Home Blog Page 370

Canadian Tire’s Hudson’s Bay Deal Opens New Retail Future

By
Craig Patterson
-
Hudson's Bay stripes. Image: Cabin Life

Canadian Tire’s acquisition of Hudson’s Bay’s intellectual property could mark the beginning of a transformation in Canadian retail — if the retailer seizes the full potential of the brands it has acquired. That’s the view of retail executive advisor and Principal at Retail Strategy Group, Liza Amlani, who sees both immediate and long-term opportunities to leverage iconic Hudson’s Bay brands and imagery in ways that could rejuvenate Canadian Tire’s assortment, customer experience, and even international presence.

“I’m really excited about what the future holds for Canadian Tire,” said Amlani in an interview with Retail Insider. “They could really use some freshness in their product assortment. Buying into the categories from the Bay could really help them — taking hero products like the blankets, the stripes — and creating product stories throughout the store.”

Liza Amlani
Liza Amlani

Stripes, Storytelling, and New Customer Experiences

At the heart of the opportunity, Amlani said, lies the famous Hudson’s Bay multicolour stripe design, rooted in the company’s 18th-century fur trading origins. That design, she believes, could be brought into new retail categories that resonate strongly with Canadian Tire’s customer base — including outdoor living, camping, cottage life, and seasonal goods.

“There’s a lot of opportunity to create product stories throughout the store,” she explained. “Think about incorporating the stripes into Yetis, or camping gear. It could be really cool — capturing both new customers and loyal Bay customers. And we know they have the loyalty data. They can leverage that to personalize not only a shopping experience but get the customer excited again.”

Amlani also sees potential for Canadian Tire to experiment with smaller-format stores that focus on tightly curated assortments built around these iconic brands. “I would love to see GlucksteinHome with its own small store footprint,” she said, referring to one of the private labels Canadian Tire now owns. “Even the private labels like Hudson North and Distinctly Home could plug right into Canadian Tire’s banners, including Mark’s Work Warehouse.”

The key, she emphasized, is curation and storytelling. “This isn’t about just adding more SKUs. This is an opportunity to elevate the assortment and create real excitement.”

An International Opportunity: Bringing Hudson’s Bay Abroad

Beyond Canada’s borders, Amlani believes Canadian Tire could also test international waters by reintroducing Hudson’s Bay stripes and branding in global markets where Canadians maintain strong cultural connections.

“I’d love to see them in airports, pop-up stores, or even partner with someone like Marks & Spencer in the UK,” she suggested. “There are a lot of Canadians living in the US and the UK who would embrace this. You could create a small log cabin-type store with curated seasonal products, stripes, and storytelling.”

Hudson’s Bay stripes. Photo: Canadian Tire

Unlocking the Power of Loyalty and AI

One advantage Canadian Tire brings to the table is its sophisticated use of customer data through its Triangle Rewards program — now bolstered by Hudson’s Bay loyalty data acquired in the deal. That combination opens new possibilities for highly personalized retail strategies.

“Imagine combining Triangle Rewards and the Bay’s loyalty program — that’s winning, if they use it properly,” said Amlani. “They’ve already made great strides with AI and CRM, partnering with Microsoft to build store-level tools that could now connect customers directly to new storytelling opportunities behind the product assortment.”

The Court-Approved Acquisition: How Canadian Tire Secured the IP

The opportunity now in front of Canadian Tire stems from a deal approved this week by Ontario Superior Court Justice Peter Osborne. The $30,001,670 purchase price secured Canadian Tire the intellectual property portfolio of Hudson’s Bay Company after an extensive, court-supervised sales process.

The approval came only two days after Hudson’s Bay permanently closed its remaining Canadian stores, ending over 300 years of continuous retail operations that began as a fur trading enterprise. The ruling also authorized a receivership process for the real estate joint venture between Hudson’s Bay and RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust.

During the hearing, Ashley Taylor, counsel for Hudson’s Bay from Stikeman Elliott LLP, confirmed that no parties opposed the transaction, and described the sales process as “robust.” Reflect Advisors LLC conducted a global marketing effort that targeted 407 prospective bidders. While 17 bids were received, none proposed acquiring Hudson’s Bay as a going concern.

According to a confidential memorandum circulated to buyers in March 2025, Hudson’s Bay sought $82 million in first-year funding to support a turnaround strategy involving six stores and its e-commerce platform. However, no buyer was willing to make the required financial commitment.

Former Hudson’s Bay president Bonnie Brooks reportedly explored a potential bid of approximately $13.5 million — though no formal offer was ever made. Weihong (Ruby) Liu, who separately acquired the rights to 28 Hudson’s Bay store leases, invested an estimated $300 million in acquiring those properties and leasehold interests. The name of her new store will be Ruby Liu. 

Initial exterior concept branding of the new Ruby Liu department store chain set to launch later this year in Canada. Image: Central Walk

A Wealth of Historic Brands and Private Labels

Canadian Tire’s acquisition includes many of Hudson’s Bay’s most valuable historic trademarks, logos, and private-label brands. The multicolour stripe design, known globally as part of the company’s signature point blankets, is among the most recognizable assets. The Hudson’s Bay coat of arms, featuring two stags flanking a shield, was also included.

Beyond the iconic imagery, Canadian Tire now owns well-known slogans such as “The Official Store of Christmas,” “Bay Days,” “More than you came for,” and “Because…the lowest price is the law.” Additional slogans include “Canada’s cutest baby,” “Truly Canadian,” and “Shopping is good.”

Several private-label brands that were once exclusive to Hudson’s Bay are also now controlled by Canadian Tire, including Black Brown 1826, Distinctly Home, Hudson North, Nordic Fleece, and Beaumark Appliances. The Zellers brand — revived by Hudson’s Bay in 2023 — was excluded from the sale.

Integrating Across Canadian Tire’s Banner Ecosystem

Amlani sees Canadian Tire’s multi-banner retail structure as uniquely positioned to integrate these newly acquired assets. With banners that include Canadian Tire, Mark’s, SportChek, Party City, and Pro Hockey Life, the retailer could extend Hudson’s Bay product lines far beyond their traditional department store environment.

“Imagine Mark’s doing an apparel line with stripes. Or seasonal patio and garden products at Canadian Tire with the Hudson North or Distinctly Home labels. Even the coat of arms could add heritage appeal to outdoor gear,” Amlani suggested.

Canadian Tire’s ongoing True North Plan — a strategy focused on customer data, loyalty integration, and merchandise curation — could serve as the ideal framework for maximizing the value of the acquired brands. 

“Everything fits together like a puzzle,” said Amlani. “The path to success is to leverage these hero products and build a merchandising strategy that’s exciting, delightful, and purposeful.”

Hudson’s Bay striped blankets. Image: Barefoot Bushcraft

Caution Against Reviving the Full Hudson’s Bay Banner

Despite the rich potential of the intellectual property, Amlani is clear that reviving full Hudson’s Bay department stores would not be a wise strategy.

“I do not see full HBC stores run by Canadian Tire. The Bay banner doesn’t come with a lot of confidence anymore. The decline has been visible for quite some time,” she said. “Leave the past behind. Create something new and exciting.”

Instead, she argues Canadian consumers are ready for an elevated retail experience. “Canadian customers want exciting product and a delightful shopping experience. Give it to them.”

Potential Collaboration with Ruby Liu’s New Department Stores

Interestingly, Amlani also noted the possibility of Ruby Liu — who now controls 28 former Hudson’s Bay store locations — collaborating with Canadian Tire by licensing the HBC brands.

“She absolutely should do that. Even buying it wholesale from Canadian Tire and creating a shop-in-shop could work well, especially as these stores will operate inside former Bay locations,” Amlani said.

A Turning Point for Canadian Retail

With this historic acquisition complete, Canadian Tire now holds a rare opportunity to reshape parts of Canadian retail — not by simply replicating Hudson’s Bay, but by reimagining its best-known symbols for a new generation of consumers.

“They can absolutely do something special here,” said Amlani. “They just need the creativity and excitement to execute it.”

More from Retail Insider: 

Court Approves Canadian Tire Acquisition of Hudson’s Bay IP

By
Craig Patterson
-
Shuttered Hudson's Bay store at Toronto's Yorkdale Shopping Centre on the evening of June 1, 2025. Photo: Craig Patterson

The Hudson’s Bay Company’s historic Canadian retail legacy entered a new phase this week as Ontario’s Superior Court approved Canadian Tire Corporation’s acquisition of the company’s intellectual property. The ruling also marked another critical development in the ongoing unwinding of Hudson’s Bay, with the court granting a receivership order for the real estate joint venture between Hudson’s Bay and RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust.

On Tuesday, Ontario Superior Court Justice Peter Osborne approved Canadian Tire’s $30,001,670 purchase of Hudson’s Bay’s intellectual property portfolio. The court determined that the transaction represented the most favourable outcome for the retailer’s assets following an extensive sales process that failed to yield any alternative offers capable of keeping parts of Hudson’s Bay operational.

The ruling came just 48 hours after Canada’s oldest retailer ceased operating as a traditional department store. Hudson’s Bay completed its nationwide liquidation sales and closed its remaining Canadian stores for the final time on Sunday, June 1, ending more than three centuries of continuous retail operations dating back to the company’s fur trading origins.

Sales Process Attracted 17 Bids but No Turnaround Buyer

During Tuesday’s hearing, Ashley Taylor, counsel for Hudson’s Bay from Stikeman Elliott LLP, advised the court that no parties had opposed the transaction. The intellectual property sale followed what Taylor described as a “robust” sales process conducted by Reflect Advisors LLC, which distributed marketing materials to 407 prospective bidders globally. A total of 17 bids were received, but no offers emerged to acquire Hudson’s Bay as a going concern, despite extensive efforts to solicit buyers capable of revitalizing some of the retailer’s operations.

According to a confidential memorandum prepared by Hudson’s Bay in March 2025 and presented to prospective buyers, the company had sought investment for a turnaround strategy involving the preservation of six Hudson’s Bay stores that had been excluded from the liquidation process, alongside the company’s e-commerce platform. The plan would have required $82 million in investment during its first year, but ultimately no buyer was willing to commit to such an undertaking.

Former Hudson’s Bay president Bonnie Brooks had reportedly explored the possibility of submitting a bid that would have included both store leases and intellectual property. Brooks’ bid, which may never have been formally submitted, is believed to have offered approximately $13.5 million, assigning no separate value to the intellectual property component. Weihong (Ruby) Liu, who ultimately acquired rights to 28 Hudson’s Bay store leases, did not place a bid for the intellectual property assets but is understood to have committed approximately $300 million to acquire store real estate and leasehold interests.

Initial exterior concept branding of the new Ruby Liu department store chain set to launch later this year in Canada. Image: Central Walk

Royal Charter Trademarks Clarified by Court

During the hearing, Justice Osborne initially delayed approval while seeking clarification on whether Canadian Tire’s acquisition of certain trademarks would restrict public use of historical terminology associated with the company’s Royal Charter. 

The Hudson’s Bay Royal Charter, originally granted in 1670, remains one of Canada’s most significant historical documents and is not part of the intellectual property sale. Taylor clarified that the trademarks being transferred included limited uses of “Hudson’s Bay Royal Charter” solely in connection with commercial branding for products such as whisky, coffee, brandy and related goods. Osborne ultimately accepted that the transfer would not interfere with broader historical or public references to the Royal Charter itself.

With court approval now secured, the Canadian Tire transaction is expected to close within the next two to three weeks.

Hudson’s Bay flagship store in downtown Vancouver on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Photo: Lee Rivett

Historic Brands and Private Labels Acquired

Canadian Tire’s acquisition includes an extensive collection of brand names, logos, slogans, and private labels long associated with Hudson’s Bay. Among the most significant assets is the retailer’s iconic multicolour stripe design, which originated with the point blankets tied to the company’s fur trading history. Also included are multiple variations of the company’s signature blanket patterns, including the historic black-band design, as well as the well-known Hudson’s Bay shield crest, which features two stags flanking a shield.

The list of acquired trademarks extends to promotional slogans such as “The Official Store of Christmas,” “More than you came for,” “Because…the lowest price is the law,” “It’s hard not to think of The Bay,” and the widely recognized “Bay Days” sale event branding. Additional lesser-known slogans now under Canadian Tire’s ownership include “Canada’s cutest baby,” “Truly Canadian,” and “Shopping is good.”

In addition to trademarks and slogans, Canadian Tire will take ownership of several private-label brands that were previously exclusive to Hudson’s Bay stores. These include Black Brown 1826, Distinctly Home, Hudson North, Nordic Fleece, and Beaumark Appliances. Notably, the Zellers brand, which was relaunched by Hudson’s Bay in 2023 as a discount chain, was excluded from the sale and remains outside Canadian Tire’s acquisition.

Hudson’s Bay stripes. Photo: Canadian Tire

Wage Protection Approved for Over 8,300 Terminated Employees

The court also addressed the situation facing more than 8,300 Hudson’s Bay employees who have now lost their jobs amid the company’s liquidation. On Tuesday, Justice Osborne authorized these employees to apply for federal benefits through the federal government’s Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP). Hudson’s Bay’s legal counsel confirmed that discussions are underway with Service Canada to establish an expedited timeline for distributing WEPP funds. Lawyer Susan Ursel of Ursel Phillips Fellows Hopkinson LLP, who represents the terminated employees, emphasized during the hearing that many workers are experiencing financial distress and are anxious to receive their benefits as quickly as possible.

RioCan-HBC Joint Venture Enters Court-Ordered Receivership

Separately, the Ontario Superior Court on Tuesday also approved a motion filed by RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust seeking to place its longstanding joint venture with Hudson’s Bay into receivership. The move comes after Hudson’s Bay ceased rent payments for the properties included in the venture following its March 2025 filing for creditor protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA).

The RioCan-HBC joint venture, originally established in 2015, encompasses 12 retail properties located in some of Canada’s most high-profile urban and suburban markets. The portfolio includes former Hudson’s Bay flagship properties in downtown Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa, along with locations in key Canadian shopping centres such as Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Scarborough Town Centre in Toronto. RioCan holds a 22 percent ownership interest in 10 of the joint venture properties, as well as a 61 percent controlling interest in two others: Oakville Place and Georgian Mall.

Downtown Montreal flagship Hudson’s Bay store on April 24, 2025. The building started as a location for the Henry Morgan department store chain, which in decades past operated as an upscale business. Photo: Carl Boutet

FTI Consulting Appointed as Receiver to Oversee Real Estate Assets

The joint venture’s financial position had deteriorated sharply as Hudson’s Bay suspended rent payments during its restructuring process. The partnership’s secured debt obligations include hundreds of millions of dollars in outstanding mortgages. RioCan previously disclosed a $209 million loss on its investment in the venture, leading to Tuesday’s motion for court-supervised receivership.

With court approval now granted, FTI Consulting Canada Inc. has been appointed as receiver and will assume operational control over the joint venture’s property portfolio. The receiver is tasked with stabilizing operations, addressing outstanding financial obligations, and exploring avenues to maximize asset value for creditors and stakeholders.

The receivership opens the door to a range of possible outcomes. Properties may be sold outright to new buyers, or leased to new retail tenants. In certain cases, redevelopment may be explored depending on zoning regulations, municipal approvals, and market demand for alternative uses. The receivership also has potential implications for Canada’s retail real estate landscape, particularly given the scarcity of large-format urban retail spaces in markets such as downtown Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary.

End of an Era for Hudson’s Bay’s Department Store Operations

For RioCan, the appointment of the receiver offers a chance to recover at least a portion of the losses already recognized on its investment in the partnership. For Hudson’s Bay, the receivership effectively severs any remaining ties to the substantial real estate holdings it once controlled across the country.

The court’s decisions mark two of the final major steps in the dismantling of the Hudson’s Bay department store chain, a process that began earlier this year when the company entered creditor protection amid mounting financial losses and growing debt obligations. While some elements of the company’s historical legacy will survive under new ownership, the approvals underscore the end of one of Canada’s most enduring retail institutions.

More from Retail Insider:

New NielsenIQ—Sephora partnership announced

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
New Sephora store at 241 Rue Ste-Catherine W. in Montreal. Photo supplied

NielsenIQ (NIQ), a leading consumer intelligence company, and Sephora, the world’s leading prestige beauty omnichannel retailer, have announced a strategic collaboration to provide a more comprehensive view of the beauty landscape in North America.

This data sharing agreement unlocks access to a new level of insight into the beauty space, including expansive point-of-sale coverage of Sephora’s omnichannel business, increasing NielsenIQ’s total coverage of beauty. In addition, as a designated Recommended Insights Partner, Sephora will utilize NIQ’s data for best-in-class insights, empowering them to make well informed decisions across their organization.

The collaboration will also leverage NIQ’s expanded Omnishopper and Digital Purchases solution capabilities to better understand shifts in consumer buying behavior across both online and offline channels. Expanded Omnishopper, launched in January 2025, includes the world’s largest consumer panel with 250,000 highly engaged panelists.

“At Sephora, our beauty community is the heart of our business, and we are constantly seeking out forward-thinking partners to help us better serve our clients throughout their shopping journey with us, said Ryan Oto, Vice President, Business Intelligence & Analytics at Sephora. “This partnership with NielsenIQ is a strategic leap forward in how we listen to our beauty consumers, elevate insights across every touchpoint, and deliver on the future of beauty retail.”

Through the combined Omnishopper and Digital Purchases lens, Sephora will gain detailed insights into in-store and online shopping trends and preferences across NIQ’s comprehensive coverage of mass, drug, specialty, e-commerce, and social channels.

Elizabeth Buchanan
Elizabeth Buchanan

“NielsenIQ is deeply committed to beauty—and we’re especially proud to expand our coverage in prestige through this partnership with Sephora,” said Elizabeth Buchanan, President of North America at NielsenIQ.

“Beauty is one of the most dynamic and culturally relevant categories in retail today. By combining Sephora’s leadership in the space with our unmatched measurement capabilities, we’re bringing new precision and visibility to the brands shaping the future of beauty.”

Sephora is the world’s leading global prestige beauty retail brand with 56,000 employees operating in 35 markets. It has a highly engaged community of hundreds of millions of beauty followers across its global omnichannel network of more than 3,200 stores and iconic flagships, and its e-commerce and digital platforms with a curation of more than 300 brands and its own label, Sephora Collection.

It was founded in 1969 in Limoges, France and became part of the LVMH Group in 1997.

NielsenIQ (NIQ) is a leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. NIQ combined with GfK in 2023, bringing together two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. Its global reach spans over 90 countries covering approximately 85% of the world’s population and more than $7.2 trillion in global consumer spend.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Walmart Canada partners with ARC to roll out smart device lockers nationwide

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Source: Walmart Canada
Source: Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada in collaboration with ARC (Asset Recharge Center) is introducing smart lockers to support and enable its associates to better serve customers in its more than 400 stores nationwide. These smart lockers will manage and protect handheld devices critical to Walmart Canada store operations. 

By deploying ARC device lockers, Walmart Canada is emphasizing its dedication to equipping its associates with the best tools to do their jobs, said the retailer. 

Lani Lindsay
Lani Lindsay

“As a people-led, tech-powered company, Walmart Canada invests in tools that empower our associates to deliver great customer service,” said Lani Lindsay, VP Central Operations, Walmart Canada.

“The ARC technology is designed to support our associates, ensuring they have access to the next best available device, fully charged and in optimal working condition, ready to start their day.”

The ARC locker system combines smart charging lockers with advanced proprietary device management software, ensuring devices are charged, not missing, and fully functional. ARC employs advanced technology and a user-centric approach to anticipate and solve issues that would otherwise cause headaches for field teams at scale, said Walmart.

Douglas Baldasare
Douglas Baldasare

“Walmart Canada continues to lead the way in addressing complex retail challenges with innovative solutions, including introducing ARC device lockers to address the common retail issue of device loss,” said Douglas Baldasare, CEO of ARC.

“Our commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of today’s retailers, including enabling associates to have the best tools to do their job, comes to life in this collaboration with Walmart Canada.”

Walmart Canada’s nationwide rollout of ARC lockers is underway and is scheduled to be completed this year. 

ARC is a leading smart-locker system for managing company-owned handheld devices that employees use to do their jobs. Handheld devices are a critical productivity driver for team members. When these devices go missing, become non-functional, or consume too much time from managers overseeing manual processes, productivity slows, time and money are lost, and employee and customer satisfaction drops. ARC’s tech-enabled solution has allowed clients to save time, money, and improved productivity surrounding this complex retail problem, said the company, which is headquartered in Philadelphia and is a division of ChargeItSpot. Since its founding in 2011, ChargeItSpot has managed millions of consumer and associate devices within the world’s largest brands.

Walmart Canada has more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day. Walmart Canada’s flagship online store,  is visited by more than 1.5 million customers daily.

Related Retail Insider stories:

KINTON RAMEN continues Alberta expansion with first Edmonton location

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Source- Kinton Ramen
Source- Kinton Ramen

 KINTON RAMEN, the popular ramen chain celebrated for its authentic Japanese cuisine, is continuing its rapid expansion across Alberta with the upcoming opening of its very first location in Edmonton.

Named KINTON RAMEN Terra Losa Edmonton, the new location marks another milestone in the brand’s Alberta expansion, driven by the growing demand for high-quality Japanese cuisine across the province, said the company, which is operated by the KINKA FAMILY.

Karalyn White
Karalyn White

“We’re excited to launch KINTON RAMEN Terra Losa Edmonton,” said Karalyn White, Senior Director of Franchising at KINKA FAMILY, the parent company of KINTON RAMEN. “Our expansion into Alberta has been incredibly successful, and we’re excited to carry that momentum into the Edmonton community.

“We’re thrilled about our growth in Alberta. From our Calgary openings to the new Edmonton location, it’s exciting to see the increasing demand for authentic Japanese ramen across the province.”

Located in Terra Losa, the Edmonton restaurant is the latest addition to the brand’s growing presence in the province – one of several new locations set to open throughout 2025.

This expansion is part of a broader Area Representative Agreement with The Labreche Group, which will bring 12 restaurants to Alberta over the next five years.

Source: KINTON RAMEN
Source: KINTON RAMEN

With more than 45 locations across Canada and the United States, the restaurant chain continues to grow by blending traditional recipes with innovative ramen creations. Since launching its franchise program in 2021, the brand has rapidly expanded across North America, offering its unique dining experience to a wider audience.

In addition to dine-in service, Edmonton residents and visitors can enjoy a wide range of ramen dishes, combo specials and seasonal items through convenient delivery and takeaway options. Orders can be placed at order.kintonramen.com or via Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes and DoorDash.

Established in May 2012, KINTON RAMEN was one of Toronto’s first Japanese ramen restaurants. Led by Executive Chef Aki Urata and a team of professional ramen chefs, KINTON RAMEN strives to offer guests an extraordinary dining experience every time.

Founded in 2009, KINKA FAMILY is a full-service international hospitality group. Since then, the company has come to be recognized as Canada’s largest Japanese restaurant group. KINKA FAMILY owns and operates a diverse portfolio of restaurants and cafés in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Chicago, and New York. Included are KINKA IZAKAYA, KINTON RAMEN and JaBistro.

Related Retail Insider stories:

KINTON RAMEN announces new restaurants in Calgary and Richmond Hill

KINTON RAMEN partnering with UNIQLO

Sobeys builds brand love with social-driven “So Canadian Picnic” contest

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Source: Sobeys
Source: Sobeys

This Canada Day, grocery giant Sobeys, part of Empire Company Limited, said it is leaning into what it does best: bringing Canadians together over great food and a shared sense of pride.

With that spirit in mind, Sobeys recently launched the “So Canadian Picnic” – a social-first contest that celebrates the country the brand has called home since 1907. The campaign taps into the power of community, local suppliers, and summer tradition, and includes:

·       Grand prize picnic experience: Two lucky winners will each receive a hosted picnic for up to 25 friends and family. The experience includes an oversized, limited-edition Sobeys picnic blanket shaped like the Canadian map, a fully catered menu featuring Canadian-inspired dishes and seasonal favourites (including Compliments products), and summer-themed activities.

·       Limited-edition picnic kits: 30 additional winners will receive a custom So Canadian Picnic Kit filled with Canadian food items, including Compliments products. Each kit also includes a Canada-shaped picnic blanket and a reusable picnic basket.

·       Local supplier spotlight: The campaign also highlights Sobeys’ incredible network of Canadian suppliers, whose products are featured in both the kits and the grand prize celebrations.

Source: Sobeys
Source: Sobeys

The So Canadian Picnic builds on the momentum of Sobeys’ So Canadian brand campaign launched earlier this year, marking the next chapter in the company’s storytelling. It brings to life what it means to be Canadian through integrated social, influencer, and PR engagement.

Canadians can enter the contest until June 16 (11:59pm ET) by following @sobeys on Instagram and/or Facebook, liking the contest post, and commenting on how they’re celebrating Canada Day this year – and tagging a friend they’d bring to their dream picnic.

Source: Sobeys
Source: Sobeys

“Hey Canada, picnic season is finally here! And we’re giving away 30 So Canadian Picnic Kits and 2 lovely Picnic Experiences! Each kit comes packed with Canadian products and a limited-edition, Canada-shaped picnic blanket. And if you’re one of our 2 grand prize winners, you’ll get a private picnic for you and up to 25 friends and family—complete with delicious food, fun activities, and one giant Canada-shaped blanket to kick back on,” said the company in an Instagram post.

“We’ve been Canadian through and through since 1907, and if there’s one thing we know, it’s that Canadians love a summer picnic. So, we’re here to help make yours extra special! Gather your loved ones, savour Canadian products, and soak up some sunny moments together.​”


Related Retail Insider stories:

Canada, naturally. Destination Canada’s new brand and tagline (Photos, Videos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-

Destination Canada unveiled its new brand to more than 1,500 industry, media and international buyers at the recent Rendez-vous Canada, the country’s largest international tourism tradeshow, in Winnipeg.

Canada, naturally. reflects what comes naturally to Canada—awe-inspiring landscapes and warm-hearted people—and how even the ordinary moments here can feel extraordinary to guests. The first look of this long-term campaign came with the launch of the U.S. multi-channel marketing campaign that went live in market May 12, it said.

Rooted in Destination Canada’s 2030 Strategy: A World of Opportunity, Canada, naturally. is a bold step toward strengthening Canada’s global position and generating $160B in annual tourism revenue by 2030. To achieve this goal and build long-lasting demand, Canada needs to be a destination that resonates deeply with target guests and differentiates itself in a competitive global marketplace, said the organization.

Destination Canada said its research and data shows that Canada’s target guests are attracted to authentic, unfiltered experiences: 65 per cent of these guests are more likely than other travellers to seek out destinations that feel unique and authentic. (Destination Canada Global Segmentation Data).

“This new brand direction aims to attract these visitors by showcasing Canada’s openness; from open-hearted people that foster a sense of belonging, to open minds that invite fresh perspectives, all set against open spaces that inspire awe and wonder,” it said.

“Instead of filtered and AI-generated content so frequently found in marketing campaigns today, Canada, naturally. leads with quiet, observational vignettes of everyday Canadian moments—from roadside fill-ups in the Rockies to backyard BBQs featuring the northern lights— reflecting Canada’s unfiltered beauty, quiet confidence and welcoming attitude.”

Gloria Lee
Gloria Loree

“Canada, naturally. is the perfect antidote to what people need right now,” said Gloria Loree, Senior Vice-President, Marketing Strategy & CMO. “We’re living in a world that’s increasingly filtered and fake, combined with disruption and associated unpredictably. This campaign underscores the importance of connecting to what’s real and reflects what makes Canada distinct. It’s an open invitation to travellers who are craving authenticity and meaningful connections.” 

Key campaign elements of Canada, naturally. include:

  • Online Videos: Instead of fast-paced montages, the hero videos showcase everyday Canadian moments—captured in 35mm film for a warm, natural aesthetic that feels more documentary than commercial.
Youtube video
  • Digital advertising: a suite of digital assets echo the same tone—humble, beautiful, and quietly powerful. Showing how the ordinary everyday in Canada, is extraordinary to those who visit.
  • Google Street View collaboration: This is a first-of-its-kind national tourism campaign using authentic images from Google Street View, rather than high-gloss visuals. This bold creative choice reflects our core value of authenticity and redefines how technology can be used to connect with travellers in a deeply human way. explained the organization.

“In a time when genuine relationships and meaningful connections hold more value than ever, Canada’s openness is its greatest strength and competitive advantage. Canada is an opportunity to truly connect with what’s real,” it said.

Destination Canada, which is a Crown corporation wholly owned by the Government of Canada, said tourism contributes $130 billion to the Canadian economy. That’s more than $350 million a day in revenue powered by 265,000 businesses in 5,000 communities coast to coast to coast.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Youtube video
Youtube video

WingsUp! touches down in Calgary

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Calgary Location (CNW Group/WingsUp! Restaurants)

WingsUp!—one of Canada’s fastest-growing names in the quick-service restaurant space—has officially landed in Calgary, bringing its signature fresh, never-frozen chicken wings to the heart of Alberta.

This marks WingsUp!’s first location in the province, serving Calgarians a bold and crave-worthy menu that includes fan favourites like Medium BBQ, Jamaican Hot, Honey Garlic Parmesan, and Texas Tequila—each made to order for maximum flavour, it said.

It is located at 5809 Macleod Trail SW.

“WingsUp! sets the standard for comfort food. Chicken wings are 100% real, fresh, and never frozen—no fillers, no shortcuts, just unbeatable flavour. Every bite reflects the care and quality put into the food, and it’s why loyal customers keep coming back,” said the company.

Darren Czarnogorski
Darren Czarnogorski

“Calgary is a natural next step for us,” said Darren Czarnogorski, President of WingsUp!. “It’s a city that loves great food, has a strong community spirit, and appreciates quality—everything WingsUp! stands for. We’re excited to finally serve this market.”

WingsUp! said it is built for convenience, with a small-footprint model ideal for urban settings and high-efficiency service. In-house delivery ensures customers get their wings fast and hot—without third-party markups. And for those planning events, the brand offers catering for all occasions, from office lunches and birthdays to game nights and casual get-togethers.

With 36 locations across Ontario, WingsUp! continues to expand west, with new franchise locations planned for Vancouver and Surrey by the end of summer.

Previously known as “The Incredible Wing Ding”, it rebranded to WingsUp! in 1999, to signify the popular saying that’s spoken through every WingsUp! kitchen, when a delicious basket of wings is finished to perfection, it said.

It’s been in operation since 1988 where it first opened its doors in Milton, Ontario. It moved its headquarters to Burlington in 2006.

Source: WingsUp!
Source: WingsUp!

The Calgary opening is part of a broader national growth strategy, with the brand actively seeking entrepreneurs to join its thriving franchise system. WingsUp! offers a turnkey franchise model with low startup costs, hands-on training, and marketing support, making it an appealing opportunity for business-minded individuals looking to invest in a growing, proven brand, said WingsUp!

“Our goal has always been to bring WingsUp! to communities coast to coast,” Czarnogorski added. “We’re thrilled to be in Calgary—and we’re just getting started.”

Related Retail Insider stories:

RBC and Pattison Food Group expand partnership

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Pattison Food Group (PFG), Western Canada’s largest provider of food and health products, have announced that they are expanding their strategic partnership following the successful launch of the More Rewards RBC Visa and More Rewards RBC Visa Infinite credit cards earlier this year.

Now, all eligible RBC credit and debit cardholders can earn double the More Rewards points, PFG’s loyalty program currency, by linking their RBC card to their More Rewards card. More Rewards points can be collected at eligible More Rewards grocery partners, including Save-On-Foods, Quality Foods and Buy-Low Foods, according to a news release.

Simon Maycock
Simon Maycock

“Groceries are such a significant and essential everyday purchase for Canadians and we’re excited to bring more everyday value to so many of our clients,” said Simon Maycock, Senior Vice President, Loyalty & Merchant Solutions, RBC. “Together with Pattison Food Group, we’re making it easy for customers across Western Canada to maximize their rewards and get even more value.”

Heidi Ferriman
Heidi Ferriman

“Building on our partnership and the successful launch of our More Rewards RBC Visa and More Rewards RBC Visa Infinite cards earlier this year, we are excited to offer even more points to RBC cardholders when they link their More Rewards card to their existing RBC card,” said Heidi Ferriman, Senior Vice President of People, Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Pattison Food Group. “We know that Canadian shoppers are always looking for value and More Rewards provides amazing redemption offers on the things that matter to them like groceries, gift cards and travel.”

Credit and debit cardholders can link their eligible cards by visiting avionrewards.com/morerewards and following three easy steps.

Once linked, eligible cards will automatically earn 2x More Rewards points when they pay with their RBC card and scan their More Rewards card at participating grocery partners across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Yukon, including Save-On-Foods, Quality Foods, Nesters Market, Urban Fare, Buy-Low Foods and PriceSmart Foods said the press release.

Clients who are not yet More Rewards members can sign up during the linking process or by visiting morerewards.ca/enroll.

Related Retail Insider stories:

Canadian Tire Finalizes Sale of Helly Hansen to Kontoor

By
Lee Rivett
-
Photo: Helly Hansen

Canadian Tire Corporation has finalized the sale of its sportswear brand, Helly Hansen, to U.S.-based Kontoor Brands Inc. The transaction, valued at approximately $1.3 billion, was announced on Monday and marks a pivotal shift in Canadian Tire’s strategic direction.

Helly Hansen, renowned for its high-performance outdoor and sailing apparel, will now be under the umbrella of Kontoor Brands, the American company that owns iconic labels such as Wrangler, Lee, and Rock & Republic. Despite the change in ownership, Canadian consumers can expect to continue finding Helly Hansen products on Canadian Tire’s shelves.

“As we shift from brand owner to brand customer, we expect Helly Hansen’s world-class products to remain on our shelves and on the shopping lists of our customers. We are excited to see where Kontoor takes the brand next,” said Canadian Tire CEO Greg Hicks in a February statement.

Strategic Refocus on Canadian Retail

The divestiture of Helly Hansen aligns with Canadian Tire’s renewed focus on its core Canadian retail operations. The proceeds from the sale are earmarked for a combination of debt reduction, share repurchases, and investments aimed at enhancing customer experience and driving growth within its primary retail business.

“As our strategy becomes more singularly focused on great Canadian retail, it is time to pass this iconic brand into global hands,” Hicks noted.

Acquisition of Hudson’s Bay Intellectual Property

In a parallel strategic move, Canadian Tire has acquired the intellectual property of the historic Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) for $30 million CAD. This acquisition includes a vast array of trademarks, slogans, and digital assets that have been integral to Canadian retail heritage.

The deal encompasses the rights to the Hudson’s Bay name, its iconic multicoloured stripes, the historic coat of arms, and slogans such as “Bay Days” and “Lowest price is the law.” Additionally, Canadian Tire gains control over various private labels and digital domains associated with HBC. 

This acquisition follows HBC’s filing for creditor protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act in March 2025, leading to the liquidation of its retail operations. All 80 Hudson’s Bay stores, along with three Saks Fifth Avenue and 13 Saks OFF 5TH locations, ceased operations on June 1, 2025, resulting in over 8,300 job losses.

More from Retail Insider:

1...369370371...1,369Page 370 of 1,369