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Dior, Saint Laurent, and Moncler to Open Flagships at Yorkdale

Dior construction hoarding at Toronto's Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson

Dior, Saint Laurent, and Moncler are set to open expansive flagship stores in Yorkdale Shopping Centre’s highly anticipated luxury wing, solidifying the mall’s position as Canada’s top destination for luxury retail. All three stores are scheduled to open in mid 2025.

Dior: A Dominant Luxury Presence

French luxury house Dior will open a sprawling 10,700-square-foot flagship store in Yorkdale’s new luxury wing. Boasting a striking facade that spans approximately 145 feet, the store is set to make a significant visual and experiential impact on shoppers. Dior’s footprint will appear even larger thanks to the addition of an adjacent 1,270-square-foot Parfums Christian Dior boutique, which will add another 25 feet of frontage dedicated to its renowned fragrance line. A similar Dior fragrance boutique opened earlier this month at Pearson International Airport in Toronto.

This new flagship will be Dior’s second-largest store in Canada. The largest remains its 13,300-square-foot, two-level location at The Colonnade at 131 Bloor Street West in Toronto, which opened in the fall of 2019. It was the largest in North America for Dior when it opened, and remains one of the largest globally for the brand.

Yorkdale Shopping Centre mall map, showing the new luxury wing featuring massive flagship retail spaces. Click image for interactive map.

Currently, Dior has a presence at Yorkdale through its ‘world of’ concession at Holt Renfrew, which launched in 2019. The expansion into a standalone flagship signals strong demand and the brand’s confidence in Yorkdale as a key market for luxury retail, and the future of the Holts concession is unknown. 

Beyond Toronto, Dior operates flagship stores in downtown Vancouver at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and has a concession presence in Montreal and Vancouver through Holt Renfrew. This includes a women’s and men’s ready-to-wear concession at Holt Renfrew Ogilvy in Montreal, as well as concessions for men’s and women’s fashions, bags and accessories at Holt Renfrew Vancouver. At Holt Renfrew on Bloor Street, Dior operates a concession on the street level carrying bags and accessories, as well as a women’s footwear concession on the mezzanine level.

Saint Laurent construction hoarding at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Karim Rashwan

Saint Laurent Expands its Footprint at Yorkdale

Parisian luxury brand Saint Laurent will also open a flagship location at Yorkdale, spanning an impressive 11,000 square feet. The new store will replace its existing 3,000-square-foot storefront, which opened at the mall in November 2016.

This expansion mirrors Saint Laurent’s recent flagship openings across Canada. In the spring of 2024, Saint Laurent debuted a 10,400-square-foot flagship at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto, signaling its commitment to larger, more immersive retail spaces. In the fall of this year, Saint Laurent also opened a new 6,000 square foot location at Royalmount in Montreal, further cementing its growing presence in Canada. The new Yorkdale location will reflect a similar strategy, offering an expanded selection of ready-to-wear, accessories, and footwear in a dramatically larger footprint. The store may also feature a brutalist concrete facade, as was built for the Bloor and Royalmount stores. 

Facade of the Saint Laurent store at 110 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

The original Yorkdale location was Saint Laurent’s second standalone store in Canada, following the summer 2016 opening of its first boutique, spanning 4,800 square feet, on Thurlow Street in Vancouver. The brand has since continued to grow its Canadian presence, including a standalone store at West Edmonton Mall, which opened in late 2020, and an outlet location at Toronto Premium Outlets. Additionally, Saint Laurent operates a 3,000-square-foot concession at Holt Renfrew Bloor Street, which opened in March 2018. Despite the brand having a standalone flagship a few hundred feet west, the concession with a Bloor-facing street door continues to operate. 

Moncler construction hoarding at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Karim Rashwan

Moncler to Join Yorkdale’s Luxury Wing

Italian luxury brand Moncler will also be opening a new store in Yorkdale’s luxury wing. Spanning 4,200 square feet, the new boutique will be located between Loewe and Jimmy Choo, aligning Moncler with other global luxury powerhouses.

The move marks a relocation for Moncler, which has operated since September 2014 in Yorkdale’s original luxury corridor. Notably, the 2,525 square foot Yorkdale location was the first standalone Moncler store in Canada, solidifying the brand’s commitment to the Canadian market early on. The new larger space in the luxury wing will allow Moncler to enhance its offerings and deliver an upgraded shopping experience in a location that is said to be very productive.

Moncler’s Canadian presence has grown significantly since the opening of its first store at Yorkdale. A second store opened in Vancouver in late 2015, spanning about 3,500 square feet over two floors. In the fall of 2016, Moncler opened a standalone storefront in the Colonnade at 131 Bloor Street West in Toronto, with almost 3,100 square feet on one level.

Moncler continued its expansion in Canada with a 4,000-square-foot store opening at West Edmonton Mall in the fall of 2023, followed by its September 2024 opening at Royalmount in Montreal. Moncler also operates a boutique at Vancouver International Airport, which opened in 2019 and spans about 1,000 square feet. Further solidifying its Canadian footprint, Moncler is slated to open another store in the summer of 2025 at Oakridge Park in Vancouver.

The brand has concessions at Holt Renfrew across Canada as well as shop-in-shops in selected Harry Rosen stores for men.

Under development: New luxury wing at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson

Yorkdale’s New Luxury Wing: A Hub for Global Brands

The openings of Dior, Saint Laurent, and Moncler are part of Yorkdale Shopping Centre’s ambitious 65,000-square-foot luxury wing development, which has been underway since last year. Located along the mall’s central corridor, the new luxury space has already attracted an impressive roster of top-tier global brands. The wing has welcomed stores such as Loewe, which opened in the summer, and more recent additions like Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, Versace, and Jimmy Choo.

Luxury brands Maison Margiela and Rimowa are also confirmed to join the wing, alongside a selection of yet-to-be-revealed retailers. Adding to the excitement, Tiffany & Co. recently overhauled its Yorkdale store, creating a spectacular 8,300-square-foot Canadian flagship with a stunning facade incorporating 52,000 crystals. The renovation reflects Tiffany’s ongoing investment in the Canadian market and its confidence in Yorkdale as a luxury hub.

Under construction: A new luxury wing at the heart of the Yorkdale Shopping Centre, bringing new brands such as Loewe, Brunello Cucinelli, Jimmy Choo, Versace, Loro Piana, Rimowa, Maison Margiela, and others, to the mall. Photo: Craig Patterson

Additionally, Chanel is building a 9,700-square-foot two-level concession at Holt Renfrew in Yorkdale, which will become the largest Chanel concession in the world once completed. The massive space will offer a comprehensive range of Chanel’s offerings, further enhancing Yorkdale’s stature as a top-tier luxury shopping destination.

Other existing luxury brands in the central luxury corridor at Yorkdale include Tudor, Rolex, Omega, Qeelin, TAG Heuer, and Jaeger LeCoultre. Oliver Peoples is said to be relocating to a new space near the mall’s Zara store.

Yorkdale: A Premier Luxury Destination

Yorkdale Shopping Centre has long been recognized as Canada’s most comprehensive luxury retail hub, offering an unparalleled clustering of prestigious brands. With over 270 retailers, the shopping centre continues to attract international luxury names seeking a strong presence in the Canadian market.

The addition of Dior, Saint Laurent, and Moncler flagships will further solidify Yorkdale’s reputation as a global destination for luxury shopping. The mall’s strategic investments in its luxury offerings have paid off, drawing shoppers from across Canada and beyond.

Retail Insider has previously reported on Yorkdale’s consistent ability to attract flagship locations for luxury brands, often being the first choice for international retailers entering the Canadian market. The mall’s prime location in Toronto, combined with its affluent customer base and strong tourist appeal, continues to drive its success.

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Icebug Launches Canadian E-Commerce Platform

Photo: Icebug

Icebug, the Swedish footwear brand known for its industry-leading traction technologies, has officially launched its Canadian e-commerce platform at icebug.ca. With this move, the brand aims to provide Canadians with direct access to its full range of functional and sustainably made footwear, designed to make outdoor activities safer and more enjoyable—even in slippery conditions.

The website marks a significant milestone for the company as it continues its North American expansion. Icebug’s innovative studded and non-studded footwear will now be available to customers across Canada at competitive pricing.

“We are excited to expand our presence as a brand in Canada and to bring our vision for functional, durable, responsibly made footwear to more people there,” said Sebastian Lundfall, Icebug’s Head of Communication. “Thanks to our incredible traction technologies, we’ve changed the way people in Scandinavia feel about winter, and we look forward to doing the same in Canada.”

Pioneers of Grip Technology

Founded in 2001 in Sweden, Icebug has earned a global reputation for its traction-focused designs. The company’s innovative BUGrip® technology is a standout feature, incorporating dynamic steel studs that provide exceptional grip on icy surfaces. Additionally, Icebug’s proprietary rubber compounds ensure reliable traction in wet and cold conditions, making them ideal for Canada’s diverse and often unpredictable climate.

“Canada is a country where winter means adventure,” said Tom Nilsson, CEO of Icebug. “Icebug’s mission is to help people embrace the outdoors year-round, and we’re excited to bring this experience to Canada.”

Footwear for All Seasons

With its Canadian e-commerce launch, Icebug is introducing a comprehensive range of footwear tailored to various activities and conditions:

  • Winter Boots: Designed to handle ice and snow with superior insulation and grip.
  • Walking and Hiking Shoes: Perfect for outdoor adventures year-round, with durable traction technologies.
  • Running Shoes: Studded options for icy trails and non-studded styles for wet or muddy paths.
  • Warm-Weather Footwear: Grip-focused options for coastal environments, urban settings, and slippery surfaces during rainy seasons.

This versatile lineup ensures that Icebug’s footwear appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, urban commuters, and anyone looking for reliable footwear in Canada’s challenging conditions.

Photo: Icebug

Sustainability at the Core

Beyond its technical innovations, Icebug is also leading the charge in sustainability within the footwear industry. Through its Follow the Footprints Initiative, Icebug provides transparency around the sourcing, manufacturing processes, and carbon footprint of each shoe style. This initiative allows customers to make informed purchasing decisions based on a product’s environmental impact.

Further solidifying its commitment to responsible business practices, Icebug holds the distinction of being the only footwear company in the world to achieve both Certified B Corp status and membership in 1% for the Planet.

These credentials reflect Icebug’s mission to balance business growth with environmental stewardship, setting a benchmark for sustainability in the global footwear industry.

About Icebug

Founded in Sweden in 2001, Icebug designs and manufactures innovative footwear with world-leading traction technologies. The company’s passion lies in creating functional, durable products that enable people to enjoy the outdoors safely, even in slippery conditions.

Driven by a strong commitment to sustainability, Icebug is a Certified B Corp and a member of 1% for the Planet, working to halve its carbon emissions by 2030. The brand aims to inspire a balance between people and nature through responsible business practices and innovative solutions.

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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For December 23, 2024

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 3 days.

’Definitely busier’: retailers, restaurants see spending boost amid tax holiday (Canadian Press)

Canadian jewelry brand Birks celebrates 145 years (Postmedia)

How changing demographics and tastes are shaping Canada’s grocery stores (CTV)

Retail sales in Canada fall flat after four-month surge (Financial Post)

Indigo has had a few rough years. Here’s why CEO Heather Reisman is confident she can fix it (Toronto Star)

Canadian Tire tightens recruiting rules for temporary foreign workers (Globe & Mail / paywall)

Party City to shut down in U.S., but Canadian stores unaffected (CBC)

David Olive: Why Canadian discount darling Dollarama is thriving while others slump: Just look to its ‘Wall of Shame’ (Toronto Star)

It’s been a tough year for The Bay in Vancouver. Why 2025 likely won’t be any better (Vancouver Sun)

One week in, Toronto businesses say GST holiday has been tricky (CBC)

Luxury sales in Toronto experiencing a stock market bump, say retailers (Toronto Star)

BlackToe Running to open third Toronto store (Canadian Running)

Midtown Plaza GM pleased with year-over-year growth, new retailers (Saskatoon Star Phoenix)

Montreal vintage store co-owners find new life in second-hand fashion (CTV)

Majority of survey respondents told Alberta to expand alcohol sales to grocery and convenience stores (Edmonton Journal)

3 injured during robbery after car crashes into Rexdale store (CityNews Toronto)

Ancaster Jewellers reopens after destructive break-in and robbery (CHCH)

October 2024 Canadian Retail Sales See 4.5% YOY Growth

St. Laurent Shopping Centre in Ottawa (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

By J.C. Williams Group

October 2024 has presented a boost for Canadian retailers, with overall sales showing a 4.5% YOY increase for All Stores and discretionary spend (All Stores Less Automotive, Food, and Pharmacies growing 3.6% YOY. This growth is on trend with what consumers were reporting, that they would be spending more going into the holidays (according to the Leger x RCC holiday study). However, this boost is significantly influenced by the automotive sector. When removed, growth in All Stores drops to 2.6% YOY, much more in line with inflation.

As noted, the automotive sector has emerged as a standout performer, with Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers experiencing a robust 9.5% YOY growth. This surge is particularly noteworthy given the economic uncertainties that typically dampen big-ticket purchases. Several factors, as noted in JCWG’s US NRB for November, may be driving this unexpected boom:

  • New Model Releases: The introduction of 2025 vehicle models has likely stimulated consumer interest, drawing buyers to showrooms.
  • Favorable Interest Rates: Potential rate decreases may have made vehicle financing more attractive, encouraging consumers to make purchases they had previously postponed.
  • EV Incentives: After facing challenges in EV sales throughout 2024, automakers have responded with larger incentives, potentially driving a late-year surge in this segment.

The alcohol retail landscape presents a more complex picture. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Stores saw a modest 1.9% YOY increase, a slight improvement for a category that has been struggling throughout the year. However, this uptick doesn’t tell the whole story. Convenience Stores, which recently gained the ability to sell alcohol in some regions, are down -2.0% YOY and -3.7% YTD. This suggests that the introduction of alcohol sales hasn’t been the cure-all these retailers hoped for. The category could be selling, but it is now taking space up in stores that may have been used for faster-moving products in the past. Regardless, this is surprising considering the higher price point of alcohol compared to other products at convenience stores.

Electronics and Accessories Stores have shown remarkable resilience, with sales up 7.8% YOY. This performance is particularly impressive given the category’s struggles earlier in the year. Several factors may be contributing to this turnaround:

  • Prime Day Effect: Amazon’s Prime Day event likely boosted sales, with other retailers offering competitive deals to capture consumer attention.
  • Refresh Cycle: Many consumers who purchased electronics during the pandemic may now be looking to upgrade their devices.
  • Interest Rate Anticipation: The anticipated rate cut at the end of October may have encouraged consumers to make larger purchases they had been postponing, such as major appliances. Similarly, this uptick in electronics sales may also have had a positive effect on other high-ticket categories, such as Furniture Stores and Home Furnishings Stores (seeing modest growth of 1.6% and 2.9% YOY respectively).

As we look towards the end of Q4 and early 2025, JCWG is considering several key factors that will shape the retail landscape:

  • Will Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales align with early survey predictions of increased spending?
  • How will major weather shifts across Canada impact retail during early winter?
  • Can we expect a boost in spending due to the tax holiday and lower interest rates?
  • Will the anticipated US tariffs take effect in January?
  • Are tariffs the only significant impact on Canadian retail sales from the new US administration?
  • How are YOU preparing for the major upcoming changes to Canadian retail?

Canadian Retail Sales by Product Category, Same Month Comparison

Sales for the Month of OctoberOct-24Oct-23YOY
All Stores70,730,57567,675,4764.51%
Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers20,383,38318,617,2169.49%
Gasoline Stations6,433,8826,855,550-6.15%
All Stores Less Automotive43,913,31042,202,7104.05%
Food and Beverage Stores13,054,94212,487,9594.54%
Supermarkets and Other Grocery Stores*9,295,7828,816,4275.44%
Convenience Stores720,255735,159-2.03%
Specialty Food Stores911,263848,8317.36%
Beer, Wine and Liquor Stores2,127,6422,087,5411.92%
Health and Personal Care Stores5,939,2575,671,5074.72%
All Stores Less Automotive, Food, and Pharmacies24,919,11124,043,2443.64%
General Merchandise Stores9,348,1679,067,4373.10%
Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronic and Appliance Stores3,761,3873,591,9674.72%
Furniture Stores1,215,2321,196,3821.58%
Home Furnishings Stores736,771716,2872.86%
Electronics and Appliance Stores1,809,3841,679,2987.75%
Clothing and Accessories Stores3,740,0243,526,8876.04%
Clothing Stores2,942,8802,763,2106.50%
Shoe Stores409,798414,611-1.16%
Jewellery, Luggage and Leather Goods Stores387,347349,06510.97%
Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores3,840,0143,739,8282.68%
Building Material and Garden Equipment4,229,5194,117,1252.73%
Miscellaneous Store Retailers2,589,8812,454,8635.50%
Cannabis Retailers456,274449,1621.58%

Canadian E-commerce Sales

Ecommerce SalesOct-24Oct-23Percent Change
Year-to-Date37,772,65435,456,8806.53%
Year-Over-Year4,185,855  3,799,40310.17%

Canadian Retail Sales by Store Category, Year to Date Comparison

Year-to-Date, Ending OctoberOct-24Oct-23YTD
All Stores660,513,382654,016,6640.99%
Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers183,553,480180,263,4551.83%
Gasoline Stations64,595,86366,310,147-2.59%
All Stores Less Automotive412,364,039407,443,0621.21%
Food and Beverage Stores127,248,553125,958,7051.02%
Supermarkets and Other Grocery Stores*90,513,86088,733,2212.01%
Convenience Stores7,229,3777,510,394-3.74%
Specialty Food Stores8,762,4728,398,0534.34%
Beer, Wine and Liquor Stores20,742,84621,317,033-2.69%
Health and Personal Care Stores55,126,61652,657,2814.69%
All Stores Less Automotive, Food, and Pharmacies229,988,870228,827,0760.51%
General Merchandise Stores87,558,14584,074,4304.14%
Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronic and Appliance Stores34,417,48634,836,762-1.20%
Furniture Stores11,433,48811,781,201-2.95%
Home Furnishings Stores6,766,4526,922,138-2.25%
Electronics and Appliance Stores16,217,54716,133,4200.52%
Clothing and Accessories Stores32,642,81832,552,6750.28%
Clothing Stores25,297,94425,139,2810.63%
Shoe Stores3,830,1223,911,293-2.08%
Jewellery, Luggage and Leather Goods Stores3,514,7533,502,0990.36%
Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores36,268,68237,516,923-3.33%
Building Material and Garden Equipment39,101,73639,846,290-1.87%
Miscellaneous Store Retailers23,731,05624,560,644-3.38%
Cannabis Retailers4,252,3184,284,877-0.76%

Retail Trade, Canada, All Stores, by Geographic Regions

RegionYear-to-Date 2024Year-to-Date 2023YTD
British Columbia88,708,38488,831,582-0.14%
Vancouver44,215,83543,754,8741.05%
Alberta85,578,56784,714,8891.02%
Prairies*44,003,95443,211,6821.83%
Ontario245,496,455244,234,0150.52%
Toronto110,065,745110,589,208-0.47%
Québec148,764,164146,658,9021.44%
Montréal73,992,74673,207,8051.07%
Atlantic Canada45,599,72644,119,1853.36%
Territories2,362,1322,246,4075.15%

Thank you J.C. Williams Group for this report.

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Primaris REIT releases its 2nd ESG Report

Image- Primaris
Image- Primaris

Primaris Real Estate Investment Trust has released the publication of its second Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Report, in which Primaris outlines its ESG plan and the material ESG factors, governance practices, accomplishments, and metrics that impact its business.

Primaris also presents its inaugural ESG targets. Consistent with the REIT’s financial disclosures, Primaris aims to provide clear and transparent disclosure and communication about the REIT’s business and ESG practices, said the company in a news release.

Alex Avery
Alex Avery

“Through a substantial amount of work across all our functional departments, Primaris is making great progress against our ESG plan,” said Alex Avery, Chief Executive Officer. “This year we made significant improvements in data collection across the organization, as well as year-over-year reductions to greenhouse gas emissions, and energy and water consumption. This is a testament to our very engaged and experienced property management team who are continuously looking for ways to optimize our properties. Primaris will continue to work to achieve our business and ESG objectives while acting in a manner consistent with our core values, and the best-in-class profile we have created, being a respected and sought-after partner and transaction counterparty, and a preferred place for employees to work.”

ESG Report Highlights

  • Governance
    • Achieved GRESB 3-star rating in 2024 (scored 80 on a 100-point scale, 15-point improvement);
    • Achieved an “A” MSCI ESG Rating, up from “BBB”;
    • Developed ESG targets;
    • Integrated ESG into employee performance review process;
    • Maintained open and direct engagement between Primaris’ Trustees and Primaris’ investors, in the absence of management; and
    • 33% of Trustees are female.
  • Environmental
    • Implemented utility data management software system;
    • -4.9% change in like-for-like greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions;
    • -3.7% change in like-for-like energy consumption;
    • -9.0% change in like-for-like water consumption;
    • 100% of shopping centres are green building certified; and
    • Incorporated green lease language into standard lease form.
  • Social
    • Obtained an 83% satisfaction score pursuant to its 2023 tenant engagement survey;
    • Females comprise of the following:
      • 38% of executives;
      • 54% of senior management;
      • 56% of total employees; and
    • Formalized and launched tenant and community engagement program.

In 2024, as part of the ESG Plan, the REIT said it developed ESG targets informed by the material ESG factors and their link to key business performance metrics:

MetricTargetCurrentMeasurement Period
Board of Trustee Diversity by Gender30% female33% femaleAnnually
Absolute GHG Emissions Reduction125% reduction by 20354.9% reductionAgainst baseline year, 2022
Green Building Certifications100% Shopping centres LEED or BOMA BEST certified100%Annually
Employee Engagement≥85%86%Every 3 years
Tenant Satisfaction≥85%83%Annually
GRESB≥80%80 pointsAnnually

1 This target includes scope 1, 2, and select scope 3 emissions. Select scope 3 emissions includes downstream leased assets such as tenant emissions.

Primaris is Canada’s only enclosed shopping centre focused REIT, with ownership interests primarily in leading enclosed shopping centres located in growing mid-sized markets. The current portfolio totals 13.4 million square feet valued at approximately $4.1 billion at Primaris’ share.

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NorthBoys Opens at Hillcrest Mall with Plans for Expansion

NorthBoys store at Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill, ON. Photo: NorthBoys

NorthBoys, a specialty retailer focusing on upscale boys’ clothing, has opened its fourth location at Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill, north of Toronto. The expansion is part of a growing vision by Cary Ulster, co-founder of NorthBoys and owner of North Brands Group Ltd., who is dedicated to filling a niche in the Canadian retail landscape with stores tailored exclusively to boys’ fashion.

From One Plaza to Four Locations

Founded after a career in the pharmacy industry, Cary Ulster and his wife saw an opportunity to create a unique retail concept for boys. “We were looking for something else,” said Ulster. “There was this empty space near where we live, and we thought, ‘What kind of store should go in there?’ The idea just unfolded from there. We noticed there were no dedicated boys’ fashion stores in the market, and we wanted to change that.”

Cary Ulster

Ulster spent 14 years in retail pharmacy before transitioning to the fashion industry. “I sold the pharmacy business and was looking for my next venture. Seeing that gap in the market—especially for boys’ formal and casual wear—gave us the perfect opportunity,” he said.

The first NorthBoys store opened in Toronto’s Lawrence Plaza and has since expanded to include locations at CF Shops at Don Mills, SmartCentres Thornhill, and now Hillcrest Mall. Ulster’s other venture, NorthGirls, also operates out of Lawrence Plaza, catering to a similar niche for girls.

Hillcrest Mall: A Strategic Move

The new Hillcrest Mall store represents a strategic expansion into an indoor shopping centre. “Our first three locations are in busy outdoor strip plazas,” Ulster explained. “Hillcrest is different, but it felt like the right move to bring NorthBoys into a well-visited mall. The community here has a strong demand for premium children’s fashion.”

The Hillcrest location offers a similar upscale design as its predecessors, with carefully curated fashion collections. “The interiors are sophisticated. We wanted boys to have their own space, their own store experience,” said Ulster. “You don’t get that anywhere else. Even in department stores, boys’ clothing is often a small corner in the children’s section.”

NorthBoys store at Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill, ON. Photo: NorthBoys

A “Harry Rosen for Boys”

Ulster envisions NorthBoys as a specialized retailer akin to a smaller-scale Harry Rosen, but for young boys. “Parents are often surprised when they walk in for the first time,” he shared. “They’re shocked to find a store exclusively for boys—it’s not just a novelty; it’s a complete niche. Boys’ clothing has often been an afterthought in larger retail stores, relegated to small sections with limited options. We realized parents were struggling to find high-quality, stylish options tailored specifically for boys. NorthBoys fills that gap by offering a curated selection of premium brands, formal and casual wear, all in an environment that feels dedicated and upscale. It’s not just about filling a retail space—it’s about giving boys and their families a unique shopping experience they can’t find anywhere else.”

NorthBoys offers everything from casual wear to formal suiting, providing a one-stop shopping experience. “We coordinate everything—shirts, ties, pocket squares—and handle alterations as well,” Ulster said. “It’s a seamless process, and parents appreciate that. Plus, we hope they’ll pick up t-shirts, polos, and jeans on their way out.”

Ulster further emphasized the importance of creating a premium experience: “We wanted NorthBoys to feel like a boutique for boys, not an afterthought. The store interiors reflect that vision, with upscale designs and thoughtful details.”

Serving a Niche Market

The concept resonates with parents searching for premium, multi-brand fashion for their sons. NorthBoys features well-known brands like Psycho Bunny and Emporio Armani, alongside curated seasonal offerings. “We knew we had a niche,” said Ulster. “There’s nowhere else quite like it in Canada.”

The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with parents highlighting the store’s unique offering. “Customer feedback is a big part of what shapes our business,” Ulster explained. “Parents love the idea, and they often say, ‘Why hasn’t someone done this before?’ Boys’ fashion has been underserved for too long.”

NorthBoys store at Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill, ON. Photo: NorthBoys

Growth Plans for NorthBoys and NorthGirls

With the success of NorthBoys, Ulster is eyeing further expansion, both in and beyond the Greater Toronto Area. “We see opportunities in Mississauga and other parts of Toronto,” he said. “But the demand isn’t limited to the GTA. There’s interest across the country. Calgary, Vancouver, and Montreal are all markets where we could see NorthBoys thriving.”

Ulster also hinted at future opportunities for NorthGirls. “We opened the girls’ store four years ago after parents kept asking for something similar,” he shared. “It’s been a success, and there’s definitely room for more locations. The response has been incredible.”

E-Commerce and Tailored Offerings

While brick-and-mortar remains the focus, NorthBoys also operates an e-commerce platform. “We sell a lot of suits online, which surprises some people,” said Ulster. “But suits are often an easier sell because parents know the size they need. Casual wear does well too. In terms of performance, our e-commerce platform complements our physical stores, but the in-store experience remains our focus. Parents often prefer to see and feel the products, especially for tailored items like suits, where alterations are critical. That said, online sales continue to grow, particularly for families who are repeat customers and know our sizing. Online shopping for children’s clothing is trending upward overall, but there is still strong demand for hands-on, personalized service, which our physical stores provide.”

The retailer emphasizes personalized service, both online and in-store. “We have trained staff who know the product and can guide parents through the process. The key is making it simple and stress-free,” Ulster added. “It’s that experience—in-store or online—that sets us apart.”

Future Opportunities

When asked about potential expansion beyond Canada, Ulster remained open but cautious. “Right now, we’re focused on Canada,” he said. “The U.S. is a possibility, but we have so much room to grow here first.”

The retailer’s thoughtful approach to growth reflects Ulster’s commitment to maintaining quality and service. “It’s not about opening stores for the sake of expansion—we want each location to deliver that elevated experience.”

Ulster also emphasized the role of feedback in shaping future plans. “We’re always listening to parents and their kids. Whether it’s about product lines or where to open next, their input is invaluable.”

As NorthBoys continues to expand, Ulster’s vision remains clear: to provide a sophisticated, tailored shopping experience for boys and their families. “The boys deserve their own store, their own space,” he said. “We’re giving them that, and it’s resonating.”

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Happy Belly’s Smash Burger brand Rosie’s Burgers secures location in Toronto’s Avenue & Lawrence neighbourhood

Photo: Happy Belly Food Group
Photo: Happy Belly Food Group

Happy Belly Food Group Inc., a leading consolidator of emerging food brands, has secured a location for its smash burger brand Rosie’s Burgers, located at 1542 Avenue Road in Toronto.

Rosie’s Burgers is a boutique quick serve restaurant brand serving original recipe smash burgers, poutine, onion rings, milkshakes and more.

Sean Black
Sean Black

“The Rosie’s brand continues to expand across Canada, and today’s announcement highlights our ability to secure AAA locations for our emerging brands,” said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly.

“With multiple locations now in construction and more on the way for 2025 we are about to realize significant growth thanks to our ability to open corporate stores as well as franchise locations in parallel paths.

“This location will be opened and operated corporately which is the second planned corporate Rosie’s location for 2025 along side our recently secured Shops of Don Mills location as we look to reinvest the free cash-flow back into the brand to deliver accelerated growth.

“When we acquired Rosie’s less than a year ago, the brand was operating just two locations in the GTA and had no franchising program in place. Today, Rosie’s has grown to four operational locations across two provinces, with an additional 12 locations either corporate-owned, assigned to franchisees, or under construction. This remarkable growth trajectory demonstrates the strength of the brand, and we have no plans of slowing down.”

The company said the new location is ideally situated in North Toronto’s affluent Avenue & Lawrence neighborhood, and set to open in Q2 2025.

“It is expected to expand Rosie’s customer base in a densely populated area that aligns with the brand’s target demographics, offering significant opportunities both in-store and through delivery. Toronto’s impressive growth and support for homegrown businesses make it an ideal market for expanding our brands. With its thriving food culture and vibrant dining scene, the city’s growing population and enthusiasm for emerging food brands create strong demand for Rosie’s delicious burger offerings,” it said in a news release, adding that its overarching strategy has always been to focus on the development and growth of emerging brands within the food sector.

Photo: Happy Belly Food Group
Photo: Happy Belly Food Group

“We currently have 421 contractually committed retail locations from area developers across all emerging brands in the Happy Belly Portfolio – whether in development, under construction, or already open. As we open new stores, the Happy Belly footprint continues to grow. Our team is committed to sourcing and evaluating real estate, reviewing franchisee applications, and collaborating closely with area developers to support our asset-light franchising model. At present, several of our restaurant brands are simultaneously under construction, and we are excited to announce openings throughout 2024-2025. By focusing on securing high-quality franchisees and prime real estate locations across Canada, we will further strengthen our expansion efforts,” said Black.

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Baskin-Robbins celebrates official return to Alberta at Calgary’s Southcentre Mall

Photo: Baskin-Robbins

Baskin-Robbins opened its newest shop in Canada this week, located at Southcentre Mall in Calgary.

The opening marks the brand’s return to Alberta after about seven years. The new shop is the sixth to open as part of an agreement between the brand and McMaster Group Holdings for expansion into the Vancouver and Calgary markets, said the company in a news release.

Adel Ashry
Adel Ashry

It said Adel Ashry, franchisee of the new location and head of McMaster Group Holdings, has more than two decades of experience in franchise development.

“I am honoured to have a role in bringing this iconic brand back to Alberta, and especially to the vibrant city of Calgary,” said Ashry. “Baskin-Robbins has a longstanding reputation for quality and innovation, and I’m proud to be part of a brand that has brought joy to millions of customers around the world.”

The company said the new shops feature the brand’s updated look and feel, which includes a bright and inviting interior, flexible and comfortable seating, animated digital menu boards and a more expansive cake display, The Cakery, with a growing assortment of customized cakes and pre-packs.


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 53 years in Canada, Baskin-Robbins operates 116 locations in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, British Columbia and now Alberta. Baskin-Robbins is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants.

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Canada’s GST Holiday Creates Challenges for Small Businesses

No HST on products in a grocery store in Toronto. Photo: Dustin Fuhs

The recently announced GST holiday in Canada has left small businesses scrambling to navigate its complex implementation. Retailers across the country are expressing concerns over increased costs, operational confusion, and the uneven application of the policy between provinces. While the government aims to stimulate spending during the holiday season, experts warn that the short-term policy is burdening businesses at the worst possible time.

Erica Pimentel, Accounting Professor at Smith School of Business at Queen’s University, outlines the major issues facing small retailers, describing the policy as “an implementation nightmare.”

“Small businesses must overhaul their IT systems to apply taxes on certain products—only to undo it two months later. It’s a logistical and financial headache,” Pimentel says.

Erica Pimentel, Accounting Professor at Smith School of Business at Queen’s University

A Costly and Complex Process

For many small businesses, the GST holiday requires significant changes to IT systems, inventory management, and staffing processes. Unlike major corporations with advanced IT infrastructure, small retailers are often left to manually update their systems to identify products eligible for the exemption.

“Large retailers like Amazon can use AI and sophisticated databases to determine which items are exempt,” Pimentel explains. “But a small business owner—like a pharmacist who sells shampoos or cosmetics—might not have those resources. They’re going through their inventory, line by line, to comply with the GST holiday.”

The financial burden of compliance extends beyond IT systems. Businesses must allocate staff to verify eligible items and explain the policy to customers, creating additional costs during an already busy holiday season.

“You need frontline staff to handle customer questions, because there’s going to be confusion,” Pimentel notes. “You can’t litigate tax rules at the checkout counter during Christmas rush.”

Uneven Policy Across Provinces

A major point of frustration for businesses and consumers alike is the inequitable application of the GST holiday across provinces. The combined GST and HST savings vary significantly depending on location—with Ontario shoppers saving 14% while Quebec residents only see a 5% reduction.

“If you operate in multiple provinces, you’re facing a logistical nightmare,” says Pimentel. “In Ontario, the customer expects 14% off. In Quebec, it’s only 5%. That means national retailers need to make province-by-province changes to their systems.”

For retailers located near provincial borders, the disparity could lead to unusual shopping patterns. Pimentel describes a scenario in which consumers might cross from Quebec into Ontario to capitalize on the greater savings.

“If you live in a border town, you’re incentivized to shop in Ontario rather than Quebec,” she says. “The savings add up, especially for big-ticket items like electronics or video games.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government lifted the GST/HST from some essential items for a two-month period before and after Christmas. (Chris Young/Canadian Press)

Product Eligibility Adds Confusion

The policy’s unclear definitions of eligible products add another layer of complexity for small retailers. Pimentel highlights the arbitrary nature of the exemptions, which can lead to disputes at the point of sale.

“Take Star Wars figurines, for example. If you’re selling vintage collectibles, those are subject to GST. But if it’s a new toy aimed at children, it’s exempt,” she says. “How do you explain that to a customer who thinks they deserve the exemption?”

The confusion extends to digital products versus physical goods.

“If you buy a physical book, it’s exempt from GST. But if you buy an e-book, it’s not. The same applies to video games—physical copies are exempt, but digital downloads are not,” Pimentel explains. “It’s as though the policy doesn’t reflect modern consumer habits.”

Small Businesses Left to Absorb Costs

The financial burden of implementing the GST holiday disproportionately affects small businesses. Without government support or incentives, many retailers must absorb compliance costs while managing razor-thin margins.

“If the government had offered small businesses a tax credit or some kind of financial incentive, this might have been more palatable,” Pimentel says. “Instead, businesses are left to comply on their own, with no additional resources.”

Some retailers are even questioning whether it’s worth participating at all. Pimentel recounts hearing stories of businesses considering non-compliance, only to donate any GST mistakenly collected to charity.

“You can’t do that,” she warns. “If you collect GST, you have to remit it to the Canada Revenue Agency. There’s no way around it.”

Strategies for Small Businesses

Despite the challenges, Pimentel offers practical advice for businesses to navigate the GST holiday. Her primary recommendation is to document every decision and compliance effort to prepare for potential audits.

“Keep records of the analysis you’ve done and any conversations with accountants. The CRA says it’s only targeting egregious non-compliance, but you need to protect yourself,” she advises.

She also stresses the importance of setting clear internal policies and ensuring frontline staff are informed.

“Have a policy in place for determining what qualifies and stick to it. Make sure your staff are trained to answer customer questions, because confusion is inevitable,” she says.

A Perfect Storm for Retailers

The GST holiday comes at a particularly challenging time for Canadian retailers. Businesses are already grappling with inflation, higher shipping costs due to recent postal and port disruptions, and a weak Canadian dollar. Adding the operational burden of the GST holiday could push some small retailers to the brink.

“Retailers are dealing with increased costs from every direction,” Pimentel says. “Higher shipping rates, tariffs, inflation—it’s a perfect storm. And now, they’re being asked to implement a complex policy with no runway to prepare.”

Policymakers Need to Rethink

Pimentel believes the GST holiday highlights a broader need to reconsider Canada’s tax system. Instead of short-term measures, she suggests a more comprehensive approach to exempting essential goods and supporting small businesses.

“If the government wants to provide meaningful relief, they should consider making certain essential items permanently tax-exempt,” she says. “But these quick fixes don’t work. They create confusion and put an unfair burden on small business owners.”

As small businesses grapple with the GST holiday’s implementation, the question remains whether the policy will have its intended impact. Pimentel worries that the short-term stimulus won’t outweigh the long-term costs for retailers.

“We want to see more people shopping and spending during the holidays,” she says. “But if businesses are bogged down by compliance issues and consumers are left confused, I’m not sure it will have the desired effect.”

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