Lightspeed Commerce Inc., the one-stop commerce platform empowering merchants to provide the best omnichannel experiences, has announced a reorganization to further optimize its operations toward executing on the company’s focused profitable growth strategy.
This initiative is designed to prioritize resources for strategic areas of the business, maximizing the Company’s long-term growth opportunity, and redefining the organizational structure and operations of other areas of the business, it said in a news release.
“The reorganization will impact approximately 200 individuals, with the resulting savings being redeployed across other areas of Lightspeed’s business, in line with the Company’s strategic objective of further driving profitable growth. Lightspeed expects that the majority of the restructuring charges will be incurred in the third quarter of fiscal 2025,” it said.
Dax Dasilva
“As we discussed on our Second Quarter Earnings Call on November 7, Lightspeed is focused on growing where we have the strongest product-market fit and right-to-win, particularly in North American retail and EMEA hospitality. We will continue to deliver exceptional services and products to all our customers, with a focus on reducing the complexity of our business and strengthening our competitive positioning,” said Lightspeed Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dax Dasilva. “Since I returned as CEO, Lightspeed has been working harder to deliver on our profitable growth strategy. Today’s announcement reaffirms our commitment to building an organization that can fulfill its true potential.”
The company said it continues to be engaged in its previously announced review of strategic alternatives. The reorganization, it said, is part of Lightspeed’s optimization efforts aimed at achieving profitable growth, and does not affect, or inhibit, the ongoing strategic review process.
“There can be no assurances given, at this time, as to the outcome of this strategic review,” it said.
Founded in Montréal in 2005, Lightspeed is dual-listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange. With teams across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, the company serves retail, hospitality, and golf businesses in over 100 countries.
Source: A&W Canada. (CNW Group/A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. (marketing & PR))
A&W Canada announced Monday a national expansion of their in-restaurant food rescue program in partnership with Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food rescue organization.
To date, 441 A&W Restaurants across Canada have joined the Second Harvest Food Rescue App. More restaurants are expected to join soon, enabling community groups such as food banks, shelters, meal programs and community centres to pick up surplus food donations from restaurants. These groups then transform A&W’s protein and produce into nourishing meals such as soups, salads, and wraps—for those facing food insecurity. Through food donations from A&W’s supply chain and restaurants, over 1.24 million meals have been provided for communities in need, the company said in a news release.
“A&W and Second Harvest’s partnership reflects a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and community support. A report by Second Harvest indicates that nearly 42% of all the food wasted in Canada could be rescued to help combat hunger among the 8.7 million Canadians experiencing food insecurity. To date, A&W’s food rescue efforts with Second Harvest have prevented 4.8 million pounds of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere,” it said.
A&W’s partnership with Second Harvest began in 2021, with 81 participating restaurants. The initiative has organically grown, with more A&W Restaurants joining the program to support their local communities.
Susan Senecal
“Our restaurants are able to thrive because of the support from the community. Their teams have found this program incredibly rewarding, to see how their food rescue efforts can give back,” said Susan Senecal, CEO of A&W Canada. “As a restaurant, our core purpose is to feed people, and this program allows us to extend that to those facing hunger.”
To date, A&W’s food rescue efforts have donated meals to 987 non-profit organizations across Canada.
“Donating surplus edible food is not only the right thing to do—it’s also an environmentally-sound choice. Distributing food to those in need reduces food-related greenhouse gas emissions by 12 times compared to composting, and 30 times compared to upcycling. Partnerships with major restaurants like A&W, who generously donate their surplus food, are invaluable in our mission to combat food waste and food insecurity in Canada,” said Lori Nikkel, CEO of Second Harvest.
Angela Griffiths
“At A&W, we’ve been committed to achieving zero-waste efforts operationally, and minimizing food waste is a key part of that commitment,” said Angela Griffiths, Vice President of Food Safety and Brand Integrity, who leads A&W’s zero-waste initiatives. “Our office and restaurants are proud to partner with Second Harvest to ensure that our surplus food directly benefits those in need, especially during these challenging economic times.”
A&W is Canada’s original burger chain with over 1000+ restaurants.
Second Harvest is Canada’s largest food rescue organization and a global thought leader on food waste and perishable food redistribution. It rescues unsold surplus food from thousands of food businesses from across the supply chain to redistribute it to non-profits in every province and territory. This prevents harmful greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere while improving access to nutrition for millions of Canadians experiencing food insecurity.
Beyond food rescue and redistribution, Second Harvest is deeply involved in advocacy, research, training and education. Its groundbreaking reports, such as “The Avoidable Crisis of Food Waste,” provide critical data and insights to inform public policy and educate the public on sustainable food systems.
Rendering of the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: Hästens
Hästens, the world-renowned Swedish bedmaker, is opening a flagship store in Toronto’s upscale Yorkville neighborhood. Slated to open in early December at 20 Hazelton Avenue, the 3,300-square-foot showroom will immerse customers in a world of handcrafted mattresses and premium sleep accessories.
The Hästens Toronto showroom will span three floors, each designed to embody the brand’s commitment to luxury, craftsmanship, and an unparalleled sleep experience. The main floor will initially display the Ferris Rafauli Grand Vividus and Dremer models – retailing at $1 million and $140,000 respectively. The lower level and second floor feature a unique ‘sleep spa’ experience — a serene space where customers can experience the brand’s range of mattresses in a calm, restorative environment. The spa-like setting aims to replicate Hästens’ mission to transform sleep quality through a deeply personalized approach, guided by expert consultants who tailor the experience to each customer’s needs.
Rendering of the main floor entry area to the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: HästensRendering of the main floor of the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Included will be a $1-million Grand Vividus model and a $140,000 Dremer model on display. Image: Hästens
All three floors will feature a selection of Hästens’ handcrafted mattresses and accessories, showcasing the brand’s dedication to using natural, sustainably sourced materials such as horsehair, cotton, wool, and flax.
Hästens first showroom in Canada opened in October 2023 in Markham, and Hazelton Avenue is the second location for the Canadian entity.
Hästens’ Global Heritage and Commitment to Craftsmanship
Founded in 1852 in the Swedish town of Köping, Hästens began as a small saddlery under the stewardship of master saddler Pehr Adolf Janson. Recognizing the superior qualities of horsehair for creating breathable, supportive products, Janson expanded the business into crafting high-quality mattresses. Today, Hästens remains committed to using natural materials in its handcrafted mattresses, ensuring optimal comfort, breathability, and sustainability.
With flagship stores in major cities worldwide, including Stockholm, London, Paris, and New York City, Hästens has earned a reputation for delivering unmatched luxury and quality. The brand’s global presence is further enhanced by its bespoke creations and high-profile collaborations, such as the Grand Vividus mattress, designed in partnership with renowned designer Ferris Rafauli. This model, celebrated for its artistic design and unparalleled comfort, has captivated celebrities, royalty, and discerning customers worldwide.
Rendering of the lower level ‘Sleep Spa’ at the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: HästensRendering of the second floor ‘Sleep Spa’ at the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: Hästens
Why Yorkville is the Ideal Fit for Hästens’ Canadian Expansion
Yorkville provides an ideal setting for Hästens’ first Canadian location. Known for its blend of high-end boutiques, art galleries, fine dining, and cultural landmarks, Yorkville attracts a sophisticated clientele that appreciates quality and exclusivity. The area is also home to an affluent resident population that is growing rapidly.
The building at 20 Hazelton Avenue, painted white and steeped in history, offers an elegant backdrop for Hästens’ luxurious offerings. Originally a residential home, it was later converted to retail space.
The new Hästens store is strategically located beside a busy Hazelton Avenue entrance to Yorkville Village, a prominent retail and lifestyle complex. Hazelton Avenue itself has become a focal point for luxury retail in Toronto, hosting a diverse array of high-end brands and boutiques.
Rendering of the third floor of the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: Hästens
Hazelton Avenue: A Hub of High-End Retail
Hazelton Avenue is home to a range of prestigious retailers that have helped shape its status as a luxury shopping destination. Nearby, British luxury sleepwear brand Derek Rose recently opened its first North American store at 14 Hazelton Avenue, offering a selection of premium loungewear and sleepwear. Across the street, Atelier Munro, a custom menswear brand from Amsterdam, provides personalized fashion at its storefront at 19 Hazelton Avenue. Rodd & Gunn, the New Zealand-based menswear label, operates its first standalone Canadian store at 21 Hazelton Avenue. Additionally, skincare brand Caudalie has established a multi-level ‘Caudalie House’ at 17 Hazelton Avenue, while Le Labo, known for its artisanal fragrances, has a boutique at 15 Hazelton Avenue.
The CBRE Urban Retail Team, under the direction of Arlin Markowitz, negotiated the lease deal for Hästens at 20 Hazelton Avenue, on behalf of the landlord and tenant.
Hästens’ arrival further elevates Hazelton Avenue’s luxury appeal, providing customers with a bespoke sleep experience that aligns with the area’s high-end retail offerings. The store’s unique positioning and immersive atmosphere are expected to attract both local residents and visitors seeking premium products and services.
Rendering of the third floor of the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: HästensRendering of the third floor of the Hästens store at 20 Hazelton Avenue in Toronto. Image: Hästens
Experience the Pinnacle of Sleep Luxury
Hästens’ Toronto showroom at 20 Hazelton Avenue will officially open its doors in early December, inviting visitors to explore the brand’s extensive range of luxury mattresses and accessories. From the ‘sleep spa’ to the thoughtfully curated collections throughout the store, visitors will be immersed in a storied brand rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and a passion for providing unparalleled sleep. Retail Insider will follow up on this story when Hästens opens its Yorkville showroom next month.
Lush at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Image: Dustin Fuhs)
As the holidays are approaching, Lush Cosmetics has launched its holiday collection. In 2025, the company will also be celebrating its 30th anniversary along with presenting new experimental activities for shoppers.
Lush holiday highlights for 2024
Lush at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Image: Dustin Fuhs)
Along with its classic favourites, Lush will also be launching its expanded festive products.
Erica Vega, brand product and service manager at Lush, says there are new brand products, gifts, and returning favourites.
“Everyone’s beloved bubblegum Snow Fairy range returns strong, this time with a shampoo to boot. We have also expanded the Snow Fairy shower gels to include a variety of textures and colours, all in the signature bubblegum fragrance. We have kept the gourmand cozy factor going into Winter with scents like the creamy, clove-y Yog Nog, and Turmeric Latte,” says Vega.
Lush’s holiday collection includes “comforting scents” such as Super Milk Conditioning Hair Primer and Sticky Dates – all meant to make the holidays more relaxing, comforting, and enjoyable.
“Now more than ever, we know that wellness is a major importance. We put fine perfumes in all of our products, with each essential oil beneficial to the body and mind. Customers everywhere have completely fallen in love with the delectable comforting scents like the sweet and citrusy Super Milk Conditioning Hair Primer and Sticky Dates. Fans of gourmand scents will be delighted that we have recently expanded the Sticky Dates range for the entire body from lip scrubs to body lotion and body spray.
Vega says popular holiday products may differ from country to country depending on temperature.
“Depending on the climate you live in, different products may be more appealing. For instance in countries closer to the equator, shower products are going to be more popular than bath items. Lush Australia celebrates the holiday season during the heat of summer, and they famously relaunch some Christmas favourites during their winter season which is midsummer for us in the Northern Hemisphere,” says Vega.
For this holiday season, consumers can expect Lush to meet their gifting needs along with massage and hand treatments in-store.
Celebrating 30 years
Lush Queen Street West (Image: Dustin Fuhs)
Lush first opened in Canada in 1996 in Vancouver and since then has steadily been in the market.
“We were one of the first markets outside the UK to embrace the brand. Since opening our initial shops in Vancouver in 1996, we have grown and solidified our commitment to the Canadian market,” says Heidi Wuthrich, head of retail for Lush Canada.
Lush operates two manufacturing locations, one in Toronto and Vancouver, supplying 225 stores in North America with fresh handmade products. Along with providing fresh products to consumers, Lush shops locally to support communities.
“From honey sourced from Toronto and Vancouver, lavender flowers from a local farmer in BC, Canadian oats from the prairies, and our very own iconic black pots moulded locally – our reach goes beyond our stores and into the communities we serve,” says Wuthrich.
New products, collaborations, and experiences
Lush at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Image: Dustin Fuhs)
Now going into its 30th year, Lush will be celebrating all year long. Consumers can expect new products and collaborations. As younger generations have also started buying from Lush, the company will also be providing new Lush experiences.
“In 2025, we are thrilled to celebrate Lush’s 30th anniversary, marking three decades of innovation, sustainability, and connection. We will be celebrating all year long with exciting new product releases and unexpected collaborations, designed to bring fresh energy and creativity to our offerings … Building on our legacy in Canada, we are also reintroducing Lush to a new generation of customers. Recognizing that younger generations value meaningful, in-person experiences we are expanding our in-shop experiences,” says Wuthrich.
The in-store experiences will expand by including more skincare and haircare demonstrations, more in-store events, and parties. Wuthrich says Lush will adobe expand experiential activations in Canadian cities to “bring the Lush experience beyond our stores, directly into communities.”
“This milestone year will be all about creating memorable experiences, deepening customer connections, and celebrating with our Canadian community every step of the way,” says Wuthrich.
Future plans in Canada
INTERIOR OF LUSH STORE. PHOTO: INTERIOR DESIGN
Looking ahead, Lush’s main goal is to strengthen its connection within the community. Along with its services, Wuthrich says Lush will also be reimagining stores, expanding spa services, and investing more in their team.
“As we look to 2025, Lush remains committed to creating exceptional, memorable experiences that go beyond just shopping … We are ready to meet our customers’ evolving expectations and deepen our connection with communities across North America. We are excited for what lies ahead and can’t wait to share these new experiences with our customers, making every visit a celebration of our brand’s values and our dedication to handcrafted, meaningful products,” says Wuthrich.
Stay tuned with Retail Insider on new Lush activations, reimagining, and expansions in Canada.
Fantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Fantasia
Fantasia, a unique dog playground concept founded by entrepreneur Ziad Kaddoura, has opened at West Edmonton Mall, offering an immersive and engaging experience for dogs. Unlike typical doggy daycares, Fantasia positions itself as a “dog adventure park,” featuring 4,500 square feet of custom-designed indoor space focused on medium and small dogs.
The facility combines playful activities with high standards of safety and quality, promising to revolutionize canine care and leisure.
The idea for Fantasia emerged from Kaddoura’s experiences with his dog, Oreo, and Edmonton’s challenging winters. “I often felt guilty leaving Oreo behind during harsh winters,” Kaddoura shared. “I wanted a place where dogs could have fun, even when outdoor activities aren’t possible.”
Working with West Edmonton Mall, Kaddoura aimed to create an engaging, stimulating environment for dogs.
Fantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall. Video: Fantasia
Diverse Zones for Fun and Relaxation at Fantasia
Ziad Kaddoura
Fantasia comprises several thoughtfully designed zones to suit a variety of canine needs:
H2O Fido Splash Park: Featuring a custom-built splash park with clean, chemical-free water, this zone lets dogs frolic, splash, and enjoy streams and sprays, all while staying safe. “Watching dogs play in the splash park is like seeing pure joy,” said Kaddoura. “It’s heartwarming.”
Puppy Playground: This dynamic play area encourages dogs to run, jump, and socialize under the supervision of trained “play professors.” Specialized playground equipment promotes physical activity, mental stimulation, and positive social interactions. “It’s about creating a safe space for dogs to be themselves,” said Kaddoura.
Tailz Lounge: A “Country Club for Dogs,” this relaxing space allows dogs to rest, hydrate, and mingle. Dogs can enjoy complimentary amenities like Licky Mats and recharge for more playtime. “Even dogs need downtime, and Tailz Lounge gives them a place to wind down,” Kaddoura explained.
Fungility Zone: Designed for agility and training, this area features tunnels, teeter boards, K9 Klimbs, and more. The engaging obstacles offer hours of fun and physical challenge for active pups. “Dogs love exploring, and our fungility zone gives them an outlet for that curiosity,” Kaddoura added.
Fantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: FantasiaFantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Fantasia
Bespoke Design and Community Collaboratio at Fantasia
Fantasia’s design is highly customized, with bespoke elements crafted specifically for the space. Custom lighting, unique furniture, and murals by local artists, such as Illustrious Interior, create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere for both dogs and their owners. “Everything was done bespoke to this concept,” Kaddoura noted. “We worked with local artists and craftsmen to make Fantasia truly unique.”
The facility also boasts a retail section offering exclusive dog accessories, ice cream, and unique leashes. “Our goal was to make every visit memorable—not just for the dogs, but for their owners too,” said Kaddoura.
Cell phone tour of the Fantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall
Expert Partnerships Ensure Operational Excellence
Recognizing the need for expert guidance, Kaddoura partnered with local dog care specialists Janet Dons and Alec Sheflo, owners of Second Pup, to manage day-to-day operations. “I knew that finding the right operational partner was key,” Kaddoura explained. “Their expertise ensures the highest standards of care.”
The strategic partnership allows Kaddoura to focus on growing the business while experienced professionals handle daily operations. “Our goal is to deliver excellence every single day, and this partnership makes it possible,” he said.
Fantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Fantasia
Emphasis on Safety and Quality
Safety and quality are at the forefront of Fantasia’s operations. The facility is equipped with a specialized HVAC system, bespoke plumbing, and non-porous rubber flooring to ensure a clean, safe, and odor-free environment.
“We invested heavily in creating a safe, clean, and fun space where dogs can play without worry,” Kaddoura said.
All Fantasia staff are Pack Pro certified and have undergone extensive training in dog behaviour and socialization to ensure a positive experience. “Our team’s expertise ensures that every dog leaves happy, tired, and ready to come back,” he added.
Convenience for Dog Owners
Fantasia addresses a common challenge for dog owners: leaving their pets at home while running errands. With its drop-off service, dogs can enjoy three-hour sessions of structured play and socialization while their owners shop, work out, or relax within the mall.
“Now you can bring your dog to the mall, knowing they’ll have as much fun as a child in an amusement park,” said Kaddoura. Fantasia offers flexible memberships and multi-pass packages tailored to individual schedules. “It’s a guilt-free experience for pet owners,” Kaddoura emphasized. “While they’re busy, their dogs are having the time of their lives.”
Fantasia dog playground at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Fantasia
Enhancing Mall Traffic and Creating a Destination
Fantasia aims to be a driver of foot traffic for West Edmonton Mall. As a destination attraction, it is expected to draw visitors specifically for its unique offering, bringing vitality to previously underutilized areas of the mall.
“We see this as a destination,” Kaddoura emphasized. “Customers will come specifically for Fantasia, creating new footfall patterns and adding value to the mall’s offerings.”
By carefully considering location criteria—such as proximity to mall entrances and convenient parking—Fantasia enhances the overall experience for visitors and their pets. “Our goal is to make every visit a joyful and convenient experience for dogs and their owners,” Kaddoura said.
Plans for Expansion Across Canada
Kaddoura envisions Fantasia expanding beyond West Edmonton Mall, with future locations in recreation centres and other malls across Canada. The concept’s modular design allows for adaptability to different spaces and needs.
“The goal is to grow this concept while maintaining our high standards and unique offerings,” he noted. Expansion plans will be guided by strategic partnerships and tailored to local communities. “Every new location will have the same commitment to fun, safety, and community,” Kaddoura stated.
Fantasia is dedicated to creating a guilt-free experience for dog owners, allowing them to enjoy their time at the mall while their pets engage in safe, enriching activities. “Dog ownership is a joy, but it can come with a lot of guilt,” Kaddoura shared. “We’re here to change that.”
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 several days.
Canada Post building in Vancouver. Image: changingcitybook.com
The Canada Post strike, now two weeks in, has cost the small- and medium-sized business sector at least $765 million or $76.6 million each business day. At this rate, if the strike is not immediately resolved, it will have cost the sector over $1 billion as of Wednesday, warns the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).
Corinne Pohlmann
“It’s not Grinch who is about to steal Christmas. It’s Ottawa sitting idly on the sidelines while small businesses are losing crucial revenue and sales due to circumstances outside of their control. The Labour Minister recently said mediation talks have been suspended because the two parties remain too far apart to reach a deal and that a long labour conflict is a possibility, but he is the one who has the power to put an end to this mess,” said Corinne Pohlmann, Executive Vice-President of Advocacy at CFIB.
The CFIB said the strike has negatively impacted three quarters of small businesses. Among those, 41% reported cost impacts totaling $2,000 in lost orders, more expensive delivery alternatives, late payments and the inability to promote their business at a crucial time of year. Overall, 69% of small business owners want the government to introduce back-to-work legislation.
Here’s what some small businesses across the country have told CFIB about the impact the strike is causing them:
A bookkeeping service business in Alberta has funds stuck at the post office as the shop’s receivables are all sent via mail from insurance companies.
For a consulting firm in Ontario, there is no shipping alternative without giving big discounts for clients, forcing the company to pay for all the extra shipping costs.
A seed supplier in Prince Edward Island, that has been dependent on Canada Post for 86 years, has over 270,000 catalogues that cannot be mailed via a bulk service. Rather than looking forward to increased revenue, it’s now facing substantial storage fees for the large volume of printed materials and says orders for Christmas will be low.
CFIB is urging Ottawa to immediately intervene and impose binding arbitration or introduce back-to-work legislation to salvage some of the critical holiday shopping season.
“Small firms have already missed the most important sales weekend of the year, with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. If the strike isn’t settled this week, Canada Post will not be a player for the entire holiday season given the backlog it will have to sort through before taking on new business,” said Pohlmann.
The CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 97,000 members across every industry and region.
“It’s anticipated that one in four Canadians shopped on Black Friday and 36% plan to shop on Cyber Monday, and many business owners rely on this season to meet the sales and revenue targets for the year,” she said.
“Eighty per cent of small businesses currently rely on Canada Post for essential operations like shipping and invoicing. They are now facing delays, higher costs and reputational damage as a result of the ongoing labour dispute. While alternatives exist, they are often more expensive and less accessible for many, particularly small businesses, which already face challenges like rising costs and inflation. Further, small businesses often rely more heavily on just-in-time inventory and are often more dependent on e-commerce to reach customers.
“We call for an immediate resolution to this strike to prevent further disruptions to supply chains, business operations and economic growth. We also encourage Calgarians to shop in-store where they can. This is not just a great way to explore the city, it is an investment in the community: for every dollar spent at a small business, 66 cents on average stays local, compared to 11 cents when consumers shop at a large multinational business.”
Communities in Western Canada are invited to participate in London Drugs’ annual toy drive events, taking place at 19 store locations across Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba on Wednesday December 4.
In 2021, and the start of COVID, London Drugs said it recognized a need for drive-through Toy Drives.
“When we saw charities struggling and closing altogether, we knew isolated children would be having a very sad Christmas. London Drugs worked with the Vancouver Firefighters and created our first drive-through toy drive. Other stores supported bins at the front of stores, and it was a huge success. Now Toy Drives are an annual tradition and growing,” it said.
“It all started with seven locations hosting Toy Drives with firefighters and their trucks, and now London Drugs will have more stores in all our markets hosting these events along with other first responders.
“Continuing high inflation and recovery from the pandemic in 2024 means the need to support families and children in need still exists and London Drugs will be there to support our families.
“Almost half (44%) of people nationally feel worse off financially compared to last year, according to Food Banks Canada’s 2024 Poverty Report Cards, and one in four are experiencing food insecurity. The report cards demonstrate the impact that rising costs of living are having on people in Canada, and with the holiday season typically a challenging time for many, giving back is one way to support families in need.”
Photo courtesy of London Drugs
On December 4, members of the public can drop off new, unwrapped toys for families in need at the following London Drugs locations where toy drives are taking place:
Alberta locations:
Village Market, 999 Fir Street, Sherwood Park
North Town Centre, 9450-137th Avenue, Edmonton
South Gate Mall, 1000-5015-111th Street, NW, Edmonton
West Edmonton Mall, 8882-170th Street, Edmonton
St. Albert Centre, 375 St. Albert Trail, St. Albert
Shawnessy Shopping Centre, 325 Shawville Boulevard SE, Calgary
British Columbia locations:
710 Granville Street, Vancouver
525 West Broadway, Vancouver
Kingsway Plaza, 4970 Kingsway, Burnaby
2091 West 42nd Avenue, Vancouver
20202-66th Avenue, Langley
4567 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby
2230 West Broadway, Vancouver
Unit #821,17685, 64 Avenue, Surrey
Saskatchewan locations:
2323 8th Street East, Saskatoon
Lawson Heights Mall, Unit B-01, 134 Primrose Drive, Saskatoon
2072 Prince of Wales Drive, Regina
4800 Gordon Road, Regina
Manitoba locations:
St. Vital Centre, #23C – 1225 St. Mary’s Road, Winnipeg
Fairview Park (CNW Group/Westcliff Management Ltd)
Westcliff announced Monday the acquisition of CF Fairview Park, a leading shopping centre in Kitchener, Ontario. Cadillac Fairview was the seller.
This addition strengthens Westcliff’s footprint in high-growth markets, aligning with the company’s long-term investment strategy of acquiring properties that provide enduring value to their communities, said the company in a news release.
Nicolas D’Aoust
“Fairview Park exemplifies the qualities we prioritize in our portfolio: strong market presence, exceptional tenant offerings, and deep community roots,” said Nicolas D’Aoust, Vice President of Westcliff and Head of Leasing. “This acquisition reflects our confidence in the resilience of physical retail spaces, even in the digital age. By fostering environments that serve as gathering places and centres of commerce, we reaffirm our belief in the enduring value of human interaction and local engagement.”
Alan Marcovitz
“Kitchener-Waterloo’s robust economy, anchored by tech innovation and education, makes it one of Canada’s most dynamic markets,” said Alan Marcovitz, President and Chairman of the Board at Westcliff. “By integrating Fairview Park into our portfolio, we’re committing to preserving its legacy as a cornerstone of this thriving region while positioning it to meet the needs of its growing and diverse population.”
About Fairview Park
Westcliff said Fairview Park has been a dominant retail destination in the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge area since 1966, boasting over 113 stores and services across 731,916 square feet. With annual retail sales of $734 per square foot, the mall ranks among the top-performing shopping centers in Canada. Key tenants include , , Winners, , H&M, , and The Bay, complemented by a diverse mix of fashion, dining, and entertainment options, including the region’s only Cineplex VIP theatre experience.
“Kitchener itself is experiencing rapid growth, with a population increase of 6.1% in 2023, the highest among all Canadian metropolitan areas. As a center of innovation and education, the region attracts professionals, students, and families, creating a dynamic market for Fairview Park to thrive,” it said.
Westcliff is a privately owned real estate development and management company.
In October, Westcliff announced it acquired CF Champlain Place in Dieppe, New Brunswick from Cadillac Fairview, strengthening Westcliff’s Canadian footprint with this premier retail destination.
Over the course of my 30-year long career as a Retail Designer, I’ve seen more than my fair share of ups-and-downs. Numerous recessions, a pandemic, and the birth of one key disruption that is now long considered unimaginable to live without. Like in fashion, trends come and go, but the recurring notion that in-store shopping is dead has continued to plague brick-and-mortar retail since the inception of the e-tail—a headline that’s as played out as the “Bedazzler.” In reality, in-store shopping is alive and well, but not all retail experiences are created equal.
Despite the convenience of online shopping, there is something irreplaceable about the in-store experience. Only in-store can customers compare fabrics, try on for size, shop socially, or simply have the opportunity to stumble upon something new or unexpected. While there are exceptions, algorithms usually don’t lead shoppers to an adrenaline rush from stumbling upon a great discovery! But while in-store shopping is inimitable in the digital realm, it hinges on its ability to accurately reflect a brand, connect with customers, and offer a seamless journey through space, and it starts with deliberate, bespoke, and often bold design decisions.
With experience on both sides of the fence—having worked in retail for ten years—it’s no surprise to me when retailers become cautious around designing a new store, especially when considering escalating construction costs and the drastic changes in customer behaviour and technology in recent years. Unfortunately, it’s this fear-based mentality that leads clients to want to be all things to all people, spurring the creation of cookie-cutter like spaces, generic experiences, and the deterioration of in-store brand identity—the antithesis of positive customer experiences.
To help my clients avoid fear-based decision making at every stage of the design process, I always ask them three key questions:
How will the space reflect the brand?
A strong brand isn’t meant to appeal to everyone, it should have an impact on the people it resonates with. Think of your favourite restaurants. How similar are they to their competitors? Chances are, they’re quite different, and this is how I encourage my clients to think about retail spaces.
To move away from overly cautious design choices, I advise my clients to view the in-store space as a reflection of their brand’s uniqueness. As seen with Simons, which is working to open 228,000 square feet of space across two new stores in Toronto, understanding the brand is crucial in curating the experience for a new customer base, and to increase brand recognition. For the Quebec-City based retailer, this includes Simons’ signature use of works by local artists and nature-inspired design elements.
Simons Eaton Centre, Toronto
How will the space connect with customers?
It’s at this stage where I most often encounter fear-based decision making, especially when a client becomes weary of making bold design decisions for fear of alienating customers, without realizing that watered down design is equally as effective at turning people away.
Helping clients understand how their space connects with their customers is crucial. While there is a method to the madness, any designer would be lying to you if they claimed its an exact science—another cause for cautious design choices. What’s important is that the design offers a point of view. Having designed nine previous Simons stores over 25 years, it’s about bringing Simons’ fashion-forward, democratic approach to retail to a new audience.
How can the space become a journey?
But even if the store is an accurate reflection of the brand, and manages to connect with customers on a human level, shoppers cannot be expected to stay in a space that is bereft of logic, especially if it’s a larger retail environment. Instead, the space must entice shoppers to linger, explore, and understand the ecosystem of inter-connected spaces and experiences.
A strategic design approach will consider the curation of space into digestible vignettes, and product moments, providing a narrative thread for customers to venture from one experience to another—like breadcrumbs, shoppers should be lead on a journey.
When it comes to retail, there is so much that is out of our control as designers. We cannot alter the products our clients sell, the people they hire, or anything that happens outside of the store, but good design can still have an incredible impact. For many consumers a store is still the most tangible visual cue for many brands. How the space reflects the brand, connects with customers, and provides an experience that will entice them to explore and keep shopping are all influenced by design.
Andrew Gallici
As we learned during the pandemic, people still crave positive in-store shopping experiences. What’s more, if brick-and-mortar shopping had truly died alongside its first—of many—painstaking obituaries, I wouldn’t have had a very long career. Yet, I can recall a time working in retail when credit cards weren’t tapped so much as they were railroaded by something colloquially referred to as a “knuckle-buster”, and I’m still designing retail spaces. While everything evolves, some things never change.
