Recently, the CFIB launched its Big Thank You Contest. The contest is a chance for Canadians to thank and celebrate the entrepreneurs who power our economy despite mounting challenges.
One in four ventures are still reporting they are in poor health.
In fact, more than half of owners (53 per cent) would not advise someone to start a business right now. Most cite difficulty keeping up with the cost of operating (89 per cent), the high tax burden (72%), stress about the economy (76 per cent), and excessive government paperwork (62 per cent) as the main reasons behind their belief that now is not a good time to start.
“It’s getting harder and harder to run, let alone start, a business. From coast to coast, we’re seeing longtime, iconic places that have been in business for decades fold under the pressures of high costs and reduced demand,” said Ryan Mallough, CFIB’s vice-president of legislative affairs for Ontario. “Our communities are built on the success of these local businesses. It’s important to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and the people who take the risks to keep our communities thriving.”
Les Rôtisseries St-Hubert has unveiled a new menu, featuring more competitive and flexible pricing.
The iconic Quebec restaurant chain, renowned for its rotisserie chicken and ribs, said it introduced several new options aimed at helping customers navigate the current economic challenges.
“Indeed, the present economic situation has impacted life’s simple pleasures, such as dining out, and St-Hubert has created added-value offerings in that spirit,” it said in a news release.
Richard Scofield
“Inflation can hurts Quebecers, and many families are now forced to make tough decisions when it comes to spending on leisure and entertainment. At St-Hubert, we care deeply about our customers, which is why we’re rethinking our value proposition and adapting our packages to make them more flexible and accessible. It’s important that all our customers feel like they’re getting real value for their money. The entire St-Hubert network and its franchisees are joining forces to provide an affordable dining experience for families, colleagues and friends,” said Richard Scofield, President of Groupe St-Hubert.
WHAT CAN CUSTOMERS EXPECT?
Price freeze on all main courses on the St-Hubert menu.
Price reduction on over 100 menu items, such as appetizers, beverages and desserts (with an average 11% price cut on selected items), without reducing portions or compromising quality.
In dining rooms:
Four new lunch dishes starting at $12.
St-Hubert now offers an option to complement ALL main courses with two choices from a selection of appetizers, desserts, or hot/cold beverages for $4 at lunch and $8 for the evening table d’hôte. *
St-Hubert classics and current promotions will remain unchanged. The brand is committed to preserving what its customers love while enhancing the overall offering, without ever considering shrinkflation.
The company has also refreshed its brand image. In collaboration with the LG2 creative agency, the visual identity has been modernized while retaining key brand elements. The famous logo remains at the heart of the new brand identity.
The brand was founded in 1951 in Montreal with more than 120 rotisseries across Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick.
Alimentaria Mexicana has expanded its culinary family with the opening of El Cafecito, a new and lively fast-casual café bringing Latin American coffee culture and authentic Mexican flavours to Granville Island.
Known for upholding Mexican culinary traditions, Alimentaria Mexicana’s new quick-service café concept offers a convenient spot for locals and tourists to grab freshly brewed coffee and warm, hearty burritos, said the company in a news release.
Founded by the same team behind Vancouver’s premier destination for heirloom corn tortillas and artisanal Mexican products, El Cafecito continues to honour Latin American heritage. Nestled within Alimentaria Mexicana, the café debuted this September, transforming the restaurant’s retail space into a coffee haven, it said.
Ernesto Gomez
“We are thrilled to introduce El Cafecito to Granville Island,” said Ernesto Gomez, Co-founder of Alimentaria Mexicana and El Cafecito. “This concept was born from our desire to bring authentic Latin American coffee and cuisine to Vancouver in a way that fits the busy lifestyle of Granville Island’s workers and visitors. We want our café to feel like an extension of the island’s creative community, where people can stop in for a quick pick-me-up or stay for a while and soak in the atmosphere.”
“El Cafecito’s cozy 16-seat interior provides a welcoming refuge on Granville Island, plus an outdoor 16-seat patio for al fresco dining. Showcasing the talents of designer Scott Cohen, who “treats all his design spaces as pieces instead of spaces,” the bright mosaics on the exterior contrast with a lush, tropical-inspired interior, perfectly complementing the warm, inviting menu,” added the company.
Partnering with Agro Roasters, a Vancouver-based supplier of organic, sustainably sourced coffee beans, El Cafecito delivers a premium artisanal brew experience. Signature beverages like the Nitro Cafe De Olla and the Horchatte – a playful take on latte using horchata, Mexico’s classic rice and cinnamon drink – have quickly emerged as crowd favourites since El Cafecito quietly opened its doors. The beverage selection also includes drip coffee, espresso drinks, and comforting hot chocolate, it said.
Darragh McFeely
“Granville Island is such a unique cultural hub, and we’re excited to contribute to its vibrant food scene,” added Darragh McFeely, Co-founder. “El Cafecito is a place where locals and tourists can come together over great food and coffee in an inviting, accessible space.”
El Cafecito said its food menu is anchored by its hearty, authentic Mexican burritos, inspired by flavours from northern Mexico and designed to accompany the coffee program. These grab-and-go delights, including options like Frijol Con Queso (beans and cheese), Huevo Con Chorizo (egg and chorizo), and Birria Con Frijol (beef and beans), wrapped in handmade 10-inch tortillas, are served warm and fresh all day, making them an ideal choice for a satisfying breakfast or lunch on the go.
“We wanted to create a space that blends convenience with authenticity,” explained Co-founder andChef Martín Vargas. “We craft our burritos with care and respect for Mexican culinary traditions, and our coffee program was designed to offer the highest quality in every cup.”
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.
Eastlink's new store-in-store at KENT (CNW Group/EastLink)
Jeff Gillham. Photo: LinkedIn.
Eastlink, a Canadian technology and communications company, has partnered with KENT to open its first store-in-store location at KENT’s Dartmouth Crossing in Nova Scotia. This marks a major step for both companies as they deepen their presence in Atlantic Canada.
“We’re really proud to partner with a company that’s as deeply rooted in Atlantic Canada as we are,” said Jeff Gillham, CEO of Eastlink. “Our team is excited to welcome customers to this new location with an enhanced experience that enables them to make the most of their time.”
Eastlink Brings Connectivity to KENT’s Customers
Rannie MacDonald. Photo: LinkedIn.
The new store-in-store provides a convenient option for KENT customers, allowing them to access Eastlink’s services while shopping for home improvement products. Eastlink offers high-speed internet, mobile phones, TV, phone, and smart home solutions. As smart devices become a bigger part of modern homes, this partnership allows customers to find everything they need in one stop.
Rannie MacDonald, General Manager at KENT, highlighted how the partnership fits both companies’ goals. “Both KENT and Eastlink are committed to providing high-quality products and exceptional service. With the integration of smart home devices, customers can now get what they need for their home, including mobile phones and internet, in one location.”
Eastlink Now Open at KENT Dartmouth Crossing (CNW Group/EastLink)
Eastlink’s First Store-in-Store Strengthens its Atlantic Canada Presence
This location in Dartmouth Crossing is Eastlink’s first venture into the store-in-store concept. Eastlink operates 24 standalone stores across Atlantic Canada, providing customers access to cutting-edge technology and communication solutions. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit, Eastlink has become a leader in delivering high-speed internet, mobile, TV, and security services.
Eastlink opens new store at KENT Dartmouth Crossing (CNW Group/EastLink)
Eastlink has been recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies and is committed to sharing local stories through its Community TV platform, further showcasing its strong ties to the region. KENT operates 48 retail locations across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Prince Edward Island, reinforcing its leading position in home improvement retail.
This partnership showcases two Atlantic Canadian brands collaborating to meet customer needs, offering both home improvement products and advanced technology solutions under one roof.
Burberry, the iconic British luxury brand, has opened its new flagship store at 100 Bloor Street West in Toronto. The relocation comes after almost 15 years at its previous space at 144 Bloor Street West, marking a strategic move for the brand as it seeks to further elevate its presence in one of Canada’s top luxury shopping destinations.
The new Burberry store spans approximately 6,125 square feet on the main floor of the historic former Pottery Barn space. The unique heritage-protected facade, originally a movie theatre, posed leasing challenges for years, but Burberry has now transformed the space into a sleek, contemporary store. The design features soaring ceilings and an impressive front that aligns with the brand’s evolving global store concept.
New Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
Luxury Appeal Strengthened with Burberry Bloor Street Relocation
The relocation to 100 Bloor places Burberry alongside other prominent luxury retailers, including Van Cleef & Arpels and Hermès. With Van Cleef & Arpels having opened its stunning 2,500-square-foot store next door a year ago, this stretch of Bloor Street is seeing increased luxury activity. Furthermore, Holt Renfrew will relocate its men’s store from 100 Bloor back to its main building at 50 Bloor Street West before the end of the year.
JLL represented the landlord in the lease deal. Meanwhile, CBRE is currently listing Burberry’s former space at 144 Bloor Street West. The 144 Bloor building offers seven floors, with Arlin Markowitz of CBRE noting that its exterior can be fully branded by a new tenant, creating a rare opportunity for a global retailer to make its mark on this prestigious shopping street.
Burberry’s former space at 144 Bloor Street West is for lease, with Burberry now at 100 Bloor Street West in space formerly occupied by Pottery Barn. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
Burberry’s Canadian Strategy Focuses on Flagship and Concessions
Burberry’s new flagship aligns with the brand’s broader strategy of reducing wholesale distribution and focusing on flagship stores and concessions within multi-brand retailers like Holt Renfrew. In recent years, Burberry has closed boutique spaces at Nordstrom (prior to its Canadian exit) and Saks Fifth Avenue in Canada, pivoting towards operating concessions instead.
In addition to the Burberry Bloor Street flagship in Toronto, Burberry has established a notable presence across Canada with standalone stores in key luxury markets. The brand opened its first Canadian store in 2006 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Vancouver, occupying a 3,200-square-foot space on Alberni Street, a prime luxury retail corridor. This was followed by the opening of a Burberry store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto in 2009, as well as a third location at CF Chinook Centre in Calgary. These locations, combined with concessions at Holt Renfrew stores in Vancouver, Calgary, Mississauga, Toronto, and Montreal, demonstrate Burberry’s long-term commitment to the Canadian market.
As Bloor Street continues to evolve, Burberry’s move is part of a larger trend of luxury brands upgrading their presence in the area. With substantial construction and leasing activity ongoing, Toronto’s Bloor Street is cementing its status as a global destination for high-end retail. Retail Insider will follow up this month with an article update on the street and what’s happening.
See below for more photos inside Burberry at Bloor Street in Toronto.
New Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonNew Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig PattersonWindows outside the new Burberry store at 100 Bloor St W in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
As a retail leader rooted in Western Canada, I know firsthand how essential it is to stay connected with the unique dynamics of our region. That’s why attending Retail Council of Canada’s Retail West Conference on November 6, 2024 is a must. This event offers insights and inspiration tailored specifically for the challenges and opportunities we face. Whether you’re running a local shop or a growing chain in Western Canada, Retail West delivers practical takeaways that can truly make a difference in how we approach our businesses.
Jennifer Barr. Photo: LinkedIn.
Ivano Pirro. Photo: LinkedIn.
Take the session “Best Buy Express on Embracing a Bold, Growth Mindset.” Jennifer Barr from Best Buy Express Canada and Ivano Pirro from Bell, Virgin Plus & Best Buy Express will share how they achieved the remarkable feat of joining two distinct cultures and opening 167 Best Buy Express stores in just five months. Their story of agility and adaptation highlights how even the boldest strategies can come to life when you’re open to unconventional opportunities. For small and medium-sized businesses, this session offers practical insights on applying a growth mindset to scale up while inspiring your team.
Dr. Lana Porter. Photo: LinkedIn.
In “Winning the West: SMB Multi-Channel Success Strategies,” Dr. Lana Porter from Leger will dive into new research on shopping trends and media habits unique to Western Canada. This session will give small-medium businesses a clear path to making the most of in-store and digital channels. Sessions like this provide real, actionable strategies you can implement right away to enhance your business.
One of the most important challenges Western retailers face is the increase in organized crime and business interruption. The session “Collaborating on Retail Crime” with Sgt. Craig Reynolds of the Vancouver Police Department takes an in-depth look at how retailers can partner with law enforcement to combat retail crime. Practical advice and case studies make this session particularly valuable, providing retailers with real-world strategies to protect their businesses.
Rob Dunlap. Photo: Retail West.
And for those of us looking to optimize our productivity with cutting-edge learning, the session “Demystifying AI with Practical Applications for Retail” with IBM Consulting’Rob Dunlop offers a look at how AI is transforming retail. From predictive inventory management to personalized customer experiences, this session covers how even smaller businesses can start leveraging AI to improve efficiency and profitability.
Beyond the sessions, what I love most about Retail West is the sense of community. You’re surrounded by people who understand the unique challenges of doing business in Western Canada. You’ll walk away not only with new strategies but also with a renewed sense of energy, inspired by peers and innovators in the field.
Retail West is the event where grit, innovation, and community come together to shape the future of retail in Western Canada. If you want to grow your business and stay ahead of the curve, this is the place to be. Make sure you don’t miss it!
Luke O’Hare, President, JAK’s Beer, Wine & Spirits
Luke joined JAK’s in January of 2024. Previously to that, Luke spent the last 10+ years with Urban Barn as the leader of Retail and then Supply Chain.
Luke currently sits on the advisory boards with the Retail Council of Canada and has most recently completed his term as Chair of the Canadian Retail Shippers Association.
Away from work, Luke lives in Burnaby and has been married to his wife Lenka for 8 years and has 2 children – Milan (Milo) and Olivia.
With over 110 Donor Welcome Centres nationwide, The Salvation Army Thrift Store is calling for household item donations to support increasing demand in communities across Canada. (CNW Group/The Salvation Army Thrift Store – National Recycling Operations)
The Salvation Army Thrift Store in Canada is calling for increased donations as economic uncertainty continues to affect Canadians, driving up demand for affordable clothing and household goods.
To address this growing need, the organization said it is launching its second annual ‘No One’s Home Should Be Empty’ campaign this October.
Ted Troughton, Managing Director of The Salvation Army Thrift Store
“While clothing donations are always appreciated, household items are especially in high demand right now,” said Ted Troughton, Managing Director of The Salvation Army Thrift Store. “We’re encouraging people to look around their homes—whether it’s cupboards, basements, garages or storage lockers—and donate gently used household items like kitchenware, small appliances, and home décor that they no longer need.
“We rely on the generosity of Canadians to help us continue making a positive impact in your communities. Together, we can ensure that no one’s home is empty, and everyone has the opportunity to access what they need.”
It has also expanded its efforts by partnering with businesses and community groups to host donation drives and increase engagement with corporate donors.
“These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure that thrift stores remain stocked with quality products and to continue supporting Salvation Army programs through store-generated funds,” it said.
When individuals donate or shop at a Salvation Army Thrift Store, they make a real difference by supporting life-changing programs like food banks, shelters, and emergency disaster relief services—all while promoting sustainability by giving items a second life, said the non-profit organization.
There are 94 Thrift Stores across Canada and they diverted over 94 million pounds of items from landfills last year.
Founded by former firefighters, the chain known for its hot and hearty subs unveils the exciting sponsorship just as doors are set to open at three new restaurants in downtown Toronto, said the brand in a news release.
Firehouse Subs® has become the Official Sub Partner of the Toronto Maple Leafs®. (CNW Group/Firehouse Subs)
Sam Gallant, General Manager, Firehouse Subs Canada
“We are excited to continue growing our footprint with these new restaurants, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Toronto,” said Sam Gallant, General Manager, Firehouse Subs Canada. “And we’re delighted to be entering this market as the new official sub partner of the Maple Leafs after over 30 years.”
Jordan Vader, Senior Vice President, Global Partnerships, MLSE
“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Firehouse Subs – a growing sub chain in Canada,” said Jordan Vader, Senior Vice President, Global Partnerships, MLSE. “While hockey fans gear up for an exciting Maple Leafs home opener this weekend, we look forward to collaborating with (the brand) all season long and engaging fans in our local community.”
In 2015, the company expanded into Canada with its first locally-owned franchise restaurant in Oshawa. Since then, the brand has grown across Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, with its first restaurant opening in New Brunswick later this year. The brand has more than 85 restaurants in Canada with aspirations to continue growing. The new downtown Toronto locations can be found at:
501 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 0G8
440 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5T 2S6
1221 King St W, Toronto, ON M6K 1G3
The heart of the brand is the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada, which has awarded more than $3.7 million in lifesaving equipment to first responders and public safety organizations.
“As the brand continues to grow, so do the funds raised for the Foundation, allowing it to accomplish its mission of providing lifesaving equipment to first responders,” it said.
Circular economy can protect natural environment, stimulate economic growth, build community, and reduce waste and carbon emissions. Photo: Circular Innovation Council
In celebration of October being Circular Economy Month, Circular Innovation Council has announced a new Take Action Pledge, encouraging Canadians to get involved in the transition towards a circular economy through individual action, events, educational resources and social media.
Led by Circular Innovation Council with support from its Champion Partners CSA Group, Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation, and additional partners from across Canada, the Council said Circular Economy Month is an annual invitation for Canadian governments, businesses, schools, and individuals to promote circular living and celebrate our individual and collective actions, commitments, and achievements towards a sustainable future. Each week during October features a different theme to educate and encourage understanding of various aspects of the circular economy and its benefits.
Jo-Anne St. Godard, Executive Director of Circular Innovation Council
“For Canada to reach its net-zero climate targets by 2050, we need to rethink the way we look at climate change and break away from our current take-make-waste model of consumption,” said Jo-Anne St. Godard, Executive Director of Circular Innovation Council in a news release. “Meeting Canada’s climate change commitments and economic goals requires big system changes actioned by all parts of our society. Circular Economy Month is designed to educate and engage all Canadians, whether through their work, at home or in their communities, to take action in their everyday choices.”
New Pledge Launched to Promote Individual Action
While Circular Economy Month continues its past efforts to encourage and educate businesses and governments to implement change, individual action is also required—every change matters, no matter how large or small. To preserve a livable climate, the United Nations estimates each person will need to reduce their average annual carbon emissions from 6.3 tonnes (2020) to 2.1 tonnes by 2030, said the Council in a news release.
Canadians can take the Circular Economy Month pledge, committing to one or more actions to reduce their environmental footprint, save money, and support their local community. Individuals who pledge between October 1st-31st will be entered into a draw for a chance to win prizes, including gift cards and circular products.
“Our goal is to change perspectives on the way we make and use products, materials, and food, and how small actions can lead to big impact,” said St. Godard. “This month—and throughout the year—we encourage Canadians to take action themselves to see how circular solutions protect our natural environment, stimulate economic growth, build community, and reduce waste and carbon emissions.”
Additional ways to get involved
Plan or attend a circular event like a repair café, conference, clothing swap, or recycling drive.
Governments: officially declare the month of October as Circular Economy Month.
Find informative resources about circular economy in the resource directory.
The Circular Opportunity – Facts and Stats
In Canada, the value retention processing market (VRP; i.e. reuse, repair, refurbishment) generates approximately $56 billion annually and support more than 371,000 direct jobs. Each year, VRPs prevent approximately 1.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) from entering the atmosphere, and avoid the use of 470 kilotonnes (kt) of virgin materials.
