A first-of-its-kind report authored by Circle Economy and funded by the H&M Foundation, provides an in-depth view of the current circularity in clothing and textiles. The Circularity Gap Report Textiles urges immediate action to diminish the textile industry’s environmental impact by embracing circular economy principles such as reuse, recycling, and slow fashion, said a news release.
The report highlights eye-opening data: only 0.3% of the 3.25 billion tonnes of materials consumed annually by the textile sector come from recycled sources, and fossil-fuel-based synthetic fibres make up 70% of its raw materials. Yet, by prioritizing renewable and recycled fibres, increasing garment durability, localising supply chains, and reducing the volume of production and consumption, the industry could make significant strides toward a more sustainable and circular model, said the release.
Christiane Dolva
“We supported this report to provide the textile industry with actionable insights,” says Christiane Dolva, Head of Innovation, Research & Demonstration at the H&M Foundation. “It emphasizes the most impactful circularity efforts. While not a complete solution, circularity can drive meaningful change. We hope these insights will support industry-wide transformation, benefiting both people and the planet.”
The report presents four recommendations going forward:
Transform the industry by cutting production volumes – address overproduction, reshape production cycles, and reduce resource use.
Set environmental priorities beyond carbon reduction – consider broader environmental impacts, especially on water ecosystems.
Ensure a socially just circular transition – focus on decent work, fair wages, and better working conditions.
Coordinate action across science, technology, policy, and finance – collective action across these areas is needed for a circular textile economy.
Hilde van Duijn
“The CGR Textiles is groundbreaking as the first in-depth analysis to measure circularity within the textiles sector, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that transform the entire textile value chain toward a circular model. Only through concrete, scalable actions can the industry contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future,” said Hilde van Duijn, Managing Director of Circle Economy Foundation.
The company said the report reinforces H&M Foundation’s current work such as Global Change Award, which accelerates innovation benefiting both people and the planet, and Saamuhika Shakti, which catalyses inclusive circularity in solidarity with waste pickers.
Going forward, the H&M Foundation said it will use the report’s findings to guide its efforts in decarbonizing the industry in a just and fair way, helping to identify where its philanthropic support can have the greatest impact.
Pet Valu, the leading Canadian specialty retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies, has announced that its Companions for Change program had its most successful fundraising year since inception, collecting more than $4.1 million in monetary and product donations to date in 2024 for Canadian animal rescues, shelters and charities.
The philanthropic program also helped find fur-ever homes for more than 4,600 homeless pets across Canada this year, the company said in a news release.
Tanbir Grover
“This was a tremendous fundraising year for the Companions for Change program, a testament to the continued support from our franchisees and corporate store teams, as well as the compassion and generosity of devoted pet lovers across Canada,” said Tanbir Grover, Chief Digital and Marketing Officer at Pet Valu. “Since 2010, the Companions for Change program has raised more than $32 million and found fur-ever homes for over 51,000 pets. We have been fortunate to see firsthand the positive impact our program has on Canadian pet communities and look forward to continuing our efforts next year.”
The retailer said the Companions for Change program is a longtime supporter of Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides (“Dog Guides”), and this year, the Companions for Change program and Pet Valu together pledged to contribute $500,000 to a modern, purpose-built Puppy Training Room in Dog Guides’ new training centre in Oakville. The room, which will host small group classes on grooming, puppy fitness, confidence building, basic obedience and loose leash walking, will serve as a critical hub in the new school, providing the puppies with the best possible start before they enter formal training.
In addition to supporting the Puppy Training Room, the Companions for Change program continues to sponsor Dog Guides’ largest annual fundraiser, the national Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides, and to provide Performatrin Ultra and Performatrin Prime food and treats to all puppies and dogs in training. In addition, in 2024 Pet Valu proudly sponsored 20 additional Dog Guides teams that enable greater independence for Canadians in need, it said.
With the goal of making an impact, each year, Companions for Change sponsorships help much-deserving animal organizations across Canada achieve larger capital projects. Since the sponsorships started in 2018, Pet Valu has provided meaningful, capital investments to 14 Canadian animal organizations, including the North Bay and District Humane Society. A sponsorship in 2018 enabled North Bay and District Humane Society to launch the North Bay Animal Rescue & Relief Transport and a second sponsorship in 2023, supported the construction of an adoption and wellness centre, establishing it as the “Hub of the North” for animal services in Ontario. This year, Pet Valu provided a third sponsorship which will allow the North Bay Animal Rescue & Relief Transport to remain on the road for another five years, added Pet Valu.
“One hundred per cent of every dollar raised through the Companions for Change program is distributed to pet organizations, enabling us to help pets, locally, regionally and nationally every year. Our support ranges from funding mobile spay and neutering units and animal transport to constructing new shelters and wellness facilities to providing much needed essentials to local pets waiting for home,” said Grover. “With hundreds of stores across Canada, we are able to impact the local communities in which we operate in a meaningful way.”
Multiple fundraising initiatives
The company said donations raised through the Companions for Change program originate from multiple fundraising initiatives hosted by Pet Valu and its franchisees. These include Pet Appreciation Month in June and Companions for Change month in October, during which devoted pet lovers contribute by purchasing PAWS, making custom donations and rounding up their purchases at checkout. This year, Pet Valu had its most successful Pet Appreciation Month, raising more than $2.2 million in monetary and product donations for over 400 animal-related causes across Canada.
Pet Valu and its franchisees also provide additional support by donating $1 per item on the sale of select Performatrin and Fresh 4 Life products in October. With the season of giving upon us, there are still ways to help pets in need. In stores now, Pet Valu offers a “give-what-you-can” calendar with all proceeds going towards the Companions for Change program or you can donate products instore to product donation bins for local pet organizations.
Pet Valu is Canada’s leading retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies with over 800 corporate-owned or franchised locations across the country.
FIFA and The Home Depot are teaming up to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 26™ to life across North America.
As the world’s largest home improvement retailer, with stores throughout Canada, Mexico and the USA where the tournament is to take place, the retailer will be the Official Home Improvement Retail Supporter in the region, the company announced in a news release.
Building on the retailer’s history of supporting football and other athletic events, fans can expect unique on-site “Built by The Home Depot” experiences at FIFA Fan Festivals and stadiums. The company will also bring the World Cup experience to its associates and customers with opportunities to participate in FIFA World Cup™ activations leading up to and during the 2026 edition, it said.
Doug Graham
“Being the official Home Improvement Retail Supporter of FIFA World Cup 2026™ is incredible, and we can’t wait to host our customers, partners, and associates,” said Doug Graham, vice president of ecommerce and marketing at The Home Depot Canada. “This is more than just a sponsorship; it’s about bringing communities, where we live and work, together to celebrate the biggest sporting event ever.”
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström added, “We are delighted to welcome The Home Depot as an Official Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 26. The Home Depot’s commitment to innovation and community resonates with FIFA’s values of inclusivity and global engagement. As we prepare for the most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams, this partnership will bring unique opportunities for fans, as well as meaningful engagement for The Home Depot’s customers and associates across the host countries.”
Through its Orange Apron Media network, select supplier partners in exclusive categories will have the opportunity to participate in various FIFA World Cup 26 activations alongside The Home Depot, said the company.
The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer. At the end of the third quarter, the company operated 2,345 retail stores and over 760 branches across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, ten Canadian provinces and Mexico. The company employs over 465,000 associates.
Shake Shack at Union Station in Toronto. Photo: Shake Shack
Toronto welcomes its second Shake Shack location at Union Station, a milestone in the brand’s Canadian expansion plan. Following the highly successful launch of its first Canadian flagship location at Yonge and Dundas earlier this year, the Union Station Shake Shack introduces unique offerings, including a full-service bar and locally inspired artwork, setting it apart as a destination for both locals and visitors.
Shake Shack Union Station: A Distinct Offering
Shake Shack at Union Station is one of the few locations globally to feature a full-service bar, offering exclusive cocktails crafted for the Toronto market. This new addition elevates the brand’s fast-casual dining concept, creating an inviting space for commuters and downtown visitors seeking a premium experience. The bar complements Shake Shack’s signature menu items, including 100% Canadian Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries, and hand-spun frozen custard made with locally sourced ingredients.
Adding a local touch, the space features artwork by Toronto-based illustrator Pui Yan Fong. Known for her storytelling through illustration, Pui Yan’s vibrant work highlights Shake Shack’s commitment to celebrating the diversity and culture of the communities it serves.
Shake Shack at Union Station in Toronto. Photo: Shake Shack
Rapid Growth for Shake Shack Canada
Shake Shack Canada, a partnership formed in 2023 between Toronto-based Osmington Inc. and Harlo Entertainment Inc., is spearheading the brand’s expansion in Canada. With plans to open 35 locations nationwide by 2035, the company is poised to establish Shake Shack as a leader in the premium fast-casual dining sector.
The first Canadian Shake Shack at Yonge and Dundas, located in the newly branded “The Tenor” complex at 10 Dundas Street West, quickly gained traction earlier this year, becoming a local favourite. The Union Station location builds on this momentum, offering a more robust experience with unique features tailored to its downtown setting.
Shake Shack at Union Station in Toronto. Photo: Shake Shack
Yorkdale Shopping Centre Location Coming Soon
Shake Shack’s next Canadian location is set to open at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. This space, blending a former Illy Cafe on a mezzanine with part of the second level of the mall’s former Eaton’s department store, will create a visually striking dining area situated between two escalators.
The Yorkdale location will also feature artwork by Toronto illustrator Vivian Rosas, whose work celebrates community and diversity. The focus on integrating local artistry underscores Shake Shack’s dedication to making each restaurant distinct and community-focused.
Shake Shack construction hoarding at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson
A Global Powerhouse Makes Its Mark in Canada
Since its humble beginnings as a hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park in 2004, Shake Shack has grown to over 510 locations worldwide. With over 290 locations in the United States and more than 150 internationally, including cities like London, Tokyo, and Dubai, Shake Shack has become a global leader in fast-casual dining. Its entry into Canada marks another chapter in its international growth, leveraging the country’s appetite for premium, high-quality food options.
Shake Shack’s Canadian menu emphasizes local ingredients, such as Canadian dairy and 100% Angus beef, reflecting the company’s focus on delivering quality while connecting with local communities.
Dollarama, Canada’s premier dollar store chain, has announced significant expansion plans, including the establishment of a new distribution center in Calgary and an ambitious increase in its national store count.
The retailer has invested $46.7 million to acquire land in Calgary, where it plans to construct a state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution center to enhance service across Western Canada. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, with the facility slated to be operational by the end of 2027.
In response to consistent positive customer feedback and a reassessment of market potential, Dollarama has increased its Canadian store target to 2,200 locations by 2034, up from the previous goal of 2,000 stores by 2031. Currently operating 1,541 stores, this new objective entails opening approximately 67 new stores annually, aligning with the company’s recent expansion pace.
Financial Performance Highlights
Dollarama reported a third-quarter profit of $275.8 million, or 98 cents per diluted share, marking an increase from $261.1 million, or 92 cents per diluted share, in the same period last year. Sales rose by 5.7% to $1.56 billion, with comparable store sales growing by 3.3%. This growth was driven by a 5.1% increase in transaction volume, despite a 1.7% decline in the average transaction size.
Historical Context and Leadership
Founded in 1992 by Larry Rossy, a third-generation retailer, Dollarama opened its first store in Matane, Quebec. The company has since expanded significantly across Canada, offering a wide range of products, including cleaning supplies, toys, groceries, and more. In 2016, Larry Rossy transitioned the CEO role to his son, Neil Rossy, who continues to lead the company today.
Competitive Landscape
Dollarama operates in a competitive market alongside retailers such as Dollar Tree Canada, which operates over 200 stores nationwide, and Great Canadian Dollar Store, with well over 100 locations. Despite this competition, Dollarama maintains a significant market presence, with over 1,500 stores across Canada as of 2024.
The forthcoming Calgary distribution center is expected to optimize Dollarama’s warehousing and distribution operations, supporting its growth plans and generating cost savings. This facility will enhance the company’s supply chain efficiency, particularly in Western Canada, aligning with its expansion strategy.
Economic Context
Amid economic uncertainties and shifts in consumer spending habits, Dollarama’s value-oriented model has resonated with cost-conscious consumers. The company’s ability to offer a wide array of affordable products positions it favourably in the current retail landscape.
Future Maison Margiela store at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
Maison Margiela, the avant-garde fashion house renowned for its innovative designs, is making a bold debut in the Canadian market with two highly anticipated store openings. The first, a 1,747-square-foot boutique, is under construction in Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre and will open Spring/Summer 2025. A second location is set to follow in the summer of 2025 at Vancouver’s Oakridge Park.
Yorkdale’s New Luxury Wing Welcomes Maison Margiela
The Yorkdale Shopping Centre store will be located in the mall’s new 65,000-square-foot luxury wing, which is currently under development in the heart of the shopping centre. Maison Margiela will be in close proximity to other global luxury brands. A Rimowa boutique is opening next door, while Versace and Jimmy Choo have recently debuted just across the hall. Additional luxury tenants already unveiled in the wing include Brunello Cucinelli, Loewe, and Loro Piana, with more high-end brands on the way.
Yorkdale has cemented its position as Canada’s top luxury shopping destination, attracting international brands and affluent shoppers alike. This latest expansion is part of a $28 million investment aimed at enhancing the mall’s already impressive roster of luxury retailers, including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Bottega Veneta among others.
Under development: New luxury wing at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson
Maison Margiela’s second Canadian boutique will open in Vancouver’s Oakridge Park, a transformative development that is set to redefine luxury retail on the west coast. Scheduled for a summer 2025 debut, the store will join a roster of high-profile tenants, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Versace, in a mixed-use space that combines high-end shopping with residential and community amenities.
The addition of Maison Margiela to Oakridge Park highlights the development’s ambition to become a premier luxury shopping destination, competing with Vancouver’s established downtown core. The Margiela store, according to lease plans, will be in the ‘North Arcade’ of the mall near other brands such as Christian Louboutin and Alexander Wang.
Inside the Maison Margiela store in Seoul. Photo: Margiela
Negotiated by DWSV Realty
The leases for Maison Margiela’s Yorkdale and Oakridge locations were negotiated by David Wedemire and Stan Vyriotes of DWSV Realty, who represented the brand in its discussions with Yorkdale’s landlord, Oxford Properties and QuadReal, landlord for Oakridge Park. DWSV Realty has a track record of securing prime locations for luxury retailers, including other high-profile leases within Yorkdale, Oakridge Park and other luxury nodes in Canada.
Recently opened retailer in the new luxury wing at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson
Maison Margiela: Redefining Fashion
Founded in 1988 by Belgian designer Martin Margiela, the brand is celebrated for its deconstructive designs and unconventional use of materials. Maison Margiela’s unique aesthetic, which often reveals the structural elements of garments, has earned a cult following among fashion enthusiasts and established its reputation as a leader in avant-garde fashion. Today, the brand is part of OTB Group (Only The Brave), a fashion conglomerate founded by Renzo Rosso that includes other luxury names such as Diesel, Amiri, Jil Sander, Marni, and Viktor&Rolf.
Maison Margiela’s choice of Yorkdale and Oakridge Park for its Canadian debut underscores the brand’s focus on strategic market entry. Both locations offer access to affluent shoppers while reinforcing the brand’s positioning within the global luxury retail market. Retail Insider will follow up when these stores open next year.
Crunch Fitness is accelerating its growth in Canada with a significant boost from new investment partners, Trive Capital and 808 Capital Partners. The Cambridge, Ontario-based master franchisee has its sights set on an ambitious expansion strategy, aiming to become a dominant force in Canada’s fitness industry. With over 90,000 members already served across 19 corporate-owned clubs and another 45,000 members in 13 franchised locations, the company is poised for exponential growth.
A Strategic Partnership to Drive Growth
The partnership with Trive Capital and 808 Capital Partners brings financial resources and strategic expertise to Crunch Canada, enabling the company to scale its operations and pursue new opportunities. Wes Hodgson, CEO of Crunch Canada, expressed his excitement about the collaboration.
Wes Hodgson, CEO of Crunch Fitness Canada
“We are thrilled to partner with Trive and 808, who share our vision for delivering an exceptional fitness experience to our members,” Hodgson said. “This partnership allows us to enhance our capabilities, expand our leadership team, and capitalize on several near-term growth opportunities, including new club openings and select acquisitions.”
Trive Capital, a Dallas-based private equity firm, has a proven track record in the fitness sector, having previously invested in JF Fitness of North America, a Crunch franchisee in the United States. Jared Reyes, Managing Director at Trive Capital, emphasized the potential of the Canadian market.
“We are impressed with the Crunch Canada team’s ability to open and operate clubs while supporting its network of franchisees,” Reyes said. “The Canadian fitness market offers significant opportunities for expansion, and Crunch is well-positioned to capture additional market share with its high-amenity, affordable offering.”
Photo: Crunch Fitness Canada
Expanding Across Canada
Crunch Canada’s expansion strategy focuses on both corporate-owned and franchised clubs, targeting urban hubs and smaller communities alike. The company aims to open 12 to 15 locations annually, with plans to reach underserved markets across Ontario, Alberta, Quebec, and British Columbia.
“Our goal is to bring Crunch Fitness to every community in Canada,” Hodgson said. “We see untapped potential in both high-density areas like Toronto and smaller towns where access to affordable, high-quality fitness facilities is limited.”
In addition to organic growth, Crunch Canada is exploring acquisition opportunities to accelerate its footprint. The recent investment will also support innovations in member experience, such as upgraded amenities and new programming.
Crunch Canada’s brokerage partner, Titan York, led by Aaron Graben, has been instrumental in negotiating leases
A Unique Value Proposition
Crunch Fitness operates in the “high-value, low-price” segment, offering premium amenities at a fraction of the cost of traditional gyms. Memberships range from $10 to $34 per month, depending on location and services.
“Our model is about democratizing fitness,” Hodgson said. “We provide boutique-level amenities like hydro-massage, red light therapy, and group fitness classes, but at an accessible price point. This resonates strongly with Canadians who are seeking value without compromising on quality.”
Crunch’s proprietary HITZone, a high-intensity interval training space, exemplifies the brand’s innovative approach. Members enjoy boutique-style programming integrated into larger gym formats, offering flexibility and value.
Photo: Crunch Fitness Canada
Technology and Real Estate Strategy
Advanced technology plays a pivotal role in Crunch Canada’s site selection and operational efficiency. Tools such as Place AI and Buxton help identify ideal locations based on demographic and market data, ensuring each new club is strategically positioned for success.
“Technology has been a game-changer for us,” Hodgson explained. “It allows us to replicate the success of our top-performing locations by targeting similar demographics in new markets.”
Securing prime real estate is another key focus. Crunch Canada’s brokerage partner, Titan York, led by Aaron Graben, has been instrumental in negotiating leases in competitive markets like Toronto and Vancouver.
A Legacy of Growth
Crunch Canada’s roots trace back to 1976, when the Hodgson family opened its first fitness club in Kitchener, Ontario. Wesley Hodgson, who became CEO in 2010, expanded the family business and acquired the Crunch master franchise rights for Canada in 2017. Since then, the company has grown steadily, earning a reputation for innovation and member satisfaction.
“The North American fitness industry is thriving as more consumers prioritize health and wellness,” said Shravan Thadani, Partner at Trive Capital. “Crunch’s model of high amenities at affordable prices positions it as a leader in this growing sector.”
Looking Ahead
As Crunch Canada embarks on its next phase of growth, the company remains committed to its core values of inclusivity and community. Hodgson envisions Crunch locations as vibrant hubs where people of all backgrounds come together to prioritize their health.
“Our gyms are more than just places to work out—they’re places to connect, recharge, and thrive,” Hodgson said. “With the support of our new partners, we’re excited to bring the Crunch experience to even more Canadians.”
Chequan Lewis, President of Crunch Fitness, echoed this sentiment. “We are proud to see Trive and 808’s continued investment in Crunch. Their support will enable Wes and the team to strategically grow our footprint in Canada and deliver our unique fitness experience to a broader audience.”
Foxy Box Laser & Wax Bars, with its start in Victoria, is set on a path of unparalleled growth – without losing the essence of what makes it unique. From 2020 to 2024 the franchise business rapidly expanded, scaling from four locations in 2020 to 18 to date in 2024, with continued expansion across Canada and into the US forecasted for 2025.
Founded in 2012 by Kyla Dufresne, Foxy Box was built on a foundation to create a unique and empowering experience for all clients. Being one of the first wax bars to remove gender terms in services and offer the same price for services, regardless of gender, Foxy Box’s talented “Vagicians” offer services in an inclusive, safe and comfortable environment.
Its approach to empowering and making customers feel powerful has resulted in some impressive revenue numbers. From 2020 to 2023 Foxy Box saw a 356% increase in system-side revenue from $2.1M+ to $9.6M+.
Kyla Dufresne
Not slowing down anytime soon, Foxy Box is expanding in Quebec with eight new locations scheduled to open over the next five years, and launching in the US market in 2025.
“My very first location was actually the dining room of my shared house when I was 24 years old. I was a bartender at the time. I quit my job. I put myself through school and then I made little business cards called FoxyBox with my cellphone number on it and it had my home address on it,” said Dufresne.
“I grew really quickly . . . I found my own space downtown and I guess my very first Foxy Box location was six or eight months after that. We’ve grown since those humble beginnings. We have 18 open and three more under construction. We’ll have 21 locations open by the end of February.”
Foxy Box is currently located in BC, Alberta and Ontario with two new stores opening in Quebec after signing on a master franchise partner who are scheduled to open eight locations over the next five years.
Photo: Foxy Box
Dufresne owns two of the locations and the rest are franchised.
“Where am I driving this rocket ship to? My big hairy, audacious goal is to get to 150 locations. We are entering into the U.S. market. We are planning on launching quarter two of next year. I imagine we probably could get to maybe 50 locations in Canada but the U.S. is where we can really scale. We’re going to market in the U.S. next year,” she said.
“Beyond that I see Foxy Box as a global brand. I’ve secured my trademark in the UK and in Australia.
“We’re not just a hair removal business. We’re in the business of self-empowerment. Our goal is to leave every customer feeling powerful and energized. That’s what we aim and strive to do. We’ve created a brand, not just a business. We’re not all about just a transaction for hair removal. We really do impact the communities that we’re in.”
For example every year the company hosts an event Foxy Fest, inspired by Lilith Fair. It’s held on International Women’s Day and the company has done it for the last five years, raising money for local charities.
The company also every year has a Customer Appreciation Day.
“We’re a gender neutral salon. We’re the first wax bar in Canada to go gender neutral. In the past we used to have female services and male services . . . We’ve removed gender from all of our verbiage and we’re based on anatomy.”
Also at each of the locations, about 95 per cent of the waste is recycled, using a program with Green Circle.
Craig and Myriam Belzile-Maguire, Founder and Designer at Maguire Shoes, discuss the remarkable growth of the Montreal-based footwear brand she founded. Known for its direct-to-consumer model, the brand offers high-quality shoes at affordable prices by cutting out traditional wholesale markups. Myriam shares how her experience as a designer inspired the creation of a mid-range price point in leather footwear that bridges the gap between budget and luxury. Maguire’s unique business approach has been instrumental in its success, allowing the brand to maintain fair pricing while delivering exceptional quality.
Maguire Shoes has expanded significantly since its inception, starting with a small Montreal shop and growing to include locations in Toronto, New York, and soon, Brooklyn. Myriam explains the strategic importance of being in trend-driven neighborhoods with vibrant local life, such as Nolita in Manhattan, to enhance visibility and attract fashion-savvy customers. Physical stores have also positively impacted online sales, with half of the brand’s revenue now generated through e-commerce.
Beyond footwear, Maguire has diversified its product line to include accessories such as gloves and jewelry, inspired by collaborations with trusted manufacturers. As the brand continues to explore new markets and refine its offerings, Myriam hints at potential future ventures, including a possible expansion into men’s footwear. Despite rapid growth, Maguire Shoes remains committed to its Canadian roots, ensuring competitive pricing for local customers while capturing global attention through innovative designs and strategic retail placement.
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Splitsville Entertainment, a family entertainment chain specializing in bowling, arcades, and upscale food and beverage offerings, is making major strides in its Canadian expansion. With 13 locations already open with two to open in early 2025 in Kanata, Ontario and northwest Calgary, the company is positioning itself as a leader in the modern bowling experience.
“We’ve taken a page from the evolution of movie theatres. Bowling centres today are a mix of traditional lanes, cutting-edge game rooms, and upscale food and beverage offerings. We’re creating an immersive guest experience with state-of-the-art lighting, audio-visual technology, and comfortable seating. It’s all about elevating the fun for families, friends, and even corporate groups.
“We like to think of ourselves in leading the trend in the guest experience. We’re truly trying to make sure that that guest experience is fairly high. Ultimately our goal is to have people return more sooner than later.”
With Edmonton slated for its latest development, Splitsville plans to open a new location at Christy’s Corner in late 2025. This will bring the total number of Canadian locations to 16. Haggerty is optimistic about the region’s potential, noting its well-planned infrastructure.
“Edmonton has a fantastic ring road system, which makes it easy to move around the city,” he explained. “Our vision is to have four centres here: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southeast. The goal is for anyone in Edmonton to have a Splitsville nearby for easy access to top-tier entertainment.”
Photo: Splitsville
Splitsville isn’t stopping at Edmonton. Haggerty outlined ambitious plans to grow the chain to 30-35 locations nationwide, targeting major urban centres and feeder communities like Red Deer, Medicine Hat, and Lethbridge.
“Canada’s urban centres are ripe for family-friendly entertainment options,” Haggerty said. “With our unique blend of recreation, sport, and leisure, we’re tapping into a market that caters to everyone from kids to retirees.”
One of Splitsville’s core strengths is its broad appeal. “Bowling has been around for 5,000 years, and for good reason,” Haggerty shared. “It’s accessible to everyone—from toddlers to seniors and even those with physical or mental challenges. We offer sport, recreation, and entertainment, ensuring there’s something for everyone at any time of day.”
The company’s programming reflects this diversity. “We have leagues early in the week, corporate events on Thursdays and Fridays, and families during the weekends,” he added. “Millennials and younger crowds love our late-night vibe. It’s a wave of different guests filling our spaces at different times, which makes it so exciting.”
Haggerty emphasized that Splitsville’s success hinges on delivering consistent, high-quality guest experiences that keep patrons coming back. “We’re all about creating an environment that people want to return to sooner rather than later,” he said. “With every location, we’re fine-tuning what works to ensure we’re the go-to destination for fun and entertainment.”
As Splitsville Entertainment prepares to break ground on its Edmonton project, Haggerty is optimistic about the future. “We’ve done our homework, and we know there’s a strong demand for what we offer,” he concluded. “Edmonton residents can look forward to a fantastic entertainment option that’s worth the wait.”
Splitsville is bringing a modern bowling and arcade experience to Edmonton:
21 lanes of 10-pin bowling with digital scoring equipment, interactive bowling games, comfortable seating, VIP lanes, and lane-side food and drink service.
State-of-the-art arcade to bring out the kid in everyone featuring games from arcade classics to the newest VR technology and an impressive prize redemption counter.
Bar and lounge with casual dining, pool tables, and all your favourite sports games.
Photo: Splitsville
In 2022, he had a company called Splitsville with five family entertainment complexes across Canada. He was looking to expand and met the folks at Hollywood Bowl, who own 80 centres in the UK.
In May 2022, Haggerty sold them the five locations and they retained him as President.
“When we look at Canada, there’s seven, eight major cities.
We want to be in all of those. We want to be sort of in their feeder, when I call it feeder communities and specific say to Alberta, we would like to be in Red Deer, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge at some point, but really our concentration right now is in the bigger urban areas like Calgary, like Edmonton,” he said.
“We will actually create programs through the days of the week and the times of the day to be attracting anybody and everybody that can make their way to our facilities to ultimately have a really good guest experience. Create that experience so that they are coming back more sooner than later, so essentially anybody that’s out there really becomes sort of a client of ours. Where our heavier concentration comes from we’ll have the leagues during the early part of the week the Mondays, the Tuesdays, the Wednesdays then we migrate into more corporate in the Thursdays and Fridays, and then we’re into families, daytime, Saturdays and Sundays with the Millennials coming later at night.”
