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Mud Australia Opens 1st Canadian Retail Showcase at Hopson Grace

MUD Australia at Hopson Grace in Toronto. Photo: Hopson Grace

Mud Australia, the iconic Sydney-based ceramics brand, has opened its first Canadian retail showcase inside Toronto’s Hopson Grace. The 200-square-foot installation, which launched in mid-October, brings the brand’s minimalist aesthetic and expanded home collection to Canadian customers for the first time.

Located within Hopson Grace’s 4,000-square-foot flagship at 200 Dupont Street, the new concept space presents Mud Australia’s full line of handcrafted porcelain pieces, from tableware to lighting, in a setting that reflects both the brand’s refined design ethos and Hopson Grace’s curated approach to home living.

“We’re honoured to host Mud Australia’s first holistic retail presence in Canada,” said Andrea Hopson, co-founder of Hopson Grace. “Their thoughtful approach to design and colour aligns perfectly with our aesthetic and community of design-conscious customers.”

MUD Australia founder Shelley Simpson, centre, with Martha Grace McKimm and Andrea Hopson. Photo: Hopson Grace

A Collaboration Rooted in Craftsmanship and Shared Values

Founded in 1994 by designer Shelley Simpson, Mud Australia began as a small studio in Sydney with a mission to create timeless, functional ceramics that elevate everyday living. The company has since grown into a global design leader with standalone stores in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, London, New York, and Los Angeles.

Each piece is handmade from Limoges porcelain, sourced from France and tinted with the brand’s distinctive pigments. The result is a collection that blends simplicity, durability, and refined beauty.

“This is a new concept for us,” said Simpson during an interview with Retail Insider at the Toronto showcase. “We’ve only ever done our own retail stores. Partnering with Hopson Grace gives us the opportunity to bring the full Mud experience to Canada in a space that truly represents who we are.”

The new Mud Australia Toronto showcase mirrors the calm and considered spirit of the brand’s international flagships. Visitors can explore all 19 of Mud’s signature colours and over 100 product profiles, ranging from muted neutrals to vibrant architectural tones such as red, yellow, and charcoal.

“We’ve long admired what Hopson Grace has built in Canada,” Simpson added. “Their commitment to quality and storytelling makes this the right home for Mud in North America.”

MUD Australia shop-in-store at Hopson Grace in Toronto. Photo: Hopson Grace

Hopson Grace Marks Its 10th Anniversary with Global Expansion

The arrival of Mud Australia Toronto also marks a milestone year for Hopson Grace. Founded in 2015 by Andrea Hopson and Martha Grace McKimm, the Toronto-based brand was built around a philosophy of intentional living, global design, and timeless craftsmanship.

From its beginnings as a tableware boutique, Hopson Grace has evolved into a comprehensive home destination featuring furniture, home décor, and exclusive collaborations with luxury brands including Ginori 1735, Richard Brendon, Sabre Paris, and David Mellor.

“We built Hopson Grace around the idea that conscious consumption and quiet luxury — choosing fewer, better things — naturally leads to more sustainable living,” said McKimm. “Mud Australia not only shares our philosophy, they bring it to life in the objects they create that are refined, functional, and made to last.”

Hopson Grace in Toronto. Photo: Industryous Photography

Beyond Tableware: Expanding the Home Collection

At the Toronto showcase, Mud’s expanded collection includes more than its signature tableware. Customers can browse sculptural pendant lighting, hand-cast house numbers, vases, and scented candles, each designed to merge beauty with everyday function.

“We specialize in dinnerware, but we’ve expanded into bakeware and home lighting,” explained Simpson. “Every piece is designed to be elegant yet practical. Fine enough to feel special, durable enough for daily use.”

Each porcelain item is fired at 1,280°C, giving it strength and a delicate texture. “We keep things very fine because it makes them more comfortable to use,” said Simpson. “You feel the difference when you hold it in your hand or bring it to your mouth.”

Simpson describes Mud’s aesthetic as informed by global influences. “People often say it looks Scandinavian, but it also carries Asian sensibilities,” she said. “Sydney is multicultural, just like Toronto. The collection reflects that diversity and how people eat and live today.”

MUD Australia at Hopson Grace in Toronto. Photo: Hopson Grace

The Registry: Hopson Grace’s Next Digital Chapter

Alongside the new in-store installation, Hopson Grace is preparing to launch The Registry, a proprietary digital platform for modern couples that merges technology with curation.

“We think The Registry is going to be game-changing for Canadian couples,” said McKimm. “It merges the digital tools people expect, like group gifts, cash funds, and travel experiences, with the curated, premium selection Hopson Grace is known for.” Calgary-based eCommerce Canada has been working behind the scenes to set it up. 

The platform, launching later this year, will serve customers across North America, allowing them to register for gifts, experiences, and curated home items. “We realized we had to build it ourselves,” McKimm added. “The existing platforms were frustrating for couples and retailers alike. The Registry combines functionality with taste. It’s modern, personal, and built for how people actually live.”

MUD Australia shop-in-store at Hopson Grace in Toronto. Photo: Hopson Grace

A Shared Vision for Conscious Retail

Hopson Grace’s collaboration with Mud Australia reflects a shared belief in meaningful design and the value of storytelling in retail. Both brands have cultivated reputations for sustainability, craftsmanship, and longevity — qualities increasingly sought by consumers looking for authenticity and connection in what they buy.

“We ship mainly by sea because it’s better for the environment,” said Simpson. “It doesn’t add much to the cost, and it’s aligned with how we think about longevity and care.”

Hopson Grace takes a similar approach to curation. “We partner with brands that share our values,” said McKimm. “Our customers want to know where products come from and why they matter. That transparency builds trust.”

The two brands have worked together for seven years, with Hopson Grace previously carrying select Mud pieces. The new shop-in-shop marks the first time the complete Mud Australia collection is available in Canada.

“When it comes to storytelling and growing our brand, we don’t just curate products, we curate partnerships,” said McKimm. “Mud was the natural choice for us. Our customers were already asking for more of it.”

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Barclay Street Real Estate report highlights stability in Calgary retail sector

CF Chinook Centre. Photo: Mario Toneguzzi
CF Chinook Centre. Photo: Mario Toneguzzi

Calgary’s retail market continues to demonstrate strength and resilience, according to a new report by Barclay Street Real Estate.  

Availability has steadily trended downward since the start of 2025, reaching 3.8% in the third quarter – a decrease of 20 basis points quarter-over-quarter and 90 basis points year-over-year, said the report.

“With less than 2 million square feet available citywide, Calgary remains below what is typically considered a balanced market. Limited supply is fueling upward pressure on rental rates, with occupancy climbing to 96.2%,” explained the report.

“The city’s retail landscape remains stable, supported by strong tenant demand. The narrow gap between availability and vacancy reflects a stable market with little excess space set to return, underscoring the steady absorption of existing inventory. 

“Retailer confidence is especially evident in suburban nodes, where service-oriented and food-based retailers remain highly active. Calgary’s retail inventory now totals 45.6 million square feet, representing an increase of approximately 300,000 square feet since the start of the year as new projects were delivered.” 

CF Chinook Centre. Photo: Mario Toneguzzi
CF Chinook Centre. Photo: Mario Toneguzzi

Barclay Street said the quarter saw the completion of Fourth Street Lofts in the Beltline, adding 3,500 square feet, along with the Junction at Market and Main (Blocks 88 and C) in Seton, bringing additional street front retail supply. Despite this growth in inventory, overall availability has decreased by 70 basis points since January, highlighting strong absorption across the market. 

“Suburban submarkets are leading performance, with vacancy in northern Calgary at 2.2%,  demonstrating particularly strong tenant demand. Downtown vacancy, by contrast, remains elevated, driven by higher operating costs, shifts in consumer patterns, and ongoing changes in the office market,” said Barclay.

“By format, community shopping centres and street front retail continue to perform steadily while activity in the beltline has strengthened – dropping vacancy 60 basis points to 7.6%. Southpoint Plaza in Calgary’s southeast has entered the construction pipeline and is now actively pre-leasing. Once complete, it will add meaningful supply to an already thriving suburban hub. 

“Anthem and Harbour Equity also broke ground on a new open-air retail centre in Belmont. The project will deliver 145,000 square feet across 14 buildings, anchored by grocery, drug, and liquor stores, alongside quick-service and full-service restaurants. Construction began in August 2025, with completion targeted for Summer 2027.”

The report said service-based retail continues to lead leasing activity, extending the momentum seen earlier this year. 

Image: Wingstop Canada

“Food and beverage operators remain especially active. Local favourite, Pie Junkie expanded with its fifth shop, while national brands like Dave’s Hot Chicken and Wingstop continue to enter Calgary’s strongest trade areas. These new openings reinforce confidence in the city’s consumer base and its ability to attract both local entrepreneurs and international investment,” said Barclay. 

“As Calgary’s retail market enters the final quarter of 2025, record-low availability fuels upward pressure on rents, while suburban nodes are capturing strong tenant demand. National brands are expanding, local concepts are scaling, and major redevelopment projects are re-shaping urban nodes. Together, these dynamics position Calgary for a strong finish to 2025 and sustained momentum into 2026.“

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Angelcare opens new Milton logistics and packaging facility

Photo: Elaine Fancy
Photo: Elaine Fancy

Angelcare Group has opened a new 130,000-square-foot logistics and packaging centre in Milton, Ont., marking a more than $20-million investment in its Canadian operations.

The company, a global manufacturer of baby and pet care products, said the new facility will strengthen its North American supply chain, support sustainable growth and create local employment opportunities.

Rahul Sharda
Rahul Sharda

“This strategic investment reflects our confidence in Canada as the cornerstone of Angelcare’s global operations,” said Rahul Sharda, CEO of Angelcare Group. “The new Packaging and Distribution Centre in Milton represents more than just an expansion of our footprint—it is a bold step forward in strengthening our supply chain, creating new opportunities for our people, and ensuring we deliver the quality, service, and innovation our customers expect.”

The centre will serve as Angelcare’s national warehouse and distribution hub and includes the company’s first dedicated packaging facility for Litter Genie® Light, a “Product of Canada” cat litter made from natural Canadian bentonite clay. The product is additive-free, 99 per cent dust-free and 20 per cent lighter than leading national brands, offering odour control and clumping performance at an affordable price.

The company said the new facility will initially create 15 full-time jobs, with plans to double that number as production and exports expand. The automated packaging line can produce up to 4.6 million boxes annually, and the facility is designed to accommodate two additional lines in the future.

“Milton offered far more than logistical advantages — it represents a community aligned with our values of innovation, sustainability, and responsible growth. The region has a robust manufacturing ecosystem, access to highly skilled talent, and proximity to key partners, making it a natural choice for long-term investment. The upcoming CN Rail Milton Logistics Hub will further enhance our transportation efficiency and export capabilities,” said Sharda.

“Most importantly, Milton reflects what Angelcare stands for: local production, Canadian expertise, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve.” 

Photo: Elaine Fancy
Photo: Elaine Fancy

Angelcare said the site was developed with sustainability in mind, targeting BOMA BEST or LEED certification for energy efficiency, waste reduction and environmentally responsible construction. Features include advanced lighting and HVAC systems and optimized logistics to reduce transportation emissions.

The company plans to expand the Milton facility into an innovation hub, adding a research and development lab, demo space and training centre to support product development across its brand portfolio.

Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Canada, Angelcare Group’s family of brands includes Angelcare®, Diaper Genie®, Litter Genie®, Pet Genie®, Compost Genie®, LitterLocker®, Pabobo® and Kids’Sleep®.

“The pandemic underscored the importance of building resilient and agile supply chains. Our investment  in Milton is very much part of that global reshoring trend — bringing production closer to consumers and reinforcing our commitment to manufacturing in Canada,” explained Sharda.

“By producing here at home, we’re reducing reliance on overseas operations, improving quality control, and enhancing our ability to respond quickly to market needs. It is also a meaningful way for Angelcare to invest back into the Canadian economy and workforce while strengthening our position as a North American manufacturing leader. 

“Beyond supporting local production and talent, Milton provides a strong foundation for expanding our global footprint, reinforcing our North American network, and opening new export opportunities — particularly in high-growth Latin American markets.” 

He said sustainability was built into the facility from day one — not as an afterthought, but as a core design principle. 

Rahul Sharda. Photo: Elaine Fancy
Rahul Sharda. Photo: Elaine Fancy

“We’re targeting BOMA BEST or LEED certification, which ensures our performance is independently verified and transparent. The facility incorporates high-efficiency lighting, HVAC systems, and logistics design to minimize energy consumption and reduce emissions,”noted Sharda.

“We’re also working toward becoming a zero-waste facility, implementing circular practices that prioritize material recovery, recycling, and reuse across operations. This is a key step in reducing our environmental footprint and aligning our production processes with Angelcare’s long-term sustainability goals. 

“We’ll continue to share our progress publicly as each milestone is achieved. For Angelcare, sustainability isn’t a target to check off — it’s a continuous commitment to doing business responsibly.”

Sharda said its R&D lab and innovation hub will focus on advancing packaging efficiency, sustainable materials, and product performance across all Angelcare categories. 

“This dedicated space will allow us to accelerate development cycles, test more effectively, and launch new innovations faster than ever before.  Bringing our R&D and innovation teams together under one roof in Canada will foster deeper collaboration, enable rapid prototyping, and strengthen our leadership in product excellence and environmental stewardship,” he said.

“This facility gives us the scale and efficiency we need to stay competitive across North America and LATAM markets. The new automated litter packaging line can produce over 4 million boxes a year, which allows us to export directly to the U.S. market. 

“The facility also consolidates our entire product portfolio under one roof, strategically located near our U.S. distribution center in Ohio — ensuring faster cross-border fulfillment, improved cost efficiency, and greater reliability for our retail partners. Together, these two facilities strengthen our supply chain on both sides of the border — ensuring faster delivery, better cost efficiency, and the reliability our retail partners expect.”

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RONA expands support for Canadian hockey

RONA Rookies (CNW Group/RONA inc.)

RONA inc. is expanding its support for Canadian hockey through renewed and enhanced partnerships with two National Hockey League teams and the return of its youth sponsorship program.

In a news release, the company announced the second season of its RONA Rookies program, which will sponsor 150 minor hockey teams made up of employees’ children and grandchildren. Each team will receive about $4,000 to help cover equipment costs, tournament participation and activity fees — nearly double the number of teams supported last year.

Catherine Laporte
Catherine Laporte

“Hockey is very special to Canadians, and we’re proud to have been part of that love story for over 30 years,” said Catherine Laporte, RONA’s chief digital and marketing officer.

“Whether it’s with local or professional teams, RONA is committed to the sport and to families because we believe in the importance of creating living environments where everyone can thrive and fully enjoy what they’re passionate about.”

The company also announced it has renewed its partnership with the Montreal Canadiens and strengthened its collaboration with the Edmonton Oilers, following the Oilers’ run to the Stanley Cup final last season.

This season, RONA will continue as a major partner of the Canadiens and co-presenter of games on RDS. The company will also present Bobblehead Nights in both cities and serve as the official sponsor of the second period during Oilers games.

“Hockey is much more than just a sport. It brings communities together, creates bonds between generations and inspires our youth,” Laporte said. “That’s why we are proud to invest in initiatives that encourage participation in sport and help young people pursue their dreams.”

RONA, headquartered in Boucherville, Que., operates or services more than 425 stores across Canada under the RONA+, RONA and Dick’s Lumber banners. Founded in 1939, the company employs about 21,000 people and has been recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers.

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Psycho Bunny signs Habs star Lane Hutson

Lane Hutson spotted wearing the latest Psycho Bunny seasonal collections in and around the rink.
Lane Hutson spotted wearing the latest Psycho Bunny seasonal collections in and around the rink.

Premium menswear brand Psycho Bunny has announced Montreal Canadiens defenceman Lane Hutson as its newest brand ambassador, marking the company’s first partnership in the hockey world.

In a release, the company said the collaboration highlights its commitment to celebrating individuality and passion “in every arena.” Hutson, described as a rising talent in the NHL, will appear in upcoming campaigns and social content.

Anna Martini, CEO and President, Psycho Bunny
Anna Martini, CEO and President, Psycho Bunny

“Lane embodies everything Psycho Bunny stands for: boldness, creativity, and confidence,” said Anna Martini, CEO of Psycho Bunny. “He stands out both on and off the ice, and we’re excited to welcome him to a very talented roster of brand ambassadors.”

As part of the partnership, Hutson will be featured wearing the brand’s latest seasonal collections “in and around the rink.”

“I’ve always thought your style showcases who you are,” Hutson said. “Psycho Bunny lets me do that in a way that feels authentic to me and I’m excited to represent a brand that celebrates passion.”

The company said Hutson joins the retailer’s growing list of athlete ambassadors across tennis, golf and lifestyle. The collaboration represents the brand’s first move into hockey, expanding its presence in North American sports.

Headquartered in Montreal, the company was founded in 2005 and is known for its bold designs, quality craftsmanship and distinctive bunny logo. The brand has expanded globally with nearly 180 stores offering a full range of apparel and accessories for men, women and children.

In 2024, the company introduced The Bold Standard, which it described as an expression of its commitment to quality, design and an “audacious, adventurous lifestyle.”

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Canadian economy expected to see slow growth in Q3-Q4: CFIB

Photo: Caleb Oquendo
Photo: Caleb Oquendo

The Canadian economy is expected to see slow growth in Q3 and Q4 2025, finds the Canadian Federation of Independent Business’s (CFIB) latest Main Street Quarterly report.

Key highlights of the Q3 2025 edition of the Main Street Quarterly report

  • CFIB’s estimates and forecasts in partnership with AppEco suggest Canadian economy grew by 0.8% in Q3 2025 and will continue growing at a slow pace of 0.2% in Q4. Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation is expected to remain stable for the rest of the year.
  • The national private sector job vacancy rate remained steady at 2.8% in Q3 2025. This represents 391,100 unfilled positions.
  • Amid ongoing uncertainty, private investment estimates point to a 3.7% decline in Q3 and a further contraction of 4.5% in Q4.
  • Retail sales declined in Q3 by 0.2% and are forecast to grow by 1.8% in Q4, which is far below the historical average.
  • A special analysis this edition focused on the Buy Canadian movement. Over four in 10 (43%) businesses ran buy-local campaigns, with almost two-thirds (61%) reporting higher sales of Canadian products. However, only 15% saw increases in revenues and even fewer, 9%, saw a boost in profit due to high costs and soft demand.
  • The quarterly sectoral profile reveals that goods-producing and service-offering businesses have become less optimistic since Q1 2025, but the latter have recovered faster, and their confidence level surpasses the all-industries average.
Simon Gaudreault
Simon Gaudreault

“While some of the trade turmoil is easing and inflation is more under control, considerable economic uncertainty remains, along with various headaches for Canadian businesses. These subpar conditions explain why our estimates and forecasts for the second half of 2025 show a weak GDP, retail sales, labour market and investment picture,” said CFIB’s chief economist and vice-president of research, Simon Gaudreault.

“Despite unfavourable signals, small business owners are hoping for a better-than-expected final stretch for 2025 and a solid foundation to enter the new year. Positive signals in the upcoming federal budget coupled with strong holiday sales could certainly help on that front.”

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

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Jump+ Accelerates Canadian Store Expansion

Jump+ store in Oshawa, Ontario. Photo: Jump+ via Google Maps

Jump+ is pressing ahead with a national growth plan that focuses on Canadian markets where Apple’s own retail footprint is thinner, opening larger-format stores designed to deliver the full Apple experience in a locally attuned way. The newest location at Oshawa Centre serves as the clearest signal yet. It is the company’s largest store to date and the first net new addition since before the pandemic, reflecting what leadership describes as an aggressive but disciplined plan to scale.

“It’s the biggest store we have,” said Tim McGuire, Executive Chairman of Jump+ Stores, in an interview. “It’s the first net new location for the company since pre COVID, which also, by the way, was pre my owning the company.” McGuire acquired Jump+ from its founders on July 1, 2024, and has spent the past 16 months reshaping the roadmap.

Tim McGuire

Before the acquisition, the 17-store network was built between 2012 and 2019. The company paused new builds during COVID and then pursued a change in ownership. McGuire’s group closed the transaction and immediately began to re-invest in growth. “We have a very aggressive growth plan in place,” he said. Since then, Jump+ has completed a significant relocation and format upgrade at Niagara’s Pen Centre and has now added Oshawa. Two more stores are slated to open over the next three months, including Windsor followed by Victoria at Mayfair Centre, with a broader slate in development as sites reach construction.

Oshawa Centre: Largest Store, Full Ecosystem, Local Focus

Located at Oshawa Centre, the new Apple Premium Partner store opened to the public on Saturday, September 27. It offers the complete suite of Apple products and services in a bright, open layout that is markedly larger than prior formats. At approximately 3,100 square feet, it sets the tone for the fleet’s future.

“We will be gravitating more towards that larger size as time goes on.” Early stores a decade ago were as small as 1,200 square feet. That footprint cannot display or support the full Apple ecosystem in the way Jump+ intends. The company’s current Apple Premium Partner format, developed in close collaboration with Apple on design and fixtures, requires more room to properly merchandise devices, accessories, and services, and to run certified repair and business consultations on site.

The Oshawa store introduces a dedicated Small Business Solutions Centre, Apple Authorized Repairs carried out by Apple-trained technicians using genuine Apple parts, and the full range of Canadian wireless plans. In the words of James Ferguson, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, the mission is to deliver a complete Apple experience, from top-of-line iPhone and Mac models to trusted repairs and tailored business support. For consumers in Durham Region, it brings a level of assortment and service that previously required a longer drive.

Jump+ store in Oshawa, Ontario. Photo: Jump+ via Google Maps

“We’re Apple Where Apple Isn’t”

McGuire’s description of the Jump+ model is straightforward and strategic. “We do this in partnership with Apple,” he said. “They help us with store design, with fixture construction, installation, et cetera, because, you know, we have a very clear partnership with Apple that says they take the big markets. We take the medium markets, where the malls where there’s enough traffic to support a 3000 square foot store, but not to support a 15,000 square foot store.”

In practice, that means Jump+ builds comprehensive Apple experiences in places where a full-scale Apple Store may not be warranted. “We help fill out all of the other markets,” McGuire added. “We’re Apple where Apple isn’t.” It is a model Apple uses globally through premium partners, though it is notably absent in the United States, where Apple’s retail strategy relies more heavily on its own stores and broad third-party chains.

The Canadian variant gives Jump+ exclusive rights to the Apple Premium Partner format in this market. That exclusivity, paired with a focus on mid-sized cities and regional hubs, is a central pillar in the Jump+ expansion in Canada.

Closing Service Gaps With Certified Repair

One piece that resonates with local shoppers is certified repair. “We’re the top rated Apple service organization in Canada,” McGuire said. “Every repair is done with genuine Apple parts, Apple-trained technicians.” Each Jump+ store runs with technicians on duty throughout the day, providing diagnostics and repairs under Apple’s standards. In cities without an Apple Store, this reduces travel time and improves turnaround for issues that affect both personal and business devices.

The Oshawa opening has already changed behaviour across the trade area. “When we opened our store in the Oshawa Centre last month,” McGuire said, “we had managers coming in from the carrier locations from some of the other retailers there saying, thank God you’re here. We were tired of having to tell people who needed an AppleCare repair that they had to drive to Markham.” Early visitors have arrived from Peterborough and other nearby communities. 

The Victoria store at Mayfair will produce a similar effect for Vancouver Island, where there is currently no Apple Store and no certified repair option on the island. “If you want to get a certified Apple repair there, you gotta get on a ferry or a plane and go to Vancouver,” McGuire noted. “That’s not a logical solution.”

Jump+ store in Oshawa, Ontario. Photo: Jump+ via Google Maps

Inside the Store: Assortment, Advice, and SMB Expertise

Jump+ leans hard into depth of assortment and guided selling. “Every product Apple sells, we sell,” McGuire said. The contrast with big-box assortments is stark. “If you go to a third party retailer, pick your example of Best Buy, Staples or Costco, they’re gonna have a couple of models of MacBook computers. We’ve got 67. They’re gonna have a handful of models of phones. We’ve got 120.” The broader range pairs with Apple-trained consultants who help customers choose the right configuration.

The company is also formalizing its small and medium business offer through dedicated space and staffing in each store. “We’ve always served small and medium business customers through our stores,” McGuire said, “but frankly, we’ve served them as if they were a big family that just bought a few more devices.” That approach is changing. Specialists help organizations map roles to the right hardware and software, plan deployment, and ensure integration across teams for security, communications, and productivity. “We have a full range of small and medium business products and services, and dedicated trained specialists in the stores in order to be able to explain and provide those,” McGuire said.

Jump+ store in Oshawa, Ontario. Photo: Jump+ via Google Maps

From 18 Stores to 30–35, With Quebec in Focus

Including Oshawa, Jump+ currently operates 18 stores. Over the next two to three years, McGuire expects to grow to “somewhere in the range of 30 to 35 stores,” effectively doubling the network. The near-term pipeline includes Windsor and Victoria. Beyond that, the company plans a meaningful move into Quebec beginning in the second half of 2026 and continuing into 2027. “Today we have no stores in Quebec,” McGuire said. “The Apple store is underpenetrated in Quebec relative to the rest of the country, so that will be our focus for the second half of 2026 and into 2027.”

The goal is not only to add locations but also to raise productivity per store through expanded services and deeper offer sets. “If we double the store network, we expect to at least triple the overall revenue of the company in the next three years,” McGuire said. Newer stores will trend larger, typically between 2,200 and 3,000 square feet, with a greater share in the 3,100 square foot range introduced at Oshawa.

This plan, the company says, will advance the Jump+ expansion in Canada while reinforcing its role as a local Apple expert in communities that have long requested more complete coverage.

Leadership Track Record and Operating Discipline

McGuire’s background blends top-tier consulting and hands-on specialty retail growth. He spent more than 30 years at McKinsey and Company, leading the firm’s global retail practice across the Americas. After retiring in 2017, he joined Mobile Klinik, the device repair chain, first as chairman then as CEO, and expanded it from an early base to over 100 stores before a sale to Telus. He stayed through integration and further growth beyond 150 stores before stepping back. When Jump+ came to market, he assembled an investor group that had backed previous ventures and completed the acquisition.

The operating playbook at Jump+ extends beyond new stores. The company is building out trade-in, buy-and-sell of certified used devices, wireless plan activations, and an expanded services stack, while keeping the core focus on Apple products, authorized repair, and small business solutions. “We’re creating opportunities for lots of people in the organization to grow,” McGuire said. “We’re hitting a bunch of communities that have been waiting for the chance to not have to have a two hour drive to meet their needs.”

Jump+ store in Oshawa, Ontario. Photo: Jump+ via Google Maps

What the Oshawa Flagship Means for Landlords and Shoppers

For landlords, the Oshawa store is a category anchor that drives repeat visits, device upgrades, and traffic linked to services. The unit’s larger footprint gives space for interactive demos, training conversations, and on-site repairs. For shoppers, it simplifies access to the full Apple lineup and expert support. “If you’re in a market where we have a store,” McGuire said, “we can get you an appointment in the next couple of days and fix whatever’s required. Or just drop in.”

The model also provides a useful pressure valve for Apple Stores in larger centres, where Genius Bar appointments can be scarce. While Jump+ is an independent, Canadian-owned company, the store experience aligns closely with Apple’s standards across assortment, fixtures, training, and service. 

As McGuire put it, “We’re the Apple store with every Apple product, every Apple service, every Apple certification. Everyone trained by Apple, but we’re not Apple, we’re Jump+.”

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Douglas Mandel Unveils ‘Luxury That Connects’ Series

Photo: Douglas Mandel

Luxury retail consultant and former Dior executive Douglas Mandel has launched a new thought leadership series on LinkedIn, offering twice-weekly posts that examine how brands can balance heritage with innovation while deepening human connection in stores and online. Titled Luxury That Connects, the series will run for at least ten weeks through autumn, with each article designed as a concise, standalone insight grounded in Mandel’s two decades in global luxury.

“This autumn, I’ve launched Luxury That Connects: A 10+ Week Journey Through Stories, Strategy & Service,” said Mandel in an interview. “Each piece blends story with strategy, lessons in brand, people, and performance that I now apply as a consultant helping brands navigate the shifting realities of modern luxury.”

Douglas Mandel

Mandel’s career includes extensive leadership experience in Canada, where he played a transformative role in redefining Dior’s retail presence and client experience across the country.

A Career That Spans Continents — and Reshaped Dior Canada

Mandel’s perspective has been shaped by a career that spans Europe, North America, and Russia, including senior roles at Christian Dior Couture and work with Assouline Publishing. He began as a tailor and menswear designer after studying fashion design at Sheridan College, later earning an MBA in International Luxury Brand Management at ESSEC Business School near Paris.

As Regional Vice President overseeing Dior Canada, Mandel was instrumental in transforming the brand’s Canadian retail footprint. When he began his tenure, Dior operated primarily through concessions at Holt Renfrew and a standalone store inside the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Mandel led a period of significant expansion that changed how Dior engaged with Canadian clients.

He opened the Dior flagship at The Colonnade in Toronto, introduced Dior Men to the Canadian market, and expanded the Holt Renfrew partnership from leather goods-only concessions to full-line boutiques offering ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories. These developments helped establish Dior’s modern retail presence in Canada and set a new benchmark for how international luxury brands operate in the country.

Dior at The Colonnade, 131 Bloor Street West in Toronto (Image: SAJO)

Mandel’s global leadership also extended to major markets including Selfridges in London, and he oversaw flagship openings in Moscow and Las Vegas. Each experience informed his understanding of how local culture, team engagement, and brand storytelling intersect to shape the luxury experience.

“I started putting my experience and history down on paper,” he said. “It led me to realize there may be content here that can help people, inspire them, and give an insight into the luxury world. The luxury world is quite different than typical retail, and I want to use these stories to share, create exposure, and connect.”

Why Now: A Market at an Inflection Point

Mandel frames the series around a luxury sector that is reassessing fundamentals. He references widespread changes in creative leadership at European fashion houses, a slower global growth backdrop, and what he calls “price fatigue” among shoppers who are more selective than they were during the pandemic period.

“The industry is at a crossroads,” he said. “Technology is reshaping retail. Culture is redefining value. Clients today expect intimacy, not intimidation, meaning, not just marketing. It is a moment to ask what is next and whether there is a different way to build these businesses.”

A central theme is the enduring paradox of luxury. Brands must remain rooted in craft and history while engaging modern audiences who live across digital channels and expect seamless service.

“The paradox of luxury is to be anchored in history and heritage while also being modern,” said Mandel. “The best brands continually play with modernity but stay rooted in their anchor. Now technology is everywhere, so the question is how to embrace it, and what to embrace, without losing the soul of the brand.”

He argues that the most valuable applications of technology in luxury are those that equip associates with context and clarity when a client walks in. “There is so much data online, yet in a store the sales associate often does not know a client’s recent journey. That is a missed opportunity. Tech should enhance the human connection, not replace it.”

Dior at The Colonnade, 131 Bloor St West in Toronto (Image: SAJO)

From Intimidation to Intimacy

Mandel’s store leadership background informs his view of clienteling and service. The traditional aura of exclusivity still matters, yet the experience must feel welcoming and personal once a client steps inside.

“Luxury stores can feel intimidating, and that mystique is part of the brand,” he said. “But once a client is inside, the best sales associates know how to connect. They build relationships and understand their clients deeply. That is where true luxury happens.”

He trained teams with a simple premise. “If someone walks into a Dior store, there is a high chance they intend to buy,” he said. “The job is to meet them where they are, without assumptions, and make them feel known.”

Mandel observes that post-pandemic discretionary spending has rotated toward travel, hospitality, and experiences. Luxury brands, he says, are now competing with hotels and restaurants for the same share of wallet and attention. The implication for retailers is clear: the store must deliver an experience that can stand alongside an unforgettable trip or a special dinner.

“People are spending on experiences,” he said. “Travel is luxury, dining is luxury. The challenge for brands is to create emotional resonance equal to those experiences.”

Storytelling as a Strategic Asset

Each installment in the series draws from lived experience, including the production of a major fashion show in Moscow’s Red Square. For Mandel, storytelling and strategy are inseparable. Compelling narratives give context to craftsmanship, translate heritage for new audiences, and create the desire that drives long-term loyalty.

“Storytelling is how luxury builds dreams,” he said. “Luxury is not about need, it is about desire and the invitation to enter a world. The fashion show, the boutique experience, and the daily work of associates all serve that story.”

As luxury has shifted further toward direct-to-consumer models, runway shows have evolved as well. “In the past, shows were for buyers,” he said. “Now they serve the client and the world, and they create an emotional connection that drives loyalty.”

Mandel cautions against chasing one demographic at the expense of another. While brands court Gen Z with content and collaborations, the highest spending often remains with older clients who hold significant wealth. The task for leaders is to balance relevance to new audiences with respect for core clientele.

“There is a lot of talk about Gen Z, but baby boomers still hold enormous wealth,” he said. “The key is balance, appeal to the next generation without alienating the clients who are spending today.”

DIOR’S CONCESSION AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE IN TORONTO, 2021. PHOTO: DIOR

Giving Back to the Industry

Mandel positions the series as a contribution to an industry that shaped his career, and as a practical resource for leaders and teams across retail categories, not only luxury.

“Whether you are a retail executive, an emerging brand founder, or a clienteling specialist, I hope these stories help you think differently and act with more clarity,” he said. “Sales associates are the brand ambassadors. They bring the brand to life every day. If the series helps organizations train and support them better, the client experience improves immediately.”

Published twice per week on LinkedIn, the posts are short, direct, and designed to stand on their own while building a broader narrative over the season. Early entries preview the blend of field stories and practical frameworks that Mandel now applies through his consultancy. Topics range from launching immersive pop-ups, to training teams in client-first mindsets, to building brand strategies rooted in clarity and consistency.

“Each post is meant to provoke, inspire, and help you think more clearly about the business of luxury,” said Mandel. “Not every story has a neat ending, but every moment helped shape the consulting frameworks I use today.”

How to Follow the Series

Luxury That Connects publishes twice weekly on LinkedIn and will continue through the autumn season, with additional entries planned beyond the first ten posts. Readers can follow along to explore how heritage, people, and technology intersect in the modern luxury landscape.

In addition to the written pieces, a video component will accompany the series. Retail Insider’s Craig Patterson will host video discussions with Douglas Mandel on various topics covered in Luxury That Connects. Patterson will also interview Mandel and produce accompanying feature articles for Retail Insider, offering readers and viewers deeper insights into the ideas shaping modern luxury and the evolving business of client connection.

“I want the series to connect the brand, the people behind it, and the performance that leaders are chasing,” Mandel said. “If it sparks new ideas or better training on the shop floor, it has done its job.”

Editor’s note: Douglas Mandel’s series, Luxury That Connects, appears twice per week on LinkedIn throughout autumn. Readers can search for the series title on LinkedIn to access the latest posts.

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Scene+ Points Days offers up to 7x points

Photo: Scene+
Photo: Scene+

Scene+ is launching its first-ever Scene+ Points Days, a limited-time event running Nov. 7 to 9, that offers members in Ontario and Quebec the opportunity to earn bonus points across several partner retailers.

During the three-day promotion, all Scene+ members can earn double points on everyday purchases when they scan their card at participating locations, which include Sobeys, Foodland, FreshCo, IGA, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry, Cineplex, Home Hardware and others.

Scotiabank cardholders can increase their rewards even further — earning up to seven times the points — by registering an eligible credit or debit card by Oct. 24 through the event’s dedicated website.

Simona Salter
Simona Salter

“At Scotiabank, we are focused on helping our clients earn more every day and enjoy rewards faster through events that deliver real value,” said Simona Salter, executive vice-president of cards, loyalty, payments and client experience at Scotiabank. “Scene+ Points Day is a great opportunity for members to accelerate their points earning and discover all Scene+ has to offer.”

Members can earn 1,000 points when spending $100 at participating grocery stores, including Sobeys, IGA and Foodland. Additional offers include 10 points per $1 spent on movie concessions, two points for every $3 spent on dining, and 100 points for every $50 spent at Home Hardware.

Candice Troupe
Candice Troupe

“At Scene+, our priority is delivering exceptional value and a more personalized experience to our members,” said Candice Troupe, senior vice-president of marketing and partnerships at Scene+. “Scene+ Points Days underscores the strength of our program by rewarding members in ways that matter most to them. With the added advantage of a Scotiabank Scene+ credit or debit card, members can unlock even greater points earning potential, reinforcing the strong connection between everyday spending and meaningful rewards.”

The offers are available to eligible Scene+ members in Ontario and Quebec only. Canadians who are not yet members can sign up and begin earning rewards immediately by visiting sceneplus.ca. Terms and conditions apply.

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Gray Collection to open new hotel and restaurant in Montreal

Benjamin restaurant. Image: Gray Collection
Benjamin restaurant. Image: Gray Collection

Hospitality group Gray Collection is expanding its Montreal portfolio with the opening of a new boutique hotel and restaurant in the city’s downtown core.

The company announced recently that Metcalfe Montreal is set to open in 2026. It will be the second property under the Metcalfe name, following the success of Metcalfe Ottawa.

The upcoming hotel is described as a space that will “embody quiet luxury, balancing classic elegance with modern minimalism.” According to Gray Collection, guest rooms will feature “refined finishes, and serene interiors defined by clean lines, rich textures, and an earthy, neutral palette.”

“Every element has been carefully considered to provide guests with an intimate escape that reflects Montreal’s dynamic energy while expressing the warmth, refinement, and timeless sophistication central to the Metcalfe boutique hotel experience,” the company stated in a press release.

A new restaurant, Benjamin, is also scheduled to open in November 2025 as part of the same development. Gray Collection said the restaurant will “immerse” guests in “the timeless traditions of the classic steakhouse, elevated by French-inspired design and cuisine.”

“The restaurant will blend nostalgia with modernity, offering a refined dining experience that reflects both heritage and contemporary style for discerning travelers,” the release said.

Looking further ahead, Gray Collection plans to launch what it describes as its most luxurious property to date by late 2027. The project will include a new restaurant, a rooftop terrace, and “elegantly appointed rooms.”

Dimitri Antonopoulos
Dimitri Antonopoulos

“These new openings represent a bold new chapter for Gray Collection, not only in terms of scale, but in the depth of experience we’re creating,” said Dimitri Antonopoulos, president of Gray Collection. “We’ve always believed in the power of thoughtful design, exceptional service, and creating lasting memories. With our upcoming expansions of properties, we are continuing to advance that vision—bringing something truly remarkable to our hometown and beyond.”

The announcement follows recent accolades for the hospitality group. In the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, all Gray Collection hotels were ranked among the top five in Eastern Canada. Auberge du Vieux-Port placed second, Metcalfe Ottawa third, Le Petit Hôtel fourth, and William Gray fifth.

Gray Collection describes itself as a group of authentically local hotels and restaurants offering “friendly luxury,” focused on community, design, and service. Its full portfolio can be found at graycollection.com.

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