TNT celebrates 30 years of family, fashion and evolution in retail (Interview and Photos)

By

-

October 16, 2024

TNT 1 — TNT The New Trend flagship store at Yorkville Village in Toronto. Photo: TNT

TNT The New Trend the iconic family-owned fashion retailer, is celebrating 30 years of style, innovation, and connection.

Founded three decades ago by Arie Assaraf and Carrie Richmond, TNT has grown from its flagship store on Eglinton Avenue to become a staple of the Canadian fashion scene, with locations in Yorkville, Bayview Village, Eglinton, and Montreal, an innovative online business as well as an affiliate in Melbourne, Australia.

As part of this 30 year milestone, TNT opened its brand-new 20,000-square-foot flagship store in Yorkville Village Mall at 87 Avenue Road, Toronto. The expansive space is dedicated to both men’s and women’s fashion, embodying TNT’s unique blend of curated luxury and personalized service. The new design reflects TNT’s ongoing commitment to creating an inviting, modern shopping environment that stays true to its roots of offering eclectic, high-quality fashion, said the retailer.

Inside TNT The New Trend flagship store at Yorkville Village in Toronto. Photo: TNT

“We’ve always believed in the power of relationships,” said Arie Assaraf. “Our customers are part of the TNT family, and our close-knit partnerships have allowed us to evolve and stay dynamic over the years.”

The flagship opened in March.

“Men and women together which is the first time we actually had the men and women under one umbrella,” he said. “Usually before that, the women’s store was downstairs and the men’s store was upstairs. And I’ve been working on it since before COVID with Yorkville Village. It made such a huge difference to our business.

“We’ve been 30 years in the business. We’re very local. Super local. Our relationships with our customers are very important. So the growth that we had in 30 years with the business it was organic growth. Everything happened in the time we were ready for it and I knew we were ready to do something more important. I’m a storyteller and I wanted to make sure that we had enough space to tell the story, specifically with all the collaboration we have with a lot of designers. We do a lot of pop ups. We do a lot of events.

“And that space speaks for itself and that makes a big difference. Now everything is on one floor. Before that we had different floors. So it was a little bit more challenging for the customer to see the full picture, the full story, of what we do. And since we opened it the customers really see the full story of my buy, of everything we buy. Also, it’s allowing me as a buyer, allowing us, to tell a better story, a more defined story.”

Assaraf, Carrie Richmond and their children Aidan and Jade are behind the success of the family-operated business, which was founded in 1994 with the original flagship store on Eglinton Avenue.

TNT carries an extensive array of international brands representing the best of both established and emerging designers. A pillar of style and quality, TNT has everything to complete one’s closet from essential wardrobe staples to modern fashion trends. TNT’s highly attentive personalized service creates the ultimate shopping experience for Mens, Womens and Kids fashion.

TNT The New Trend flagship store at Yorkville Village in Toronto. Photo: TNT

The retailer has built a brand where customers, team members, and partners are treated like family. This core value has been a driving force behind TNT’s lasting success in an ever-changing retail landscape. For the past three decades, TNT has served three generations.

As the retail world has transformed over the past three decades, TNT has remained a leader by embracing change while staying true to its commitment to offering best-in-class brands, a dedicated team, and an exceptional shopping experience. From essential wardrobe staples to the latest trends, TNT continues to curate a diverse selection of international designers, bringing the best of both established and emerging talent to its loyal customers, added Assaraf.

“Our success is a reflection of the people we’ve worked with—our dedicated team, incredible designers, and loyal customers,” said Carrie Richmond, co-founder of TNT. “It’s the synergy between our staff and the brands we carry that allows us to create an exceptional experience .”

Assaraf said he is very positive for the future in retail.

“A lot of people wrote off retail and they were saying the future is about online, ecom, ecom, ecom. I never believed in ecom being the dominating factor for retailers like us. We have our ecom of course that we launched during COVID that was focusing on the Canadian customer. But we look at it as more the window of opportunity us so people are going to know us more. Of course, we do very good business in Canada online but they represent only 20 per cent of our business,” he explained.

“And I really believe in retail because I feel specifically now we’re seeing the difference. People want the experience. The customer wants to come in to have a personal shopper to take care of them because we are full closet. When I buy, I buy for the full closet.

“So I feel for us in Toronto with the landscape of what’s happening today, I feel very positive. But we’re very cautious, we’re very optimistic, working really hard to bring new brands, new experiences. Definitely every month we have pop ups happening, events happening. I think today that’s what the customers really need today. Number one they need also newness every season and that’s our job. I travel everywhere. We bring small brands, we experiment with brands and of course we also have some of the bigger brands that we do bigger stories.”

Related articles:

Neo Coffee Bar opens new location at Yonge X Gloucester

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

October 16, 2024

Neo Coffee Bar announced Wednesday the soft opening of its newest location at Yonge X Gloucester, located at 12 Gloucester Street, just steps away from the Wellesley subway station.

This new coffee destination offers a serene and minimalist environment, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling downtown core, said the company in a news release.

The new location features Neo Coffee Bar’s signature design elements, including curvilinear concrete walls, warm wood accents, and modern furniture, creating a calming atmosphere where guests can enjoy premium coffee in a truly unique setting. Neo Coffee Bar at Yonge X Gloucester is set to become a must-visit for coffee lovers and those seeking a retreat in the heart of the city, it said.

“We’ve created a space that offers more than just coffee. It’s a place for our guests to unwind, find respite from the city, and enjoy the calm of a thoughtfully designed environment,” said Kengo Torikai, Manager of Operations at Neo Coffee Bar. “As we continue to expand, Yonge X Gloucester marks our fifth location, and we’re excited to bring our unique coffee experience, influenced by Japanese flavours and design, to even more people.”

Established in August 2015, Neo Coffee Bar’s mission is to bring the finest coffees and classic yet innovative Japanese treats to the public. The desserts, crafted by head pâtissier, reflect a passion for Japanese-inspired baking, while skilled baristas create drinks that are both visually stunning and delicious, explained the brand.

The company said guests are invited to explore the new location during its soft opening phase, where they can enjoy a premium coffee experience in the city’s newest coffee oasis. Follow Neo Coffee Bar on social media for updates and upcoming announcements.

“Neo Coffee Bar offers an authentic blend of Japanese influences, from its unique desserts to its serene design elements, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience. As we continue to expand, we remain committed to offering premium coffee experiences with a distinct Japanese touch,” it said.

Related articles:

T&T Supermarkets to open 2nd Quebec store at Quartier DIX30

By

Craig Patterson

-

October 16, 2024

image - 2024-10-14T220537.148 — Rendering of the T&T Supermarket set to open November 7 at Quartier DIX30 in Brossard. Image: T&T Supermarkets

T&T Supermarkets, Canada’s largest Asian grocery chain, is set to open a new store in Brossard’s Quartier DIX30 on November 7. This will be the chain’s second location in Quebec, following the opening of its first store in Montreal in 2022.

The 54,000-square-foot store will offer T&T’s signature selection of Asian groceries and fresh produce, along with a self-serve hot food counter, and the beloved Chicken Daddy, a customer favourite. The grand opening festivities will begin at 8 a.m. with a traditional lion dance, a nod to the store’s cultural heritage, and the doors will officially open to the public at 9 a.m.

Strategic Expansion in the Growing South Shore

T&T’s expansion into Brossard marks a significant milestone for the company as it continues to grow its footprint in Quebec. Tina Lee, CEO of T&T Supermarkets, said, “South Shore was one of the most requested areas by our community. After the warm reception we received in Montreal, we knew Brossard’s Quartier DIX30 was the ideal spot for our second store.”

Located within Quartier DIX30, Canada’s second-largest retail centre, the new T&T store will cater to a vibrant and growing community. The shopping centre, which spans over 3.2 million square feet, benefits from the REM (Réseau express métropolitain) stations.

Nicholas Kassis, Head of Leasing at Quartier DIX30, emphasized how T&T’s presence aligns with the centre’s redevelopment strategy. “We saw the potential in Brossard’s South Shore, especially with the growing Asian community. Bringing in T&T is not just about filling a retail space—it’s about elevating the overall shopping experience and attracting new visitors to the area.”

T&T Supermarkets’ Community Focus and Future Vision

T&T Supermarkets has a well-established reputation for offering high-quality products tailored to Canada’s Asian communities. The company, founded in Vancouver in 1993, has since grown to 33 locations across British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Its expansion into Brossard reflects T&T’s broader strategy of meeting the growing demand for authentic Asian products while also serving as a key anchor in major retail developments across the country.

The new T&T Supermarket at Quartier DIX30 will not only offer a range of groceries and ready-to-eat meals, but also a wide selection of T&T private label products, including popular snacks, sauces, and household essentials.

T&T Supermarket team and Carbonleo team group photo at the Brossard store front. Photo: T&T Supermarket

A Boost for Quartier DIX30 and Local Retail Landscape

The opening of T&T at Quartier DIX30 is expected to bring a fresh wave of traffic to the shopping centre, which has been undergoing extensive redevelopment under the management of Carbonleo since 2022. New residential units in the surrounding area and the integration of the REM train network will position Quartier DIX30 for significant growth in the future.

“This is more than just a store opening,” said Kassis. “It’s a transformative step in the revitalization of Quartier DIX30. The combination of T&T’s unique offerings and the centre’s ongoing redevelopment will help us attract a broader customer base and create a vibrant community space.”

With the addition of T&T Supermarkets, Quartier DIX30 continues to strengthen its position as a retail destination in the Montreal area. It offers a diverse mix of retailers, restaurants, and services that cater to a wide range of consumer needs.

RONA Foundation presents over $515,000 to 150 organizations across Canada

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

October 16, 2024

RONA inc--THE RONA FOUNDATION LAUNCHES ITS SECOND HOME SWEET HOM — Padam Dugal, Store Manager, RONA Scarborough Midland, and team members. (CNW Group/RONA inc.)

The RONA Foundation, which oversees the philanthropic activities of RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers operating the RONA+, RONA, and Dick’s Lumber banners, announced Wednesday it raised more than $515,000 in its recent Sweet Home campaign.

The campaign ran from September 1 to October 7. The funds will be used towards revitalizing living environments or improving access to housing for victims of domestic violence and their children, low-income families, and people with disabilities or mental health issues. The 150 organizations were selected by each local team.

“In its second year, the Home Sweet Home campaign showed just how strong our network is and how committed we all are to creating positive change in our communities. Together, we can make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of the most vulnerable populations. I am so proud of what we’ve achieved here,” said Josée Lafitte, Director of the RONA Foundation.

The campaign ran in all of RONA’s corporate stores, as well as in selected distribution centres and participating RONA affiliated stores across the country. The donations were collected through in-store checkouts and during online purchases on the rona.ca website.

“Our troops were particularly motivated this year! Our in-store and distribution centre teams were particularly moved by the current housing crisis and were even more committed because each team had the opportunity to choose the local organization they supported. I would like to thank everyone who contributed so generously to this very dear cause!” said Catherine Laporte, President of the RONA Foundation’s Board of Directors and Senior Vice-President, Marketing and Customer Experience at RONA inc.

Click on one of the following links to find out how much has been donated to the organizations supported in each region:

The RONA Foundation, established in 1998, oversees RONA inc.’s philanthropic activities and supports non-profit organizations that make a significant impact in their communities. For its 25th anniversary, the RONA Foundation redefined its mission, which is to improve the quality of life of Canadians in need by revitalizing their living environments and improving access to housing. More specifically, it aims to help victims of domestic violence and their children, low-income families, and people with disabilities or mental health issues.

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

Related articles:

The RONA Foundation launches its second Home Sweet Home campaign
RONA to Convert 10 Lowe’s Stores in Ontario to New RONA+ Banner

SMEG and OVO Collaborate for Exclusive Appliance Collection

By

Craig Patterson

-

October 16, 2024

Smeg hero — SMEG and OVO Collaborate for Exclusive Appliance Collection. Image - SMEG x OVO (CNW Group/SMEG Canada)

SMEG, known for its iconic Italian-designed appliances, has partnered with October’s Very Own (OVO), the globally recognized lifestyle brand co-founded by Toronto’s hip-hop star Drake.

The collaboration brings SMEG’s retro 1950s-style products into the world of contemporary streetwear with a new limited-edition collection that merges high-end design with urban culture.

The SMEG x OVO collection launched last week, offering customers a unique opportunity to bring fashion into the kitchen. It includes three core products— a mini fridge, two-slice toaster, and kettle—each designed in bold black and white with gold accents and the recognizable OVO owl logo.

SMEG x OVO Collaboration: Fashion Meets Functionality

SMEG’s retro designs have long been a staple in stylish kitchens, but this new collaboration with OVO adds a layer of streetwear influence, creating a standout product line.

“This collaboration with OVO merges two iconic brands, each celebrated for their innovation and global impact,” said Gisela Mussen, General Manager of SMEG Canada. The appliances, like the mini fridge and toaster, embody SMEG’s signature 50’s-inspired aesthetic, but with a fresh twist thanks to OVO’s urban flair.

The collection features distinct black and white colourways, embellished with gold touches that make these appliances not just functional, but statement pieces for the home. This marks OVO’s first foray into the world of home appliances, expanding its reach beyond fashion and music to offer a whole new way for fans to incorporate the brand into their daily lives.

Bringing Streetwear Style to Canadian Kitchens

SMEG’s products have long been synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, and the partnership with OVO brings that quality to a new audience. The limited-edition collection is designed to appeal to both fashion lovers and home design enthusiasts alike. The SMEG x OVO collaboration merges the best of two worlds: SMEG’s 70-year tradition of beautiful appliance design and OVO’s cutting-edge style.

The collection is now available exclusively on SMEG Canada’s website and the OVO online store.

Rendering of the new Smeg store at 2 Bloor St W in Toronto. Image: Smeg

SMEG’s New Toronto Store Adds to Brand’s Canadian Expansion

In addition to the exclusive SMEG x OVO collaboration, SMEG is continuing to strengthen its presence in Canada with the opening of its first standalone store in the country. To be located at 2 Bloor Street West in Toronto, the new flagship will span over 3,700 square feet across two levels, bringing the brand’s signature Italian design directly to one of Canada’s most prominent retail districts. The store’s ground level will cover 1,137 square feet, while the second floor will offer 2,590 square feet of showroom space, showcasing a full range of SMEG’s premium appliances.

Positioned next to Lululemon’s recently opened flagship, SMEG’s Toronto location is set to become a key destination for design-conscious shoppers and those seeking top-tier kitchen appliances. The opening of the store reflects SMEG’s growing influence in Canada, further solidifying the brand’s appeal in both the luxury and home design markets.

Canadians looking for ways to spend money wisely: Rakuten report

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

October 16, 2024

Increases in inflation for shoppers and the need for wage increases for retail workers clearly shows that the retail landscape is growing but Canadians’ needs are shifting.

And with the holiday season fast approaching, more surveys and reports are indicating that Canadians are looking for ways to spend their money wisely.

Rakuten.ca, Canada’s leading shopping rewards program that offers Cash Back and deals from consumers’ favourite brands, commissioned its annual Holiday Spend Survey which found that four-in-five (81 per cent) Canadians are stressed about the cost of buying holiday gifts this year. The survey data highlights that this anticipated stress is due to inflation with gift prices, coordinating schedules, and hosting loved ones.

Key highlights from the survey:

Average anticipated holiday spend is $637, up from $570 in 2023;
Canadians anticipated to spend the most include parents ($791) – dads at $831 and moms at $762;
Many Canadians are planning to use loyalty programs like Rakuten.ca to augment their budgets with cash back (58 per cent);
More Canadians than ever are planning to create a holiday budget (88 per cent), up from an average of 76 per cent in 2023.

Danai Mushayandebvu, Social Media and PR Specialist, Rakuten Rewards, said Rakuten Rewards is a Cash Back application where its members, seven million of which are in Canada, have the opportunity to earn Cash Back from their favourite stores when they make a purchase.

“The concept is that by connecting shoppers with the top brands . . . those merchants can provide Cash Back on those items that we use every single day while our retail partners find new loyal customers and drive record sales,” she said, adding those Canadian members earn more than $140 million in Cash Back at their favourite stores.

“The retail landscape is still growing but I think what is happening is Canadians specifically are becoming more savvy because times are changing. We’re not earning as much per se and the cost of living is higher. So we can get more bang for our buck so to speak and programs like this are advantageous. We’re going to shop anyway. That’s the bottom line. That we are shoppers and if we can make the most of it then why not.”

Mushayandebvu said the Rakuten survey suggests Canadians are budgeting better for the holidays and their anticipated spending.

“So in 2023, 76 per cent of shoppers were budgeting while this year from the results it shows that 88 per cent of the participants are budgeting. It’s just a reflection of the landscape where we want to spend but we also want to be mindful in that spending and a lot of mindfulness in financial planning is budgeting,” she said.

“Regardless of all of this, Canadians are planning on spending 12 per cent more than they did last year. And I think it does come down to that budgeting. If someone is spending willy nilly, they might not be able to spend as much but if you’re budgeting and planning ahead then it means you’re probably actually able to spend more when the time comes.”

Mushayandebvu said Rakuten membership continues to grow because unlike other rewards programs this is Cash Back versus points.

“So the return on investment is immediate. You’re getting a cheque in the mail every quarter and you can see and spend that money right away versus like a points program where you know you can collect points for the last 10 years and wondering where those points go to. I think there’s something with the gratification unlike other programs and it’s very enticing.”

Since launching in 2012, Rakuten.ca connects consumers with over 750 stores,.

Related articles:

VIDEO: Navigating threats to the retail supply chain

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

October 16, 2024

It has been a challenging time in recent years for the retail supply chain network.

Major events such as the COVID pandemic and wars in places like the Middle East and Eastern Europe have caused disruptions in the network.

On top of that have been challenges at ports, railways and airlines with strikes, threats of strikes and access issues.

Gary Newbury, a retail supply chain expert, discusses the state of the current retail chain supply network, how vulnerable retailers are these days and what retailers should do to mitigate their risks.

Newbury said the system broke down very quickly during COVID, leading to a massive disruption. There was a thought that with COVID over it would lead to better times and everything would be back to normal.

But the cost of goods have risen in recent years and for the most part wages have not kept up with the pace of inflation. Increased union activity over these conditions have disrupted the current network.

Today network needs to be flexible, resilient and have the ability to cope with disruptions.

There have always been threats to the supply chain network but those threats have accelerated in recent years. And things have taken place that no one expected. The smart companies have learned through those experiences.

Related articles:

Independent retailers in Canada facing challenges amid rising costs

By

Craig Patterson

-

October 16, 2024

image - 2024-10-13T190435.422 — Roncesvalles Village Neighbourhood in Toronto. Independent retailers in Canada. Photo: Life West Real Estate

Independent retailers in Canada are facing rising costs and ongoing economic headwinds, despite a slow recovery in optimism following the pandemic. Andreea Bourgeois, Director, Economics at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), provides a detailed outlook on the challenges small retailers are navigating today. During an interview with Retail Insider, she discussed the current landscape for small businesses, including inflation, wage increases, insurance hikes, and the impact of supply chain disruptions.

Challenges in the Retail Sector After the Pandemic

Bourgeois emphasized that while optimism is improving, it remains below pre-pandemic levels. CFIB’s Business Barometer, which measures confidence, shows that retailers’ optimism stands at 54.5, a significant increase from last year’s 42.7. However, this figure remains below the pre-pandemic range, which used to be in the low 60s. “We’re on the right path,” Bourgeois noted, “but still far from reaching ideal potential.”

Andreea Bourgeois, Director, Economics at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)

The most pressing issue for small retailers is the continuing rise in costs. Inflation, which surged during the pandemic, has led consumers to change their spending habits. Many are opting for essential goods, while reducing purchases of non-essential or higher-priced items. As Bourgeois explained, “Retailers are seeing demand for non-essential items decrease, as customers prioritize essentials like groceries and household necessities.”

Inflation and Insurance: Key Issues for Independent Retailers

Inflation isn’t the only cost concern for small retailers. The sharp rise in insurance premiums has become a significant burden for businesses. Bourgeois pointed out that insurance costs have skyrocketed since the pandemic, driven by factors like adverse weather events. “Retailers have been hard hit by rising insurance premiums, especially in areas affected by wildfires and flooding. In some cases, it’s difficult for them to even find coverage,” she said. The high cost of insurance is now a fixed expense that businesses must bear, regardless of revenue.

Adding to this, wage costs continue to rise, particularly as several provinces have increased minimum wages. Bourgeois explained that when minimum wages increase, it impacts all salary levels within the business. “It’s not just entry-level wages that rise. Retailers need to adjust pay for more experienced staff as well, leading to increased labor costs across the board.”

Independent retailers in Canada : Commercial Drive in Vancouver. Photo: Vancouver Virtual Guide

Independent Retailers in Canada Respond to Supply Chain Issues

Another challenge facing independent retailers in Canada is the ongoing supply chain disruption, which began during the pandemic and continues to this day. While larger retailers may have the resources to navigate these issues, small businesses are more vulnerable. Bourgeois highlighted the fact that many small retailers rely on local suppliers, which has helped mitigate some of the disruptions. “Local sourcing has provided a buffer for some retailers, but global supply chain issues are still causing delays and shortages,” she said.

However, smaller retailers are finding ways to adapt. Many have embraced online platforms to reach a broader customer base and mitigate inventory shortages by offering online ordering options. This flexibility has helped many businesses remain competitive, even as they face logistical challenges.

Looking Forward: Advocacy and Support for Independent Retailers

Despite these significant hurdles, CFIB says it remains committed to advocating for independent retailers and other businesses across Canada. Bourgeois emphasized that CFIB’s focus is on reducing taxes and cutting red tape to make it easier for small businesses to operate. “We’re pushing for the small business tax rate to be reduced to zero in most provinces,” Bourgeois said. “Additionally, we’re working on reducing the regulatory burden so retailers can focus on growing their businesses rather than dealing with excessive paperwork.”

Looking ahead, Bourgeois expressed cautious optimism that small retailers would see further improvements in business conditions, especially as the Bank of Canada is expected to announce more rate cuts, which would ease borrowing costs. Furthermore, the holiday shopping season is expected to provide a much-needed boost in sales for independent retailers across the country.

Sluggish growth for Canadian economy: CFIB report

VIDEO: The state of small business in Canada

Norwell’s Lax-A-Day® Campaign Brings Relief To Commuters Experiencing Transit Delays

By

Retail Insider

-

October 16, 2024

Lax-A-Day^®’s innovative campaign is taking a relaxing approach to the frustration of experiencing occasional constipation for Canadians.

Being Canada’s #1 source for gentle relief of occasional constipation, the Lax-A-Day^® campaign turned the daily commute into an interactive and playful experience by leveraging a Toronto transit shelter.

Lax-A-Day®’s campaign is set to provide a much needed sense of relief and relaxation with its unique auditory and visual experience.

Commuters passing by the transit shelter at the corner of Queen Street East and Brooklyn Avenue will notice the playful pink wrapping that has transformed this everyday structure into what looks like their home bathroom.

A red button inside the shelter beckoning to be pressed may catch commuters by surprise with its relaxing audio, featuring bird calls, nature sounds and a soothing narrator’s voice encouraging commuters to enjoy their transit experience.

This stunt is part of the Lax-A-Day^® campaign launching this fall nationwide. In addition to taking over Toronto transit, playful signage will be posted across the city, including the well-known Dundas Square.

Canadians living outside of Toronto can also experience a moment of comedic relief when viewing the video commercial that will be streaming from their phone and TV screens.

About Lax-A-Day^®

Lax-A-Day^® is Canada’s #1 doctor and pharmacist recommended laxative. It’s available over-the-counter in 5 formats so you can find the right one for you.

Are you looking for gentle relief from occasional constipation?

Try Lax-A-Day^® for relief that’s gentle on your digestive tract and gentle on your taste buds. It’s 100% soluble and free of sugar, taste and grit, for a comfortable experience.

This product may not be right for you. Always read and follow the label. Lax-A-Day^® is a registered trademark owned by Norwell Consumer Healthcare.

Partner content. To work with Retail Insider, contact Craig Patterson at: craig@retail-insider.com

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For October 16, 2024

By

Retail Insider

-

October 15, 2024

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.

Food prices continue to outpace inflation in Canada (CTV)

Canadian inflation falls further below Bank of Canada’s target (Retail Insider)

Alimentation Couche-Tard’s new CEO is cognisant of the past, focused on the future (CCentral)

Dollarama has settled a $2.6M class-action lawsuit. Here’s how much you could get (Toronto Star)

Store employee attacks and seriously injures shoplifter: Winnipeg police (CBC)

Opinion: Booze ban in stores a giant step backward for Alberta (Calgary Herald)