Manulife Place $45M Redevelopment to Revitalize Commercial Podium

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January 16, 2025

image - 2025-01-15T225603.554 — Manulife Place rendering, via Epic Investment Services

Epic Investment Services has revealed plans for a $45 million redevelopment of the iconic Manulife Place, a 36-storey tower in downtown Edmonton. The project aims to modernize the building’s common areas, amenities, and retail spaces, aligning with Edmonton’s evolving downtown core and the expansion of the ICE District.

The redevelopment, which is already underway, promises a striking new aesthetic and upgraded functionality for both tenants and visitors. The enhancements are expected to reestablish Manulife Place as a premier destination for office and retail in Edmonton.

A Modern Vision for a Historic Landmark

Originally constructed in 1983, Manulife Place was heralded as Edmonton’s most prestigious office building. Its distinctive blue glass tower spans 745,000 square feet of office space across 36 floors, offering a high proportion of coveted corner offices due to its unique floor plate design.

The current redevelopment plans mark a shift from previous efforts. In 2020, Manulife Investment Management announced a $30 million overhaul of the retail podium, including proposed features such as a potential food hall. However, those plans, which were set to begin in spring 2020, were shelved due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This new $45 million project builds on the plans of the past, with updated priorities and a clear focus on meeting the needs of post-pandemic tenants and visitors.

Manulife Place podium rendering. Image: Epic Investment Services

Transforming the Retail Podium

A key focus of the redevelopment is the two-storey retail podium, which will feature new flooring, energy-efficient LED lighting, and communal spaces designed to enhance the tenant and visitor experience. The retail space will also accommodate new food and retail offerings.

According to the announcement, Canadian Western Bank will anchor the retail and office space (recently acquired by the National Bank of Canada). The podium’s transformation includes new glazing on the ground and second levels, creating an impressive new lobby entrance and a brighter, more modern aesthetic.

New Amenities for Tenants and Visitors

Tenants of Manulife Place will benefit from a range of modern amenities, including:

A club-quality fitness centre.
Expanded end-of-trip facilities, including bike storage.
An exclusive tenant lounge and a conference centre.
A 45,000-square-foot rooftop terrace, providing a unique outdoor space for relaxation and events.

These upgrades are designed to attract and retain tenants seeking a premier office environment, reinforcing the building’s reputation as a top-tier address in Edmonton.

Economic Impact of the Redevelopment

The $45 million investment in Manulife Place is expected to have a positive ripple effect on Edmonton’s downtown economy. By modernizing its retail and office spaces, the redevelopment will create construction jobs in the short term and support long-term employment opportunities through new tenants.

In particular, the redevelopment could help counteract the economic challenges faced by downtown Edmonton, such as lower pedestrian activity and retail vacancies. The addition of new retail offerings and amenities is likely to enhance the vibrancy of the area, making it a more attractive destination for residents, workers, and visitors.

According to Epic Investment Services, the upgrades will position Manulife Place as a key contributor to Edmonton’s future growth and transformation. By drawing businesses that align with the city’s evolving landscape, the project is poised to play a role in shaping downtown Edmonton’s resurgence.

Challenges in Downtown Edmonton

The redevelopment comes at a critical time for Edmonton’s downtown. Across the street from Manulife Place, the struggling Edmonton City Centre mall has faced significant challenges, including the closure of its Hudson’s Bay store during the pandemic. Lower pedestrian counts and a perception of reduced safety have further compounded issues for the area.

Manulife Place’s upgrades are part of a broader effort to address these challenges. By revitalizing its retail and office spaces, the project is expected to boost confidence in downtown Edmonton as a safe and dynamic destination.

A Nod to the Past, a Step into the Future

Manulife Place has a rich history as a cornerstone of downtown Edmonton’s retail and office landscape. When it opened in 1983, it featured high-end tenants such as Holt Renfrew, which operated in the building until early 2020. Last year, Henry Singer relocated from Manulife Place to the ICE District, reflecting the broader shifts in Edmonton’s retail environment.

With its new redevelopment, Manulife Place is poised to reclaim its position as a premier address in Edmonton. The updated design and amenities reflect the changing needs of tenants and visitors in a post-pandemic world while paying homage to the building’s storied past.

As stated in Epic’s release, “Through this redevelopment, Manulife Place will be reintroduced to the market as a premier address for Edmonton, attracting tenants who will play a key role in shaping the city’s future and contribute to its continued transformation.”

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Consumers regained their spending mojo, but tariffs cloud 2025: TD

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Mario Toneguzzi

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January 16, 2025

The latest TD debit and credit card spending data point to growing momentum, reinforcing a solid outlook for consumer spending. December data show spending growth accelerated to 7.2% year-on-year, up from November’s 4.0% and October’s 5.8%, said the bank in a report released on Thursday.

“The final quarter of the year showed TD Spend outlays ended on a reasonable note. Unlike the previous quarter, where seasonally adjusted monthly volatility muddied the signal, the fourth quarter’s monthly growth rates were consistently positive (albeit marginally in November). This indicates a likely solid performance for consumer spending in Q4. Despite this improvement, annual spending growth for 2024 remains the slowest in the past four years,” said the TD report.

“Encouragingly, growth in spending was broad-based, driven by both goods and services, with goods contributing more at the margin. Notably, home-related purchases (furniture, electronics, etc.) saw a significant acceleration, supported by looser financial conditions and a rebound in the housing market observed in October and, to a lesser extent, November.

“This drove Q4 growth in home-related items to 2.7% quarter/quarter (q/q)—a rate last seen in Q3 2021. Once again, this highlights the Canadian economy’s sensitivity to interest rate changes. Lower financing costs are also expected to make other durable goods, like autos, more affordable, supporting a potential rebound in vehicle sales. Overall, the outlook for durable spending appears strong.”

TD said spending on services regained momentum in Q4 after losing steam in Q3. Spending on recreation and entertainment was the standout performer in Q4, up 6.8% q/q, while spending on travel accelerated to a 3.6% q/q pace after modest gains in earlier in the year. On an annual basis, spending on entertainment and recreation outperformed travel, growing 8% versus 7%, while also experienced a smaller deceleration compared to 2023 figures. A weakening Canadian dollar has likely encouraged Canadians to spend more domestically, shifting their budgets from international travel to restaurants and entertainment.

“Services spending has been boosted by recent high-profile events like the Eras Tour in November and December, as well as the GST tax relief on prepared foods and beverages introduced on December 14, just in time for holiday gatherings with friends and family. We previously analyzed the Eras Tour’s impact on spending in Ontario and now tackle the challenge of identifying whether the GST tax break influenced consumer behavior,” added the report.

“Our analysis indicates that while spending did pick up in the second half of December, this same in-month pattern occurred in the previous two Decembers. This suggests it may just be the typical holiday shopping pattern. However, we don’t know whether without this relief the usual ramp up in spending might have been more muted. We will need to see results from subsequent months to see how much effect the GST holiday had on consume spending, but for now the jury is still out.”

The report said clothing stores and electronics and appliance stores — the key drivers of Boxing Day sales – saw no significant uplift, assuming discount rates were similar. This year, Boxing Day served as a somber reminder of the subdued spending trends, with all major categories recording declines compared to 2023. Although, this may reflect a shift in seasonal patterns as November’s Black Friday sales seem to be gaining popularity.

“Consumer spending gained momentum toward the end of 2024, supported by lower interest rates, which boosted consumer confidence, and external factors, such as the GST relief. The robust finish to Q4 aligns with our above-trend growth forecast for real personal consumption expenditure (+1.9% quarter-on-quarter annualized), with a solid near-term outlook for durable goods and services. However, uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs and retaliatory measures present a downside risk to our 2025 real consumer spending growth forecast of 1.7%,” concluded the report.

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What can Canadian entrepreneurs expect for 2025?: BDC

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Mario Toneguzzi

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January 16, 2025

Canadian entrepreneurs will be asked to navigate a landscape marked by both opportunities and challenges in 2025. While the economic outlook suggests higher growth than in 2024, the continued effect of inflation, the uncertainty of a changing administration in the U.S. and a declining population will represent challenges for business owners, according to a report by the BDC.

“Entrepreneurs will need to be agile and innovative to respond to these evolving dynamics. A focus on good cash flow management, efficiency, and a willingness to adapt to new trends will ensure that your business will not only survive but thrive in the coming year,” said the BDC, the Business Development Bank of Canada.

Lower inflation should give entrepreneurs some respite

The Canadian economy is expected to grow by around 1.5% for the year, said the BDC.

“Rising costs and inflation have been the main challenges for entrepreneurs over the past two years and the situation should improve in 2025. Inflation is expected to stay within the Bank of Canada target range of about 2%. This should encourage the central bank to continue cutting its interest rate toward the neutral point of 2.75% by mid-2025,” it said.

“Interest rates will be a deciding factor in the year ahead, and we expect them to bring momentum back to the economy. Growth will largely be driven by consumer spending and a rebound in residential investment. Essentially, we can expect a recovery in the spending categories most impacted by interest rate hikes that started in 2022.

“However, the effects of inflation will continue to challenge Canadian entrepreneurs. Even as rates are lowered and inflation comes under control, a higher debt burden will continue to weigh down households. Meanwhile, the higher prices suppliers have been forced to charge because of rising inflation will not go down as inflation slows. Prices will just increase at a slower, more sustainable pace.

“Overall, the economy will continue its safe landing following a peak in activity in 2022.”

Tariff threats will create uncertainty for Canada-U.S. trade

The report said President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on all products entering the United States from Canada and Mexico when he is inaugurated on January 20. Meanwhile, Canada is already examining possible retaliatory tariffs on certain U.S. items should these threats materialize.

“The potential tariffs could significantly impact several sectors, including automotive, construction and manufacturing, and they could lead to higher prices for American and Canadian consumers. Tariffs could also fuel inflation and disrupt the highly integrated supply chains that currently exist between the three countries,” explained the BDC.

“It’s not just businesses that trade directly with the United States that could be impacted. Your business could be impacted if you sell to a company that exports to the United States, for example. Proposed tariffs could also impact the import of goods from China or Mexico transiting through the United States. High tariffs could even lead to a recession if Canada were to retaliate with the same intensity (25% tariffs). Such a situation would impact all types of companies, even those that have nothing to do with trade.

“While it’s unclear whether these tariffs are meant to be enacted or simply a negotiation tactic, the responsible thing to do is to start planning for what they could mean for your business. This involves understanding their direct and indirect impacts on your operations and supply chain.”

Lower population growth could make it harder to find employees

Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan projects a 0.2% population decline in 2025 and 2026 before returning to 0.8% growth in 2027. Meanwhile, the population aged 65 and over will grow by almost 3% per year, noted the report.

“The working-age population, aged 15-64, could fall by more than 450,000 between the end of 2024 and the end of 2026. By comparison, international immigration and net non-permanent residents from this age group grew by over 1 million in 2024 (that’s roughly the entire population of Nova Scotia),” it said.

“Canada’s population growth reached 3.1% in 2023 and has been one of the main drivers of GDP growth for the past few years. A declining population will keep a lid on growth, especially given the Canadian population’s age composition. An ageing population will also lead to changing consumption patterns.

“However, the biggest impact for entrepreneurs will likely be a reduced pool of potential workers. A decline in the working-age population could lead to labour shortages that are likely to hit certain regions or sectors harder than others.”

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71% of consumers want generative AI integrated into their shopping experiences: Capgemini report

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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January 16, 2025

Generative AI (Gen AI) is transforming shopping, with 71% of consumers wanting it to be integrated into their purchasing experiences. The preference of Gen Z and Millennials, for hyper-personalization and seamless digital experiences is mainly driving this trend. This is according to the fourth edition of Capgemini Research Institute’s annual consumer trends report, ‘What Matters to Today’s Consumer’, which finds that technological innovation, shifting financial priorities, and increasing sustainability awareness are fueling consumer behaviors.

Nearly half (46%) of consumers are enthusiastic about the impact of Gen AI on their online shopping and three quarters are open to Gen AI recommendations, up from 63% in 2023. More than half (58%) have replaced traditional search engines with Gen AI tools as their go-to for product/service recommendations. 68% of consumers want Gen AI tools to aggregate search results from online search engines, social media platforms, and retailers’ websites to provide a one-stop shop for highlighted purchase options, said the company in a news release.

It said 7 in 10 consumer products and retail companies view Gen AI as a transformative technology, a significant shift from last year. However, the study finds that while investment in the technology is on the rise, Gen AI usage is not meeting expectations. Consumer satisfaction with the technology is down from last year (at 37% in 2024 compared to 41% in 2023).

“Consumers today want personalized shopping experiences, enhanced by AI and generative AI. In addition, they expect fast and efficient deliveries and have become more conscious of their purchasing impact,” said Lindsey Mazza, Global Retail Lead at Capgemini.

“To remain competitive and build brand loyalty, retailers must adopt strategies that put the consumer at the center, leveraging AI to deliver seamless yet exceptional customer interactions. The clear shift towards social commerce is also significant. Retailers need to capitalize on their social and digital advertising platforms to engage consumers early in the purchasing journey.”

Consumers may pay for fast delivery

“Demand for quick commerce is on the rise, with consumers from some geographies increasingly willing to pay for speed and efficiency. For example, willingness to pay more for quick delivery skyrocketed from 41% in 2023 to 70% in 2024, highlighting a strong consumer trend towards easy access to products,” said Capgemini.

“With this increase, consumers are now willing to pay 9% of the order value for 2-hour and 10-minute delivery. 65% of consumers consider a 2-hour delivery format a key attribute when they shop, indicating that retailers should consider integrating this into their business models. This trend is prevalent in countries such as India, Germany, France, Sweden, Spain, and the Netherlands, with the US significantly lagging in this regard.”

Consumers expect sustainable products, but are not prepared to pay a premium

Sustainability is a critical factor when making purchasing decisions. While 64% of consumers buy from sustainable brands and 67% would switch retailers due to a lack of sustainability, their willingness to pay a premium is decreasing. The proportion of consumers willing to pay between 1-5% more has risen slightly, from 30% to 38%, but those willing to pay more than 5% has dropped consistently over the past two years. The report found that initiatives such as carbon labelling and food-waste reduction also resonate strongly with consumers, said the report.

The study highlights that consumers are also increasingly seeking more detailed information about the product they are purchasing. Nutritional information comes out as the key consideration, with 67% of consumers saying they would switch products based on this, it noted.

Consumers use AI influencers and social media to discover products

“AI influencers, such as avatars created using artificial intelligence, are rising in popularity with one quarter of consumers trusting them and making purchases based on their recommendations. Social media influencers are also becoming popular, with around 7 in 10 Gen Zs learning about new products through them in 2024, up significantly from 45% in 2023,” said Capgemini.

“Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are also reshaping retail, with over half of consumers discovering new products via social media, up from 32% in November 2022. The report found that 40% of all consumers occasionally use social media for customer service interactions, reflecting a growing reliance on social media for resolving issues and seeking support.”

Advertisements on retailer websites/apps influence purchases

The report said 67% of consumers notice ads on retailer website/apps when they search for a product. Over the past 12 months, online adverts influenced nearly one-third of online purchases.

“In contrast, in-store advertisements lag behind in consumer satisfaction, in terms of content quality and placement. There are several reasons for consumer dissatisfaction. For example, 59% of consumers say the ads shown are very generic and don’t serve their specific needs. While over half (53%) want personalized in-store ads such as a display in a smart shopping cart, smart mirrors, or interactive touchscreens. As a result, retailers are focusing on retail media networks (RMNs) to capture consumer attention,” added the report.

“The report also finds that over half (53%) of consumers switch brands/retailers regularly, despite subscribing to their loyalty programs. Experimentation and lack of personalization are major reasons for switching.”

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Baskin-Robbins raises $30,000 for BGC Canada in Pink Spoon Campaign

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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January 16, 2025

2024 Youth of The Year Finalists Enjoy Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream. PHOTO: BGC Canada.

Baskin-Robbins Canada has delivered a cheque for $30,000 to BGC Canada (formerly Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada), which it raised through its their 2024 Pink Spoon fundraiser.

Held throughout the month of September, the campaign featured $1 from the sale of every Baskin-Robbins’ new Non-Dairy Real Fruit Smoothies, available in two flavours, fresh mango or strawberry, which was directed to BGC Canada, said the company.

“Our partnership with BGC Canada has grown over the years, and we couldn’t be happier to support such a good cause,” said Natalie Joseph, spokesperson for Baskin-Robbins in Canada. “The success we’ve enjoyed with our annual fundraisers would not be possible without the generosity of our Canadian guests. Together, as champions of BGC Canada, we’ve made a real impact on the lives of young people across Canada.”

The fundraiser is part of an ongoing partnership between Baskin-Robbins and BGC Canada that includes scholarships, in-kind gifts and cause promotion. Collectively, these efforts contribute to BGC’s critical programs that empower youth to succeed and build brighter futures, added the company in a news release.

“We’re very grateful to Baskin-Robbins and its guests for their commitment to our work,” said Brooke Duval, Senior Director, Partnerships & Philanthropy at BGC Canada. “The funds raised will allow us to enhance our programs and support more youth across the country. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Baskin-Robbins and working together to build stronger communities.”

Since its inception, the Pink Spoon program has raised more than $165,000 for BGC Canada. The program’s vision is a world where children can enjoy the sweetness of childhood.

BGC West Scarborough ‘Ambassadors’ take time out of their busy day to thank Baskin-Robbins for its support of BGC Canada. PHOTO: BGC Canada.

Baskin-Robbins, founded in the United States in 1945, is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, with more than 7,700 retail shops in 33 global markets. Celebrating 52 years in Canada, it operates 115 locations in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba and British Columbia. Baskin-Robbins is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants.

For 125 years, BGC Canada (formerly Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada) has been creating opportunities for millions of Canadian kids and teens. As Canada’s largest child and youth serving charitable and community services organization, the Clubs open their doors to young people of all ages and their families at over 600 locations nationwide.

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Stark decline in Canada’s small business employment: Intuit

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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January 16, 2025

Intuit QuickBooks’ Small Business Index Annual Report reveals a stark decline in Canada’s small business employment—84,100 jobs lost since July 2024, with manufacturing hit hardest at 28,100 jobs lost.

Key findings include:

High-cost financing reliance: Credit cards are now the #1 financing tool for Canadian small businesses, posing long-term risks.
Regional and sector trends: Ontario led with job gains, while Quebec saw the steepest losses. Manufacturing and professional services saw significant declines.
Women-led innovation: Women-owned small businesses are leading in digital transformation, driving faster growth and higher confidence.

Developed in collaboration with leading global economist Professor Ufuk Akcigit and his co-authors, the report reveals that while overall employment has grown year-over-year, small business growth is lagging, hindered by high interest rates making it harder for some to access financing to fuel growth. Small businesses that were hardest hit by this had up to 30 per cent lower revenue growth and up to four per cent lower employment growth than other small businesses.

“Rising borrowing costs and limited access to financing are taking a toll on the health of small businesses, contributing to declining employment,” said Akcigit, leading global economist and Arnold C. Harberger Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago. “Our research reveals that banks slowed by high interest rates also extended less credit to their small business customers. This reduction has stunted the growth of these businesses, underscoring the critical connection between affordable credit access and small business success across the country.”

The second Small Business Index Annual Report also highlights:

The Credit Card Trend:

Due to their accessibility, flexibility, and ability to address immediate financial needs, credit cards are a vital source of financing for small businesses. In fact, they are currently the number one source of financing for small businesses in Canada. In North America, more than 1 in 10 reported using credit cards for more than 75 per cent of monthly expenses. When asked about the proportion of expenses charged to credit cards, 57 per cent of Canadian small businesses are charging more than 25 per cent of their total monthly business expenses to credit cards. While small businesses with access to greater credit from banks have experienced faster short-term growth, the reliance on credit cards poses longer term risks by driving up the cost of growth and debt repayments.

Navigating Uneven Growth:

Over the 12 months, small business employment across Canada reflected uneven growth. Canadian small business employment grew by 126,600 jobs, but the pace of growth slowed during the summer of 2024. Despite this overall increase, five sectors, including manufacturing and professional services, experienced annual declines. The professional services sector (NAICS 54) lost 20,000 jobs over the same period, an annual decline of 4.23%, leaving 462,700 employees at small businesses. This was the fastest year-over-year decrease since 2015. Regionally, Ontario led the country with 126,700 new small business jobs, while Quebec faced the steepest decline, losing 27,100 jobs. These trends underscore the importance of providing targeted support to tackle regional and sector specific challenges within the small business landscape.

Tech-Savvy Women Entrepreneurs:

Small businesses that embrace digital transformation are outpacing their peers in growth, and women-owned businesses are leading this charge. Canadian women-owned small businesses are among the most digitally integrated, leveraging technology to drive higher productivity, accelerate revenue growth, and boost confidence in their operations. This trend highlights the critical role digital tools play in shaping the success and resilience of small businesses, particularly those led by women, who are setting the example of innovation and leadership in the evolving business landscape.

“Small businesses play a key role in the health of the Canadian economy,” says Simon Worsfold, Head of Data Communications at Intuit QuickBooks. “This is why it’s so important for them to have access to a wide range of financing options. This can boost revenue and create jobs. While rising costs and the risks associated with credit card debt remain a concern, there are solutions.”

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Nourcy Unveils a Brand-New Concept at YQB

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

January 16, 2025

Nourcy-Nourcy Unveils a Brand-New Concept at YQB- — Nourcy café traiteur at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (CNW Group/Nourcy)

Nourcy has announced the opening of a concept exclusive to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB): Nourcy café traiteur.

Starting in winter 2025, the terminal’s public area will have more for passengers, their companions, and airport employees to enjoy. In addition to its beloved café concept and ready-to-heat meal service, the restaurant will also offer an alcoholic beverage menu for travellers who would like to share a drink with loved ones either before their flight or upon arriving in Québec City, said the company in a news release.

“We’re in the process of creating a concept specifically tailored to the needs of Québec City airport customers, whom I’ve been working with for the past five years. Everyone will be able to treat themselves in under ten minutes or sit comfortably and take their time to savour options like classic sandwiches or tasty Thai soup while waiting to cross into the secure area. Expect some new selections as well! This concept makes me want to innovate and keep coming up with new recipes,” said Nicolas Nourcy, owner of Nourcy.

The current counter, currently located on the 2^nd floor of the terminal, near the walkway leading to the car park, will be relocated to a more spacious location that offers better visibility for customers, he said.

Nourcy café traiteur will be located near international flight arrivals, just before the checkpoint. Crowned by a magnificent pergola, its refined design will blend seamlessly with the terminal’s décor thanks to a collaboration with architectural firm Patriarche, added the company.

“Passengers, companions, and airport employees will continue to enjoy the Nourcy team’s efficient service, as well as the impeccable quality of the products they have offered at YQB for the past five years. A vending machine and coffee machine will be added, guaranteeing 24/7 access to a selection of fresh products outside opening hours,” it said.

“We are thrilled to continue our association with Nourcy, where for five years now, passengers and airport community employees have enjoyed high-quality service that reflects the colours and flavours of our wonderful region. We hope that everyone will enjoy the new concept, which will give people even more to enjoy at YQB around the clock,” added Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of YQB.

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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For January 16, 2025

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Retail Insider

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January 15, 2025

News at a Glance

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 24 hours.

MEC up for sale again as end of pandemic spending surge leaves it with too much inventory (Globe & Mail / paywall)

Walmart Canada says underweight meat problem fixed by B.C. supplier (The Canadian Press)

How Saskatchewan malls have transformed into community hubs (Global)

Chapters Indigo closing its location in Place d’Orléans (CTV Ottawa)

Bryan Yu: B.C. retail sales posted a stronger start to Q4 (BIV)

Ford government underestimated ServiceOntario deal with Staples: financial watchdog (Global)

Beloved magazine store in the Annex that was set to close finds new location (Toronto Star)

Huge new T&T Supermarket location opening soon in downtown Toronto (BlogTO)

Safeway Liquor stores in Fort St. John and Dawson Creek closing for new ownership (CJDC)

Downtown Halifax businesses want more support in fight against retail theft (Global)

Covergalls and Mark’s Team Up to Support Women in Trades

By

Maya Johnson

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January 15, 2025

Screen Shot 2025-01-15 at 9.29.46 PM — Photo: Covergalls

Sudbury-based Covergalls has entered into a new agreement with Mark’s Commercial, marking a significant step forward in providing workwear designed specifically for women in trades and heavy industries. This partnership will see Covergalls’ innovative designs, including coveralls, cargo pants, flame-resistant hoodies, and high-visibility workwear, distributed to all 383 Mark’s locations across Canada.

Mark’s Commercial, the business-to-business wholesale division of Mark’s, connects suppliers to a network of over 15,000 businesses nationwide. The agreement signifies a milestone for Covergalls, as their products, engineered to better fit the female form, will now have access to a broad and diverse customer base.

Tackling a Gap in Women’s Workwear

For years, women in trades like mining have voiced concerns about ill-fitting work apparel and personal protective equipment (PPE) designed predominantly with men in mind. These issues often lead to discomfort and even safety hazards.

Alicia Woods, who founded Covergalls in 2013, is no stranger to these challenges. Having worked in the mining industry herself, Woods experienced firsthand the frustration of ill-suited workwear. Her determination to address this gap led her to create Covergalls, a brand committed to providing functional, comfortable, and safe clothing options for women in demanding industries.

Woods’ entrepreneurial journey gained national attention when she pitched her idea on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, a popular Canadian television show. Her pitch was met with enthusiasm, securing partnerships with three of the show’s prominent investors, propelling Covergalls into the spotlight.

A Step Towards Inclusivity in Mining

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, the presence of women in mining is steadily growing. Women now represent 16% of the Canadian mining workforce, according to the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR). While this number is below the national average across all industries, it highlights meaningful progress in increasing diversity in mining—a field historically less inclusive. Initiatives like Covergalls, which address the unique needs of women in the workforce, are playing a pivotal role in this transformation by empowering women to thrive in male-dominated environments.

Nationwide Availability Through Mark’s

Mark’s Commercial’s extensive network ensures that Covergalls’ products will reach female workers from coast to coast. With 383 Mark’s retail locations, the partnership offers an opportunity for greater accessibility to workwear that meets both functional and safety standards for women in trades.

Covergalls’ popular offerings include:

Coveralls tailored to fit women’s bodies, providing comfort and mobility.
Cargo pants designed with practical storage and durability.
Flame-resistant hoodies that combine safety and style.
High-visibility workwear, ensuring compliance with safety regulations while offering a better fit.

Driving Change in Male-Dominated Industries

The partnership between Covergalls and Mark’s Commercial reflects a broader movement toward inclusivity and equity in male-dominated industries. By offering gear tailored for women, the companies are helping to remove barriers that have long existed for female professionals in the trades.

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VIDEO: Canadian franchise industry poised for growth

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

January 15, 2025

David Druker, President & CEO of UPS Store Canada and Past Chair of the Canadian Franchise Association’s Board of Directors, discusses the state of the franchise industry in the country.

The industry is gearing up for a transformative year full of significant economic challenges and emerging opportunities. Despite concerns about inflation and interest rates, many Canadians consider the industry to be a resilient and adaptable pathway to business ownership, offering solutions for those looking to become their own boss in a turbulent economy.

Druker shares insights into the sectors poised for growth and the trends shaping the industry in 2025:

Sectors to Watch: Low-cost, service-based franchises are expected to dominate, with rising interest in areas like residential cleaning, senior care, and home improvement.
The Rise of AI: Franchisors are leveraging AI to enhance customer retention, improve operations, and support franchisee success.
Economic Resilience: Franchising remains a viable pathway to entrepreneurship despite inflation and a shrinking job market, offering risk mitigation and proven business systems.
Generational Shifts: Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly turning to franchise ownership to achieve financial freedom and work-life flexibility.

The Franchise Canada Show Toronto is taking place February 1 and 2 at the International Centre.

The Franchise Canada Show is the only showcase produced by the CFA and has become the perfect destination for Canadians looking to own their own business, as they can gain valuable insights, explore franchise systems shaping the landscape for the year ahead, and learn from industry leaders and successful franchisees, all reputable and qualified brands.

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Retail InsiderCanada's Most-Read Online Retail Industry Publication.

Manulife Place $45M Redevelopment to Revitalize Commercial Podium

A Modern Vision for a Historic Landmark

Transforming the Retail Podium

New Amenities for Tenants and Visitors

Economic Impact of the Redevelopment

Challenges in Downtown Edmonton

A Nod to the Past, a Step into the Future

More from Retail Insider:

Consumers regained their spending mojo, but tariffs cloud 2025: TD

What can Canadian entrepreneurs expect for 2025?: BDC

71% of consumers want generative AI integrated into their shopping experiences: Capgemini report

Baskin-Robbins raises $30,000 for BGC Canada in Pink Spoon Campaign

Stark decline in Canada’s small business employment: Intuit

Nourcy Unveils a Brand-New Concept at YQB

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For January 16, 2025

News at a Glance

Covergalls and Mark’s Team Up to Support Women in Trades

Tackling a Gap in Women’s Workwear

A Step Towards Inclusivity in Mining

Nationwide Availability Through Mark’s

Driving Change in Male-Dominated Industries

More from Retail Insider:

VIDEO: Canadian franchise industry poised for growth

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