO matters here—include relevant search terms like “funny gym shirts” or “personalized wedding tees.”

Step 5: Promote Like a Pro

Marketing your shirts is just as important as designing them. You don’t need a massive ad budget to build awareness—you just need consistency and authenticity.

Try these marketing ideas:

  • Launch with a giveaway
    Encourage tagging, sharing, and signing up for your email list.
  • Use content marketing
    Create videos showing your design process, packaging orders, or styling tips.
  • Leverage UGC (User-Generated Content)
    Ask customers to share photos wearing your shirts. Repost with permission.
  • Email & SMS campaigns
    Offer a discount on the next purchase or notify customers of new drops.
  • Collaborate with micro-influencers
    People with small but loyal followings often convert better than mega influencers.

Step 6: Scale Smart

Once you’ve built some momentum, focus on scaling. Look at your sales data: which designs are selling best? Which sizes or colors are most popular?

Use that insight to:

  • Launch complementary products (hoodies, hats, totes)
  • Invest in better equipment or larger orders
  • Expand your niche or try seasonal designs
  • Offer limited drops or pre-orders to gauge demand

Final Thoughts

Starting your own T-shirt brand is one of the most accessible paths to entrepreneurship today. Whether you’re focused on creating socially conscious apparel, niche humor graphics, or event-specific merchandise, the steps are the same: find your niche, design with intention, and promote smart.

The key is to start lean. You don’t need to go all in from day one—just start where you are, test your ideas, and keep refining. With access to affordable printing, powerful design tools, and platforms that handle logistics, you’re only a few steps away from turning your creativity into a profitable business.

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