A Skip-branded snowplow truck clears a snowy driveway as a delivery driver steps out holding a Skip food bag. Snow falls around a suburban home, highlighting Skip’s winter-ready delivery service. (CNW Group/Skip)
Skip has introduced the Skip Winter Delivery Fleet – a fleet of custom orange snowplows, clearing the snowy streets and delivering the ultimate convenience to Canadians this winter.
The Winter Delivery Fleet is ready to hit the streets of Toronto so Canadians can continue to get more of what they love, delivered right to their doors, announced the company on Monday.
Rachel MacAdam
The company said the Skip Winter Deal is now live, offering savings of 30% or more off people’s favourite restaurant and retail brands, with new promos dropping weekly.
“Following the launch of their new brand platform, Skip to the Good Part, Skip is delivering on its promise to help Canadians forego life’s everyday hassles, and focus on more of the good part. Picture this: less shovelling and trudging through snow and sleet to get to the grocery store, and more time getting cozy in front of the TV, knowing dinner is on the way,” it said.
“As Canada’s homegrown delivery network, we understand that Canadian winters can be unpredictable,”said Rachel MacAdam, VP of Marketing at Skip. “No matter what the season throws at us, Skip is here to help Canadians avoid the winter hassles and get right to the good part. Whether it’s a comforting meal, last-minute meds to kick a pesky cold, or a week full of groceries, we’re making it easier than ever, with plowed streets and freshly fallen deals!”
The company is offering 30% or more off top restaurant and retail brands like McDonald’s, Boston Pizza and Rexall.
The company is part of JustEatTakeaway.com, a leading global online food delivery marketplace. Skip connects millions of customers with over 50,000 restaurant partners across the country, including a growing offering of groceries, retailers, alcohol and convenience stores.
Traditional Medicinals, a leader in botanical wellness, celebrates its 50th anniversary, highlighting its dedication to herbal medicine, sustainability, and ethical business practices. Since its founding in 1974, the company has expanded its reach globally, making a significant impact in the health and wellness industry.
“In 1974, Traditional Medicinals was founded with the vision of revitalizing herbalism in North America,” said Jamie Horst, Chief Purpose Officer of Traditional Medicinals. “Now, 50 years later, we continue to lead with sustainability and high-quality herbal products.”
A Legacy of Herbal Medicine and Ethical Sourcing
Traditional Medicinals has led in organic herbal products, becoming the first U.S. manufacturer to market organically grown herbal teas (1980) and to use 100% recycled paperboard for packaging (1982). The company was also one of the first manufacturers to label and market herbal products with FairWild Certified ingredients (2009), reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.”
“Over the last ten years, we’ve invested over $20 million in social and environmental projects, and we are more committed now than ever,” Horst added.
The Origins of Traditional Medicinals
Founded by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar and community organizer Drake Sadler, Traditional Medicinals began as a small herbal shop with a mission to provide natural herbal remedies while supporting fair trade.
“Rosemary was passionate about educating people on the benefits of plants, and Drake was dedicated to social equity,” Horst explained. “Their visit to a supplier community in Guatemala strengthened their resolve to create a company that supports both herbal education and ethical sourcing.”
Today, the company sources from over 35 countries, building long-term, sustainable relationships with farmers and collectors.
Image: Traditional Medicinals
Best-Selling Herbal Tea Products
Traditional Medicinals is known for its flagship herbal teas, including Throat Coat®, Smooth Move®, and Mother’s Milk®.
“These teas continue to deliver on quality and efficacy after nearly 50 years,” Horst noted. “Throat Coat, featuring slippery elm bark, is sourced sustainably to protect future generations.”
Smooth Move®, made with Senna, has been used for centuries to relieve occasional constipation, while Mother’s Milk® supports lactation with galactagogues—herbs known to enhance milk production.
“With increasing consumer demand, we are expanding our product line, including the new Stress Ease® line for tension relief and focus,” Horst shared.
Image: Traditional Medicinals
Traditional Medicinals’ Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is a core focus, with a goal of 80% Fair Trade Certified ingredients by 2030.
“Our business depends on the natural world, making sustainability an essential commitment,” Horst stated. “We work closely with farmers to address climate challenges.”
Recent initiatives include:
A Natural Capital Impact Assessment to evaluate climate risks
Solar-powered drying tunnels in Bulgaria
Regenerative agricultural projects in Paraguay
Social Impact: Investing in Global Communities
Traditional Medicinals has invested over $20 million in global communities, including a mobile healthcare program in the Philippines for abaca farmers.
“These farmers work in remote areas and lack access to healthcare,” Horst explained. “We partnered with the Department of Health to provide cloud-based diagnostic equipment and portable ultrasound machines.”
In November, Traditional Medicinals hosted Filipino doctors at its California headquarters for advanced training. “We are now exploring ways to combat tuberculosis in these farming communities,” she added.
Dr. Malvar Boat in the Philippines. Image: Traditional Medicinals
The 50th Anniversary Celebration: ‘50 Years in Bloom’
Traditional Medicinals has launched ‘50 Years in Bloom’, a year-long campaign celebrating its milestone with education, sustainability initiatives, and giveaways.
Key highlights:
Plant Wisdom Collective: A free online herbal education series launching in May
Fair for Life Certified Products: New ethical sourcing products arriving in 2025
Exclusive 50th Anniversary Gift Sets featuring retro packaging
50th Anniversary Website: An interactive journey through the company’s history, including an animated Volkswagen bus ride
The Future of Herbal Wellness
As demand for natural products grows, Traditional Medicinals is committed to sustainable growth and fair business practices.
“We aim to increase fair wages, agronomy support, and direct investments in farming communities,” Horst shared. “Advocating for gender parity, education, and water security remains a priority.”
Traditional Medicinals recently became Canada’s No.1 organic tea brand, increasing sales by 25% in the past year.
“We’ve been in the Canadian market since 1984, and all our Canadian teas are produced and sold domestically,” Horst said. “We’re thrilled to see more Canadians embracing herbal wellness.”
What a week it was—and get used to it. If there’s one lesson from recent events, it’s that tariffs are now the new normal, whether we like it or not. In just a few weeks, the United States under President Donald Trump has leveraged tariffs to escalate tensions with several countries, including Colombia, Mexico, and, of course, Canada. Critics argue that no country has caved to U.S. pressure, but the reality is quite different. We have.
Before Trump, issues like fentanyl, border security, and economic czars were rarely discussed in the mainstream. Now, they dominate policy conversations. And this is just the beginning.
But this is not just about Canada—it’s about something much bigger.
Canadians feel betrayed, and rightfully so. Canada never provoked the United States, and Ottawa’s retaliatory measures were warranted. The rise of the “Buy Canadian” movement in grocery stores may provide a temporary patriotic boost, and renewed discussions about dismantling interprovincial trade barriers are promising. However, history suggests that these efforts will fade, as they always do. Political will is fleeting, and without strong incentives, provinces will maintain their grip on economic power—particularly Quebec, which has consistently positioned itself as distinct within the federation. The same applies to Ontario, whose economic policies significantly impact food trade across the country.
The Economic Pitfalls of Tariffs
Economically, tariffs are a poor policy tool. They ultimately harm everyone, especially the domestic population of the instigating country. Even Trump likely understands this. However, what distinguishes this administration is the president’s firm belief that the Bretton Woods agreement of 1945, which established the multilateral trade system, was a raw deal for the United States. In his view, what benefits the world does not necessarily benefit America.
Trump’s skepticism toward free trade is not new. Having built his fortune largely in real estate and media—industries reliant on domestic markets rather than global trade—he has long seen America as a self-sufficient economic powerhouse. His perspective dates back decades; on September 2, 1987, nearly 40 years ago, he published an op-ed in several major U.S. newspapers arguing that trade agreements were weakening the United States by effectively subsidizing global peace. Sound familiar? His economic philosophy is centered on one-on-one negotiations, treating trade as a zero-sum game rather than a cooperative system. We saw glimpses of this during his first term, but it is now more apparent than ever.
Canada’s Protectionist Policies Under Scrutiny
According to the World Trade Organization, Canada is the ninth least protectionist country in the world, with the United States ranking just above in eighth place. The least protectionist nations—Singapore, Hong Kong, Macao, Brunei, and Chile—are followed by New Zealand, Australia, and Japan. In other words, North America remains relatively open for business, with one major exception: Canada’s supply management system, mainly our dairy monopoly. With tariffs exceeding 300% on certain dairy products, Canada’s protectionist stance in this sector stands out. It’s no surprise that Trump has it in his crosshairs.
But supply management is not just a trade issue—it is central to Canada’s long-standing interprovincial trade barriers. While politicians frequently call for a freer domestic market, the reality is that supply management itself is a structural roadblock. Provincial boards, backed by quota allocations and regulatory power, hold significant sway over the dairy industry, reinforcing regional monopolies that make real change virtually impossible. This is why, despite political rhetoric, meaningful progress on interprovincial trade barriers remains elusive. Dismantling these barriers would require a complete overhaul of how supply management operates, something few governments have the appetite to pursue.
Canada’s Economic Challenges in a Trade War
Most Canadians dislike Trump—his style, his rhetoric, and his policies—but the reality is that he wields immense economic power. The United States accounts for nearly 25% of global GDP. Meanwhile, Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, has productivity levels comparable to Alabama, one of the poorest U.S. states. Under these conditions, Canada is in no position to win a trade war with its largest trading partner.
Contrary to what many believe, Trump is not economically reckless. His first term saw significant economic growth in the U.S., and it is likely that his policies will drive further expansion. He may impose tariffs on select industries, but he is unlikely to target the agri-food sector. Given its slim profit margins, any tariff-related disruption could severely harm farmers, food processors, and, most importantly, consumers—within days. However, Trump will undoubtedly use tariffs as a strategic weapon wherever he sees fit.
Canada must brace for this reality. What is truly concerning is that, despite typically benefiting from a strong U.S. economy, Canada is currently missing out due to its own productivity challenges. With little economic growth to speak of, Canada is not positioned to capitalize on American prosperity. If we are serious about economic resilience, we must address domestic inefficiencies, starting with supply management and interprovincial trade barriers. Until then, expect more talk, little action, and a continued uphill battle against protectionism on both sides of the border.
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 three days.
Calgary Co-op Store Front. (CNW Group/Odd Burger Corporation)
Odd Burger Corporation continues its expansion in the Canadian retail market, securing a major retail listing with Calgary Co-op. This strategic move will see the company’s full line of consumer packaged goods (CPG) available at 22 Calgary Co-op locations in and around Calgary.
The plant-based food innovator currently offers five frozen retail products, including its Crispy ChickUn Fillet, Chickpea Burger, Smash Burger, ChickUn Pretenders, and Breakfast Sausage. With this latest distribution deal, Odd Burger significantly increases its retail footprint, nearly doubling its distribution points and reinforcing its commitment to making plant-based fast food more accessible to consumers.
James McInnes
“We are very excited to partner with Calgary Co-op to expand our retail presence in the Alberta market,” said James McInnes, CEO and Co-Founder of Odd Burger. “We are proud to produce our food at our Canadian manufacturing facility, using primarily Canadian-grown ingredients, and we are excited to work with Calgary Co-op to further their mission to support local producers.”
Calgary Co-op, a trusted grocery retailer serving Calgarians since 1956, has a strong reputation for sourcing local and Canadian products. This alignment underscores a shared commitment to supporting Canadian businesses and providing customers with fresh, high-quality food options.
“We are proud to support a Canadian-owned and operated business like Odd Burger,” said James Lelonde, Meat Category Director at Calgary Co-op. “We see tremendous potential for the Odd Burger retail line with our customers and we are thrilled to make them available at all of our retail locations.”
As a pioneering force in plant-based fast food, Odd Burger operates both as a franchised restaurant chain and a food technology company. Its vertically integrated supply chain, smart kitchen technology, and focus on sustainability have positioned it as a leader in the growing plant-based food sector.
Grey/Ven, the renowned purveyor of quiet luxury, has announced the appointment of CFDA-recognized designer Ilana Kugel as the Creative Director for its women’s collection. The news arrives as the brand prepares for its upcoming runway show at New York Fashion Week in February and unveils its first luxury handbag collection, coinciding with Kugel’s inaugural collection for Grey/Ven, titled The Journey FW 25.
Grey/Ven Creative Director for Womenswear CFDA-recognized Ilana Kugel
Kugel, celebrated for her work with Koral swimwear, made history as the first athleisure designer inducted into the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). She has previously contributed to Grey/Ven’s resort collection, which debuted at September’s New York Fashion Week, as well as a pre-fall collection. Now, she takes centre stage with her first major collection for the brand in the luxury space.
“Ilana Kugel’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Grey/Ven,” said Scott Weissman, CEO. “As Creative Director for our women’s collection, her expertise in contemporary fashion will bring a fresh perspective to our designs. I am also thrilled to have her lead the creative direction of our expanding range of luxury handbags and accessories, further shaping the future of Grey/Ven.”
Kugel’s debut collection, The Journey, is an exploration of original style inspired by the serene beauty of a desert sunset. The collection includes sweaters, dresses, and lightweight layering pieces that reflect effortless sophistication. Earthy hues, monochromatic layers softened by sheer merino wool, and ethereal silk accents define the collection’s refined aesthetic. The luxurious textures and suede-like finishes capture a wanderlust spirit that aligns with Grey/Ven’s philosophy of timeless elegance.
“I am excited to introduce The Journey with Grey/Ven,” said Kugel. “This collection reflects a minimalist aesthetic designed to endure and will resonate for years to come. I am honored to collaborate with a brand so dedicated to the future of design.”
Grey/Ven’s FW 25 collection debuted on February 7 at Casa Cipriani during New York Fashion Week, as announced in the CFDA Fashion Calendar. Alongside The Journey, the brand will introduce its first luxury leather goods collection, designed to complement its ready-to-wear line while exemplifying superior craftsmanship and timeless design.
The Resort collection will be available in stores and online in the coming weeks, while The Journey FW 25 collection and the luxury leather goods line will launch in Fall 2025.
About Ilana Kugel
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Ilana Kugel’s designs are influenced by her Brazilian roots and a lifestyle centered on happiness, health, and wellness. She is recognized as the first athleisure designer to be inducted into the CFDA, playing a pivotal role in advancing aesthetics, design, and fabric technology.
About Grey/Ven
Grey/Ven is a quiet luxury brand dedicated to creating a one-of-a-kind tonal and monochromatic wardrobe for both women and men. The brand’s timeless essentials prioritize elegance, comfort, and modernism, designed to seamlessly transition from day to night and work to play. Grey/Ven’s palette includes sumptuous neutrals and bold seasonal colors, forming capsule collections that offer effortless styling. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical production, Grey/Ven crafts its designs from all-natural fabrics. This summer, the brand will open a new showroom in NYC, alongside its first-ever brick-and-mortar flagship store in East Hampton.
Endy, Canada’s top online mattress retailer, is making waves at this year’s Carnaval de Québec with the launch of the Endy Relaxation Area. Designed as a dedicated space for guests to unwind and recharge, the area will also feature energizing warm-up activities every Saturday and Sunday morning.
A Celebration of Endy’s Québec Roots
Jason Cassidy
President Jason Cassidy highlighted the brand’s strong ties to Québec, stating, “Endy has deep roots in Québec. Our flagship Endy Mattress is made right here in the province! This year at Carnaval, we’re looking forward to meeting more of our Québecois community in-person, while doing what we do best: bringing guests a tonne of energy and comfort so they can make the most of every action-packed day.”
Cassidy emphasized the retailer’s commitment to quality rest, adding, “We believe that great sleep unlocks the best in everything—whether it’s a day at Carnaval or a regular morning at home.”
A Unique Ice Bedroom and Exciting Prizes
One of the standout attractions at the Endy Relaxation Area is a bedroom made entirely of ice, inspired by its new collection of timeless bedroom furniture. Visitors will have the chance to enter a giveaway for one of 100 prizes, including free Endy Mattresses. To stay warm, guests can gather around a cozy bonfire within the space.
Family Fun with Bonhomme and High-Energy Warm-Ups
Carnaval-goers can enjoy an exclusive storytime session with Bonhomme, the festival’s beloved ambassador, every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30-11:00 AM. Immediately following, dance instructor Éléonar Caron St-Pierre will lead a morning warm-up from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, ensuring attendees are energized for the day’s festivities.
Special Offer for Carnaval Attendees
Located within the Scotiabank Ice Sculpture Garden at Parc de la Francophonie, the Endy Relaxation Area is a must-visit during the festival. As an added perk, carnival effigy holders can take advantage of an exclusive 15% discount on any Endy Mattress purchase until February 16.
The company launched in 2015 with its high-quality, Canadian-made mattresses. As one of the pioneers of the mattress-in-a-box concept, Endy has grown into the country’s leading online mattress retailer, with over a million Canadians sleeping on an Endy Mattress each night. The company’s award-winning product line now includes mattresses, pillows, bed frames, furniture, bedding, and decor. Dedicated to giving back, Endy has partnered with local charities to donate more than 22,000 mattresses to families and individuals in need.
Heal is part of the Happy Belly Food Group (Photo credit: Heal website)
Happy Belly Food Group Inc., a leading consolidator of emerging food brands, is expanding its presence in Western Canada with the opening of a new Heal Wellness quick-serve restaurant (QSR) in Calgary.
Located at Suite 110, 815 – 17 Ave SW in the Mount Royal neighbourhood, the fresh smoothie bowl and acai bowl franchise has officially opened its doors.
This marks the 7th Heal Wellness location in Western Canada and the 16th overall, with several more locations under construction in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
A Growing Footprint for Heal Wellness and Happy Belly
Sean Black
“We are happy to announce the opening of our newest Heal Wellness franchised location that continues our expansion in 2025 across Canada,” said Sean Black, CEO of Happy Belly. “With a contractual commitment for 100 Heal units across Canada and the U.S., we are just getting started.”
Happy Belly continues to expand aggressively, with six QSR brands currently under construction across Canada. The company currently has 421 contractually committed retail locations across its portfolio, including those in development, under construction, or already open.
Grand Opening Event in Calgary
The official grand opening of the new Heal Wellness location will take place on Saturday, February 8. This opening represents another milestone in Happy Belly’s mission to secure high-quality franchisees and prime real estate locations nationwide.
“As we open new stores, the Happy Belly footprint continues to grow,” Black added. “Our team is committed to sourcing and evaluating real estate, reviewing franchisee applications, and collaborating closely with area developers to support our asset-light franchising model.”
Continued Growth & Franchising Opportunities
With the rapid expansion of Heal Wellness, the company aims to accelerate both its corporate store development and franchise program. The company continues to sign new franchise agreements and secure real estate locations to support its growth in 2025 and beyond.
Jugo Juice, the popular Canadian smoothie and juice brand owned by MTY Food Group, is accelerating its national expansion with the opening of a flagship store at Royalmount in Montreal. This new location sets a precedent for the brand with a design that stands apart from its over 100 locations across Canada.
“We wanted a modern, upscale look to match the style of Royalmount,” said Maria Elisii, Senior Vice President for Jugo Juice, during an interview with Retail Insider. “This is the first time we’ve done something like this, and we’re thrilled with how it turned out.”
A Unique Design Reflecting Montreal’s Vibrant Energy
The Royalmount flagship is unlike any other Jugo Juice location. Designed with luxurious touches, the store features mosaic tiles, honey-coloured wood finishes, and sleek circular pendant lights that create a sophisticated atmosphere. The store even departs from the brand’s traditional black-and-white logo, opting for a chic gold version that aligns with the mall’s upscale aesthetic.
“We changed the logo to gold specifically for this location,” Elisii explained. “It was all about elevating the brand to fit seamlessly into this premium environment.”
Despite being a juice bar, the space offers a cozy seating area with six to eight seats—a rarity for Jugo Juice, which typically focuses on quick-service layouts. The open-front design allows patrons to enjoy views of the mall, creating an inviting spot for shoppers to relax.
Photo: Jugo Juice
A Strategic Location in Montreal’s New Retail Hub
Royalmount, a new luxury shopping and entertainment complex in Montreal, was a key factor in Jugo Juice’s decision to elevate its design. “I live in the Town of Mount Royal, so I watched this mall being built from the ground up,” Elisii shared. “It was exciting to be part of something so transformative for Montreal’s retail scene.”
Positioned on a curved section of the mall’s second floor, the flagship benefits from high visibility. It faces the soon-to-open aquarium and sits near popular retailers like Mango, Sports Experts, H&M, and Zara. “Our demographic aligns perfectly with Royalmount’s visitors,” Elisii noted. “We wanted to create an environment that resonates with the shoppers here.”
Second level of Royalmount in Montreal. Jugo Juice is circled in red. Click image for full Royalmount floor plan.
Strong Customer and Industry Feedback
Since its grand opening on August 15, coinciding with Elisii’s birthday, the flagship has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. “Our loyal customers were wowed when they saw the new design,” she said. “Even franchisees are asking if they can incorporate similar elements into their locations.”
Landlords have also expressed interest in the new look, recognizing its potential to enhance the visual appeal of their properties. “We’ve had landlords tell us they want this design in their malls,” Elisii added. “That kind of feedback is invaluable.”
Jugo Juice at Royalmount. Photo: Jugo Juice
Setting the Benchmark for Future Expansion
Jugo Juice is in a growth phase, with eight new locations planned for 2025 and another ten in the pipeline for 2026. “The Royalmount store has set a new benchmark for us,” Elisii confirmed. “We’ll definitely be incorporating elements of this design into future stores where it makes sense.”
While the flagship is unique, the brand remains committed to its core identity. “We measure success through customer feedback, sales, and brand recognition,” Elisii said. “Royalmount checks all those boxes.”
Nationwide Presence with a Focus on Key Markets
Founded in Calgary in 1998, Jugo Juice has grown to over 100 locations nationwide. Its strongest markets are Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, with new stores also in Halifax and other regions.
“Ontario is a key growth area for us right now,” Elisii noted. “We recently opened a beautiful store at Queen and Woodbine in Toronto, and the response has been fantastic.”
In addition to the Toronto expansion, Jugo Juice is targeting underrepresented markets in Ontario, focusing on suburban areas with high growth potential. “We see significant opportunities in suburban communities where health-conscious lifestyles are thriving,” Elisii explained. “Our goal is to ensure Jugo Juice is accessible in both urban centres and growing suburban neighbourhoods.”
The brand is also looking at strengthening its presence in Western Canada, with plans to open new locations in British Columbia and Alberta. “Vancouver continues to be a strong market for us, and we’re exploring new sites in Edmonton and Calgary to support our Western Canadian roots,” Elisii added.
Photo: Jugo Juice
Despite its Western Canadian roots, Jugo Juice has found success across the country. “We’re in all provinces, and our expansion strategy is tailored to each market’s unique dynamics,” she explained.
A Franchise Model with Strong Support
Jugo Juice operates primarily through a franchise model, with only one corporate-owned location. “We support our franchisees from start to finish—from selecting the location to lease negotiations and the grand opening,” Elisii said. “It’s a partnership, not just a business relationship.”
The Royalmount store is a franchise location, and its success has already inspired interest from both existing and potential franchisees. “We’ve had franchisees visit and say, ‘I want my store to look like this,'” Elisii shared.
Menu Innovations Reflecting Health-Conscious Trends
While Jugo Juice is known for its smoothies and juices, the brand continually evolves its menu to meet changing consumer preferences. The latest addition is a line of smoothie bowls, launched at Royalmount and now available nationwide.
“Our smoothie bowls have been a hit,” Elisii said. “We’re always looking at trends and doing R&D to keep our menu fresh and exciting.”
Health remains the cornerstone of Jugo Juice’s offerings. “We use real frozen fruit, coconut water, and other natural ingredients—no fillers or artificial stuff,” she emphasized. “We’re committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle.”
The Royalmount Advantage
With amenities like an outdoor skating rink, a state-of-the-art cinema, and the upcoming aquarium, Royalmount offers a dynamic environment for retailers.
“It’s not just a mall; it’s a lifestyle destination,” Elisii said. “You can spend an entire afternoon here, whether you’re shopping, dining, or just enjoying the atmosphere.”
Accessibility has also proven to be better than some had anticipated. “Despite initial concerns about traffic, it’s easy to get in and out, with plenty of parking and public transit options,” she noted.
As Jugo Juice celebrates over 25 years in business, its Royalmount flagship represents both a nod to the brand’s heritage and a glimpse into its future. “We’re proud to be part of Royalmount and even prouder of what we’ve achieved with this flagship,” Elisii said.
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
French luxury furniture brand Roche Bobois has officially opened its latest Canadian showroom at Royalmount, Montreal’s premier luxury shopping destination. Spanning 6,300 square feet, the new store blends contemporary French design with cutting-edge technology to create an immersive customer experience.
“We are thrilled to open our doors at Royalmount,” said Pierre Berardo, General Manager for Roche Bobois in Canada. “It’s a significant milestone for our brand in Montreal, aligning perfectly with Royalmount’s vision of luxury retail.”
Pierre Berardo
Royalmount has quickly established itself as Montreal’s answer to luxury retail hubs like Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. “Montreal never really had a unified, high-end shopping destination until now,” Berardo noted. “Royalmount brings together iconic brands like Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and Louis Vuitton in one sophisticated space. It made perfect sense for us to be part of this unique retail ecosystem.”
Royalmount: Montreal’s New Luxury Epicentre
Located at the intersection of Montreal’s key transportation routes, Royalmount is a visionary, mixed-use development designed to redefine luxury in the city. Developed by Carbonleo, the same company behind Quartier DIX30, Royalmount aims to create an urban oasis where retail, entertainment, and green spaces coexist.
The development’s emphasis on sustainability, pedestrian-friendly design, and public art installations further enhances its appeal. “We see Royalmount as the future of luxury retail in Montreal, and we’re proud to be part of this transformative project,” Berardo added.
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
A Legacy of Design and Innovation
Founded in 1960 through the partnership of the Roche and Chouchan families, Roche Bobois has grown into a global leader in high-end furniture. The brand first entered the North American market in Quebec in 1971, establishing deep roots in the Canadian retail landscape.
“Quebec holds a special place in our history as our first North American market,” Berardo explained. “Having three showrooms in Montreal reflects that legacy and our continued commitment to the region.”
Today, the brand boasts over 260 showrooms in more than 50 countries, with a strong presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. “Roche Bobois has always been about blending French art de vivre with innovative design,” Berardo said. “Our global footprint reflects the universal appeal of our collections.”
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
Designing Dreams: The Showroom Experience
Elegance and comfort define the new Royalmount showroom, which showcases Roche Bobois’ signature style—sleek lines, bold colours, and innovative materials. The store’s design features natural elements such as ceramic, wood, and living green walls, creating an organic, inviting atmosphere.
“We wanted the showroom to feel like an extension of the home,” Berardo said. “Warm, cozy, and inspiring, with a focus on sustainability and natural materials.”
A standout feature is the in-store 3D design service. “Customers can see their dream home come to life in real-time,” Berardo explained. “Using advanced 3D rendering software, our interior designers can recreate any space based on customer measurements or blueprints. It’s a game-changer for personalized design.”
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
Product Spotlight: Icons of Design
Roche Bobois’ diverse product range includes living room furniture, dining sets, bedroom collections, outdoor furnishings, and decorative accessories. Among its most iconic pieces is the Mah Jong sofa, designed by Hans Hopfer in 1971. “The Mah Jong is a statement piece that embodies creativity and versatility,” Berardo noted.
Another standout is the Bubble sofa, known for its playful, avant-garde design and exceptional comfort. “The Bubble is popular globally, thanks to its bold aesthetics and ergonomic form,” Berardo added.
The brand’s collections, Les Contemporains and Les Nouveaux Classiques, cater to diverse tastes. Les Contemporains showcases modern, cutting-edge designs, while Les Nouveaux Classiques reinterprets traditional French elegance with a contemporary twist.
“What sets Roche Bobois apart is our commitment to customization,” Berardo emphasized. “Clients can choose from a vast array of fabrics, materials, and finishes to create furniture that reflects their personal style.”
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
Expanding Footprint: A Calculated Growth Strategy
With eight showrooms across Canada—three in Montreal, two in Toronto, and one each in Vancouver, Calgary, and Quebec City—Roche Bobois continues to grow strategically. “We’ve been opening two to four stores annually in North America,” Berardo said. “Our expansion is thoughtful, focusing on markets where we see strong demand.”
The Royalmount location replaces the brand’s former Laval showroom, a move Berardo described as strategic. “Laval wasn’t aligning with our target demographic. Royalmount offers the upscale, high-traffic environment we need to thrive.”
Future expansion plans include a potential third Toronto location and discussions about entering Ottawa. “We’re cautious but optimistic. Each new store must be a solid business decision, not just a real estate play,” Berardo emphasized.
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
The Future of Retail: Blending Physical and Digital
While Roche Bobois has recently launched e-commerce in the U.S., Canada remains focused on in-store experiences. “We’re testing online sales in the U.S., but furniture is still a tactile purchase,” Berardo said. “People want to see, touch, and feel before they buy.”
Roche Bobois launched its e-commerce platform in the U.S. in 2023, marking a significant shift towards digital transformation. “Our e-commerce platform allows customers to explore our collections online, customize products, and even complete purchases,” Berardo explained. “However, we’re still in the testing phase, refining the user experience based on customer feedback.”
Although there’s no official timeline for expanding e-commerce to Canada, Berardo hinted at future developments. “It’s not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when.’ We’re gathering data, understanding consumer behaviour, and ensuring that when we do launch in Canada, it will be seamless and impactful.”
Despite the digital push, Berardo emphasized the enduring importance of physical showrooms. “Our goal is to integrate digital tools to enhance, not replace, the in-store experience. The future of retail is hybrid, blending the best of both worlds.”
Roche Bobois at Royalmount. Photo: Roche Bobois/Phil Bernard Photographe Inc.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Roche Bobois is also committed to eco-design. “Sustainability is part of our DNA,” Berardo affirmed. “We prioritize responsible sourcing and eco-friendly materials. It’s not just a trend; it’s our responsibility as a global brand.”
The brand’s eco-conscious initiatives include the use of sustainable wood, low-emission materials, and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. “Our Legend bookcase, designed by Christophe Delcourt, was our first entirely eco-designed collection, setting the standard for future products,” Berardo noted.
As Roche Bobois settles into its new home at Royalmount, the future looks promising. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Berardo said. “Sales are strong, foot traffic is growing, and we’re excited about what’s ahead.”
