There will be a two-night bar takeover on February 23 and 24, where Watanabe will bring his masterful mixology to Deauville Club, showcasing his exceptional talent and unique cocktails, said a news release.
(CNW Group/Deauville Club inside Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton)
“I’m so excited to visit Canada and finally bring my cocktails to Deauville Club! I’ve heard amazing things about the bar scene here, and I can’t wait to meet everyone and share a great night. Let’s make it unforgettable,” said Watanabe, owner of Martiny’sand L’Americana.
Wanatabe, known for his vibrant spirit of creativity with his Japanese heritage, currently holds the title Bartender of the Year and the Best Bartender in North America 2024. Additionally, he is a semifinalist for the 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service. Based in New York, Martiny’s won the Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar in 2023 and ranks #4 on North America’s 50 Best Bars and #24 on the World’s Best 50 Bars in 2024.
“In partnership with Campari Group Canada, experience a captivating blend of French elegance and global culinary inspiration at Deauville Club, nestled in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant entertainment district. On February 23rd at 6 PM, Watanabe will spotlight Martiny’s signature cocktail and more. This event promises more than just outstanding cocktails; every detail—from the warm hospitality to the elegant design elements and curated bar bites—has been meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable experience,” said the news release.
(CNW Group/Deauville Club inside Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton)
“The excitement continues on February 24th, at 6 PM, as Deauville Club invites guests to indulge in cocktails inspired by “L’Americana,” where Watanabe celebrates his passion for Italian cuisine. This tantalizing cocktail menu pays homage to Italian heritage while showcasing the innovative spirit that defines this iconic New York City neighbourhood.”
About Deauville Club inside Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton Deauville Club is a French-inspired dining destination where subtle rose pink hues, mirrored accents, and acrylic screens create an elegant, dreamlike setting. Continuing the cinematic theme and Hollywood glamour, the culinary experiences will indeed evoke a sense of wonder and delight. Located inside Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton is where cinematic storytelling meets refined hospitality. As part of Hilton’s global lifestyle brand, Revery offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Toronto’s vibrant entertainment district, blending striking design with an immersive atmosphere. This transformation into the Curio Collection by Hilton is a collaboration between local design teams and Easton’s Group of Hotels, The Gupta Group, and The Gupta Family—visionaries redefining hospitality. Led by Steve Gupta, The Gupta Group is a global investment leader with 22 hotels and four in development across Ontario and Quebec, featuring top brands like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG.
About Expand With Joy Expandwithjoy is an events-based agency that supports world-class chefs and mixologists in expanding their restaurants and bars internationally. Founder Joy Puja Chopra, a passionate foodie, is active in the hospitality world and has organized events for Unicef NextGen, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the American India Foundation, as well as various galas and panels on entrepreneurship and mental health.
(CNW Group/Deauville Club inside Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton)(CNW Group/Deauville Club inside Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton)
Shopify Inc., a leading commerce technology company announced today financial results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024.
Harley Finkelstein
“2024 was a stand-out year for Shopify. We seized every opportunity to fuel our growth and it showed in the results quarter after quarter,” said Harley Finkelstein, President of Shopify. “Heading into 2025, we are committed to making entrepreneurship more common and further establishing Shopify as the go-to commerce platform for businesses of all sizes. With our proven track record, the agility of our platform, and our relentless focus on merchant success, we like our odds in this evolving technology landscape, and are excited about the opportunities it brings for Shopify and our merchants.”
Jeff Hoffmeister
Jeff Hoffmeister, Chief Financial Officer of Shopify, said, “We are thrilled with our strong performance in Q4, wrapping up an outstanding 2024. Q4 marks our seventh consecutive quarter of 25% or greater revenue growth when excluding logistics. Moreover, we grew free cash flow margin sequentially each quarter of 2024, reaching 22% for Q4. GMV growth accelerated each quarter this year, achieving a 24% year-over-year increase in 2024, marking our highest GMV growth in three years. These consistent results are a testament to our strategic initiatives and operational discipline, positioning us well for continued success and growth in the future.”
Shopify said it expects the strong merchant momentum from Q4 to carry over into Q1, recognizing that Q1 is consistently our lowest GMV quarter seasonally.
“With that backdrop, for the first quarter of 2025 we expect:
Revenue to grow at a mid-twenties percentage rate on a year-over-year basis;
Gross profit dollars to grow at a low-twenties percentage rate on a year-over-year basis;
Operating expense as a percentage of revenue to be 41% to 42%;
Stock-based compensation to be $120 million; and
Free cash flow margin to be in the mid-teens.
About Shopify
Shopify is the leading global commerce company that provides essential internet infrastructure for commerce, offering trusted tools to start, scale, market, and run a retail business of any size. Shopify makes commerce better for everyone with a platform and services that are engineered for speed, customization, reliability, and security, while delivering a better shopping experience for consumers online, in store, and everywhere in between. Shopify powers millions of businesses in more than 175 countries and is trusted by brands such as BarkBox, Vuori, BevMo, Carrier, JB Hi-Fi, Meta, ButcherBox, SKIMS, Supreme, and many more.
Employment in the foodservice sector increased to its highest level since the start of the pandemic in January, according to the latest Labour Force Survey by StatsCan, spurred by guests taking advantage of the GST/HST holiday, says Restaurants Canada.
The industry added 34,600 new jobs since November 2024, reaching 1,175,900 jobs and representing one in six new jobs created in Canada, said the national organization on Tuesday.
“We are Canada’s 4th largest private-sector employer and one of the first to experience job losses in times of economic strain. Simply put, the tax holiday is creating employment in communities across Canada and keeping people employed at a very challenging time. Ending this tax relief now would directly hurt Canadian workers and families.
“Canadians are already struggling to afford the essentials. If U.S. tariffs come into effect, we’re looking at more increases to the cost of living, including food. Government can provide some stability and relief to Canadians and the restaurant industry by keeping all food tax-free.”
January and February tend to be the slowest times for the foodservice industry, which often leads to lower employment levels. However, there were 67,500 more jobs in the industry in January 2025 than there were in January 2024, a 6.1% increase compared to just 2% across all industries, said the national organization.
Restaurants Canada said it has been calling on the federal government to permanently exempt all food from GST and HST or at least extend the tax relief until the tariff dispute with the United States is resolved. More than half (53%) of restaurants are operating at a loss of just breaking even, compared to just 12% pre-pandemic, largely as a result of reduced consumer spending.
Restaurants Canada is a national, not-for-profit association advancing Canada’s diverse and dynamic foodservice industry. Restaurants are a $120 billion industry employing nearly 1.2 million Canadians and is the number one source of first-time jobs in Canada.
The company reported annual box office revenues of $562.2 million, a decrease of $37.8 million or 6.3% from $599.9 million, due to a 10.3% decrease in theatre attendance as a result of the disruption of the 2024 release schedule from the writers’ and actors’ strikes in 2023.
Q4 2024 Highlights:
Reported $362.7 million in revenues, a 15.1% increase over the prior year
Achieved $40.3M in Adjusted EBITDAaL, an increase of 66.6% relative to the prior year
Reported net income of $3.3 million, an increase of $12.3 million relative to the prior year net loss of $9.0 million
Delivered an all-time quarterly BPP record of $13.26 and an all-time Q4 CPP record of $9.41
Grew media revenues by 25.7% over the prior year due to expanded digital-out-of-home network and improved Cinema advertising business
Opened 3 new Location-Based Entertainment venues and one new theatre
Ellis Jacob
“2024 was a year of significant progress for our business, a year which was focused on returning long term value to shareholders,” said Ellis Jacob, President and CEO, Cineplex, in a news release. “The sale of Player One Amusement Group and the comprehensive re-financing plan initiatives, which closed in the first quarter of 2024, allowed us to de-leverage and optimize our capital structure. We reaffirmed our belief in the long-term success of the Company by announcing a Normal Course Issuer Bid program in Q3. We continued to invest in our diversified businesses by opening three new LBE venues in highly attractive locations in the fourth quarter, further cementing ourselves as a leader in Canadian entertainment.
“Our Cineplex Digital Media network expanded in 2024 with the additions of Cadillac Fairview and Cominar, resulting in impressive year over year revenue growth. With incredible coast-to-coast penetration of Canada’s shopping malls, our recent membership with the Canadian Out-Of-Home Marketing and Measurement Bureau (“COMMB”), and the highly attentive and engaged audience in our theatres, our media segment is positioned for growth through our multitude of attractive media assets to clients.
“Our diversified business offerings and leading loyalty program continue to differentiate us from our peers. With a film slate that will only strengthen as we move forward, we are excited about the future and look forward to continuing the momentum into 2025.”
In its fiscal year, Cineplex opened Cinéma Cineplex Royalmount, in Ville Mont-Royal, Quebec on November 25, 2024, a five screen theatre featuring recliner seating and laser projection. It also closed three locations at the end of their lease terms as part of Cineplex’s portfolio optimization and rationalization strategy.
Cineplex is a top-tier Canadian brand that operates in the Film Entertainment and Content, Amusement and Leisure, and Media sectors. Cineplex has 172 movie theatres and location-based entertainment venues. The company operates ‘Eats & Entertainment’ (The Rec Room), complexes specially designed for teens and families (Playdium), and an entertainment concept that brings movies, amusement gaming, dining, and live performances together under one roof (Cineplex Junxion). It also operates successful businesses in cinema media (Cineplex Media), digital place-based media (Cineplex Digital Media or CDM), alternative programming (Cineplex Events) and motion picture distribution (Cineplex Pictures). Cineplex is a partner in Scene+, Canada’s largest entertainment and lifestyle loyalty program.
Regardless of whether Trump will impose the tariffs once the 30 days are up, Canadian supply chains have become the epicentre of these looming disruptions. The country urgently needs to strengthen its supply chain resilience.
If the tariffs were to go into effect, they would reshape the geo-political ecosystem of North America and beyond by disrupting global supply chains. These supply chains are a direct reflection of the geo-political ecosystem in which they operate, and they require stability to establish and thrive.
Trump’s potential trade war represents an unconventional, top-down approach to redesigning North American supply chains, which took decades to establish. His aggressive trade policies are disrupting the status quo with devastating and irreversible effects.
Canadian supply chains have historically been prone to major disruptions. Past responses to these disruptions have focused on helping firms build resilience. While this is important, insufficient attention has been given to establishing effective provincial and national governance structures to support and guide supply chain resilience.
Cargo containers are unloaded from a ship with gantry cranes while docked at port, in Vancouver, on April 25, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
System-level supply chain resilience is influenced by governmental or regulatory bodies that set policies to manage long-term supply risks. These are known as governance structures or mechanisms.
Canada’s long-term strategic response must go beyond helping Canadian companies integrate into alternative global supply chains outside the U.S. The country must also explore new governance structures that can strengthen the collective resilience of Canadian firms.
Improving supply chain resilience
Trump has been a destabilizing force for international trade and free trade agreements, particularly the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement, which may have a shorter lifespan than initially agreed upon.
Canada is currently part of 15 free trade agreements that collectively cover 61 per cent of the world’s GDP and provide access to 1.5 billion consumers globally. However, it’s not yet clear how free trade agreements can enhance supply chain resilience.
Canada must look beyond its existing free trade agreements and pursue new markets such as the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and the Pacific Alliance. Expanding into these regions would allow Canadian companies and supply chains to join global value chains, creating opportunities for knowledge spillovers and productivity boosts.
Cargo containers are seen on the Maersk Stockholm ship while docked at port in Vancouver in April 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
As Canada diversifies its trade, it must do so with a supply chain mindset, carefully considering the implications of specific trade policies and how they will enhance the resilience of Canadian supply chains.
Future free trade agreements should incorporate clear and specific clauses that anticipate disruptions and help with swift supply chain recovery. A prime example of such an agreement is the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, which came into effect in October 2024.
Beyond international trade, Canada should also eliminate interprovincial trade barriers to facilitate easier business operations across Canadian provinces and territories.
The Canadian government may need to establish a multi-level governance structure encompassing sectoral, provincial and national levels, such as supply chain councils.
Supply chain councils could connect supply chains with small and medium-sized enterprises, leverage existing networks, co-ordinate resilience strategies and address supply chain and trade policy issues of national significance.
To withstand these pressures, Canada must build resilience at the systemic level, where top-down governance ensures the private sector can respond quickly and effectively to disruptions. It is never too late to start, but waiting any longer is no longer an option for Canada.
Authors
Hassan Wafai: Associate Professor, Faculty of Management, Royal Roads University
Juan Navarro: Associate Faculty, School of Business, Royal Roads University
Kimberly Tholl: Associate Faculty, Faculty of Management, Royal Roads University
When companies of all sizes need to raise money for their investments and operations, they have two options: equity and debt financing. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula for finding which one is best for any specific business, and that’s why they most typically choose a combination of both options.
However, ill-informed decisions on that front can lead to disastrous consequences and even bankruptcy. That’s when wise business owners look for specialized advisory services like those provided by Acquinox Advisors. Still, it’s necessary to understand the options on the table before looking for professional help. Here’s what you need to know about both financing instruments.
Debt financing looks very much like borrowing money since the raised amount must be repaid later. Typically, banks, private and public financers, and working capital funding institutions are the most popular options for this kind of financing. Meanwhile, equity financing doesn’t require payment: the money comes from financers partially buying into the company’s ownership.
Which one is the best option? Well, it really depends on each case, and finding the right balance between both instruments isn’t always easy. That’s when private equity advisory services come in handy, as there is an equity formula to help with this issue. The Debt-to-Equity ratio, or simple D/E, helps companies understand their financial leverage by dividing their liabilities by shareholder’s equity.
Indeed, D/E is a vital decision-making instrument. When the ratio is low, it means that the company is underusing its debt capabilities. In contrast, a high ratio usually means that the company is taking high risks. However, parameters may change across different industries, and it’s very dangerous to play by ear here. Hiring a professional private equity advisor is the first step toward finding the best solution.
Navigating the Differences
Naturally, both financing instruments have their pros and cons. Debt financing incurs repayment plus interest, and failing to meet deadlines may have severe consequences. However, a business owner doesn’t need to give up a portion of their business, and financing institutions won’t have a say in business decisions.
In some cases, debt financing can be even cheaper than private equity, as the repaid interests are tax-deductible. It’s especially true for small businesses, where reducing taxable income can make a huge difference. Small business owners are also less prone to go for equity, as they prefer to maintain full control over their companies.
There’s no need to pay back equity investors, even though owners may lose part of their power over the company. Ideally, such investors don’t bring just money but also business expertise and contacts. In fact, business owners and equity investors are in the same boat; if the company doesn’t perform well, everybody loses. Nevertheless, it’s an effective way to raise capital during difficult times.
How to Choose
Debt financing is the best option for those who are confident of the return on their investment over time and want to maximize access to funds quickly. However, the qualifying process can be complex, and several criteria must be met before approval can be granted. In fact, the qualifying process is based on cold and hard business numbers, which will define how much money can be borrowed based on what they think the company will be able to pay back.
It’s an attractive option since it doesn’t dilute ownership, but there are considerable risks associated with it. Unexpected downturns can strangle the company’s cash flow, making it very difficult to repay the debt. In this context, the debt amount can snowball and, in the worst case, lead to bankruptcy.
Meanwhile, equity financing provides a solution for businesses that need money but don’t have much access to credit or are unsure they’ll be able to pay it back. The best part is that it doesn’t involve monthly repayments, and equity investors turn into business partners who are committed to the company’s success. Debt financing is constrained by a company’s creditworthiness, which can be a real problem for small businesses and startups.
Meanwhile, such companies can raise considerably larger funds by partnering with equity investors, who take a much more qualitative approach to this issue. The amount they are willing to invest isn’t only bound to a company’s financial health. Indeed, private equity investors can put much more money than traditional lending institutions if they believe in their missions and values, for instance.
For those considering equity financing, working with experienced private equity attorneys can be invaluable. These legal professionals provide guidance throughout complex transactions, ensuring regulatory compliance and helping investors or business owners structure deals that best align with their strategic goals.
FAQ
Is Debt Financing Cheaper Than Equity?
Debt financing is often cheaper than equity depending on interest rates, as repayments are tax-deductible. Conversely, equity investors may request higher returns for joining the venture. However, equity financing doesn’t involve monthly repayments.
When Should Businesses Choose Equity Financing?
Equity financing is the best option for businesses with low credit scores or little access to credit. It’s also the best option for small companies and startups that can’t afford monthly repayments.
What Is Debt-to-Equity Ratio?
The debt-to-equity ratio is a formula for assessing a business’s financial leverage. It shows how much of the financing is coming from the company’s own sources or is debt-based. This ratio can be adjusted to reflect short-term and long-term investments.
Why Hiring a Private Equity Advisor?
Hiring a private equity advisor is the best investment a business can make before considering any type of financing. Professional advisors can help companies to navigate the different financing options available, their risks, and their advantages. Above all, they provide vital market intelligence and guide clients through the many stages of the financing process.
Competitive analysis enables businesses to learn critical details about the competition vying for the same client base. This analytical approach reduces risk and gives businesses a competitive advantage. Acompetitor analysis tool helps make data-driven decisions based on a complete view of the competitive landscape.
The analyzed data reveal growth opportunities based on objective competitor data, ensuring higher ROIs.Learning from competitors helps businesses develop marketing strategies based on the competitive market that will attract customers and drive profitability. A competitive analysis is a wise investment tool because it provides a detailed view of two competing companies, helping businesses make smarter investment decisions.
What is a Competitor Analysis Tool?
Competitor analysis tools offer businesses intel on competitor’s online presence and strategy. This information allows more effective business strategies to better suit the market and consumer sentiments. These tools can help drive business and assist in making informed marketing budget decisions.
Studying competitors’ customer segments, researching their products, and discovering new keywords for marketing strategies are just a few ways that a competitor analysis tool supports business health. These tools help businesses identify any flaws they may have and adjust accordingly. Unlike traditional business operations, the “insider’s look” is a unique aspect of online business that can help determine competitors’ marketing dynamics.
Key Insights Gained From Competitor Analysis
A key insight garnered from a competitor analysis tool is determining a competitor’s strengths and weaknesses. The tool also identifies any market gaps so businesses can refine strategies for more tailored responses and potential sales. In addition to competitor information, the tool offers insights into consumers’ needs and pain points and how other companies address them.
This critical insight allows businesses to address these needs while discovering market gaps to fulfill. Identifying market gaps at the onset provides a unique opportunity to set the market price and monitor what decisions the competition is making. This allows a business to adjust price points accordingly.
Top Features to Look For
Every market is different, but there are top features to look for with all competitor analysis tools. Backlink profiles are important because they offer a view of how the competition is using link-building strategies and identify opportunities to reach the same client base. Another essential feature is keyword rank tracking, allowing businesses to identify weaknesses in their keyword strategy and competitor’s keywords that drive critical traffic.
Website traffic trends allow businesses to monitor changes in their competitors’ website traffic and where the traffic comes from. Organic searches, social media, and paid advertising are all monitored so businesses can readjust their marketing strategies to meet the demands of the highest-traffic population. Customizing the features to specific areas a business needs is an effective way to gain the most from a competitor analysis tool.
How to Use a Competitor Analysis Tool Effectively
Using a competitor analysis tool can help businesses gain a competitive edge by monitoring the competition and adjusting business strategies accordingly. This tool is valuable for identifying where the most traffic is coming from, primary keywords, and other critical data. Understanding this information does more than drive sales; it helps businesses keep a finger on the consumer market’s pulse, saving on marketing costs.
To use the tool effectively, identify key competitors and leverage their information to gain insight into their products, services, and marketing strategies. The first step is choosing the right tool for business needs. Knowing what features will be most effective for business strategies will help narrow tool choices and make an informed decision.
Why a Competitor Analysis Tool is Essential
Competitor analysis tools are necessary for businesses seeking to dominate their market. By utilizing real-time insights into competitor strategies, companies can adjust their marketing, pricing, and product offerings for maximum impact. Beyond identifying strengths and weaknesses, these tools empower businesses to anticipate market shifts, capitalize on emerging trends, and maintain a proactive approach.
In today’s hyper-competitive business environment, companies that fail to analyze their competition risk falling behind. Those who choose to utilize these insights will not just compete in the marketplace– they will lead.
CT Real Estate Investment Trust is reporting another strong financial performance in 2024 despite “heightened uncertainty and sustained headwinds in the macroeconomic landscape.
CT REIT is an unincorporated, closed-end real estate investment trust formed to own income-producing commercial properties located primarily in Canada. Its portfolio is comprised of over 375 properties totalling more than 31 million square feet of GLA, consisting primarily of net lease single-tenant retail properties across Canada. Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited, is CT REIT’s most significant tenant.
New Investment Activity
CT REIT announced three new investments which will require an estimated $59 million to complete. The investments are, in aggregate, expected to earn a going-in yield of 8.11% and represent approximately 284,000 square feet of incremental gross leasable area, said the company in a news release.
The table below summarizes the new investments and their anticipated completion dates:
Property
Type
GLA (sf.)
Timing
Activity
Kelowna, BC
Land Lease / Development
186,000
Q1 2025 / Q4 2025
Land lease from a third party and development of a new Canadian Tire store
Winnipeg (Regent), MB
Intensification
33,000
Q2 2026
Expansion of a Canadian Tire store
Lloydminster, AB
Redevelopment
65,000
Q4 2026
Redevelopment of a vacant property
In the fourth quarter, CT REIT also sold a portion of a property in Orillia, Ontario for $4 million.
Update on Previously Announced Investments
CT REIT invested $103 million in previously disclosed projects that were completed in the fourth quarter of 2024, adding 322,000 square feet of incremental GLA to the portfolio as detailed in the table below.
Property
Type
GLA (sf.)
Timing
Activity
Winnipeg (Regent), MB
Vend-in
101,000
Q4 2024
Vend-in of a Canadian Tire store
Mont Tremblant, QC
Vend-in
128,000
Q4 2024
Vend-in of a property containing Canadian Tire, Mark’s and Dollarama stores
Kirkland, QC
Intensification
66,000
Q4 2024
Expansion of a Canadian Tire store
Martensville, SK
Intensification
27,000
Q4 2024
Expansion of a Canadian Tire store
Update on Full-Year 2024 Investment and Development Activity
In 2024, CT REIT said it invested approximately $176 million in completed projects and ongoing developments and grew the portfolio by approximately 400,000 square feet of GLA. As of December 31, 2024, CT REIT had 881,000 square feet of GLA under development, of which approximately 88.4% is subject to committed lease agreements. These developments represent an investment of approximately $328 million upon completion, of which $107 million has been spent to date.
The REIT said net income was $135.3 million for the quarter, an increase of $97.1 million, compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to increases in the fair value adjustment on investment properties and higher revenues from the Property portfolio, partially offset by higher interest expense.
Total property revenue for the quarter was $145.4 million, which was $5.5 million or 3.9% higher compared to the same period in the prior year. In the fourth quarter, NOI was $115.6 million, which was $4.0 million or 3.6% higher compared to the same period in the prior year. This was primarily due to the acquisition, intensification and development of income-producing properties completed in 2023 and 2024, which added $2.7 million, rent escalations from Canadian Tire leases, which contributed $1.4 million and an increase in property operating recoveries, which added $0.4 million, it said.
The report said Canadian Tire is CT REIT’s most significant tenant. As at December 31, 2024, CTC represented 92.8% of total GLA and 91.7% of annualized base minimum rent.
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.
Indeed Laboratories HQ at 118 Avenue Road in Toronto. Photo: Indeed Labs
Located in Toronto’s Yorkville area, Indeed Laboratories has become a name synonymous with high-quality, accessible skincare solutions. Founded in 2010, the company has revolutionized the industry, and this year it celebrates its 15th anniversary with a commitment to innovation, community, and inclusivity.
“When we launched Indeed Labs, we wanted to disrupt the industry with science-backed, results-driven, and affordable products,” said Dimitra Davidson, founder of Indeed Labs. Speaking from the brand’s space at 118 Avenue Road, Davidson reflected on the company’s journey. “We’ve always prioritized safety, efficacy, and accessibility. Skincare should be available to everyone, not just a select few.”
The Birth of a Disruptor
Indeed Labs was co-founded by Davidson and a small team, including Brandan Truax, who later founded Deciem. Indeed Lab’s initial breakthrough came with the launch of Nanoblur in 2011, a blurring cream designed to give users an instant “Paris filter” effect.
Dimitra Davidson, founder of Indeed Labs
“Back then, skincare wasn’t as ingredient-focused or results-driven as it is today,” Davidson said. “We introduced Nanoblur to show consumers that immediate, effective solutions were possible. We were ahead of our time, launching a product that’s still a global favourite, used by makeup artists, film sets, and even taught in cosmetic schools.”
Davidson, whose background spans finance, luxury retail, and corporate sales with Tiffany & Co. Canada, credits her diverse professional experience for the success of Indeed Labs. “I never thought I’d end up in skincare,” she admitted. “But my passion for branding, coupled with my entrepreneurial background, allowed me to see the gaps in the market and fill them effectively.”
A Philosophy Rooted in Problem-Solving
Davidson’s inspiration for creating Indeed Labs stemmed from personal experience. After dealing with post-pregnancy hyperpigmentation and being dissatisfied with available solutions, she partnered with scientists to develop a product that addressed specific skin concerns.
“At the time, there wasn’t a brand that truly catered to unique skin needs,” Davidson recalled. “Everything was generic—a three-step system that didn’t account for different skin types or challenges. We wanted to change that by offering targeted solutions.”
The company’s commitment to safety and efficacy has been unwavering. “We’ve always formulated our products to meet the strictest global regulatory standards, like those in the EU,” Davidson emphasized. “We were also one of the first brands to focus on being ‘free from’ harmful ingredients. Long before the term ‘clean beauty’ became popular, we were pioneering safe and effective formulations.”
Image: Indeed Laboratories
Product Innovations That Stand Out
Indeed Labs’ product lineup is a testament to its commitment to addressing diverse skincare needs. Beyond the iconic Nanoblur, the company has introduced several game-changing products.
The Hydraluron Moisture Jelly, for example, became a bestseller for its ability to deliver intense hydration through its unique jelly texture. “This product gives users a dewy, plumped look,” Davidson said. “It’s one of our most innovative formulas, combining science and sensory appeal.”
Another standout is the Nanobronze Bronzing Drops, designed to provide a natural glow while delivering skin-nourishing benefits. “I created this product because I wanted something lightweight that could give me a sun-kissed look without heavy makeup,” Davidson shared. “It’s since gone viral, especially among younger consumers.”
The pH-In Skin range, launched in 2023, represents a new frontier in acne care. “We are the first to launch a microbiome-certified, clinically proven acne treatment that doesn’t compromise the skin barrier,” Davidson explained. The products have won multiple awards for their innovative approach to treating acne while supporting overall skin health.
Indeed Labs is also known for its Hydrogel Eye Patches, which contain Argireline, often dubbed “Botox in a bottle.” “They give an instant tightening effect, making them a favourite for events or photo-ready moments,” Davidson said.
Inside the Indeed Laboratories HQ at 118 Avenue Road in Toronto. Photo: Indeed Labs
Revolutionizing Acne Care with pH-In Skin
One of Indeed Labs’ most significant innovations is pH-In Skin, launched in 2023. “This is the world’s first microbiome-certified, clinically proven acne brand,” Davidson said proudly. “It treats acne without compromising the skin’s barrier or using harmful ingredients.”
Davidson explained the science behind the range: “Our skin’s microbiome is like its first line of defence. Traditional acne treatments, like benzoyl peroxide, kill both good and bad bacteria, weakening the skin. pH-In Skin balances the microbiome, preventing overgrowth of harmful bacteria while maintaining overall skin health.”
The product line has been a game-changer, particularly for younger consumers. “We’re seeing a shift,” Davidson noted. “Teens and Gen Z are incredibly educated about skincare. They want products that are safe, effective, and aligned with their values.”
Image: Indeed Laboratories
Innovation at Every Turn
Indeed Labs has earned over 60 industry awards, a testament to its commitment to innovation. From viral sensations like the Nano Bronze bronzing drops to the Hydraluron Jelly, the brand continues to push boundaries.
“Innovation comes in many forms,” Davidson said. “Sometimes it’s about introducing a groundbreaking ingredient. Other times, it’s about rethinking how a product is packaged or used. Our setting spray with blurring technology is a great example—it combines skincare and cosmetics in a way that’s never been done before.”
Inside Indeed Laboratories HQ at 118 Avenue Road in Toronto. Photo: Indeed Labs
A Creative Hub in Yorkville
Indeed Labs’ physical space at 118 Avenue Road in Toronto’s Yorkville district is more than just an office—it’s a hub for creativity and collaboration. Originally intended as a workspace, the building’s main floor has been transformed into a content creation centre and community space.
“This area is for creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators,” Davidson explained. “We host pop-ups, events, and even allow other business owners to showcase their work here. It’s our way of giving back and fostering a sense of community.”
The space’s minimalist design emphasizes functionality while providing an inspiring environment. With bright, open layouts and areas dedicated to filming and product testing, it’s become a go-to spot for content creators. “We’ve had influencers and professionals from all over the world come in to create content,” Davidson noted.
Image: Indeed Laboratories
Future Plans and Vision
As Indeed Labs celebrates its 15th anniversary, the brand is looking toward the future with ambitious plans for growth and innovation.
“We’re actively exploring new markets and partnerships,” Davidson said. “Regions like Southeast Asia and the Middle East are particularly exciting for us because of the growing demand for high-quality, affordable skincare.”
Indeed Labs is also prioritizing sustainability. “We’re working on eco-friendly packaging and more sustainable formulations,” Davidson revealed. “Consumers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, and we want to lead by example.”
Technology will play a significant role in the brand’s future. Davidson hinted at plans to integrate AI and digital tools into their operations. “AI is revolutionizing product development and customer engagement,” she said. “We’re exploring how to use these tools to create even more personalized skincare solutions.”
When asked about potential retail expansion, Davidson was pragmatic. “Brick-and-mortar stores are challenging in today’s retail environment,” she said. “For now, we’re focusing on direct-to-consumer strategies and enhancing our existing distribution network.”
A Global Reach with Community at Its Heart
Indeed Labs has achieved significant global distribution, with products available in retailers like Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada, Ulta Beauty in the U.S., and Boots in the UK.
“Accessibility is key to our mission,” Davidson said. “It’s not just about affordability; it’s also about being where consumers shop.”
In Canada, the brand has an exclusive agreement with Shoppers Drug Mart, boasting over 1,000 locations carrying its products. Internationally, Indeed Labs has expanded to countries including Australia, India, and Hong Kong. “Our wide distribution network ensures that consumers everywhere can access high-quality skincare solutions,” Davidson added.
Beyond business, Davidson is passionate about mentoring women and giving back. “Beauty isn’t just about products; it’s about people,” she said. “I’m committed to creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders and fostering a sense of community.”
