Inside Rocky Mountain Soap Co. at SouthCentre Mall in Calgary. Image supplied
Rocky Mountain Soap Co. is holding the grand opening of its newest storefront in Saskatoon’s Midtown Mall. Rocky is excited to welcome the public to experience the brand’s first location in Saskatchewan with a grand opening event on Saturday, Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the company said in a news release.
And more new locations are coming this year for the brand.
Karina Birch
“We are so excited to bring the Rocky Mountain Soap experience to Saskatoon,” said Karina Birch, Rocky co-owner and CEO. “We have been formulating and manufacturing natural everyday essentials to nurture the face, body and hair for 25 years and having our full line of products now available in Saskatchewan is such a milestone for the Rocky team.
“Rocky is deeply committed to fostering meaningful connections with our customers and offering effective, natural products that they can trust. We can’t wait to celebrate with the Saskatoon community and welcome them into our new space this weekend!”
Centred around a sensorial sink-side hand care treatment, the grand opening event will offer guests an immersive experience that makes it easier to enjoy Rocky’s full selection of products. The first 100 guests will also receive a free bar of cold-process lemongrass soap with any purchase during the event, said the company.
“Crafted with care in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Rocky’s products have been available through small distributors across Saskatchewan for some time. However, this new store marks the first in-store opportunity for customers to explore the full range of product offerings and represents a new chapter for the company as it expands its reach, said the retailer.
“This latest store opening reflects an evolved vision with refreshed branding and an enhanced customer experience. Located on the main level of Midtown Mall, the design of the Saskatoon location emphasizes a connection to nature, incorporating natural materials and immersive sensory elements, including a unique signature sink.
“Recently celebrating its 25th anniversary, Rocky’s growth from a small business with one employee to producing more than 350 products in Canmore, Alta., the company plans to continue expanding across Canada in 2025. With two more locations set to open in Ontario later this year, Rocky’s footprint is set to reach a total of 15 locations by the end of the year.”
Giant Tiger Stores Limited has announced a new three-year partnership with Kids Help Phone, launching an exclusive pink shirt to raise funds and awareness for Anti-Bullying Day on February 26.
Designed in collaboration with the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) and Ottawa-based artist and illustrator Nevada May, the shirt is available now in select Giant Tiger stores and online at GiantTiger.com. 100% of profits from sales will be donated to Kids Help Phone to support essential e-mental health services for youth across Canada.
This shirt was designed in collaboration with the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) and Ottawa-based artist and illustrator, Nevada May. Available now in select Giant Tiger stores and online at GiantTiger.com, 100% of profits raised from the sale of this shirt are donated to Kids Help Phone to support e-mental health services. (CNW Group/Giant Tiger Stores Limited)
With over 260 locally owned stores leading the way, Giant Tiger said it continues its commitment to driving meaningful change in communities nationwide.
Alison Scarlett
“Giving back is at the heart of everything we do at Giant Tiger, and we are happy to continue our partnership with Kids Help Phone and spark a new collaboration with the Ottawa Art Gallery,” said Alison Scarlett, Head of PR, Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility at Giant Tiger Stores Limited. “This initiative raises vital funds for Kids Help Phone’s e-mental health services, fosters awareness, and unites our locally owned stores, employees, and valued customers. Supporting organizations that make a lasting impact ensures healthier, happier communities, and together, we are making a real difference for youth mental health in Canada.”
Art with a Purpose: A Community Collaboration
The retailer said this year’s design showcases Giant Tiger’s commitment to supporting organizations that drive lasting change. In partnership with OAG, Giant Tiger hosted a two-part workshop for youth aged 15-25, led by illustrator and comic book artist Andy Akangah. Participants created original t-shirt designs, and Nevada May’s artwork was selected as the official design for the campaign. To celebrate this collaboration, OAG will host a public exhibition, Creating Kindness, featuring these unique designs until April 27.
“To me, Anti-Bullying Day is about recognizing the power our words and actions have on others—and choosing to be good to each other. I’ve always been inspired by the way art can foster connection and understanding without needing words,” said Nevada May.
“When my design was selected for this campaign, I was thrilled to know it would be seen across the country, raising awareness and funds for Kids Help Phone. My goal with this piece was to create a sense of belonging—not just to a specific group, but to a broader community. Art has the power to shape how we see ourselves and the world, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important cause.”
Strengthening Support for Youth Mental Health
Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service, providing free, multilingual, and confidential support to young people.
“We are grateful to Giant Tiger for their commitment to creating safer, more inclusive spaces for youth across Canada,” said Jenny Yuen, Group Head & Executive Vice President, People Culture & Partnerships at Kids Help Phone. “This partnership highlights the critical importance of addressing bullying, a challenge faced by and impacting so many young people—from those being bullied, the bully, and those who witness it. The pink shirt serves as a symbol of kindness and community, encouraging people in Canada to promote positive change and inclusivity.”
Since 2023, Giant Tiger’s Anti-Bullying campaign has raised over $257,000 to support Kids Help Phone’s crisis response texting, professional counseling, Live Chat services, and Peer-to-Peer programs nationwide.
Alexandra Badzak
“We are incredibly proud to partner with Giant Tiger and Kids Help Phone to amplify the power of art in fostering empathy, understanding, and connection,” said Alexandra Badzak, Director and CEO of the Ottawa Art Gallery. “This collaboration not only helps raise awareness for Anti-Bullying Day but also empowers youth to express their experiences and challenges through creativity. The unique designs created by young artists, culminating in Nevada May’s outstanding work, remind us that art can be a powerful tool for change and a means of connecting us all to the importance of kindness and mental health support.”
How to Support the Initiative
Canadians can purchase the exclusive pink shirt at select Giant Tiger stores or online at GiantTiger.com to support Kids Help Phone’s essential mental health programs. To explore the new design and learn more about the initiative, visit gianttiger.com/pages/event-anti-bullying-day.
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and the Pattison Food Group have announced the launch of two new credit cards designed to enhance the More Rewards loyalty program. The More Rewards RBC Visa and More Rewards RBC Visa Infinite cards, both with no annual fee, aim to deliver more value to Canadians through accelerated points on everyday spending.
The introduction of these cards will allow cardholders to earn More Rewards points at over 700 partner locations, including major grocery banners such as Save-On-Foods, Quality Foods, and Buy-Low Foods. Beyond grocery purchases, users can earn points on common spending categories like dining, gas, and EV charging, as well as on everyday shopping.
“RBC is thrilled to partner with Pattison Food Group, a food industry leader known for offering high-quality grocery products to their customers, as we launch two new credit cards to market in Western Canada,” said Vinita Savani, Executive Vice President, Cards & Loyalty, RBC. “Both cards offer rich features and provide a seamless way to maximize savings on groceries, an area of spending that we know matters most to so many consumers.”
Key Features of the More Rewards RBC Credit Cards
More Rewards RBC Visa
No annual fee*
50,000 More Rewards bonus points (equivalent to $75 in groceries at select partner locations)**
5 More Rewards points per $1 spent at More Rewards partner stores like Save-On-Foods and Quality Foods*
5 More Rewards points per $1 on eligible dining, gas, and EV charging purchases*
3 More Rewards points per $1 on all other purchases*
More Rewards RBC Visa Infinite
No annual fee (income requirements apply)*
50,000 More Rewards bonus points (equivalent to $75 in groceries at select partner locations)**
8 More Rewards points per $1 at over 700 partner locations*
8 More Rewards points per $1 on eligible dining, gas, and EV charging purchases*
4 More Rewards points per $1 on all other purchases*
Jamie Nelson, Chief Operating Officer at Pattison Food Group, highlighted the value proposition: “Now more than ever, Canadian shoppers are looking for the best value, and we know our customers will love how quickly they can earn more points by using the More Rewards Visa to redeem on the things that matter to them like groceries, gift cards, and travel.”
In addition to More Rewards benefits, cardholders will also have access to RBC’s Avion Rewards, one of Canada’s largest loyalty programs. By linking their Petro-Points card with the More Rewards RBC Visa or Visa Infinite card, users will save 3¢ per litre on fuel at Petro-Canada stations.
Other benefits include:
Exclusive savings through RBC Offers
Integrated online shopping perks via Avion Rewards ShopPlus
This launch marks the beginning of a broader collaboration between RBC and Pattison Food Group. Both organizations plan to introduce additional offerings under the More Rewards and Avion Rewards programs in the coming months.
Lisa Gozlan store at Square One in Mississauga. Photo: Lisa Gozlan
Toronto-based jeweller Lisa Gozlan plans to rapidly grow its retail presence across Canada. Co-founders Ryan and Lisa Gozlan recently opened two new locations—one at Square One in Mississauga and another in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighbourhood. The expansion comes as the brand solidifies its place as a contemporary favourite in the Canadian jewellery market, with further plans to open at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in 2025.
Origins of a Modern Jewellery Brand
Founded in 2019, Lisa Gozlan jewellery has deep roots in both creative passion and family tradition. “Ryan’s family has been in the jewellery business for over 50 years,” Lisa explained. “He’s a fifth-generation jeweller. Meanwhile, I’d been working in fashion and design, and we were both looking for something creative to fulfill us.”
The idea for the brand emerged almost serendipitously. Ryan recalls Lisa’s reaction to seeing old jewellery samples at his office. “She said, ‘What are these? They’re so interesting and cool,’” Ryan shared. Lisa began wearing the pieces and noticed immediate interest. “People were literally buying the jewellery off my wrists and neck,” Lisa said with a laugh.
From there, the couple knew they had found their path. Combining Lisa’s creative eye with Ryan’s deep industry experience, the pair launched Lisa Gozlan jewellery and began crafting a brand that merges accessibility with modern style.
Lisa and Ryan GozlanLisa Gozlan at 87 Cumberland St. in Toronto. Image: Lisa Gozlan
A Social Media-Driven Success
The brand’s rise coincided with the pandemic, a period that unexpectedly worked to its advantage. “Everyone was online during COVID,” said Ryan. “We built the brand almost entirely on social media.” The now-iconic Happy Face bracelet became a viral sensation. Initially launched in small batches of 15 units, demand quickly skyrocketed. “It was gone instantly,” Ryan said. “From 15 to 50, then 100, and now thousands.”
The Happy Face bracelet, with its playful design and accessible price point, struck a chord with customers seeking affordable luxury. “We wanted to offer something for everyone,” Lisa explained. “Our jewellery ranges from brass pieces to 14-karat gold with diamonds. Prices start at around $100 and can go up.”
Lisa Gozlan at Square One in Mississauga. Image: Lisa Gozlan
The First Store and Expansion Vision
The success of their e-commerce platform spurred the couple to open their first physical store in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood, at 87 Cumberland Street, in 2021. “At the time, people thought we were crazy opening a store post-COVID,” Ryan said. But the gamble paid off. “We saw people driving from all over the city to pick up online orders,” Lisa added.
Since then, the brand has expanded carefully and strategically. Vancouver’s Kitsilano store opened in late November 2024 at 2194 W 4th Avenue, while the Square One location in Mississauga welcomed shoppers on December 13.
“Square One was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up,” Ryan said. “Apple moved upstairs, and Oxford Properties approached us about a prime space beside it. It’s not every day you get offered such a location.”
Lisa Gozlan jewellery. Image: Lisa Gozlan
Vancouver’s Kitsilano: A Perfect Fit
The Kitsilano store’s opening highlights the brand’s appeal in stylish, community-oriented neighbourhoods. Lisa described the area as a natural fit: “It’s chic, beachy, and has the perfect mix of local and international retailers. When we saw an Aritzia opening across the street, we knew this was the right place for us.”
The expansion into Vancouver follows a successful 2023 partnership with Holt Renfrew. The couple hosted travelling trunk shows across Holt Renfrew locations in Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. “The response was incredible,” Ryan noted. “It showed us these markets have legs for us.”
Yorkdale Shopping Centre on the Horizon
For Ryan and Lisa, securing a store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre has been a long-standing goal. “Yorkdale has always been the dream,” Lisa said. “It’s such a key location for retail in Canada.”
While the details remain under wraps, the Yorkdale location is confirmed for 2025. Positioned near major tenants like Arc’teryx and Starbucks, the space reflects Lisa Gozlan’s continued focus on prime, high-traffic locations.
Lisa Gozlan at Square One in Mississauga. Image: Lisa Gozlan
Brandon Gorman of JLL negotiated the lease deals for Lisa Gozlan’s stores at Yorkdale and Square One.
Designed for Growth
The latest stores have been thoughtfully designed by Clarisa Llaneza, a rising talent in the interior design world. “Clarissa truly understood our vision,” Lisa shared. “She’s done an incredible job with both Vancouver and Square One, and we’re excited for her to design Yorkdale as well.” Etherington Designs created the millwork for Gozlan’s stores.
The builds were managed by Gozlan Group, Ryan’s brother Russell’s company, which has been instrumental in meeting tight timelines. “We couldn’t do this without our incredible team,” Ryan emphasized. “From design to construction to our retail staff—everyone has gone above and beyond.”
North America and Beyond
While the focus remains on Canada for now, the Gozlans have big dreams for the future. “We want to test Europe, starting with the UK,” Ryan revealed. “There’s been interest from Paris and London, and we’re in early discussions about activations next year.”
In the U.S., Lisa Gozlan already operates a boutique in Palm Beach, Florida, which opened in 2022. “The U.S. is such a huge market,” Lisa said. “We’re excited to grow there as well.”
Lisa Gozlan jewellery. Image: Lisa Gozlan
Customer Connection: More Than Jewellery
What sets Lisa Gozlan jewellery apart is the community it has built. From viral bracelets to sold-out customization events, the brand has become a lifestyle statement. “People don’t just buy the jewellery—they connect with the brand and the lifestyle it represents,” Lisa explained. “It’s incredibly rewarding to meet our customers face-to-face at events or in-store.”
Recent activations, like the Bead Your Own Bracelet event in Toronto, sold out within days, underscoring the demand for personalized, meaningful jewellery. “We’re always thinking of ways to involve our customers more,” Ryan said.
A Family-Driven Business
As spouses and co-founders, Ryan and Lisa have created more than a jewellery brand; they’ve built a family business that extends to their loyal staff and customers. “We think of our team as family,” Ryan said. “Without them, none of this would be possible.”
The couple’s daughter, River, has even inspired a collection. “We launched the River Rose collection for Mother’s Day,” Lisa shared. “It features softer, pastel-coloured designs—perfect for little ones but still chic for moms.”
With two new stores now open and Yorkdale on the horizon, Lisa Gozlan Jewellery is poised for an exciting 2025. “The growth has been incredible,” Ryan said. “We don’t take a second of it for granted. There’s so much more to come.”
For Lisa, the brand’s journey remains deeply personal. “It’s about creating something beautiful that people love and connect with,” she said. “We’re just getting started.”
Xero, the global small business platform, has released its latest Xero Small Business Insights (XSBI) data for Canada. The quarterly report provides key insights into small business health, tracking sales performance, late payments, and time-to-be-paid trends.
The latest data reveals that while time-to-be-paid is improving, small businesses continue to experience declining sales and worsening late payment delays. From July to September 2024, sales fell by 2.5% year-over-year (y/y) despite the Bank of Canada’s interest rate cuts aimed at boosting consumer spending. Meanwhile, late payments increased from 7.6 days in Q2 to 8.2 days in Q3, indicating ongoing financial strain.
Regional Sales Performance Declines
XSBI tracks data across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, showing a consistent year-over-year decline in sales across all three provinces. Among them:
British Columbia saw the largest decline at -5.0% y/y
Alberta had the smallest drop at -2.6% y/y
Louise Southall
“Our latest XSBI data highlights a challenging but important reality: interest rate cuts take time to flow through to the small business sector. We also need to consider that there’s been a lot of change since September, including the US government’s decision to levy tariffs on Canadian goods and the subsequent retaliatory measures. Small businesses and their customers on both sides of the US-Canadian border will pay more for cross-border goods, impacting the often intertwined supply-chains and increasing the cost of business operations,” saidLouise Southall, Economist at Xero.
Navigating Economic Challenges
Mike Cascone
“Strong macro-trends continue to shape the sales performance data we see each quarter,. As small businesses continue to navigate changing conditions, pending relief from rate cuts, it’s important to zero-in on the unchanging factors of business success — like managing cash flow, building strong customer relationships, and maintaining operational efficiency, saidMike Cascone, Vice President of Government Experience, Americas at Xero.
Xero is a global small business platform serving 4.2 million subscribers. It said its smart tools help businesses manage core accounting functions, tax compliance, bank reconciliation, payroll, and payments. Xero’s extensive ecosystem of connected apps and financial institution integrations enables small businesses to streamline operations and financial management.
Birdhouse Wingerie & Bar, the brainchild of co-founder and president Lorne Schwartz as well as co-founder George Massouras, is setting the stage for significant growth with the recent opening of its second location in Laval’s vibrant Centropolis district. Known for its unique fusion of entertainment, ambiance, and high-quality comfort food, the brand is building a loyal following among its target demographic of 18- to 40-year-olds.
Lorne Schwartz
“We just opened the second one,” Schwartz confirmed, noting the brand’s expansion into Centropolis. “It’s very much a happy spot. It’s a destination for a lot of people in our target group for a night out.”
A Strategic Location in Centropolis
The new location in Centropolis, which Schwartz describes as “arguably the best location” in the area, is situated on the sunny side of the entertainment hub’s main circle. This premium placement is expected to draw significant foot traffic, adding to the venue’s appeal.
With a 3,300-square-foot interior and a spacious patio accommodating up to 175 people, the Laval location is well-equipped to host guests seeking a lively and upscale experience.
When asked what sets Birdhouse apart, Schwartz emphasized the atmosphere and entertainment. “What makes it unique is really the menu and the atmosphere,” he explained. “We have a TV wall, a 12-foot by 10-foot LED panel, and big 60-, 70-, 80-inch screens around. But we don’t show sports—we show music videos from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s. It really resonates with the guests. They love watching the videos.”
This focus on nostalgic entertainment creates a dynamic environment that resonates with guests. “It really is the combination of unreasonable hospitality, ambiance, and the food,” Schwartz said.
Interestingly, a significant portion of Birdhouse’s clientele is women, who make up 60-65% of guests. “They come because it’s a safe place,” Schwartz explained. “It’s not a pickup place. They come for the music, the cocktails, and the ambiance.”
Source: Birdhouse
High-Quality Comfort Food Made Fresh
While entertainment takes centre stage, the menu also plays a pivotal role. “The food is high-quality comfort food,” Schwartz noted, highlighting the smash burgers, fried chicken, and fresh, made-to-order dishes. “Pretty much everything is made in-house and fresh. We make everything a la minute.”
Plans for Expansion in 2025
Looking ahead, Birdhouse is gearing up for ambitious growth. “We plan to open several more [locations] in 2025,” Schwartz shared. The brand is also developing a spinoff concept focused on quick service and a food-centric menu for densely populated areas, with the first location expected by the summer.
“(For Birdhouse), I think we’ll open two more in the next 12 to 18 months,” he said.
In addition to expansion within Quebec, Schwartz revealed that Birdhouse is attracting interest from outside the province. “Even though other provinces seem to have a lot of wing places, we’re not a wing place per se. We’re really an upscale comfort food place that has a focus on wings,” he clarified. “Burgers are amongst our biggest sellers . . . Pretty much everything is made in-house and fresh.”
A Proven Track Record
Since opening its first location in Dollard-des-Ormeaux on Montreal’s West Island in 2022, Birdhouse has maintained an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google with over 2,000 reviews. “To maintain a 4.7 is extremely difficult,” Schwartz said proudly.
With its unique blend of hospitality, entertainment, and fresh comfort food, Birdhouse Wingerie & Bar is poised for success as it continues to expand its footprint across Quebec and beyond.
As Canadians prepare for 2025, a survey conducted by Field Agent Canada reveals a pervasive sense of concern and caution among shoppers. Jeff Doucette, General Manager of Field Agent Canada, shared insights from the survey, highlighting key trends shaping the Canadian retail landscape.
“The Canadian shopper is concerned and cautious,” Doucette said. “They’re not super optimistic about what 2025 holds in terms of inflation, unemployment, and all that sort of stuff.”
According to Doucette, these sentiments were captured even before recent developments, such as the Trump tariffs, became more imminent. “There’ll be a shopper pessimism overall,” he noted.
Jeff Doucette
Costco’s Growing Role as a Grocery Destination
One of the standout findings from the survey is the growing importance of Costco as a grocery destination. “Canadians see Costco as a grocery store,” Doucette emphasized. “With 110 buildings in Canada, they are attracting huge numbers of people. For a lot of families, it’s their first stop for groceries.”
Costco’s popularity reflects broader consumer priorities. “Consumers are definitely trying to make their dollars go further,” Doucette said. “As inflation continues to outpace wage growth, shoppers are increasingly focused on cost.”
Walmart and Dollarama: Value-Driven Retailers Thrive
The survey also highlighted Walmart as a key player in grocery retail, ranking just behind Costco. “Walmart and Costco—two retailers not traditionally considered grocery stores—are the top choices for stock-up trips,” Doucette observed.
Source: Field Agent
Another surprising trend is the rise of dollar stores as grocery options. “For six per cent of Canadians to have a dollar store in their top three grocery retailers is pretty significant,” Doucette said. “Dollarama has made impressive inroads in this space, offering great items at great prices.”
Source: Field Agent
“They’re super smart retailers. If I could go back in a time machine and buy one retail stock, it would be Dollarama. They’re awesome at what they do and still have tons of room for growth, especially in Western Canada.”
The Role of Loyalty Programs
While price remains a top factor for grocery shopping, loyalty programs also play a significant role in shaping consumer behavior. “At 46%, loyalty programs are the number two driver of grocery chain choice,” Doucette pointed out. “In the dynamic of Costco and Walmart don’t have loyalty programs, so the deciding factor of that third store where consumers go for fresh produce, unique items or quick trips, is PC Optimum, Scene Plus, or Air Miles or whatever that might be. They also drive the costs down through the points offers and collecting points.”
Adapting to Changing Shopper Behavior
Retailers must adapt to these changing dynamics, Doucette advised. “Shoppers are willing to go out of their way for value,” he said. “Even Costco, traditionally a stock-up destination, is now being considered for quick trips.”
Despite the challenges ahead, Doucette remains optimistic about the resilience and adaptability of Canadian retailers. “It’s an interesting dynamic,” he concluded. “Retailers who understand the importance of cost, value, and loyalty will continue to thrive in this environment.”
Unifor, Canada’s largest private-sector union, is urging the country’s leading grocery retailers—Empire, Loblaw, and Metro—to prioritize the purchasing and promotion of Canadian-made products. This call to action comes as the Trump administration threatens to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian exports in March, a move that could jeopardize tens of thousands of jobs across multiple sectors.
In a letter addressed to Empire CEO Michael Medline, Loblaw CEO Per Bank, and Metro CEO Eric La Flèche, Unifor National President Lana Payne emphasized the critical role grocery chains can play in supporting domestic industries. Payne urged these companies to make Canadian products more visible and accessible to consumers, helping to safeguard Canadian jobs during uncertain economic times.
Protecting Canadian Jobs Amid Tariff Threats
“Canadian workers and their families are ready to defend against the Trump tariff threat, and we need Canadian grocers to do their part,” said Payne. “These unfair tariffs are a direct attack on Canadian jobs. We are encouraging Empire, Loblaws, and Metro to help their customers support Canadian workers and companies.”
The looming tariffs from the U.S. administration threaten to disrupt key Canadian industries, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability. Unifor’s proactive stance reflects its broader mission to protect the livelihoods of its 320,000 members and advocate for policies that strengthen the Canadian economy.
Unifor’s Recommendations to Grocery Retailers
In its letter, Unifor outlined several measures for grocery retailers to adopt:
Prioritize Canadian Suppliers: Ensure that private label brands are domestically produced and, where possible, replace U.S. suppliers with Canadian alternatives.
Clear Identification of Canadian Goods: Use distinct signage, shelf tags, stickers, and end-of-aisle displays to highlight made-in-Canada products.
Promote Canadian Products: Feature Canadian-made goods prominently in flyers, sales promotions, and in-store displays to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
By implementing these strategies, Unifor believes grocery chains can play a pivotal role in mitigating the economic impact of U.S. tariffs while fostering national pride and consumer loyalty.
A Broader Campaign to Protect Canadian Jobs
Unifor’s appeal to grocery retailers is part of its larger “Protect Canadian Jobs” campaign, which aims to counteract external economic threats and bolster the domestic workforce. The campaign encourages both consumers and businesses to support Canadian-made products, emphasizing the importance of creating and maintaining good union jobs.
“It’s part of our union’s call to go beyond ‘Buy Canadian,’” Payne added. “We need to ‘Make Canadian’ and create good union jobs at the same time.”
About Unifor
Founded in 2013 through the merger of the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada (CEP), Unifor represents over 320,000 workers across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, telecommunications, transportation, media, health care, and retail.
Key Facts:
Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario
President: Lana Payne (elected in 2022, first woman to hold the role)
Membership: Over 320,000 members in more than 20 sectors
Motto: “Stronger Together”
Unifor is known for its robust advocacy on issues such as workers’ rights, fair wages, gender equality, and social justice. The union actively participates in collective bargaining, political lobbying, and public campaigns to influence government policies related to labour laws and economic reforms.
Shindico Realty Inc., a cornerstone of Winnipeg’s commercial real estate sector, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1975 by Sandy Shindleman, who continues to serve as Chairman, the company has grown from humble beginnings in Portage la Prairie to become one of Manitoba’s largest privately-owned real estate firms.
“The growth has been steady, but what we’re most proud of are the people we’ve worked with,” said Sandy Shindleman. “Every relationship feels carefully curated, whether that’s by chance or design. Our team is interchangeable, with leadership roles covered seamlessly. That synergy is key to our success.”
From Portage la Prairie to Winnipeg: The Early Days
Shindleman, originally from Portage la Prairie, became a licensed real estate broker at just 18 years old. After starting a brokerage in his hometown in 1973, he moved operations to Winnipeg in 1975, establishing Shindico. “Portage la Prairie was a great place to start, but being so close to Winnipeg, we saw greater opportunities for growth in the city,” he recalled.
Sandy Shindleman
In Winnipeg, Shindico specialized in retail real estate, filling a gap in the market during a time when retail development was not a major focus. “We acquired key properties—gas stations, infill developments, and eventually large-scale projects. The relationships we built then continue to be the foundation of our business,” Shindleman noted.
A Diverse Portfolio and Expanding Services
Today, Shindico manages over 8 million square feet of property, with an additional 12.6 million square feet in development. Its portfolio spans shopping centres, Class A office spaces, multi-residential buildings, and historic restorations, particularly in Winnipeg’s Exchange District.
The company’s services include asset management, brokerage, development, property management, tenant representation, capital markets, and construction management. “Our mission has always been clear: ‘Succeeding by Helping Others Succeed.’ If our tenants and partners thrive, so do we,” Shindleman emphasized.
Recent Milestones and Noteworthy Developments
Shindico has achieved several key milestones in recent years:
2023: Launched SNR Construction Ltd., a general contracting division enhancing project flexibility and cost control.
Portfolio Growth: Added 360,000 square feet and facilitated 1.74 million square feet in building sales and leases.
Team Expansion: Increased staff by 42% to support growing operations.
“I’m prouder of the people we’ve brought together than anything else,” Shindleman said. “It took time to find the right fit, but now our team operates like a well-oiled machine. Everyone genuinely enjoys working together, and that shows in our results.”
The Future of Shindico: A Vision for Continued Growth
Looking ahead, Shindico plans to double in size over the next decade. “In 10 years, I expect to slow down a bit, but our legacy will continue to grow. We aim to expand our professional management and development pipelines significantly,” Shindleman shared.
Despite economic uncertainties and evolving market conditions, Shindico remains optimistic. “We’re as excited now as we were 20 years ago. Our development pipeline has never been bigger, and our acquisition strategy is robust,” he added.
Cadillac Fairview and Shindico Unveil New Master Plan Vision for CF Polo Park. Image: Cadillac Fairview
Community Impact and Economic Contribution
Shindico’s influence extends beyond real estate. The company has created over 7,000 jobs through its developments, contributing approximately $1.2 billion to Manitoba’s economy. “Our projects aren’t just about buildings; they’re about creating communities and economic opportunities,” Shindleman said.
The company’s commitment to Winnipeg includes residential projects like the Water Tower District, a 185-acre mixed-use development near St. Boniface Hospital, and joint ventures with Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and Cadillac Fairview, set to deliver thousands of new residential units.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities
Shindico has navigated various challenges over its 50-year history, from economic downturns to shifts in government policies. “We prefer stability, but we adapt to change. Our success comes from proactive management and a willingness to pivot when needed,” Shindleman noted.
The company also advocates for thoughtful immigration policies to support economic growth. “Canada has room for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. We need to attract talent that can contribute to our communities,” he said.
A Testament to Resilience and Innovation
Reflecting on five decades of achievements, Shindleman remains humbled by Shindico’s journey. “Fifty years ago, we couldn’t have imagined where we’d be today. But with the right people, a clear mission, and a lot of hard work, we’ve built something truly special.”
As Shindico looks to the future, its commitment to excellence, community, and growth remains unwavering. “The next chapter will be even more exciting. We’re just getting started.”
The Canadian restaurant industry is facing another challenging year, with real sales expected to grow by just 0.8% in 2025, according to the latest Quarterly Report from Restaurants Canada. Despite an initial boost from the GST and HST holiday in the first quarter, ongoing economic pressures, including tariff threats, immigration policy changes, and low consumer confidence, continue to impact the sector.
Foodservice Industry Outlook
The report projects that total restaurant, caterer, and bar sales will surpass $100 billion in 2025, marking a 3.9% nominal increase over 2024. However, when adjusted for menu inflation, real growth remains modest at 0.8%. This follows a period of stagnation in 2024, reflecting persistent economic headwinds.
Caterers are expected to lead industry growth with a 4.3% increase in sales, followed by quick-service restaurants (4.0%), full-service restaurants (3.8%), and drinking places (1.5%).
Declining Consumer Spending
A major concern for the industry is shifting consumer behavior. More than a third of Canadians (36%) report dining out less frequently. Gen X diners have reduced visits to full-service restaurants the most (41%), while Gen Z consumers are cutting back on quick-service restaurant spending (42%).
Despite these challenges, menu inflation has begun to moderate. In November 2024, menu prices were 3.4% higher than the previous year, offering some relief for consumers and businesses alike.
Impact of the GST/HST Holiday
The GST and HST holiday has provided a much-needed short-term lift. Restaurants Canada estimates that foodservice sales could be $1.5 billion higher during this period than they would have been otherwise. The organization is urging governments to make this tax relief permanent to support the struggling sector.
“2024 was a very difficult year for the restaurant industry, and our forecasting tells us that we are not out of the woods yet. Restaurants face significant threats, including drastic cuts to immigration amid a very tight labour market in much of the country outside of urban centres, a tariff dispute with the U.S., and continued low consumer confidence.”
Higginson also reinforced the importance of policy changes to support the industry:
“We are calling on governments to permanently remove sales taxes from restaurant meals. Early data about the GST and HST holiday give us some hope for a stronger start in 2025. Restaurants are the fourth largest employer in the country with nearly 1.2 million workers, they support local economies and initiatives in every community across Canada, and they improve the day-to-day quality of life of Canadians. Restoring food tax fairness is a win for all.”
As the industry navigates these economic uncertainties, Restaurants Canada continues to advocate for policy changes that will strengthen the foodservice sector and encourage consumer spending.
