As the restaurant industry faces evolving consumer demands, economic challenges, and rapid technological shifts, companies like Square are stepping in to provide solutions that combine efficiency with personalized experiences. A leading technology provider for small and medium-sized businesses, Square identifies personalization and generative AI as pivotal trends driving growth in Canada’s restaurant sector.
Ming-Tai Huh
Ming-Tai Huh, a James Beard-nominated restaurateur and Head of Square’s global Food and Beverage division, highlights the robust growth of Canada’s food and beverage industry, reporting a 20% year-over-year increase over the past five years. “The pandemic reshaped consumer habits, pushing businesses toward digitalization,” said Huh. “At the same time, people are eager to return to dining rooms for the social and experiential aspects of eating out. It’s a balance of embracing the old and integrating the new.”
Personalization: A Key to Winning Gen Z
Huh, who is also Partner with the Cambridge Street Hospitality Group in the Boston area, pointed to the rising importance of personalization, particularly among younger consumers like Gen Z.
“They want options tailored to their tastes,” he said. “A study from the University of California showed brands like Chipotle and Cava resonate with this demographic because they offer customization. Whether it’s dietary preferences or specific allergens, operators need to adapt to meet these expectations.”
For many restaurateurs, that shift toward personalization goes hand-in-hand with implementing advanced technology.
AI and Automation: Revolutionizing Operations
The integration of AI tools is another game-changer for the hospitality industry. From streamlining backend processes to enhancing customer experiences, AI is enabling restaurants to operate more efficiently.
“AI and automation are inevitable,” Huh emphasized. “Tasks like managing paperwork, legal documents, and inventory can now be handled with AI, freeing up operators to focus on high-value activities. For example, instead of reading a nine-page PDF, you can use tools like ChatGPT to summarize it in seconds.”
Square’s recently launched kiosk technology is a prime example of how automation is transforming restaurant operations. “Three out of four consumers prefer ordering online or at a kiosk rather than interacting directly with staff,” said Huh. “With Square’s Kiosk, businesses can reallocate staff from order-taking to tasks that enhance the guest experience, like hospitality or food preparation.
“With the evolution of technology in the hospitality industry, Canadians have come to expect efficiency and convenience when ordering, and Square Kiosk delivers on that. Amid staffing challenges, growing costs and shrinking margins, Square Kiosk also gives operators the ability to staff up other areas of their businesses while busting lines and cutting down on wait time for customers.”
The Square Kiosk integrates seamlessly with an operator’s existing hardware, requiring minimal setup. “It’s as simple as downloading an app onto an iPad,” Huh added. “The barriers to adopting this technology have been significantly reduced, making it accessible even for small businesses.”
Photo: Square
Challenges and Opportunities
While technology adoption offers opportunities for efficiency, restaurants still face ongoing challenges, including rising labor and food costs. However, Huh remains optimistic about the industry’s resilience and ability to innovate.
“Operators are cautiously optimistic,” he noted. “Many are exploring new revenue streams like catering, meal kits, and cooking classes. The desire to adapt and grow is evident, but success will hinge on embracing tools that make their operations more efficient and customer-centric.”
As the industry heads into 2025, technology’s role will only deepen. For restaurateurs, tools like AI, automation, and digital ordering platforms aren’t just optional—they’re essential to thriving in an increasingly competitive market.
Scene+, one of Canada’s leading loyalty programs, has earned three top spots in Canada’s largest loyalty program popular vote contest – the Canada’s Choice Awards by RWRDS Canada. Canadians voted Scene+ as their favourite Credit Card Rewards Program and the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card as their favourite in the No Annual Fee Travel Rewards Credit Card.
Scene+ rose in the ranks in the all-encompassing Shopping Loyalty Program category, earning the second spot this year, said a news release.
Candice Troupe
“We’re delighted to see the results of this year’s vote,” said Candice Troupe, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Partnerships at Scene+. “Earning top spots in these three important categories is very gratifying, but what’s more rewarding is the growth in our score. Members are seeing we’re much more than a basic rewards program – we make life better and more enjoyable for them with each purchase, point or reward earned.”
The release said Canadians voted the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card as number one in the Top No Annual Fee Travel Rewards Credit Card, with 27 per cent of the total votes, up from 18 per cent in 2023. They voted Scene+ as the Top Credit Card Reward Program, also with 27 per cent of total votes, versus 13 per cent in 2023, and Scene+ as the second most favourite in the Top Shopping Loyalty Program category, with 27.5 per cent of the votes, up from 13 per cent in 2023.
Patrick Sojka
“Canadians are looking for loyalty programs that can turn everyday purchases into regular savings and extraordinary rewards, making their lives a little more enjoyable and helping to lower total expenses,” said Patrick Sojka, Founder of Rewards Canada. “The big trend in 2024 has been education. Programs like Scene+ have invested in member education and it’s paying off. At the end of the day, the big winners are Canadians. They can now more easily make the right decision based on their lifestyle and interests.”
More than 35,000 Canadians participated in the RWRDS Canada vote, which took place October 1 to 14.
Earlier this year, Scene+ surpassed the 15-million-member mark.
Goodfood Market Corp., a leading Canadian online meal solutions company, has acquired an 81% interest in Genuine Tea Inc., a leading Canadian craft tea company.
A news release said the founding shareholders of Genuine Tea will continue to lead the business and hold the remaining shares of the company, with Goodfood having a right to acquire their shares in the future. The acquisition, financed mainly with Goodfood’s cash reserves, includes future performance-based payment features to the Genuine Tea shareholders.
Goodfood is celebrating its 10th anniversary and has developed expertise and infrastructure in the direct-to-consumer food and beverage space that will serve as a strong platform for Genuine Tea to accelerate its growth and scale its reach, said the release.
“We have grown Genuine Tea from a farmers’ market venture to a multi-million-dollar national brand and we could not be happier to join the Goodfood family to propel Genuine Tea to the next level,” said Sarah Wilcox, cofounder and CEO of Genuine Tea. Genuine Tea had over $3.5 million of net sales in its most recent fiscal year and the acquisition will be accretive to Goodfood’s Adj. EBITDA margin.
Jonathan Ferrari
This acquisition marks the beginning of Goodfood’s next chapter, focusing on building a portfolio of innovative direct-to-consumer food and beverage brands. Having helped pioneer meal-kits for millions of Canadians, Goodfood now leverages its direct-to-consumer infrastructure, technology, and culinary expertise to empower select founders with a unique offering to expand and scale their businesses. As part of this acquisition, Genuine Tea’s premium tea varieties will also be available through Goodfood’s meal kit subscriptions, bringing added convenience and quality to Canadian consumers, said the release.
“Over the past decade, as we have scaled Goodfood, we observed a clear gap in the market for quality, niche direct-to-consumer food and beverage brands,” said Jonathan Ferrari, cofounder, and CEO of Goodfood. “Canadian consumers want these brands but the infrastructure to scale and meet demand did not exist. Bringing Genuine Tea on board is the first step in building an exciting portfolio of brands that resonate with Canadians’ tastes and preferences. We look forward to helping the next generation of entrepreneurs elevate their businesses and achieve new levels of success,” added Mr. Ferrari.
Goodfood’s administrative offices are based in Montreal with production facilities located in Quebec and Alberta.
Founded in 2015, Genuine Tea is a leading omni-channel tea brand based in Toronto, Canada. After spending five years in Taiwan and learning from tea farmers across Asia, founders Sarah Wilcox and David O’Connor identified a gap in the quality, freshness and ethical trade of teas available in Canada.
“A proud leader in the Third Wave Tea movement, Genuine Tea sources fresh, high-quality teas and botanicals while recognizing and fairly compensating tea makers for their craftsmanship. Driven by a passion for tea and wellness, Genuine Tea is pushing the boundaries in the tea industry with its innovative better-for-you products that resonate with the modern consumer,” it said.
Jimmy John's at 197 Queen Street in Toronto (Etobicoke) on November 18, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson
Jimmy John’s, a popular American sandwich chain known for its freshly baked bread and fast service, has made its Canadian debut with a new location at 197 Queen Street in Etobicoke, near CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto.
Jimmy John’s has plans for rapid growth under Canadian master franchisor Foodtastic, which aims to open 200 locations across Canada within the next decade. Peter Mammas, President and CEO of Foodtastic, shared insights on their strategy to win over Canadian customers and adapt the brand for local tastes.
Peter Mammas
Foodtastic’s Role in Canadian Expansion
Foodtastic, a well-established franchisor in the Canadian restaurant industry, brings experience and a proven track record to this new venture. “We have decades of experience growing brands in Canada, and Jimmy John’s is a great fit for our portfolio,” said Mammas. “We’re excited to adapt the brand to meet Canadian consumer expectations and provide high-quality food and service.”
Jimmy John’s entry comes amid a competitive quick-service restaurant (QSR) landscape that includes well-known sandwich chains like Subway and Quiznos, as well as Canadian staple Tim Hortons. Mammas is confident that Jimmy John’s will stand out. “Our premium ingredients, freshly baked bread, and quick service set us apart from the competition,” he said. “We believe that Canadians will see the value of fresh and fast sandwiches done right.”
Speed remains a hallmark of the Jimmy John’s experience. “Our reputation for fast service is something we take seriously,” Mammas noted. “We’ve invested heavily in optimizing our sandwich line to ensure customers get their orders quickly, without sacrificing quality.”
Peter Mammas speaks at the opening of Jimmy John’s in Toronto on November 18, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson
Introducing Toasted Sandwiches for Canada
Jimmy John’s Canadian locations will offer toasted sandwiches—a feature unavailable in the U.S. “Our market research revealed that Canadians have a strong preference for toasted sandwiches,” Mammas explained. “We’re excited to offer something unique here while maintaining our commitment to fresh, in-house baked bread.”
This innovation makes Canada one of the first countries where Jimmy John’s serves toasted sandwiches. “It’s all about listening to the market,” Mammas said. “We’re confident this will resonate strongly with Canadian consumers.”
Menu board at Jimmy John’s in Toronto on November 18, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson
Strategic Expansion with a Clustering Approach
Foodtastic’s expansion plan starts with a focus on Ontario, with Toronto as the launchpad. The company’s clustering strategy aims to create a concentrated market presence, building brand awareness and streamlining logistics. “Our approach is strategic,” Mammas emphasized. “We’re clustering several locations within key markets to ensure consistent supply chains and strong brand recognition.”
Six more locations are already in the pipeline for the next eight months, reflecting strong interest from landlords and franchisees. “The interest has been phenomenal,” Mammas shared. “We’re confident that our 10-year plan to open 200 stores will be accelerated.”
Inside Jimmy John’s in Toronto on November 18, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson
Diverse Real Estate Strategy
Jimmy John’s Canadian locations will adopt various formats, including standalone restaurants, food court spots, and non-traditional sites. “Flexibility is at the core of our strategy,” Mammas said. “We’re prepared to meet customers in high-traffic areas, malls, and unique spaces. This allows us to cater to different markets and customer needs.”
Mammas highlighted that this adaptable approach will ensure broad access to Jimmy John’s signature offerings. “We’re not limiting ourselves to one type of location. Our goal is to make the brand accessible wherever our customers are.”
Corporate Stores First, Then Franchising
To ensure quality and operational excellence, Foodtastic will start by opening corporate-run locations before franchising. “We have a deal with Inspire Brands to oversee franchising in Canada,” Mammas explained. “By starting with corporate stores, we can fine-tune operations and minimize challenges for future franchisees.”
The strategy reflects Foodtastic’s commitment to long-term success. “Our goal is to perfect our operations,” Mammas added. “Once we’re confident, we’ll bring franchisees on board and provide the support they need to thrive.”
Front entrance to Jimmy John’s in Toronto on November 18, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson
Innovation and Local Adaptation
Mammas hinted at future menu innovations tailored to Canadian tastes. “We’re always listening to our customers,” he said. “If there’s demand for unique products or limited-time offers, we’re open to exploring them. Innovation is key to keeping our offerings fresh and exciting.”
Building a Strong Brand Presence
Jimmy John’s Canadian debut in Etobicoke is just the beginning. “We’re committed to building a brand Canadians will love,” Mammas said. “This is about providing fresh, high-quality sandwiches with unmatched speed and convenience.”
“We believe Canadians will embrace Jimmy John’s just as passionately as our U.S. customers,” Mammas concluded. “It’s a new chapter, and we’re excited to bring our unique offerings to communities nationwide.”
Founded in 1983 by Jimmy John Liautaud in Champaign, Illinois, Jimmy John’s began as a small sandwich shop, pivoting from its original hot dog stand concept due to cost constraints. Over the past four decades, the brand has grown to over 2,700 locations, with the majority operating as franchises. Known for its freshly baked bread, premium ingredients, and “freaky fast” service, Jimmy John’s has become a household name across the United States. Acquired by Inspire Brands in 2019, Jimmy John’s continues to evolve and expand its offerings, including limited-time menu items and new sandwich innovations, while maintaining its commitment to quality and speed.
As the internet boom of the late ‘90s and early ‘00s occurred, suddenly, there was a vast expanse of digital territory that needed filling. Not dissimilarly, from the California Gold Rush of 1848, forward-thinking digital pioneers rushed to meet this bountiful new land of opportunities, and the concept of content creation was born. Thousands of websites came into existence over the next several years, each filling page after page of the internet’s databanks with the written word. However, in 2024, several decades later, things have changed substantially regarding content creation and online writing.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an invaluable tool for so many industries, automating mind-numbing or mundane tasks to remove the toil of human workers. However, when it comes to writing, the mundane task that AI automates is the entirety of the job. Tools like Blaze are increasingly used in content creation, from generating articles to assisting with marketing copy.
Moreover, audiences are very much aware of the proliferation of AI-generated content. Entire websites that used to act as venues for authentic expressions of the human mind via writing now serve as conveyor belts for AI-generated work. Because of this work’s overwhelming quantity and often lackluster quality, maintaining authenticity in content is more important than ever for building trust with audiences. That’s why tools such as an AI writing detector are valuable resources in today’s digital marketplace.
Why Original, Authentic Content Matters in a Digital-First World
What is the point of writing? It’s a multi-faceted issue with an answer that is seemingly simple and deceivingly complex. Writing is one of the truest forms of human expression, as the writer takes the thoughts that reside solely within their head and transcribes them into a legible form so that these ideas might be communicated to others. Like other art forms such as painting, music, or filmmaking, writing is something that most people encounter daily. It is often taken for granted, especially in this modern digital age. But writing is a herculean feat that takes tremendous bravery and insight. To share one’s thoughts, which are not present anywhere else in the world other than in that specific writer’s head, is a deeply personal form of expression.
And yet, AI is none of these things, and we as humans are keenly aware of this. AI-generated writing has not been filtered through anyone’s lens of experience or perspective; it has no core values or ideals that it strives to grapple with, nor does it have any actual opinion on the matter upon which it is writing. Rather, AI functions as a digital blender, taking information that is put into it and repackaging it into a new product. Audiences are now more discerning than ever, valuing transparency and originality in their content.
Because of the chasm between AI-generated writing and handmade writing, businesses and creators can set themselves apart by prioritizing the genuine communication that comes with authentic writing and verifying the quality of their content. By emphasizing human touch, creativity, and intentionality, businesses and creators reinforce trust, connect more meaningfully with their audiences, and maintain a competitive advantage.
The Role of Technology in Verifying Authenticity
AI detection tools use plagiarism checkers, grammar tools, and AI writing detector software to help ensure content quality and authenticity. These tools have been engineered to better recognize and identify AI-generated content, helping audiences and content creators better understand exactly what AI-generated writing is, what it looks like, and its limitations.
These tools can identify AI-generated text and help creators verify that their content aligns with brand values and audience expectations. They help differentiate human creativity from automated output, encouraging transparency and trust across content platforms.
How an AI Writing Detector Works
An AI writing detector identifies text generated by machine learning models. These machine learning models are at the core of all AI-generated writing, as the AI generator takes from the information input into its system and repurposes it to a vaguely new effect in the work it generates. This has frequently resulted in extensive plagiarism in the past, as AI is driven by actual identifiable intelligence but is instead algorithmically driven, in much the same way your social media feed is. By identifying the kinds of grammar, word, and structural choices commonly made by these models, AI writing-detecting tools can parse AI-generated writing in effective ways.
These tools are extremely useful in contexts like journalism, education, and content marketing, where originality and credibility are essential to the validity of the piece as a whole.
Best Practices for Authentic Content in the Age of AI
Some of the best practical tips for maintaining authentic content include balancing AI-assisted creation with human review and regularly auditing content quality. In this way, AI-generated content is ultimately filtered through a distinctly human lens, helping to eliminate any elements of plagiarism and giving the piece an actual sense of authorial ownership.
Using tools like an AI writing detector, even when you’re not using AI-generated writing, can be incredibly helpful in ensuring that the final product is accurate and genuine.
Embracing Tools to Support Content Integrity
As industries implement AI and struggle with the inherent growing pains that come with such innovation, using verification tools is becoming an industry best practice. Businesses leverage these tools to better protect their reputations, meet audience expectations, and ensure content authenticity. Adopting these tools now will help prepare brands and creators for future content standards and verification advancements as AI integration grows.
While these tools have room for improvement, they can be a beneficial tool to companies. It is important to realize detectors are not fully accurate, so they should be used with that in mind.
The Path to Quality Content in a High-Tech World
Using content verification tools to navigate the changing digital content landscape has never been more important. As AI implementation continues to spread throughout the digital landscape, tools such as AI detectors provide a meaningful way to combat and identify the symptoms of overwhelming AI generation.
Urban Barn at Park Royal in West Vancouver. Image: Urban Barn
Vancouver-based furniture and home décor retailer Urban Barn will be opening its 55th store in spring 2025. Located in Halifax, the expansion will officially make Urban Barn a cross-Canada brand. The retailer also recently relocated its store at Park Royal in West Vancouver.
The new Park Royal location is in ‘Park Royal South’ at 723 Main Street at Taylor Way. The store offers a refreshed and elevated shopping experience, according to the company. With over 4,000 square feet of retail space, the new store features expansive windows, warm hardwood-like flooring, new lighting, and custom cabinetry, all designed to create an inviting atmosphere.
Ainslie Fincham, Director of Marketing at Urban Barn
“We are thrilled to share our new design concept with the North Shore and Lower Mainland. Come visit our new location and get ready to be inspired by timeless collections of furniture and décor that are designed for real life,” said Ainslie Fincham, Director of Marketing at Urban Barn.
The relocation reinforces Urban Barn’s longstanding presence in Park Royal, having served customers there for over a decade. According to Fincham, the move reflects the retailer’s commitment to brand elevation, with a store design that captures both modern aesthetics and functional appeal.
Catering to a Diverse Customer Base in West Vancouver
The Park Royal store draws a wide range of customers, including those from West Vancouver, North Vancouver, downtown Vancouver, and the Sea-to-Sky Corridor. The region’s affluent demographic, along with a growing population in areas like Squamish and Whistler, makes it a strategic location for Urban Barn. Fincham noted that the new Park Royal store aims to meet the needs of both primary residents and second-home owners in the area.
“Our customer base spans beyond West Vancouver and the North Shore to include customers from downtown and even up the corridor to Squamish and Whistler,” said Fincham. “There’s strong demand for quality home furnishings, and we’re proud to be a go-to source.”
Dining display at Urban Barn at Park Royal in West Vancouver. Image: Urban Barn
Halifax Expansion: Urban Barn’s Path to National Growth
Urban Barn’s expansion into Halifax, set for spring 2025, will further solidify its status as a national brand. The Halifax store will offer a large-format retail experience, enhancing Urban Barn’s capacity to serve the local market. The new location will also facilitate greater e-commerce capabilities, as the retailer will now have a regional presence to support logistics and delivery for larger furniture pieces.
Fincham highlighted that opening in Halifax is part of a broader strategy to expand in Eastern Canada. “We won’t make a market entry with just one location. We’re exploring additional opportunities in the East and Ontario as we continue to grow.”
Aurora Realty Consultants has handled lease negotiations for Urban Barn for years. The Halifax lease deal was negotiated by Aurora EVP Don Gregor and Aurora’s Director for Atlantic Canada, Peter Constable.
Bedroom at Urban Barn at Park Royal in West Vancouver. Image: Urban Barn
Omni-Channel Excellence: Blending In-Store and Online Experiences
Urban Barn’s approach to retail combines a seamless omnichannel experience, ensuring customers can shop both online and in-store. Fincham emphasized that many customers begin their journey online before visiting a store to experience the products in person.
“We strive to create an omnichannel experience that supports customers wherever they prefer to shop. People often want to see and sit on furniture before making a purchase, which is where our in-store experience really stands out,” explained Fincham.
Inside Urban Barn at Park Royal in West Vancouver. Image: Urban Barn
New Store Design and Visual Merchandising Innovations
Urban Barn’s new store design, first introduced at its flagship location on South Granville in Vancouver, reflects a warm and inviting aesthetic with elements like hardwood-like flooring, custom cash desks, and branded cabinetry. The Park Royal store is the third to feature these updates, aimed at creating a cohesive and elevated shopping experience.
“Our visual merchandising team works hard to create beautifully curated displays that inspire customers to envision their own homes,” said Fincham. “We want customers to walk in, see something they love, and feel like they can take it all home.”
A History of Market Expansion and Commitment to Local Communities
Urban Barn entered the Quebec market in 2015 and now operates five stores in the province. The retailer’s success in Quebec is supported by a commitment to respecting local culture and providing French-language services. This thoughtful approach to market integration demonstrates Urban Barn’s dedication to community engagement across Canada.
“Our French translation team and community support efforts show that we’re dedicated to immersing ourselves in each market we enter,” said Fincham. “Being part of the local community is essential to us.”
Urban Barn Windsor (Image: Urban Barn)
Building on Pandemic-Driven Success
Like other home furnishings retailers, Urban Barn saw unprecedented demand during the COVID-19 pandemic as consumers focused on upgrading their living spaces. The company’s best years were recorded during this period, with heightened interest in key categories such as sofas and bedroom furniture. Fincham noted that this trend has continued, with strong performance in various product lines.
Background on Urban Barn
Urban Barn, a Canadian furniture and home décor retailer, was founded in 1990 by childhood friends Rick Bohonis and Craig Stewart. They opened their first store at 12th Avenue and Cambie Street in Vancouver, featuring rustic wooden floors and a barn-style door, which inspired the company’s name.
Throughout the 1990s, Urban Barn expanded across Western Canada, establishing nine stores from British Columbia to Manitoba. In 2001, the company entered Ontario with a store on Queen Street West in Toronto, signaling its intent to reach a broader Canadian market.
The Stern Group became the majority owner in 2007, providing resources for further growth. And in 2010, retail veteran Linda Letts joined as President, leading to accelerated expansion and a focus on enhancing the customer experience. During this period, the original founders retired.
Urban Barn entered the Quebec market in 2015, opening two stores and launching its online store to reach a broader audience. A major brand refresh in 2020 introduced an updated logo, redesigned website, and modernized in-store experiences, all aimed at elevating the customer journey.
As of 2024, Urban Barn operates 54 stores from British Columbia to Quebec, employing more than 650 team members. The retailer says it remains committed to offering thoughtfully designed furniture and home décor that resonate with Canadians’ diverse lifestyles and tastes.
Rendering of the new residential towers at CF Carrefour Laval. Image: Cadillac Fairview
Cadillac Fairview has announced the launch of an ambitious residential rental project at CF Carrefour Laval. The development includes 365 residential units housed in two towers—20 and 11 stories—connected by a six-storey podium.
The project aims to transform the iconic shopping centre into a fully integrated community hub and further establishes Cadillac Fairview’s commitment to community-focused development across Canada.
CF Carrefour Laval. Image: Cadillac Fairview
A Vision for Integrated Living at CF Carrefour Laval
Brian Salpeter, Executive Vice President of Development at Cadillac Fairview, underscored the importance of transforming CF Carrefour Laval into a vibrant mixed-use destination. “We’re excited to create a community where people can live, shop, and connect seamlessly,” Salpeter said. “This isn’t just about residential development; it’s about redefining how people experience life at CF Carrefour Laval.”
Brian Salpeter
Unlike many developments that place residential buildings at the edges of shopping centres, CF’s project is integrated directly into the existing retail complex. “The former Sears box footprint is now the foundation of this new residential development,” Salpeter explained. “This ensures that residents will have direct access to retail, public spaces, and community events, creating a unique living experience.”
Creating a Community Hub with Public Spaces
Central to Cadillac Fairview’s vision is a public plaza that will serve as a focal point for community activities, events, and social engagement. “We want this plaza to be a gathering space for both residents and visitors,” Salpeter said. “From festivals to art exhibits and concerts, it will be a place that brings people together.”
The residential towers and plaza aim to seamlessly blend modern architecture with the existing shopping centre. “It’s about creating something contemporary and vibrant, while respecting the character of the area,” Salpeter explained. “The new buildings and plaza will form a cohesive, beautiful environment.”
A groundbreaking ceremony took place on November 18, attended by Cadillac Fairview executives Sal Lacono (President and CEO), Brian Salpeter (Executive Vice President, Development), and Jeroen Henrich (Senior Vice President, Development). Joining them in the photo are Laval-des-Rapides MNA Céline Haytayan, Regional Minister Christopher Skeete, and Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer. (Courtesy Photo)Inside CF Carrefour Laval. Image: Cadillac Fairview
Diverse Residential Offerings for Every Lifestyle at CF Carrefour Laval
The development will feature a mix of studio, one-bedroom, one-bedroom-plus-den, two-bedroom, and two-bedroom-plus-den units. “We’re focused on meeting a range of housing needs,” Salpeter said. “From young professionals to families, there is a home for everyone here. Our mix of units caters to different life stages, ensuring a balanced and diverse community.”
Ground-floor retail spaces will further enhance the living experience, while future phases may include additional essential services. “Laval already offers a rich food and beverage scene,” Salpeter noted. “Our goal is to complement it with targeted retail and services that benefit residents.”
CF Carrefour Laval, which opened in 1974, has been a cornerstone of the Laval community for 50 years. “We’ve been part of this community for decades, and this residential development is a natural extension of that commitment,” Salpeter remarked. “It’s about creating a place where people can live, shop, and connect in a meaningful way.”
The project is the first phase of a larger master plan, with future phases set to add thousands of residential units and enhance public spaces. “We’re not stopping here,” Salpeter said. “Our long-term vision is to create a dynamic downtown hub for Laval, with integrated public spaces, retail, and residential living.”
Cadillac Fairview’s initiative at CF Carrefour Laval is part of a broader strategy to address Canada’s housing needs through mixed-use developments. In addition to the Laval project, Cadillac Fairview is working on residential projects at several other major properties.
“We have a robust residential development pipeline,” Salpeter said. “In Ottawa, we’re developing 288 units at CF Rideau Centre, transforming an adjacent vacant parcel into a vibrant residential community. This project is well underway and is set for completion in 2026.”
CF Richmond Centre redevelopment. Image: Cadillac Fairview
Salpeter also highlighted the Quad Windsor development in downtown Montréal, which includes a 512-unit residential building as part of a larger mixed-use complex. “It’s located near Deloitte Tower and Windsor Station, contributing to the revitalization of this key urban area,” he noted.
Cadillac Fairview is also advancing residential projects at CF Richmond Centre in British Columbia, CF Fairview Mall in Toronto, and CF Chinook Centre in Calgary. “These developments are about more than just housing,” Salpeter emphasized. “They’re about creating vibrant, connected communities that meet the evolving needs of Canadians.”
Over $282 million in economic impact and over $152 million in direct spending is expected during Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour presented by Rogers in Toronto through November 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, and 23.
The estimated impact numbers released by Destination Toronto highlight the significant benefit that comes from visitors traveling to the city for a concert, or for any major event or conference.
Retailers, restaurants, hotels and a host of other local businesses are reaping the economic benefits from having such a mega star performing in the city.
Andrew Weir
“The Eras Tour is a great example of the impact major events have on our destination,” said Andrew Weir, CEO & President at Destination Toronto. “Whether it’s concerts like Taylor Swift, international meetings and conventions, or signature annual festivals like Pride, TIFF or Caribbean Carnival, events that draw visitors to our city also bring visitor spending that positively impacts our local economy and a wide range of businesses and jobs.”
Of the $152 million in direct spending, $141 million—nearly 93 per cent—is estimated to come from out-of-town visitors and $11 million is estimated to come from local Swifties. The direct and indirect tax impacts of the string of six concerts are expected to generate nearly 40 million in tax revenue across all levels of government, said Destination Toronto.
Photo: Destination Toronto
Michael Kehoe
Michael Kehoe, Broker of Record with Fairfield Commercial Real Estate, said large-scale events over the past 150 years dating back to the World Fairs of the late 1800’s and beyond and the arrival of the circus in the early 19th Century always had a positive economic impact on the host cities.
“Fast forward to the present day to a range of major events ranging from national championships like the Grey Cup or the Brier to FIFA, Stanley Cup final games all the way up to the spectacle of the Taylor Swift concerts, they create tremendous exposure for their host cities and countries through extensive media coverage,” he said.
“A major advantage for cities hosting large-scale entertainment or sporting events is the significant boost to tourism and related industries and a significant impact on the national and regional and local economies that generate revenue, attract visitors and boost local pride.
“The economic impact of these events that draw both domestic and international visitors who require accommodations, transportation, food & beverage and shop in retail stores have a significant trickle down effect that benefits many. The international recognition boosts national pride while attracting new visitors who may return in the future. The economic impact of the Taylor Swift circus in Toronto and Vancouver is truly a phenomenon. This Eras Tour is an economic ecosystem unto itself and the benefits will reverberate throughout the respective city and provincial economies into the immediate future.”
Swift is playing at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium December 6, 7 and 8.
Liza Amlani
“The impact of the Swifties and the BeyHive to the economy is tremendous and I don’t think we give enough fans credit. From fashion to accessories and footwear to dining out during these concerts, the economic impact is substantial. It’s extraordinary and the lift in sales is not always forecasted so many brands come up empty. Leveraging market insights and events like these are critical in planning the product mix. Working closely with influencers alongside the performer’s marketing team will lead to an increase in sales, engagement and footfall leading up to the event. Meaning, sales will not only impact retail but also tourist hot spots, hotels and restaurants,” said Liza Amlani, Principal and Founder of the Retail Strategy Group.
“Toronto is saturated with pop ups and special events all around the city. It’s been an exciting time for Swifties and anyone that’s involved will reap the benefits.”
“On the benefit side, you have the incremental spend and tax on hotel and lodging, restaurants, parking, merchandise sales, transportation and other entertainment or sports taken in while in town and the potential goodwill built for the city (if they do a nice job hosting the event) that could lead to a future increase in tourism and visits,” he said.
“On the cost side, large events generate incremental cost for police and law enforcement, vehicle and pedestrian congestion, emergency and paramedics, clean up before and after the event, added wear and tear on city infrastructure and more.
“There will always be winners and losers for every large event, depending on who you are.”
“Events like this are a magnet for future events. This proves that Canada is cool and cultured; its people want to be entertained and party. The Pandemic fears are behind us,” he said.
“The residual effect of Taylor Swift’s engagements in Toronto and Vancouver has a positive economic impact. Hotels, restaurants, transportation, and merchandise all benefit. For example, the New Orleans event brought in $500 million, a 900% increase.
“It also has the potential to make Toronto and Vancouver bigger appeals for other entertainment events, which would drive more tourism. This could bring back a much-needed kick in the pants that being entertained, living, and working in the city is fun again. For sporting and other events to have the same impact, they must create FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). You need to have greater appeal for a similar residual effect. If the Toronto Argonauts signed Travis Kelce, we might need a bigger stadium. But let’s keep it in perspective: Taylor Swift is more than a singer and entertainer; she’s a role model who has done it her way, and that’s a major appeal.”
Avery Shenfeld
Avery Shenfeld, Chief Economist at CIBC Capital Markets, said in a research note “supposedly, the tourist spending tied to the Eras tour is giving Toronto a nearly $300 million economic lift, and if you added in the spending of those living here, and the Vancouver dates, you might easily double that.”
“Technically, that could show up as few decimal places in monthly GDP over the November December period if measured on a gross spending basis. But there’s less than meets the eye when you boil these sorts of events down to their net impacts on economic activity,” he said.
“For one, many of these tourists are coming from other parts of Canada. The money that Emma and Claire saved up for flights to Toronto or Vancouver, tickets, meals and concert merch will eat into what they have left for other discretionary spending back home. Toronto’s gain might be Fredricton’s loss. Similarly, lucky Toronto and Vancouver ticket holders will have less to spend in upcoming months on other entertainment options.
Photo: Destination Toronto
“There’s also a strong import leakage from the gross spending figures, because, presumably, Taylor (and her entourage) are going to take their cut from the ticket sales back to America. Private jet flights to Kansas City Chief games don’t come cheaply. It’s unlikely that many of the t-shirts and friendship rings sold this week will have a made-in-Canada sticker.
“Gross spending on hotels and restaurants also overstates the net impact on the hospitality sector, because those rooms and tables wouldn’t otherwise have all sat empty. Some may have stayed away from the city to avoid elevated hotel rates and limited availability. Moreover, Toronto has placed restrictions on travel near the concert venue that could keep non-Swifties at home in fear of traffic or other hassles.”
He said the World Cup story will be similar, but with its own twist.
“For that event, the Toronto city government will be on the hook for nearly $400 million in costs, supposedly in return for a similarly-sized economic lift from tourism. But for the tourists coming from Canada, those funds might have been spent on other activities here, and the government will be using scarce tax dollars that would otherwise have flowed into the local economy on other programs. Once again, the net impact is much smaller than the gross impact,” he said.
“None of this is to downplay the joy that Swifties and soccer fans will reap if their favourite song gets played or their team wins. But generating economic growth requires activities that create jobs that last more than a few days, which create ongoing income that can add to spending on a sustained basis. One-off events might, if large enough, create a blip, but one that gets reversed when the event is over, and the event-goers’ depleted savings or credit card bills need attention.”
Destination Toronto said Swiftmania will be sweeping Toronto at a critical time of year when business travel is starting to wind down and holiday leisure travel has not quite picked up.
Pinterest is transforming holiday shopping with innovative features and curated gift guides. From personalized wishlists to celebrity-endorsed ideas, the platform aims to make gift-giving easier and more meaningful.
The platform has launched a bold new approach to shopping, blurring the lines between inspiration and action with over 1,000 curated, shoppable gift guidescreated by celebrities, brands, and publishers.This year, Pinterest users can also shop directly from the platform with new product features for those perfect gift ideas.
Pinterest said now with the new “quick save” feature, consumers can find and save Pins from the gift guides with one tap. Pinterest will automatically pull those saved Pins into the consumer’s very own shoppable “wishlist.” Pinterest users can revisit and shop all of their saved gift ideas in their wishlists.
With the new “holiday finds” tab, Pinterest has expanded shopping on the platform with a personalized feed tailored to gifts it thinks consumers will love. This special shopping experience uses the consumer’s unique searches and saves to recommend relevant styles and ideas that are must-haves for the holidays.
Elofson said “we’re really capitalizing on all the excitement on Pinterest related to gifting.”
“We’ve launched this year 1,000 new gift guides where basically a series of creators and publishers and merchants produce guides that inspire people and as you experience a gift guide and you’re basically shopping just like you would in a mall and you see something you love you can quickly save with one tap that item to your shopping list, your wish list and then it’s very, very easy to purchase those items over time,” she said.
“So it’s a very, very curated way to think about the holiday experience in 2024.”
A retailer’s best friend
Elofson called Pinterest a retailer’s best friend.
“It’s really the only platform where people come and they can find inspiration, they can browse and shop all in the same place. People come to Pinterest with a very open mind but with a very clear intent to shop and buy something,” she said.
“So it really makes sense to capitalize on all that raw interest there is on Pinterest to shop and combine that with the holiday season with a format in this gift guide that really brings all these experiences today in a really fun and seamless way.”
With more than a thousand curated gift guides spanning across 27 categories – from fashion and beauty, to travel and gaming – Pinterest said it is making the platform the go-to place to search for gifts that are heartfelt, on-trend, or completely unexpected.
It has partnered with celebrities, creators and brands to hand pick nearly 40,000 of the best gifts so consumers don’t have to. FromAlicia Keys’ “Gifts that fill your Soul,” toEmma Chamberlain’s “gifts that literally everyone will love,” to Las Culturistas Bowen Yang’s “Gifts for your pop culture-obsessed bestie,” Molly Baz’s, “Gifts for the biggest, baddest dinner party,” Laufey’s “Gifts for a very Laufey holiday,” RuPaul’s “Hey Sis, It’s Ru’s List”—Pinterest’s gift guides have something for everyone on their list.
“Creators, brands and publishers are really all at the heart of Pinterest,” said Elofson. “It’s really what drives our content ecosystem. If people go on Pinterest, they look for content that has a certain type of curation.”
On Pinterest, there have been over one billion searches for “gifts” or “presents.” Searches for “shopping wishlist” haveincreased over 950% compared to last year on Pinterest.
Photo: Pinterest website
Tools for retailers and advertisers
For retailers and advertisers, Pinterest has launched a suite of new tools powered by machine learning to better help advertisers highlight their holiday shopping discounts.
The first tool is Promotions, which allows advertisers to showcase promotions like free shipping, sitewide sales, and buy one, get one offers to users based on their taste and preferences, with very little additional effort on the advertiser’s side.
Second, it launched new deal ad modules, making ads with special offers more visible to users with a carousel format, helping brands stand out during sale moments.
“Pinterest is leveraging AI to provide personalized recommendations that are thoughtful and relevant,” said Elofson.
“More than half of the people who come to Pinterest come to shop. In our Gen Z (report) Pinterest is one of the first or first place they go to start their shopping experience and so people come and they are super keen to find visual inspiration . . . People come to Pinterest to shop because they know it’s the one place they can go and get this very curated set of visual pieces of inspiration that they can go immediately and transact on and bring it to life.
“Shopping is very endemic to the Pinterest experience . . . We’ve been working for the last two years on really making our shopping experience on Pinterest as actionable as possible as well as being inspirational.”
A transformative shopping experience is coming to downtown Toronto this holiday season. The first-ever 100% Indigenous-owned department store, aaniin, will open at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre from November 29 to December 31, marking a milestone for Indigenous entrepreneurship in Canada.
Occupying 6,500 square feet, the aaniin pop-up will feature over 40 Indigenous-owned brands, showcasing apparel, jewelry, accessories, wellness products, books, and artwork.
“Aaniin,” meaning hello in Ojibwe, is a pop-up store and in-house streetwear brand that will feature familiar and emerging “Canadian”-made, Indigenous-owned brands from across the country.
“This store is a proof of concept for what Indigenous commerce can look like in the future,” said Pettit. “Every product, design, and interaction is about elevating Indigenous voices and stories. This pop-up is our biggest venture yet, and I’m excited to share this experience with the city during its busiest shopping season.
“This store is all about celebrating Indigenous creativity, and we’ve made supporting our community easier than ever in a way that’s powerful, accessible and inclusive. Every detail, every brand we feature, is here to share their stories and talent with the world this holiday season, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this experience with the downtown core.”
Pettit’s journey began in 2021, inspired by a moment in downtown Toronto when she mistook a pattern for Indigenous syllabics. This spark led to the creation of aaniin, which has grown through various storefronts and pop-ups, including a successful stint at Square One Mall in Mississauga, where Pettit generated nearly $100,000 in sales in just over four weeks as a solo operator.
“This time, we’re going even bigger, with a large team and more than triple the number of brands,” Pettit added. “We’re showing what’s possible when Indigenous talent is showcased on this scale.”
Highlighting Indigenous Excellence
The pop-up will feature established names and emerging talents from across Canada. Highlights include:
Cheekbone Beauty: Sustainable beauty products, with founder Jenn Harper offering mini-makeovers on select days.
Lodge Soy Candles: Medicine-infused soy candles blending Indigenous traditions with modern wellness.
Hand-Tufted Rugs by Rochelle: Unique, Y2K-inspired designs by Alberta-based artist Rochelle.
Books, artwork, and home goods will also be available for the first time.
Indigenous languages and syllabics will be prominently featured, emphasizing the cultural significance of each product and design.
This pop-up invites shoppers to rethink Indigenous commerce and join a movement of economic sovereignty and empowerment. By showcasing Indigenous excellence, aaniin challenges colonial perceptions of Indigenous business and creates space for brands to flourish.
Photo: Aaniin
Barb Gamey
The success of this project has been made possible by the unwavering support of aaniin’s sponsors. As the first sponsor of this pop-up, the Co-Founder of Payworks, Barb Gamey, couldn’t be prouder: “Payworks applauds the powerful creativity, grit and determination shown by aaniin in reclaiming space for Indigenous-owned businesses. We’re honoured to support this initiative and Indigenous entrepreneurs from coast to coast.”
Shortly after Payworks took up the mantle, MasterCard also agreed to become a partner, and their commitment has been invaluable throughout the planning of the Toronto pop-up event.
Jennifer M Sloan
“We are proud to partner with aaniin on this initiative to bring Indigenous brands into a pop-up at the Eaton Centre, one of Canada’s most popular retail spaces during the busy holiday season,” said Jennifer M Sloan, Senior Vice President, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement, Mastercard, Canada. “This initiative aligns with Mastercard’s ongoing commitment to foster and amplify economic empowerment and prosperity for Indigenous entrepreneurs. By celebrating and supporting Indigenous business and entrepreneurship, shoppers will have the opportunity to invest in a more inclusive and resilient Canadian economy.”
Looking Ahead: Community Ownership and Expansion
While the Eaton Centre pop-up is a short-term venture, Pettit has bold plans for the future. She aims to secure $500,000 to $2 million in investments from Indigenous communities across Canada to create a community-owned business model and establish permanent spaces for Indigenous businesses in downtown Toronto.
“This is about more than retail—it’s about creating a legacy,” Pettit explained. “I want to establish physical spaces that support Indigenous entrepreneurs while building economic stability for our communities.”
Where to Find aaniin
The aaniin pop-up will be located on the second floor of the Eaton Centre, near Aritzia, in the former American Eagle space. It opens on Black Friday, November 29, and runs through December 31.
