New small format No Frills opens in downtown Toronto (CNW Group/Loblaw Companies Limited - Public Relations)
Statistics Canada recently reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March was up 2.3%, with food inflation higher again, up 3.2%. Tariffs continue to impact inflation, challenging key sectors and lowering consumer confidence, according to the Loblaw April Food Inflation Report which was released on Monday.
While the impact of Canada’s counter tariffs was minimal on food prices in March, as retailers sell through existing inventories higher prices will begin appearing on shelf, it said.
The impact of tariffs on “Made in Canada”
“Made in Canada” products are prominent throughout grocery stores, but consumers have reported some confusion about what that means. For a product to claim “Made in Canada” it means that the last substantial transformation or processing of the product occurred in Canada. This can include assembling or processing ingredients into a finished product, even if some of the ingredients were imported. Using a granola bar as an example, while manufactured here in Canada, often the chocolate chips and peanuts are imported from the U.S. Both of those ingredients are currently subject to a 25% tariff, partially impacting the price of the final product, said the report.
When tariffs stack
“While currently on pause, the tariffs the U.S. has threatened to impose on dozens of countries could indirectly impact food prices here in Canada. Coffee, already facing higher than normal prices due to a poor growing season, is one example. Many U.S. coffee producers import their beans from Vietnam (the second largest producer after Brazil), which could attract a 46% tariff. After roasting and packaging in the U.S., that finished product is sent to Canada, where an additional 25% tariff exists upon entry. As a result, every $1 spent on coffee previously could conceptually cost as much as $1.82 after tariffs,” explained Loblaw.
Our eggs are in more than one basket
“The price of eggs in the U.S. has been in the headlines for several months and, while prices are starting to improve, they’re still up more than 60% since this time last year. In Canada, we haven’t seen the same impact of the Avian Flu crisis, and prices have been much more stable for customers. However, Canada is a net importer of liquid eggs from the U.S., and that cost has increased substantially. Aside from liquid eggs in the egg aisle, the biggest impact will be seen in baked goods, like muffins, cakes and cookies.” added the company.
The report said:
Meat – Pork prices have been rising with demand over the past few months. Chicken remains high after ongoing supply challenges and the beef herd is the smallest since the 1970s due to drought conditions and rising feed prices. Nuts – Nut prices are rising due to a combination of factors, including increased global demand, changes in consumer preferences, and the impact of poor weather in major nutproducing regions. Almonds, Cashews, Walnuts, Pecans, Brazil Nuts collectively have a weighted average increase YOY of 32.7% Coffee – Tight supplies from the 2024 harvest means continued volatility for coffee prices. Recent U.S. tariffs on coffee growing countries led to a minor sell off, then rebound when tariffs paused.
Living Beauty, a new beauty and wellness brand with luxury skincare and beauty essentials, has officially opened its doors on Dupont Street in Toronto, marking a significant addition to the city’s growing retail scene. The store, which opened on March 31st, offers a unique blend of high-end skincare and spa services, coupled with a European-inspired aesthetic that has already garnered positive feedback from local customers.
Mariam White
Founded by Mariam White, Living Beauty aims to bring a much-needed local option for beauty and wellness services in a neighbourhood that is seeing a surge of new businesses.
“What’s been really nice is that people are excited for a local option,” White said. “Beauty is often located in certain areas, especially in Toronto or in malls, so the feedback has been great. People really love our space.”
“Beauty is very personal and deeply emotional—it’s precisely why we’ve created a zero-pressure retail environment that emphasizes comfort, curiosity and real advice. With this neighbourhood-focused location, we see our small footprint, intimate approach and community-focused location as the future of beauty retail.”
The store features a retail component at the front, where customers can find a variety of beauty products, including skincare essentials, makeup, and brow services. The spa area, which is set to open in the coming week, will offer four treatment rooms and provide services such as bi-facials, laser hair removal, and the popular medical device treatments Clear and Brilliant and Ionic Light—two cutting-edge treatments that are rare in Canada.
Source: Living Beauty
White also noted that the spa will eventually add injectables in the next six weeks.
“The space is really beautiful, and we wanted to create an escape for our clients,” White explained. “People have said it doesn’t feel like Toronto. I don’t know what that means, but they say it feels like Europe. That’s very validating for us.”
The location, situated in close proximity to the Ossington neighborhood, is part of a wider trend of urban renewal along Dupont Street, which is attracting new retailers, restaurants, and other businesses. White believes that the area will continue to evolve as a commercial hub, fueled by new condo developments and a growing retail presence.
“Dupont Street in Toronto is slated to become more commercial,” she said. “It was always a little bit industrial, but now it’s right in the centre of the city, and we’re seeing it become a new hotspot.”
Living Beauty’s unique concept also allows the brand to experiment with different models, including potentially offering express facials in the retail area. “We’re our own entity, so we can really play with different models,” White said. “It’s all about finding what works for our customers.”
The brand, which sources many of its products from Europe, has also managed to navigate the challenges posed by recent tariff issues, ensuring that price increases are kept to a minimum.
“We’re really lucky that a majority of our brands originate in Europe,” White shared. “We’re working hard to maintain prices and prevent crazy price hikes because Canadians are already taxed to the max right now, and we don’t want to add to that burden.”
Despite the economic pressures faced by consumers, White believes that the demand for personal care services remains strong. “Personal care can be seen as a luxury, but for a lot of our clients, it’s an everyday essential,” she said. “They consider skincare and products like SPF as important as their toothpaste.”
Source: Living Beauty
As Living Beauty grows, White is optimistic about the brand’s ability to cater to the evolving needs of the Toronto market, with an emphasis on high-quality services and a distinctive European-inspired experience that sets the store apart from others in the city.
With the continued expansion of Dupont Street and the growing desire for localized beauty options, Living Beauty is poised to become a key player in the Toronto beauty and wellness scene.
The new Living Beauty flagship offers a thoughtfully curated selection of results-driven skincare and beauty brands, tailored to support every stage of an individual’s evolving beauty journey.
Featuring over 25 premium lines — including cult-favorites like Biologique Recherche and exclusive Canadian access to brands such as Mimetique and La Bonne Brosse — the flagship brings together a curated edit of performance-led products.
White said every service on the Living Beauty flagship menu is backed by science and chosen with intention.
Source: Living Beauty
Whether that’s a glow-enhancing facial or state-of-the-art skin tech, some professional skincare treatments on offer include:
● Biologique Recherche Facials – A personalized, high-performance facial that enhances skin function and glow.
● Clear + Brilliant Laser – A fractional laser designed for preventative and corrective skin renewal.
● DP4 Microneedling – Precision skin remodeling for fine lines, texture and hyperpigmentation.
● Advanced Chemical Peels – A new generation of peels designed for maximum results with minimal downtime.
● Splendor X Laser Hair Removal – Cutting-edge, gel-free laser technology designed for all skin tones.
In addition to its treatments and retail offerings, Living Beauty serves as a dynamic space for connection, education, and discovery. The flagship location will regularly host immersive in-store events where customers, brand founders, and industry experts come together to explore the latest in skincare, wellness, and professional beauty.
Upcoming events include:
● Linder Health | May 1: A live information session and deep dive into advanced skincare formulations, hosted in partnership with Linder Health. Influencers will receive professional chemical peel treatments.
● Ruby Hammer | May 13: The brand will offer exclusive, media-facing events including a masterclass led by renowned makeup artist Ruby Hammer and 1:1 make-up applications by Ruby herself.
“What’s interesting is that we’re seeing quite a few retail sales. Personal care can be seen as a luxury, but for a lot of our clients, it’s essential. They consider a particular SPF or skincare product as important as their toothpaste—just a more expensive version of it. On the wholesale side, we’re seeing that retailers are looking to refresh their assortments and add new brands. There’s definitely an attraction to brands that originate in Canada or Europe, probably because of the tariffs. Those are definitely affecting people’s attitudes,” added White.
Aisle 24, the fully automated, cashier-less convenience store chain, is accelerating its growth in British Columbia with the launch of its first location on Robson Street in Vancouver, officially opening on May 9, with grand opening celebrations running through May 11.
The company’s BC expansion is being led by Ken Oki, who serves as the Master Franchisee for the province. Oki and a business partner took over the rights to the region with the goal of building out at least 25 locations over the next three to five years.
Source: Aisle 24
“We took over the region for BC to help develop the market over the next five years,” said Oki. “Along with our group, we’ve taken the build-out and rights to grow Aisle 24 in British Columbia.”
Following the Robson launch, a second location is set to open this summer in Richmond, near Richmond Hospital. The expansion strategy includes plans for new locations in Burnaby by 2027 in partnership with Anthem Properties, as well as ongoing discussions with real estate developers to secure optimal sites across the province.
“These are wonderfully sizable stores, so we can get into some pretty tight spaces in residential complexes where there might be gated security,” said Oki. “But we can also get into the bigger public spaces—we have quite a bit of flexibility in where we can fit.”
He said Vancouver’s retail space is tight, but the team is identifying solid opportunities. “Usually right now we’re in the bases of condominiums—that’s where we’ve been seeing a lot of locations, especially in Ontario. We’re also exploring university campuses.”
Store sizes vary depending on location. “The Robson store is about 2,000 square feet—one of our larger locations. The Richmond location will be around 1,000 square feet. So the average or happy medium is about 1,500 square feet,” said Oki.
He said the concept fits well in Vancouver due to the city’s dense urban population and work-from-home trends.
Source: Aisle 24
“Especially with the shift to working at home, and people living in the downtown core and in these master-planned communities that big and small developers have been building—it’s a widely accepted concept,” he said. “People don’t want to run to a grocery store and spend an hour or two just for milk and eggs. They can just run downstairs, grab what they need, and get back to their day. That’s the feedback we get from a lot of users in Ontario.”
Currently, there are 35 Aisle 24 locations in Canada, with several more set to open in early May in Toronto.
“With those and our Robson location, that will bring the total number of stores to 38.”
Although the BC focus is top of mind, Oki confirmed the brand is eyeing further western Canadian growth. “We’re looking to open in Calgary as well. There’s already one in downtown Edmonton, but Calgary is definitely an up-and-coming area for us.”
Circana, LLC, has unveiled new research, “Emerging Trends: Daypart Disruptions Impacting Consumer Behavior,” during the 2025 Growth Summit in Orlando, Florida. The study reveals the evolving dynamics of daily eating patterns, the rise of snack foods in traditional meals, and the influence of life stages and workplace changes on consumer habits.
David Portalatin
“Our research showcases how disruptions in traditional mealtimes are creating opportunities for businesses to rethink their strategies,” saidDavid Portalatin, senior vice president and food industry advisor for Circana. “By addressing these shifts, companies can stay relevant and connected to their audiences while tapping into new moments for growth.”
The report highlights pivotal shifts in consumer behaviour, including:
Transformations in Daily Eating Patterns: Early breakfasts are becoming more prominent, with 39% of consumers eating before 8 a.m., an increase of 5 points in 2024 compared to 2020. Lunchtime is losing favour as more consumers turn to convenient, on-the-go solutions, while dinner is increasingly shaped by heat-and-eat or ready-to-eat options.
Snack Foods Redefining Meals: Snacks are no longer just between-meal indulgences but are frequently integrated into lunches and dinners, with snackable items like chips, crackers, and nuts gaining popularity. In 2024, 37% of consumers were looking for quick bites instead of larger meals, compared to 36% in 2023, and 29% in 2010.
Influence of Work Trends: The shift to hybrid work models has markedly changed away-from-home meal consumption patterns for morning and lunch occasions. Initially, the increase in hybrid and remote schedules posed headwinds for the foodservice industry. However, office occupancy rates have been trending upward, as many companies have strengthened their return-to-office policies. This shift presents a valuable opportunity for the foodservice industry to boost demand for morning commute and lunch occasions. Notably, in January and February, white-collar workers increased their on-premises foodservice morning and lunch visits by 8% compared to a year ago.
“Recognizing these emerging consumption moments will help restaurants and retailers to reimagine opportunities across dayparts and tailor offerings to fit evolving consumer preferences for portion size, portability and price points,” added Portalatin.
Circana is a leader in providing technology, AI, and data to fast-moving consumer packaged goods companies, durables manufacturers, and retailers seeking to optimize their businesses.
Port Carling’s cherished boutique retailer, Poppys Collection, is once again preparing for an influx of shoppers as the Muskoka summer season approaches. Located at 101 Maple Street, the store is a mainstay in the lakeside town, offering timeless, high-quality apparel for infants, children, and women. While the region is best known for its summertime hustle, Poppys has grown into a year-round destination for locals and seasonal visitors alike.
“I’m kind of on part-time maternity leave at the moment, so we balance time between Muskoka and where my husband works,” explains Kathryn McNally, founder of the boutique. “We stay open Fridays and Saturdays during the off-season and ramp up to seven days a week after the May long weekend.”
Kathryn McNally, founder of Poppys Collection
As McNally notes, the flow of shoppers typically surges from late spring through early fall, when thousands of cottage-goers descend on Muskoka. “We usually phase in our seven days a week, starting with five days a week in May and then fully open in the summer,” she says.
Filling a Niche in Muskoka’s Retail Scene
Founded nearly a decade ago, Poppys Collection was inspired by McNally’s own experience and a desire to bring quality children’s clothing to Canadian families. “My mom had a hard time finding nice clothes for my nephew, and that’s when I started looking at European brands,” she recalls. “I wanted timeless pieces that wouldn’t feel dated after just one season.”
The concept behind Poppys is simple: high-quality, durable clothing with a design sensibility that avoids the trend treadmill. “A lot of the brands I work with are woman-owned and mom-run. They focus on timeless quality—pieces you can pass down from one child to the next,” she says. “You don’t want something that screams 2020 or 1995.”
The store’s selections range from elegant children’s wear to tasteful women’s accessories, reflecting a curation process grounded in international travel and personal connection. “I shop around the world and bring back what I fall in love with,” McNally adds.
Inside Poppys Collection, image supplied
Unique in the Region
While Muskoka is known for its charming independent shops, Poppys Collection occupies a unique niche.
“There’s one other children’s store in Bracebridge, but we’re a bit different,” McNally says. “We’re really the only thing like this in Muskoka, which is exciting.”
Port Carling itself has become a haven for female-led businesses, a fact McNally celebrates. “It’s a pretty amazing little pocket. So many of the shops here are woman-owned and operated,” she says. “There’s a lot of camaraderie.”
Serving a Diverse and Affluent Clientele
Poppys Collection caters to a broad mix of customers, from year-round residents to affluent cottagers. “Muskoka definitely has a local community, but we also see many families who come up in the summer and have cottages here,” says McNally. “They’re usually here between June and September.”
The clientele includes both Canadian and international visitors, with American tourism playing a critical role.
“American tourism is important to any business in Muskoka,” she says. “We all do the majority of our revenue in about 10 to 12 weeks, so all tourism is crucial.”
And yes, Muskoka has its share of celebrity visitors. “Cindy Crawford has a cottage, and Lisa Rinna’s husband has one as well,” she notes. “There are rumours about other celebrities too, but I’m not sure how true they are!”
Maple Street in Port Carling, Ontario. Image: Apple Maps
Navigating Economic Uncertainty and Tariff Pressures
As with many independent retailers, Poppys faces uncertainty due to evolving international trade dynamics—particularly discussions surrounding tariffs.
“It’s hard for a small business. You have to plan your buying a year in advance,” McNally explains. “When I placed orders for Spring/Summer 2025, I didn’t know what would happen politically or economically a year later. So you’re taking a risk.”
McNally notes that she was fortunate to anticipate potential tariff increases late last year. “With the talk happening in December, I was able to move up my orders and make sure everything came in before tariffs might go into effect,” she says. “But it’s hard to plan when things change so fast.”
That level of unpredictability makes long-term planning difficult. “Every time I pick up my phone, it feels like there’s a new headline,” she says. “It’s exhausting.”
A Vision for the Future, Rooted in Community
Despite the economic volatility, McNally remains committed to growing Poppys Collection as a fixture in the Port Carling business community.
“Over the next few years, I want to continue being a meaningful part of the retail landscape here,” she says. “We’re providing great employment and are part of a really special network of small businesses.”
The community aspect is deeply woven into Poppys’ operations. From in-store story times for kids to manicures for moms, McNally has prioritized a family-friendly atmosphere that goes beyond typical retail experiences. The store even gathers customer input through local focus groups to fine-tune its assortment.
In addition, Poppys maintains an active online store, extending the brand’s reach well beyond cottage country.
“We have loyal customers across Canada who shop online, and that’s helped us stay resilient year-round,” says McNally.
A Muskoka Favourite Poised for Another Busy Summer
With May long weekend approaching and tourism expected to rebound, McNally is optimistic about the summer ahead.
“We’re looking forward to seeing new and familiar faces,” she says. “It’s a special time in Muskoka, and we’re excited to be part of it again.”
Although exact population numbers in Port Carling fluctuate dramatically from winter to summer, McNally emphasizes that the community support remains consistent. “In December, you might go an hour without seeing anyone,” she laughs. “But by July, you’ll see hundreds of people walking the streets. It’s a dramatic but beautiful shift.”
For McNally, it all comes back to the joy of offering something meaningful to families. “I created Poppys because I wanted to build something lasting,” she says. “It’s not just about fashion—it’s about creating special moments.”
Lush, “the handmade cosmetics company with a campaigning heart”, announced during Autism Acceptance Month a partnership with KultureCity, the world’s leading non-profit on sensory accessibility and acceptance.
With the aim to create a more inclusive shopping environment for individuals with sensory disabilities or those who experience sensory overload; or even those who simply prefer it, the partnership will launch with a pilot program at 25 Lush shops across the United States and Canada, it said.
“Lush remains dedicated to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. This work has come to life through its Community Network Program, which strives to create protected spaces for Lush staff representing historically underserved and underrepresented communities. This includes the CINDers (Chronically Ill, Neurodiverse, and Disabled) Community Network, whose members elevated the need for sensory inclusive shopping in Lush retail shops,” said the retailer.
Source – Lush
“At Lush, we pride ourselves on offering tailored customer experiences that are led by curiosity. While many love and seek out Lush’s in-store experience for its bright colors, buffet of smells, and bountiful opportunities to try products for themselves, there is room to create more pathways for customers with sensory needs to enjoy it all in a way that works for them,” said Amanda Lee Sipenock Fisher, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Program Lead at Lush.
The topic hits close to home for many of Lush’s team members, with 55% of staff who completed its fourth Global Demographic Survey in May 2024 sharing they were disabled, neurodiverse, and/or living with chronic illness. Of that group, 51% shared that one or more of their conditions were non-visible, it said.
“At the 25 Lush shops that will launch the pilot program, staff received training and certification empowering them to meet the needs of customers with sensory disabilities. Additionally, sensory bags will be available for customers with items including noise cancelling headphones, fidget tools, strobe-reducing glasses, and an emotions-cue card when the ability to communicate non-verbally is helpful. Shops also have masks available to assist in any smell related sensory avoidance. Through mindful modifications like trained staff and Sensory Bags, accessibility and inclusion are possible all of the time, not just during certain hours,” it added.
From left to right, Céline Roy, Gaëtanne Côté, Ginette Perron, Pierre Mallais, Mona Savoie, Michelle Dubé, General Manager, Coopérative de Saint-Quentin, Vanessa Bourgoin, Gilles Lamarche, Jean-Michel Roy, Yanick Marin, and Yanick Hamel, Business Development, RONA inc.
RONA Inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers, operating and servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores, has announced the Coopérative de Saint-Quentin hardware store, located in New Brunswick, is now part of its network of affiliated dealers.
The store, which has been operating under the Home Hardware banner until now, will display the distinctive colours of RONA’s affiliated dealers this spring. According to the store’s owners, one of the main reasons for this change of banner was their desire to improve their assortment of products and services for local construction and home improvement professionals, said the retailer.
“La Coopérative de Saint-Quentin has been part of the community for over 85 years. With a hardware store and a grocery store under the same roof, our goal is to offer the best services in the region. We saw that there was a demand, so we banded together to meet that demand,” said Michelle Dubé, General Manager of La Coopérative de Saint-Quentin. “Today, in the hopes of better serving our community and its growing needs for building and renovation services, we have decided to join the RONA network and enhance our offering to local entrepreneurs and DIYers.”
An updated selection for pro customers
With an area covering 12,000 square feet, a vast indoor yard for lumber and building materials, and a large outdoor lumberyard, the store already has many features that cater to the region’s pro customers. However, in the weeks to come, their experience will prove to be even better thanks to an upgraded selection of lumber, building materials, paint and seasonal products to meet the needs of Saint-Quentin’s entrepreneurs. In addition, a new PRO desk will be added in the spring, said the company.
Alain Ménard
“The team at La Coopérative de Saint-Quentin truly cares about its community and is aligned with RONA’s mission, which is to help communities build homes and dreams. We are thrilled to welcome them to RONA’s network of affiliated dealers and to support them in their future projects, aiming to ensure the growth and longevity of this historic place,” added Alain Ménard, Senior Vice-President, RONA Affiliated Dealers, RONA inc.
RONA is headquartered in Boucherville, Québec. and its network operates and services some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the RONA+, RONA, and Dick’s Lumber banners.
Chick-fil-A, Inc. announced it awarded more than US$27 million in scholarships to restaurant Team Members and community leaders in 2025.
This marks a record-breaking annual investment in the company’s scholarship giving and underscores its commitment to supporting the educational and career aspirations of both Team Members and community leaders, said the company.
Key Highlights for 2025:
In Canada, 61 Restaurant Team Members received scholarships of about C$1,400 (US$1,000) or about C$3,500 (US$2,500) each, totalling about C$145,000 (US$101,500) in scholarships awarded in 2025.
US$27 million awarded in scholarships to Chick-fil-A restaurant Team Members.
Over 15,000 Team Members across Canada, the U.S. and Puerto Rico received scholarships of up to US$2,500.
The company exceeded its corporate social responsibility goal to impact more than 50,000 Team Member lives through education opportunities between 2020-2025, impacting 69,000 since 2020.
Investing in Restaurant Team Members and Community Leaders
Andrew T. Cathy
“Chick-fil-A is deeply committed to investing in the remarkable futures of both Chick-fil-A Team Members and community leaders,” said Andrew T. Cathy, CEO. “The growth of scholarship giving at Chick-fil-A reflects our belief in the power of education to transform lives. We are honoured to support these exceptional students as they pursue their educational aspirations and look forward to seeing how they make a positive impact in their communities.”
According to a 2024 survey of restaurant Team Member Scholarship recipients, 21.3% said they were first-generation college students.
Applications for the 2026 Remarkable Futures scholarships and the Community Scholars program will be available in August.
About the Scholarships
Scholarships funded by Chick-fil-A, Inc. can be beneficial for recipients for many reasons, including, said the company:
Up-front award: Chick-fil-A scholarships are awarded to recipients up front and can be directly applied to qualified tuition and related expenses, including fees, books and supplies.
Applicable at any qualifying school, college or university: Scholarships can be applied in any area of study at any accredited institution of the recipient’s choice, including two- or four-year colleges and universities, online programs, or vocational-technical schools.
No employment tenure requirements (for restaurant Team Members): There is no requirement of hours worked or length of service required to apply. Team Members just have to be a full- or part-time restaurant employee at a franchised, company-owned and/or affiliated restaurant (including S. Truett Cathy Brand Restaurants) in Canada, the United States, or Puerto Rico to apply for or receive a Chick-fil-A Remarkable Futures™ Scholarship.
Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States, known for its freshly-prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. More than 200,000 Team Members are employed by local Owner-Operators in more than 3,100 restaurants across Canada, the United States, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom.
US President Donald Trump holds up a sign that lists all of the countries around the world he has imposed new tariffs on as of April 2. (Image credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
By Eric Linxwiler. The Trump administration has revived tariffs as a core instrument of U.S. trade policy, imposing sweeping new duties on imports from Canada, Mexico, and the European Union, a 10% baseline tariff on nearly all U.S. imports, and sharply elevated rates—up to 145%—on Chinese goods.
These actions and the threat of even greater tariffs to come have triggered a rapid escalation in trade tensions, with U.S. trading partners announcing retaliatory tariffs of their own.
Eric Linxwiler
For retailers, the result has been a surge in sourcing costs, mounting supply chain complexity, and growing uncertainty in pricing and planning. Some companies have responded by front-loading inventory or passing on costs to consumers, but those reactive approaches alone are insufficient for what is increasingly looking like a structural shift in global trade. The new normal will require long-term strategic adaptation.
A new report from TradeBeyond, Managing Tariff Turbulence in Supply Chains, highlights eight strategies that brands and retailers are using to build resilience and mitigate the risks posed by tariffs this year and beyond, including diversifying supplier bases, employing real-time scenario planning, and exploring tariff engineering.
Diversifying Suppliers and Sourcing
While diversification has long been a foundational sourcing principle, 2025 has exposed just how fragile even moderately diversified supply chains can be. The recent tariff escalation caught many companies off guard—particularly in high-risk categories like apparel and consumer electronics—despite efforts to broaden their supplier base.
What’s different now is the speed and scale of tariff changes, which are forcing brands to reassess not only their country exposure but also their supplier readiness. Many are moving beyond basic diversification, building out multiple pre-vetted alternatives in each major category and negotiating capacity-sharing agreements that enable production to shift on short notice.
To reduce exposure, sourcing teams are now identifying new suppliers in lower-tariff regions and adjusting their logistics networks accordingly. Some maintain a preferred vendor list within a centralized sourcing platform, ensuring two or three vetted alternatives in each major product category. Others are negotiating capacity-sharing agreements that allow production to shift quickly without the need for renegotiated factory approvals.
Mapping out a complete alternate supply chain on short notice is difficult and time-consuming, which is why leading companies are turning to digital platforms that centralize supplier profiles, certifications, and performance data. Real-time visibility into supplier capabilities and compliance metrics is critical for managing the volatility of today’s new global trade order.
Operationalizing What-If Planning and Scenario Modeling
Uncertainty around tariffs has made scenario planning essential. Retailers need to be equipped to model different sourcing, pricing, and inventory outcomes quickly—at any point in the planning cycle. Scenario planning enables teams to ask “what if” questions: What if tariffs rise another 10%? What if a preferred supplier is suddenly targeted by new duties? What if rerouting or reshoring could reduce total landed cost?
The most resilient organizations are enabling cross-functional teams—not just finance—to run these simulations in real time. That requires a multi-enterprise platform that centralizes landed cost inputs and supports granular, SKU-level modeling based on shifting trade policies. The goal is to move from reactive cost-cutting to proactive decision-making.
To enable this, businesses are adopting open costing systems that incorporate full cost breakdowns beyond just FOB pricing—factoring in freight, duty, insurance, and compliance costs. When combined with real-time HTS classification data, these tools ensure accurate duty calculations and allow for rapid response to new tariff conditions. This is no longer a theoretical exercise; it’s a core competency for companies navigating today’s sourcing challenges.
Exploring Tariff Engineering
Some companies are taking a more technical approach by exploring tariff engineering— modifying product design or classification to qualify for lower tariff rates. For example, an apparel manufacturer might adjust the fiber composition of a shirt to reduce its applicable tariff.
Others are auditing high-risk SKUs to identify reclassification opportunities or substitute inputs that maintain quality while reducing costs.
Accurate tariff classification is the foundation of this strategy. Companies must ensure that every product has an HTS code assigned at the item level based on material composition, construction, and intended use. Misclassification can lead to overpayment or regulatory penalties, which makes regular auditing and staff training essential.
Businesses are also revisiting duty drawback programs, which allow companies to reclaim tariffs paid on goods that are eventually exported. Additionally, some are leveraging foreign trade zones (FTZs) to defer or eliminate tariffs on goods processed or stored within those areas. While these strategies may seem niche, they can offer meaningful savings—especially when margins are tight and tariffs are high.
These and other strategies are covered in greater depth in TradeBeyond’s new Managing Tariff Turbulence in Supply Chains report. As the trade landscape continues to shift, companies that invest in flexibility, transparency, and cross-functional coordination will be best positioned to thrive. Tariffs may be unpredictable, but with the right strategies in place, retailers can protect profitability and maintain supply continuity.
(Eric Linxwiler is Senior Vice President of TradeBeyond. He has over 30 years of experience in enterprise software and cloud-based platform companies with a specialty in supply chain optimization and workflow management. Contact him at eric.linxwiler@tradebeyond.com.?
Rogers Place at the ICE District in Edmonton. Image: DIALOG
With the NHL playoffs officially underway, Canadian hockey fans have more reason than ever to rally behind their teams—and their wallets might be getting in on the action too.
This year’s postseason comes with renewed excitement. The Winnipeg Jets, who clinched the President’s Trophy, are viewed as strong contenders for the Stanley Cup. Toronto secured its division just last night, setting the stage for a possible “Battle of Ontario” against rival Ottawa—making its first playoff appearance since 2017.
Meanwhile, Edmonton’s playoff momentum remains strong after last year’s impressive run, and anticipation continues to build around Montreal potentially clinching a spot. If so, this would be the first time since 2017 that five Canadian teams have entered the playoffs.
Beyond the on-ice drama, Canadian businesses—particularly those near major arenas—stand to benefit significantly from the wave of fan engagement. According to Moneris, Canada’s leading payment processing provider, playoff hockey isn’t just a cultural moment; it’s also a proven economic catalyst.
Playoff Season Drives Major Spending Increases
Sean McCormick, Vice President of Business Development and Data Services at Moneris
“Canadian hockey teams making the playoffs doesn’t just lift spirits—it boosts sales,” said Sean McCormick, Director of Business Development – Data Services and LAKA Sales Leadership at Moneris. “During last year’s finals, even with the Oilers on the road, spending near the Edmonton arena jumped over 200 per cent. Similarly, Montreal’s 2021 playoff run saw spending near the Bell Centre nearly triple.”
That trend has continued over recent playoff seasons. For instance, game seven of the 2024 Stanley Cup Finals saw a massive 214% spike in spending near Edmonton’s ICE District—even though the Oilers were playing out of town. Across Edmonton as a whole, spending rose 78%, with increases of 33% in Alberta and 16% nationwide.
The pattern holds true across the country. When the Canadiens won an overtime game during the 2021 Stanley Cup Finals, fans near Montreal’s Bell Centre surged into local bars and restaurants. Moneris data showed a 160% spike in spending near the arena at 11:30 p.m., along with a 245% increase across the city and a 137% jump in Quebec.
Home or Away, Fans Fuel Local Commerce
Whether teams are on home ice or winning on the road, the energy translates into tangible results for businesses. During the 2024 playoffs, every Oilers home game resulted in over a 50% increase in local spending near Rogers Place in the ICE District. Even away wins created momentum. In round two against Vancouver, Edmonton saw a 20% jump in spending near the arena and a 24% increase across the city for a road game.
Moneris tracked increases across multiple categories, including bars, restaurants, and fast-food establishments. The data shows that even when teams lose, game days still lift sales. For example, Toronto’s playoff performance in 2023 showed mixed on-ice results, but bars and restaurants saw double- and triple-digit spending spikes during key games.
Bell Centre in downtown Montreal. Image: Wikipedia
The Power of Elimination Games
“When the pressure’s on, Canadians don’t just show up for the game—they show up in a big way for businesses,” said McCormick. “Elimination games consistently drive some of the highest spikes in spending.”
That was clearly evident in Toronto’s 2023 playoff run. In game four of the second round, with the Leafs facing elimination on the road, restaurant spending near the Scotiabank Arena surged 126%. Across the city, spending rose 113%.
Rivalries Amplify Economic Impact
Perhaps nothing energizes hockey fans—and local economies—like a heated playoff rivalry. Moneris’ data from the 2022 “Battle of Alberta” shows just how impactful this can be.
During game three in Edmonton, spending near Rogers Place skyrocketed by 233%. In Calgary, even though the Flames were on the road, transaction volume still rose 75% near the arena. “Nothing sparks fan excitement like a good rivalry,” said McCormick. “If the Battle of Ontario returns this year, local business should be ready for the surge.”
Local Businesses Poised to Win Big
The playoffs represent a significant opportunity for food and beverage operators, particularly those located in close proximity to arenas. When the Canadiens reached the finals in 2021, Moneris recorded explosive growth in bars and restaurants during key moments of the games, especially in the later hours. In one standout case, spending at 11:00 p.m. spiked 222% near the Bell Centre.
In Edmonton, game day comparisons from 2024 show consistent double- and triple-digit gains for bars and restaurants, both near the arena and across the city. Notably, games three and six of the Stanley Cup Finals generated the highest increases, with near-arena spend up 135% and 151%, respectively.
A Stanley Cup Would Mean More Than Just Bragging Rights
No Canadian team has won the Stanley Cup since 1993—a drought now more than 30 years long. But as excitement builds around multiple Canadian teams this year, the economic benefits could be felt nationwide.
“With Canadian patriotism on the rise and several teams in the playoffs, there’s a real buzz across the country,” said McCormick. “Over the years, Moneris’ data has shown that when Canadian teams hit the ice, local businesses feel the momentum too—especially those near the arena.”
With Moneris continuing to monitor spending trends throughout the playoffs, Canadian businesses, particularly those in the hospitality sector, are well-positioned to score big.
Conclusion
From Toronto’s Maple Leaf Square to Edmonton’s ICE District, Canadian hockey fans are creating more than just memorable playoff moments. Their celebrations, whether fuelled by hope or heartbreak, are driving substantial economic activity. And if this year marks the end of Canada’s Stanley Cup drought, the ripple effects could go far beyond the rink.
Moneris says it will continue to release spending data throughout the 2024 playoffs, offering a unique window into how national pride and playoff hockey can fuel Canadian businesses.
