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Canadian Retail Sales Surge to Start 2025

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Retail Insider
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Ste-Catherine St. W. in Montreal. Photo: Apple Maps

By J.C. Williams Group

The Canadian retail landscape has kicked off 2025 with a remarkably strong performance, showcasing resilience and adaptability in the face of ongoing economic uncertainties. StatCan All Stores sales have surged by 6.4% YOY, with a robust 5.6% YOY for discretionary spending with All Stores Less Automotive, Food, and Pharmacies. This impressive start can be attributed to a perfect storm of factors, including government stimulus cheques in Ontario, the tax holiday nationally, and consumer behaviour driven by fear of American tariffs.

The Ontario government’s $200 cheque distribution at the end of January, coupled with an extended tax holiday until mid-February, has undoubtedly played a significant role in boosting consumer spending. Moreover, the looming threat of tariffs may have inadvertently spurred a wave of buying, as consumers rushed to stock up on U.S. products amidst market uncertainty. This confluence of events has created a unique economic environment that retailers have capitalized on, resulting in the strong sales figures we’re observing.

Furniture Sector Noteworthy, Ontario Sees Baby Boost

The furniture sector’s performance is particularly noteworthy, with Furniture Stores and Home Furnishings Stores reporting increases of 4.9% and 10.8% YOY, respectively. This uptick is especially significant given the sector’s recent struggles and may signal a resurgence in the housing market. The anticipated interest rate cut (announced on January 29) appears to have rekindled consumer interest in home-related purchases, suggesting that Canadians are preparing for a potentially active spring housing market. This trend could have far-reaching implications for the broader economy, potentially stimulating growth in related industries such as construction and home improvement.

The apparel sector has emerged as a major beneficiary of the Ontario government’s stimulus measures and tax holiday on children’s clothing. With a staggering 14.4% YOY increase, Clothing Stores have experienced a significant boost in sales. This surge suggests that consumers, armed with extra disposable income, prioritized wardrobe updates and post-holiday return to school. The timing of these initiatives has proven particularly effective in driving foot traffic and sales in a sector that often faces challenges during the post-holiday lull.

The food retail sector has demonstrated resilience, with most categories experiencing strong growth. Supermarkets and Other Grocery Stores saw a 4.5% YOY increase, while Specialty Food Stores surged by 11.4% YOY. This growth is particularly impressive given that this is the sector’s first year-over-year decrease in the Consumer Price Index since 2017. The tax holiday appears to have not only boosted other categories but also benefited restaurants, with transaction sizes growing by 5.4% YOY in the first six weeks of the holiday.

Looking Forward

As we navigate through the uncertain terrain of 2025, JCWG is closely monitoring several key factors that could significantly impact the retail landscape:

  • When will the trade war officially commence, and will tariffs become a permanent fixture?
  • What are the anticipated dynamics of the spring housing market?
  • In what ways can national tourism bolster Canadian retailers amidst global travel uncertainties?
  • Will the current climate prompt more individuals to opt for staycations?
  • What will be the impact of the 74 Hudson’s Bay store vacancies, and how will the liquidation process affect other retailers?
  • How are YOU utilizing the “Buy Canadian” movement currently taking place in Canada?

Retail Sales by Product Category, Same Month Comparison

Sales for the Month of JanuaryJan-25Jan-24YOY
All Stores59,827,04956,228,4406.40%
Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers15,777,34514,425,9299.37%
Gasoline Stations6,138,9675,908,5213.90%
All Stores Less Automotive37,910,73735,893,9905.62%
Food and Beverage Stores12,119,60311,577,7644.68%
Supermarkets and Other Grocery Stores*9,013,1758,624,9744.50%
Convenience Stores612,553634,880-3.52%
Specialty Food Stores781,803702,06211.36%
Beer, Wine and Liquor Stores1,712,0731,615,8485.96%
Health and Personal Care Stores5,760,6145,355,0897.57%
All Stores Less Automotive, Food, and Pharmacies20,030,52018,961,1375.64%
General Merchandise Stores7,747,0837,276,1936.47%
Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronic and Appliance Stores3,392,4743,267,0643.84%
Furniture Stores1,093,8531,043,2544.85%
Home Furnishings Stores641,050578,42510.83%
Electronics and Appliance Stores1,657,5721,645,3860.74%
Clothing and Accessories Stores2,731,1442,422,18912.76%
Clothing Stores2,162,2901,889,78014.42%
Shoe Stores268,639270,879-0.83%
Jewellery, Luggage and Leather Goods Stores300,215261,52914.79%
Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores3,300,3533,192,6063.37%
Building Material and Garden Equipment2,859,4662,803,0842.01%
Miscellaneous Store Retailers2,209,7722,070,4046.73%
Cannabis Retailers418,325401,9614.07%

Retail Sales by Store Category, Year to Date Comparison

Year-to-Date Sales Ending JanuaryJan-25Jan-24YTD
All Stores59,827,04956,228,4406.40%
Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers15,777,34514,425,9299.37%
Gasoline Stations6,138,9675,908,5213.90%
All Stores Less Automotive37,910,73735,893,9905.62%
Food and Beverage Stores12,119,60311,577,7644.68%
Supermarkets and Other Grocery Stores*9,013,1758,624,9744.50%
Convenience Stores612,553634,880-3.52%
Specialty Food Stores781,803702,06211.36%
Beer, Wine and Liquor Stores1,712,0731,615,8485.96%
Health and Personal Care Stores5,760,6145,355,0897.57%
All Stores Less Automotive, Food, and Pharmacies20,030,52018,961,1375.64%
General Merchandise Stores7,747,0837,276,1936.47%
Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronic and Appliance Stores3,392,4743,267,0643.84%
Furniture Stores1,093,8531,043,2544.85%
Home Furnishings Stores641,050578,42510.83%
Electronics and Appliance Stores1,657,5721,645,3860.74%
Clothing and Accessories Stores2,731,1442,422,18912.76%
Clothing Stores2,162,2901,889,78014.42%
Shoe Stores268,639270,879-0.83%
Jewellery, Luggage and Leather Goods Stores300,215261,52914.79%
Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores3,300,3533,192,6063.37%
Building Material and Garden Equipment2,859,4662,803,0842.01%
Miscellaneous Store Retailers2,209,7722,070,4046.73%
Cannabis Retailers418,325401,9614.07%

Ecommerce Sales

Jan-25Jan-24%
Ecommerce Sales, YTD             3,655,430               3,655,43010.55%
Ecommerce Sales, YOY                 3,655,430                 3,655,43010.55%

Regional Sales, Year to Date Comparison

RegionYear-to-Date, 2025Year-to-Date, 2024YTD
British Columbia8,454,1237,668,63410.24%
Vancouver4,326,3603,996,2048.26%
Alberta7,936,1047,294,6418.79%
Prairies*3,994,9833,680,9148.53%
Ontario22,211,14221,352,3734.02%
Toronto10,084,9759,769,9973.22%
Québec12,818,79912,134,2045.64%
Montréal6,448,3516,089,8235.89%
Atlantic Canada4,186,2113,890,6047.60%
Territories225,686207,0718.99%

NATIONAL RETAIL BULLETIN

Stay up to date with JCWG’s monthly analysis on U. S. and Canadian retail sales.

More from JC Williams Group at Retail Insider:

Retail sales down in January: Statistics Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Gustavo Fring
Photo by Gustavo Fring

Retail sales decreased 0.6% to $69.4 billion in January. Sales were down in three of nine subsectors and were led by decreases at motor vehicle and parts dealers, according to a report released Friday by Statistics Canada.

Core retail sales—which exclude gasoline stations and fuel vendors and motor vehicle and parts dealers—were down 0.2% in January, said the federal agency, adding that in volume terms, retail sales decreased 1.1% in January.

“The largest decrease in retail sales in January was observed at motor vehicle and parts dealers (-2.6%). The decrease was led by lower sales at new car dealers (-3.2%) and automotive parts, accessories and tire retailers (-2.8%). The largest increase in the motor vehicle and parts dealers subsector came from used car dealers (+1.6%),” explained Statistics Canada.

“Sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors (+3.2%) increased in January for a fourth consecutive month. In volume terms, sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors increased 0.1%.”

Following an increase of 2.7% in December, core retail sales decreased 0.2% in January on lower sales at food and beverage retailers (-2.5%). Sales at food and beverage retailers were down mainly on lower sales at supermarkets and other grocery retailers (except convenience retailers), which fell 3.4% in January. To a lesser extent, beer, wine and liquor retailers (-2.0%) also contributed to the decline, added StatsCan.

“Lower sales were also recorded at sporting goods, hobby, musical instrument, book, and miscellaneous retailers (-2.2%) in January. The largest increase in core retail sales in January came from furniture, home furnishings, electronics and appliances retailers (+3.0%).”

On a seasonally adjusted basis, retail e-commerce sales decreased 0.9% to $4.2 billion in January, accounting for 6.1% of total retail trade, noted the federal agency.

“Statistics Canada is providing an advance estimate of retail sales, which suggests that sales decreased 0.4% in February. Owing to its early nature, this figure will be revised. This unofficial estimate was calculated based on responses received from 61.9% of companies surveyed. The average final response rate for the survey over the previous 12 months was 87.9%,” it said.

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Adyen introduces seamless donation integration for retailers across Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Source: Adyen
Source: Adyen

Adyen, a leading global payments platform, has unveiled a groundbreaking solution that makes charitable donations as easy as tapping a credit card. 

With the launch of its new donation feature, shoppers at participating retailers in Canada can now seamlessly donate to over 200 charities while making purchases in-store or online. By adding a simple prompt at the point of sale, Adyen is streamlining the donation process for consumers, making it easier than ever to support causes they care about without the need for cash or separate transactions.

The initiative, which already includes major retail partners like Uniqlo, H&M, and GDI (Groupe Dynamite Inc), aims to eliminate the clunky donation process often encountered by consumers. 

By integrating charitable giving directly into the payment flow, Adyen ensures that every donation is processed quickly and securely, with funds going directly to the charity’s bank account—bypassing the retailer’s books entirely. 

Source: Adyen
Source: Adyen

The platform also absorbs the associated transaction fees, ensuring that 100% of the donation reaches the intended cause.

In addition to benefiting consumers and charities, the new feature offers significant advantages for retailers. With over 300 stores in Canada using Adyen’s payment terminals, the solution helps retailers streamline their operations by reducing the administrative burden of managing and transferring donations. 

Sander Meijers
Sander Meijers

As Sander Meijers, Adyen’s Country Manager for Canada, explains, it’s a triple win—benefiting the consumer, the charity, and the retailer, with a simple, efficient, and impactful giving experience.

“Garage and Dynamite are fixtures in malls across North America and demonstrate seamless consumer experience at every touch point,” said Meijers. “There is a great opportunity in Canadian retail right now to enhance the consumer experience and we’re excited to be the partner to help brands deliver elevated experiences, leveraging solutions from unified commerce to giving.”

The Montreal-based fashion house that operates retail stores and digital experiences under two banners: Garage and Dynamite, is now live with Adyen’s Giving product.

Giving enables GDI to engage its customers with local causes and their existing non-profit partners, and respond quickly to timely causes. For example, the campaign to raise funds for Americares to support communities impacted by the LA fires went live within 24 hours. GDI saw 3.5 per cent of their customers donate to Americares through Adyen Giving, well above the platform’s two per cent average engagement.

Donna Lutfy
Donna Lutfy

“Charitable giving has always been part of our brand DNA, but Adyen’s Giving product has made the process seamless and agile. The process of onboarding a charitable partner and going live with a campaign through Giving is quick and effortless, empowering our team to be more ambitious with our fundraising goals and respond quickly to our community’s needs,” said Donna Lutfy, Special Advisor, ESG, at GDI. 

“Adyen’s innovative solutions and Giving product are crucial to advancing our ESG goals and helping us remain a leader in the ever-evolving retail landscape. This collaboration is a key step forward in our commitment to providing fashion that aligns with the expectations of our customers.”

For the month of March, Dynamite is partnering with Dress for Success Canada Foundation to collect donations at checkout in all of its Canadian stores.

“Our partnership with Dynamite and the generous support of their customers help provide women and non-binary individuals across the country with pre-employment and job retention support. This includes professional clothing, resume assistance, interview prep, career coaching, access to resources, peer support, and skills workshops – giving them the tools to enter and thrive in the workforce,” says Catherine Curtis, CEO of Dress for Success Canada Foundation. “We thank Dynamite and their customers for ensuring that those who need it most can find meaningful employment and become independent contributors to their communities, families, and country.”

Meijers said Adyen with its smart payment technology wondered if it could make a donation to charity flow seamless.

“Customers are already paying for their purchases through our terminals, so adding a prompt with a quick and easy option to donate makes the process more convenient,” he said.

“Adyen is solving the problem on two ends. As a consumer, it’s easier to donate – I just bought my sweater, and then I can tap on one button to make a donation. And for the retailers, it eliminates the administrative burden of splitting up the payment between the purchase and the donation, then wiring the donation amount to the charity, which often takes up to 90 days.”

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Calgary’s retail market booms as vacancy rates fall

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Mario Toneguzzi

Calgary’s retail market is seeing an impressive surge in demand, with vacancy rates hitting record lows and net rents on the rise. 

According to Hani Abdelkader, Principal and Practice Lead with Avison Young’s Retail Leasing and Sales Team, this growth is largely driven by population expansion and a lack of new retail development. The city’s retail sector has developed 500,000 square feet of new space in the past year, with food and beverage retailers leading the charge. 

Hani Abdelkader
Hani Abdelkader

However, while major shopping centres like Chinook Centre and Market Mall continue to thrive, smaller tenants and local businesses are also contributing to the robust market.

Retailers and developers are also adapting to changing consumer habits. 

With high consumer spending and evolving shopping preferences, Calgary’s retail market is expected to remain strong throughout 2025, despite challenges in the grocery sector.

Abdelkader described the Calgary retail market as robust right now.

“We’ve definitely seen a decline in vacancy with positive absorption. I think a lot of that is fueled by population growth and that pretty substantial increase in population base that we’ve seen. It also plays off of the fact that we don’t have a lot of new development happening,” he said.

“I know we have it in the pipeline, but we didn’t deliver a lot of new product last year. We’re actually right around 500,000 square feet, which is especially low for the city and that pushed a lot of retailers to look at built space. So that drove down that vacancy rate pretty substantially. And we saw that especially in occupiers that are sub 2,000 square feet. So food and beverage drove a lot of that demand, for example, and we saw it pretty well scattered throughout the entire city with the exception of downtown probably being our one soft spot.”

Abdelkader said smaller space is in demand and hard to find from 1,000 square feet to just over 1,500 square feet.

“It’s difficult to find if you’re an occupier in the market, you’re struggling to find space right now, especially built space. If you’ve got a couple of year outlook on things and you’re looking at new development, there are opportunities, but to find immediate space is tough. And I think that really happened, we saw a lot of that space come off the market through COVID when we saw food and beverage tenants, especially, just leasing at such a high velocity and such a high volume.”

Uniqlo at CF Chinook Centre (Image: Mario Toneguzzi)

Abdelkader said retailers are telling him that people in Calgary are still spending money.

“We do have still, by comparison to the rest of the market, good disposable income, our earning potential is high here. I think that plays into it. People may be readjusting where they spend their dollars. And I think that’s been a trend that we’ve seen for a number of years. A little bit of that money goes up to luxury, but a lot of it is trying to find that discount segment or that cheaper segment, whether it’s from a shopping experience perspective or a food and beverage perspective as well.”

“It’s a really active market right now and the thing that’s interesting about the market is we are starting to see net rents tick up a little bit. That slight increase is starting to happen. We’ve been flat for a number of years, but this I would say towards the end of 2024 and now what we’re seeing early 2025 is retail rents are going up.”

According to a recent Avison Young retail report, here’s the trends to watch in the Calgary market:

Retailers benefiting from province’s growth

Calgary’s population growth remains the highest in the country, driven by international immigration and interprovincial migration. Calgary boasts the highest personal income per capita among Canada’s major metropolitan areas, making it a very attractive retail destination. The region’s consumer base and economic stability are compelling factors for retailers and investors from outside of the province, which further stimulates the local economy and elevates the area’s profile. 

Retail vacancy continues to decline

E-commerce sales in Canada have leveled off after a significant surge during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, vacancy rates for brick-and-mortar stores have been on the decline, particularly in the suburbs. Retail development has slowly increased in response to demand. While traditional big box and community centres continue to be developed, zoning requirements are driving a shift toward more urban, mixed-use concepts. 

Further grocery store growth is anticipated

Investor preference for essential retail has driven persistent demand for grocery-anchored shopping centres. In Canada, core retail sales continue to be led by non-discretionary merchandise, such as food and beverages, reflecting consumers’ adaptation to an increase in cost of living. Investors are attuned to this trend, prioritizing lease “quality” by favoring long lease terms, stable cash flows, and high covenant strength. Grocery-anchored retail is ideal in this respect, with demand outpacing supply particularly in primary and secondary markets with favourable demographics. 

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For March 21, 2025

By
Retail Insider
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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web

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.

Hudson’s Bay News:

The Bay dressed Canadians for centuries. Fashion insiders share why it mattered — and why it died (Toronto)

Will the iconic Hudson’s Bay stripes live on? Company reveals it wants to auction off trademarks to highest bidder (Toronto Star)

Opinion | How Canadian-owned Simons flourishes while Hudson’s Bay crumbles (Toronto Star)

‘Iconic’: Downtown Calgary Hudson’s Bay building served as a template for retail empire (Calgary Herald)

People seeking bargains and nostalgia swarm flagship Hudson’s Bay store in Montreal (Montreal Gazette)

Other Retail News:

Shoppers Drug Mart opens first location on a university campus in Ottawa (Grocery Business)

Loblaw continues discount expansion with two new No Frills in Ontario and Alberta (Grocery Business)

Bonnis Properties Sells Hudson Mall On Granville For $89M To Hazelview (Storeys)

B.C. book stores bracing for potentially devastating tariffs (CityNews)

Victoria Public Market to close due to vacancies, new grocery store | Urbanized

Bonnis seeks quick approval for revamped project above Commodore Ballroom (BIV)

Downtown Barrie joins nationwide Shop Main Street Canada campaign (Innisfil News)

The SAQ announces net income of $514.1 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2024-2025 (Newswire)

Hudson’s Bay Faces Largest Liquidation in Canadian Retail History

By
Craig Patterson
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Hudson's Bay store at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Kyle Kempfer

The Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) is facing what could be the largest retail liquidation Canada has seen in decades. Antony Karabus, a seasoned retail expert, points out that while small-scale liquidations happen frequently, nothing compares to the scale of Eaton’s, Sears Canada, or now potentially HBC.

“Selling hundreds of million worth of inventory— that’s the biggest retail liquidation in Canada in many years,” says Karabus. “The last time there was something of this scale in Canada were the liquidations like Eaton’s and Sears Canada. This is the last big one.”

Antony Karabus

For a company that has played an integral role in Canada’s retail landscape for over three centuries, this latest chapter signals a profound transformation within the Canadian retail industry.

An Inevitable Outcome?

Many retail analysts saw this coming. According to Karabus, the moment HBC restructured and separated Saks Global from its Hudson’s Bay division, the writing was on the wall.

“This outcome was something I anticipated,” he explains. “I knew as early as January. It’s important to consider: how will people react if the company disappears? Employees will be saddened by the loss of their jobs, and the older generation will likely feel nostalgic. However, younger shoppers in Canada have largely moved away from traditional department stores.”

“Additionally, the pandemic had a significant, once-in-a-generation impact—downtown stores across Canada suffered from a prolonged lack of foot traffic due to extensive lockdowns.”

“I also feel for the numerous vendors who will suffer financial losses, both from unpaid invoices during the liquidation process and from the loss of future sales, as HBC was a major buyer for many suppliers. Furthermore, many landlords will now have to reconsider their business strategies, as the loss of The Bay as an anchor tenant will impact their revenues and leave them with large, vacant spaces that will need to be repurposed or filled with new tenants.”

With younger consumers shifting their spending habits to specialty retailers and e-commerce, the traditional department store model has struggled to maintain relevance.

The Nostalgia Factor

The potential downfall of Hudson’s Bay raises an important question: is the emotion around this more about the actual loss of the stores, or is it merely nostalgia?

“I would argue it’s primarily nostalgia,” Karabus says. “People are sad because they remember shopping there decades ago. But the reality is, if you don’t create a compelling shopping experience in beautiful, well-maintained stores, customers stop coming.”

Indeed, HBC has long been criticized for failing to modernize and maintain its stores. Some locations have outdated interiors, aging escalators, and an overall lack of appeal when compared to newer competitors.

The Importance of Reinvention

Retail success hinges on constant reinvention. Karabus highlights Canadian Tire as an example of a retailer that has successfully adapted to changing consumer needs.

“Look at strong retailers like Canadian Tire. They reinvent themselves every few years and have done an incredible job staying relevant and top of mind. They nurture talent internally, promote from within, and create a reason to exist,” he says. “HBC failed to do that. Was I surprised by what happened?  Unfortunately not. But it is sad as it is so closely identified with the history of Canada. ”

The retail landscape is littered with the remains of once-dominant chains that failed to evolve. While some department stores globally have found success by focusing on luxury or experiential retail, HBC has struggled to define its identity in a rapidly changing market.

Beauty and Fashion: Once Pillars, Now Competition

For decades, department stores were the go-to destinations for beauty and fashion. However, the rise of specialty retailers has dramatically changed consumer behaviour.

“Beauty was a very big reason for going to department stores,” Karabus notes. “But now, you’ve got Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, Amazon, and countless other choices. The same goes for fashion.”

In an era where consumers can access high-end beauty products at drugstores and order designer clothing online with ease, department stores have lost their once-powerful draw. Without differentiation or a strong value proposition, HBC found itself in a precarious position.

Can Hudson’s Bay Survive?

A key question now is whether Hudson’s Bay can survive in any form. Karabus poses the question directly: “Does it really matter? Should Hudson’s Bay survive? Can it?”

While other department store chains worldwide have adapted through luxury-focused strategies or technological innovation, HBC has struggled to implement meaningful changes. Without a clear reinvention plan, many analysts believe its days are numbered.

“You only survive in retail if you create a good shopping experience,” Karabus emphasizes. “If your stores are tired, if escalators aren’t running, if you don’t modernize, people will just stop coming or simply wait for bargains. And that’s exactly what happened.”

The End of an Era?

If Hudson’s Bay does disappear from Canada’s retail landscape, it will mark the end of an era. But Karabus believes that the impact will be more emotional than practical.

“The younger generation doesn’t shop at department stores like they used to,” he says. “The people who feel sad about HBC are remembering something from the past, not something they actively support today.”

As liquidation looms, the fate of Hudson’s Bay remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the department store model must evolve to remain relevant in a rapidly changing retail world. And for HBC, that evolution may have come too late.

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Farm Boy Unveils ‘A Farm Boy Fresh Twist’ Brand Refresh

By
Craig Patterson
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Image: Farm Boy

Farm Boy has unveiled its latest brand platform, A Farm Boy Fresh Twist, as part of its broader master brand strategy. The initiative aims to transform grocery shopping from a routine task into an engaging, fresh-market experience—reinforcing what makes Farm Boy unique. The brand refresh has been strategically integrated across customer touchpoints and is being supported by a 360-degree marketing campaign.

According to Farm Boy’s Director of Marketing and Media Relations, Alessandra Bisaillon, the new platform is rooted in the company’s long-standing commitment to high-quality, fresh, and local products, alongside a focus on customer service and in-store experiences.

Alessandra Bisaillon

Bringing the Brand to Life

The Farm Boy Fresh Twist platform is being executed through various touchpoints, including:

  • In-store experiences and displays that highlight fresh product innovations and showcase unique merchandising.
  • A dynamic hero video campaign (30-second and 60-second versions) capturing the energy of the Farm Boy shopping experience.
  • An emphasis on quality, value, and engagement, ensuring that every visit is both effortless and enjoyable.

To bring this initiative to fruition, Farm Boy collaborated with Evolve for creative execution, UM for paid media, North Strategic for PR and influencer partnerships, and Notch Video for video production.

A Strategic Move Rooted in Tradition

Bisaillon explained the reasoning behind the brand evolution, stating, “This is really a celebration of our foundational roots over the last four decades. We wanted to take a moment to refine our master brand and ensure we’re setting the stage for the next 5-10 years.”

The strategy was developed through a collaborative effort involving Farm Boy founder Jean-Louis Bellemare, President and General Manager Shawn Linton, and key members of the leadership and store teams. Through a series of whiteboard sessions, they identified key brand elements that have contributed to Farm Boy’s success over the past 44 years.

Bisaillon emphasized that the goal was to ensure that customers continue to perceive Farm Boy as more than just a grocery store: “Whether it’s our commitment to high-quality, locally sourced products, our friendly and knowledgeable staff, or our exciting in-store experience, we want customers to feel that Farm Boy is something special.”

Integrated Marketing and Customer Engagement

Farm Boy is taking a multi-channel approach to amplifying A Farm Boy Fresh Twist. The brand refresh is being reflected not only in marketing materials but also in-store layouts and merchandising strategies.

Bisaillon noted that customer feedback played a significant role in shaping the initiative. “Many of our brand fans have told us that Farm Boy isn’t just a place to buy food—it’s an experience. This platform is about celebrating that distinction and reinforcing what makes us different.”

From a marketing perspective, Farm Boy is leveraging a combination of social media, digital, and influencer engagement. The company’s PR agency, North Strategic, is leading the influencer strategy, while the hero video campaign features real customers rather than paid influencers. “We wanted to capture authentic reactions and showcase why people love Farm Boy in their own words,” Bisaillon added.

Image: Farm Boy

Continued Growth and Expansion

Farm Boy’s expansion across Ontario has been met with enthusiasm from consumers. The company’s latest location, in Toronto’s Leaside neighbourhood, served as a launchpad for the brand platform, which has now been rolled out across all 51 Farm Boy locations.

Bisaillon explained that the Farm Boy Fresh Twist concept is designed to be a long-term strategy rather than a short-lived campaign. “It’s embedded into everything we do—our merchandising, our service approach, and our in-store experiences.”

Additionally, the Leaside store’s product selection has been expanded to better serve local shoppers, offering a broader range of everyday essentials while maintaining the brand’s fresh-market appeal. “Our customers wanted to be able to round out their shop while still enjoying the Farm Boy experience, and we’ve listened,” Bisaillon said.

Image: Farm Boy

Innovation Through Partnerships

Farm Boy has also been enhancing its in-store experience through partnerships with well-known restaurant brands. The company has recently introduced collaborations with restaurants like Sud Forno and Terroni, offering pop-up food experiences that add to the excitement of visiting a Farm Boy store.

“It’s about bringing that element of surprise and delight to our customers,” Bisaillon said. “These partnerships help us offer something unique, whether it’s through a new prepared food option or an exciting in-store activation.”

Commitment to Local and Canadian Products

Amid growing consumer demand for Canadian-made products, Farm Boy continues to prioritize local sourcing. Bisaillon highlighted that the company has been working with local farmers and vendors for decades, ensuring that customers have access to fresh, high-quality Canadian products.

“This isn’t new for us—we’ve always championed local,” she said. “You’ll see it across our produce, grocery selection, and private label offerings. It’s part of what makes Farm Boy, Farm Boy.”

Image: Farm Boy

Looking Ahead

Farm Boy’s A Farm Boy Fresh Twist initiative marks an exciting new chapter for the brand as it continues to differentiate itself in Canada’s competitive grocery landscape. With a strong foundation built on customer engagement, innovative in-store experiences, and a commitment to quality, Farm Boy is well-positioned for continued success.

As Bisaillon put it, “We want customers to come in as shoppers but leave feeling like neighbours. That’s the essence of the Farm Boy experience.”

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Knix partners with four iconic female founders

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Deepica Mutyala (Live Tinted), Babba Rivera (Ceremonia), Katie Sturino (MegaBabe), and Natalie Dusome (Poppy & Peonies)

Knix, the intimates, swim, active and #1 Leakproof Brand in North America, has announced their latest campaign, “Out of Office,” to accompany the launch of their new swim collection. 

The campaign features four female founders: Deepica Mutyala of Live Tinted, Babba Rivera  of Ceremonia, Katie Sturino of MegaBabe, and Natalie Dusome of Poppy & Peonies. Each founder brings a unique voice, story, and fierce empowerment to the forefront of Knix’s most exciting swimwear launch yet, said the company.

Joanna Griffiths

“This campaign represents more than just swimwear – it’s a celebration of women who are unapologetically powerful,” says Joanna Griffiths, Founder & President of Knix.

“The ‘Out of Office’ concept was inspired by the idea that even the busiest women take time to disconnect, recharge and rejuvenate. Alongside this campaign, we’re excited to introduce our new innovative sculpt fabric, designed to make you feel supported, confident, and beautiful – in a swimsuit that works as hard as you do.”

Campaign Partners

Knix said its commitment to empowerment is embodied by the remarkable women featured in the campaign. 

Deepica Mutyala
Deepica Mutyala

“Being part of Knix’s swimwear campaign has been a healing journey, helping me embrace my body and culture. I’m proud to support a brand that aligns with my values,” said Deepica Mutyala, Founder of Live Tinted.

Katie Sturino, Founder of Megababe, also shares her excitement: “This was one of the most empowering sets I’ve been on — not only did we look great in Knix swimsuits, but it was incredible to collaborate with such talented women.”

Natalie Dusome
Natalie Dusome

“From day one, Knix has embodied community, inclusivity, transparency and empowerment, values that I celebrate both personally and professionally,” shared Natalie Dusome, Founder of Poppies & Peonies. “I feel inspired and honoured to have been in the company of such  powerhouse female entrepreneurs, and to have experienced the energy that Knix, Joanna and her wonderful team have worked so hard to build.”

Babba Rivera
Babba Rivera

Babba Rivera, Founder of Ceremonia, reflects on her participation: “This campaign means a lot to me because supporting women-founded brands isn’t just trendy, it’s actually essential if you want to enhance your quality of life—because nobody will ever create for the female experience better than women themselves.”

The Collection

Knix said each piece in the collection offers a comfortable and supportive fit, owed to Knix’s new sculpt fabric, which smoothes and hugs.

“Whether you’re lounging by the pool, taking a dip, or soaking in the sun, the swimwear provides a flawless fit that moves with you.  Designed to be both stylish and functional, the sculpt fabric also features UPF 50+ protection for an extra layer of care. Expect flattering, high-fashion and sexy silhouettes like high-cut bottoms and asymmetrical one-pieces. There are even customizable cuts such as the Sculpt Ruched One-Piece, where you can change up your look with various strap style options,” it said.

“The collection is available in XS-4XL, in a variety of stunning colours, including Black, White, Wild Cat (leopard print), Espresso, and Deep Orchid. Select pieces from the collection provide built-in leakproof technology.”

Knix’s Swim Collection is available at retail locations across Canada, as well as online at Knix.ca, with pricing from $45-$135 CAD.

Limited Edition Gift with Purchase Offer

To celebrate the launch, each participating brand in the ‘Out of Office’ campaign, is offering an exclusive gift with purchase to Club Knix loyalty program members with any online swimwear purchase from the new collection, while supplies last.  Qualifying customer orders will receive either a Poppy & Peonies Cosmetic Bag in Espresso, a Ceremonia Guava Rescue Spray, a MegaBabe Mini Thigh Rescue Anti-Friction Stick, or a Live Tinted SPF 30 3-in-1 Mineral Sunscreen.

Founded by Griffiths in 2013, Knix is an industry leader in redefining intimates through innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to breaking boundaries. From pioneering Leakproof underwear to revolutionizing wireless and underwire support, Knix said it challenges convention with thoughtfully engineered designs that blend function, comfort, and style.

“With a product range spanning bras, period-proof activewear, customizable shapewear, and everyday essentials available in an extensive size range, Knix continues to set new standards for how intimates should look, feel, and perform.” said the company.

Katie Sturino, Founder of MegaBabe
Babba Rivera, Founder of Ceremonia

Canada’s largest specialty coffee retailer Second Cup Café celebrates 50 years of Canadian coffee culture

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Source- Second Cup
Source- Second Cup

Second Cup Café, Canada’s premier specialty coffee retailer, is commemorating its 50th anniversary this year. From modest beginnings in 1975 as a kiosk selling whole bean coffee, Second Cup has evolved into a national brand deeply rooted in communities across the country.

Over the past five decades, Second Cup said it has remained dedicated to delivering exceptional coffee experiences, emphasizing quality, menu innovation and personalized service, as well as sustainability and community outreach.

Peter Mammas, CEO of Foodtastic

“The Second Cup brand and its values are extremely precious in our eyes, but the key is the people behind the brand,” said Peter Mammas, Founder and CEO of Foodtastic, parent company of Second Cup. “This milestone has been made possible by Canadian passion and talent, working hard to meet one of our most basic needs – a cozy place to enjoy good company and a good cup of coffee.”

Second Cup said it will celebrate the anniversary with promotions and events that pay homage to its rich history and its customers’ diverse tastes. Details of the offerings and activities will be released in the next few months as the brand approaches its official anniversary date. The first kiosk opened in a shopping mall in Toronto in August 1975.

“We owe this incredible journey to our loyal customers, dedicated franchisees, and hardworking employees, whose passion and commitment have shaped Second Cup into what it is today,” added Mammas. “As a proudly Canadian brand, we look forward to continuing this mission for many years to come.”

Foodtastic is one of Canada’s largest restaurant franchisors, operating more than 1,200 locations across the country. Its diverse portfolio includes Freshii, Quesada, Pita Pit, Second Cup, Milestones, and over 22 other banners.

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Forget family passes the torch to another RONA affiliated dealer

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Carlos Munoz with the Forget family
Carlos Munoz with the Forget family

RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers operating and servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated stores, has announced the acquisition of the RONA Forget store located at 302 Rue de Saint-Jovite in Mont-Tremblant by Carlos Munoz, a RONA affiliated dealer who already owns three stores under that banner in Montréal’s South Shore.

The transaction will ensure the future of the company that has been serving the local Mont-Tremblant community for 120 years, said the retailer in a news release.

“Over time, our business has become an integral part of the community. We have grown alongside our partners and our customers by sharing the values that are important to us, including authenticity, collaboration and commitment. We’re proud of RONA Forget’s growth, and it’s with great emotion and optimism that we’re passing the torch today to someone who shares these same values, so that the company can carry on and continue to shine,” said Benoit Forget, former shareholder of RONA Forget.

Backed by the same team of experts currently in place, Munoz said he is committed to serving the customers with the same high standards, offering them all the products they need to complete their home improvement projects, and getting involved in the community. He has solid industry experience and will play an active role in the company as General Manager. The Forget family will stay involved in the business to ensure a smooth transition for the team and for customers. Some family members will retain their position at the store for the long term as it continues to operate under the same name, added the retailer.

“The store benefits from a rich history and an obvious reputation in the Mont-Tremblant community. I have great respect for the company’s traditions and the solid foundations laid by the Forget family. By building on these strengths, I hope to leverage my expertise to continue to serve and support the local community. I look forward to joining the team so that together we can continue to grow the company. I also want to work with RONA’s team of dedicated experts, who are key partners in store operations,” said Munoz, new owner of the RONA Forget store.

Alain Ménard
Alain Ménard

“A business transfer can be a very delicate challenge. I’m proud of the work done by the teams, who managed this project with professionalism while respecting the company’s values,” says Alain Ménard, Senior Vice-President, RONA Affiliated Dealers at RONA inc.

“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Carlos, who has now acquired his fourth RONA store in Québec. I would also like to thank the Forget family for their considerable contribution to the RONA network and to their community,” continues Mr. Ménard.

RONA inc. is one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers headquartered in Boucherville, Québec. The RONA inc. network operates or services some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the RONA+, RONA, and Dick’s Lumber banners.

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