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Canada losing businesses at an alarming rate: CFIB

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Yan Krukau photo
Yan Krukau photo

Canada’s economic foundation is crumbling as business closures in Canada have been outpacing new business starts for six consecutive quarters. With Canada facing an entrepreneurial drought, governments must act to reverse this trend and fix Canada’s shrinking business landscape, says the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).

As seen in CFIB’s Canada’s Entrepreneurial Drought, Part 1: The Shrinking Business Landscape report, business exits in Canada have outpaced new business entries since early 2024, and the problem seems to be getting worse. In the second quarter of 2025, exit rates reached 5.6%, while entry rates fell to 4.8% in Q4 2025, marking some of the highest closure rates and weakest startup activity outside the pandemic, explained the CFIB.

On Monday, CFIB released Part 2 of the report series, Canada’s Entrepreneurial Drought, Part 2: Fixing Canada’s Shrinking Business Landscape, which outlines practical reforms to reverse the drought and improve Canada’s business environment.

Michelle Auger
Michelle Auger

“Tomorrow’s federal spring economic statement is an opportunity for the federal government to address Canada’s entrepreneurial drought and restore small business confidence,” said Michelle Auger, CFIB director of trade and marketplace competitiveness. “Governments have spent years prioritizing big business needs, while small firms have been largely ignored. Canada cannot afford to keep losing more businesses than it gains, it’s time for all governments to put small businesses first and reverse the entrepreneurial drought.”

The CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 103,000 members across every industry and region.

The CFIB said it identified three priority areas of action to fix Canada’s entrepreneurial drought: reducing the cost of doing business, cutting red tape, and responding to the ongoing transformation of Canada’s labour market.

Some key reforms for governments include:

Reducing the costs of doing business:
•    Reduce the federal small business corporate tax rate (SBCTR) from 9% to 6%; and
o    Provincial governments should permanently lower their SBCTRs to 0% by 2030.
o    Federal and provincial governments should raise SBCTR thresholds to at least $700,000 and index it to inflation.
•    Make financing more accessible and affordable.
•    Create a level playing field and ensure government programs and procurement processes are accessible to small firms.

Cutting red tape and reducing internal trade barriers:
•    Measure and publicly report the regulatory burden.
•    Eliminate two regulations for every new one introduced (a “2 for 1” rule) to cut red tape.
•    Streamline internal trade by expanding mutual recognition beyond its current scope to include food and alcohol and ensure the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement and provincial legislation are applied consistently and transparently, with minimal carve-outs.

Addressing labour market challenges and improving business succession:
•    Improve workforce quality through training incentives and stronger partnerships with educational institutions.
•    Keep, protect and defend the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and consult the business community in advance of future reform.
•    Increase awareness, particularly among young entrepreneurs, about the opportunities and advantages of purchasing an existing business. 
•    Allow small corporations to defer the tax on capital gains from the transfer of a business to the owner’s children.

Brianna Solberg
Brianna Solberg

“The entrepreneurial drought won’t fix itself. Canada needs to give businesses clear reasons to start, stay and invest, yet current government policies are failing to inspire confidence among entrepreneurs,” said Brianna Solberg, CFIB director for the Prairies and the North. “If governments are serious about Canada’s economic strength, competitiveness, and productivity growth, they need to start reflecting this in their policies.”

Visit cfib.ca/drought for more information. 

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Growth planned for QuickBite Collective brands

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Teriyaki Experience
Teriyaki Experience

QuickBite Collective, a relatively new player in the Canadian quick service restaurant space, is continuing to build its footprint across Canada with strong sales growth across its three brands – Teriyaki Experience, Burgers n’ Fries Forever (BFF) and Maverick’s Donut Company.

Although the company was founded in 2024, its legacy brand Teriyaki Experience is celebrating 40 years in business and has just posted double-digit sales growth this past quarter at a time when many legacy QSR brands are facing declines.

Hadi Chahin, President of QuickBite Collective  said overall in the industry there’s definitely a drop in sales across all the brands, especially the legacy brands or the big guys. 

“The major chains have seen quite a dip year over year from last year and into this year for sure. From what I hear from different colleagues and owners, January and February of this year were probably some of the lowest on record in terms of their sales,” he said.

“That’s why we were happy to see where Teriyaki landed in the first quarter because it actually outperformed the market. Now, part of it is the changes that we did to the brand, obviously, in terms of the rebranding, the marketing, the menu development, and on multiple levels.

“The other part is I do believe also that the Asian category is in growth. It was trending over the last few years in the U.S., and I think it’s trending right now in Canada. We had a period of time prior where chicken was trending as chicken sandwiches, and then shawarma was trending.

Hadi Chahin
Hadi Chahin

“I do believe that our brands today, between the smash burger and the Asian category, are definitely high on what people are looking for.”

There are currently 12 Burgers and Fries locations with another 10 under construction this year.

With Teriyaki Experience, there are 36 with another seven coming up this year, and more next year.

And with Mavericks, there are 19 locations, with five opening this year. 

“With Burgers and Fries, originally it was mostly here in Ontario. We just opened our first location in British Columbia at UBC. From there, we have another four locations opening this year between the mainland and Victoria,” explained Chahin.

“So we have two locations happening in Victoria and a couple of locations in Delta and Surrey. With the rest of it in Ontario, it’s really spread out in the sense that we have four locations in the core GTA. And then we have one in Sudbury, one in London, one in Cambridge.

“We’re opening Ajax. We’re opening in Burlington and Kitchener. So basically anywhere between Ajax to London, Ontario, that range is where most of the BFFs will be. We’re trying to stay focused that way to open clusters and maximize the presence and the focus on the marketing piece.”

Chahin said real estate is competitive in general for great locations.

“If you’re looking for a good spot that you believe would do well for a restaurant, especially QSR, you’re dealing with larger landlords because those spaces are usually built by bigger landlords,” he said.

“You’re looking at newer plazas or established plazas. It’s very competitive when it hits the market. There’s a lot of competition, the rents are extremely high, and the landlords have the upper hand today on retail units.

“On the flip side, there have been some closures in terms of restaurants, and there has been a lot of rebranding from older brands or from one brand to another. That’s where most brands are looking at opportunity, especially newer brands like us or growth-mode companies.

“We’re looking mostly at conversions because these are restaurants that were operating and still in good condition, and we’re able to take them and flip them to one of our brands versus trying to compete with landlords when they put units out for lease. So in most cases now, we’re actually buying assets from existing restaurants and rebranding.”

Teriyaki Experience
Teriyaki Experience

Chahin said the company focus on Teriyaki has been on existing locations. Most of Teriyaki prior to its acquisition was in Ontario, with a few in Quebec and in New Brunswick.

“Our focus this year and into next year is to continue to grow Ontario but make sure that BC is our next market. That’s where our next growth will be for our brands,” he said.

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GS25 Rumor Highlights Demand for Asian Convenience Retail in Canada

By
Craig Patterson
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Image of a GS25 store. Photo: GS25

A recent wave of speculation suggesting that South Korean convenience giant GS25 could be entering the Canadian market has been firmly debunked. However, the episode offers a revealing look at shifting consumer demand and the growing appeal of Asian convenience retail concepts in urban markets such as Toronto.

Reports circulated last week after signage resembling GS25 branding was spotted behind construction hoarding at 499 Church Street, the former home of the iconic Glad Day Bookshop in Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village. The speculation gained traction online, including in a widely shared article in BlogTO, despite the lack of any official confirmation from GS25’s parent company, GS Retail.

A site visit conducted over the weekend confirms that the space is nearing completion as a location for Mapo Korean BBQ, a restaurant concept that already operates elsewhere in Toronto. The GS25 branding seen in earlier images appears to have been outdated, further undermining the credibility of the initial claims.

New Mapo Korean BBQ at 499 Church Street in Toronto (former site of Glad Day Bookstore), Sunday, April 26, 2026. Photo: Craig Patterson

Rumor Reflects Real Market Interest

While the GS25 Canada expansion narrative is unfounded, the speed at which it spread speaks to a broader truth. Canadian consumers are increasingly receptive to Asian retail formats that blend convenience, prepared food, and lifestyle merchandising.

The idea of a GS25 location in downtown Toronto did not seem far-fetched to many observers. The brand has aggressively expanded internationally in recent years, particularly in markets such as Vietnam and Mongolia, while also exporting its private label products globally. Its “food-first” model, which emphasizes fresh, ready-to-eat meals and in-store dining, stands in contrast to the traditional North American convenience store format.

In that context, Toronto appears to be a logical future market, even if no plans are currently in place.

Building permit in the window of the new Mapo Korean BBQ at 499 Church Street in Toronto (former site of Glad Day Bookstore). Photo: Craig Patterson

Rise of Asian Grocery and Convenience Concepts in Canada

The speculation also reflects the growing influence of Asian grocery and specialty retail in Canada. Chains such as T&T Supermarket, H Mart, and Galleria have expanded significantly, attracting a broad customer base that extends well beyond immigrant communities.

These retailers have introduced Canadian consumers to a more experiential approach to food retail, where freshly prepared meals, imported products, and curated assortments play a central role. In many ways, this model overlaps with what GS25 has perfected in South Korea.

As a result, the concept of a premium Asian convenience store entering the Canadian market aligns with existing consumer behaviour trends.

Former Glad Day Bookstore at 499 Church St. in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

A High-Profile Site with Cultural Significance

The property at 499 Church Street carries additional weight due to its history. For nearly a decade, it was home to Glad Day Bookshop, widely recognized as the world’s oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore. Founded in 1970, the business evolved into a community hub that hosted hundreds of events annually before relocating in 2025 due to rising operating costs.

The departure left a highly visible vacancy in one of Toronto’s most prominent neighbourhoods, making it a natural focal point for speculation about potential tenants. In that sense, the GS25 Canada expansion rumor was amplified not only by retail trends but also by the significance of the location itself.

Debunked, But Not Implausible

Although GS25 is not entering Canada at this time, the underlying premise of the rumor remains noteworthy. The combination of dense urban populations, evolving food habits, and growing interest in international retail formats suggests that the Canadian market could eventually support concepts similar to GS25.

For now, the Church Street location will instead house a Korean restaurant, reflecting a different but still relevant aspect of Toronto’s increasingly diverse food and retail landscape.

At the same time, the episode underscores how quickly retail narratives can take hold in an environment where consumer expectations are evolving. The GS25 Canada expansion story may not be real today, but it points to a category that appears increasingly viable in the years ahead.

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STRONG Pilates on aggressive expansion path

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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STRONG Pilates photo
STRONG Pilates photo

STRONG Pilates has officially integrated its Canadian operations within its global structure – a strategic move to support the brand’s accelerated growth, strengthen franchisee support, and further investment in innovation and customer experience.   

In Canada, STRONG Pilates is set to expand from seven studios at the end of 2025, to 22 locations by the end of 2026, with plans to reach 40 by 2027. New studios have already opened in Toronto, Oakville, Kingston, St. Catherines, Ottawa, and Vancouver. 

The expansion reflects growing demand for boutique fitness concepts that deliver results without high-impact strain and highlights the strength of STRONG Pilates’ global integration and franchise-led model.

It has carved out a distinct position as the only nationwide workout blending Pilates, cardio, and strength into one high-intensity, low-impact session – an approach that continues to resonate with modern Canadian fitness consumers. 

Michael Ramsey
Michael Ramsey

STRONG Pilates Global CEO Michael Ramsey said the brand will have 11 locations in Canada by the start of May.

“The first studio launched in January 2024. That was Little Italy in Toronto. Ever since then, from the inception of the brand, we’ve really started to see that supercharged growth. It’s based on consumer demand, so we find the best thing we can do to expand our footprint is open studios and get people talking. I think it’s relatively strong growth for a 2024 business – exciting times ahead,” said Ramsey.

The brand has 115 locations in 14 countries and soon to be more countries. 

“We’re expanding through Europe a little bit more and into Saudi Arabia and those areas. In the pipeline, we’ve sold over 250 locations, so our goal is to get to 300 by the end of 2027,” said Ramsey.

“Our goal by the end of 2027 is 40 locations in Canada, and I think that’s quite a conservative goal. Given the demand for boutique fitness, particularly Pilates, it’s booming right now. I think we can certainly get to 100 locations in Canada.

“For us, it’s more about slow, sustainable growth with good partners. We don’t want to come in and suddenly open 200 locations. It’s about working with the market and the operators. But I’d like to say we’ll get to 100 for sure.”

Ramsey described STRONG as a Pilates, strength, and cardio concept. 

STRONG Pilates photo
STRONG Pilates photo

“We’re probably the first true hybrid Pilates concept in the world. We use a patented piece of equipment called a Rowformer. It’s effectively a rower attached to a reformer and a bike, and then we have heavy dumbbells, we go up to 30 kilograms, or about 70 pounds,” he explained.

“We fuse Pilates, strength, and cardio together in one. What we’re seeing is that Pilates is booming and having its day in the sun. Not only do we get people who train in Pilates and want a little bit more, we also get people doing functional training, people with regular gym memberships, and people who do spin classes. It’s a really broad mix of consumers.

“In the boutique space, Pilates is popular, but so are many other concepts. People only have so much to spend, and they might have two, three, or four memberships. What makes us different is we give them strength training so they’re building lean muscle, Pilates for mobility and core strength, and cardio for heart health and overall fitness. We’re delivering a full solution, which is why the brand has grown the way it has. It’s been consumer-led, and we have a strong following of people who love what we’re doing and can do it without spending a fortune.”

Ramsey said the typical client ranges anywhere from 16 years old through to 70-plus.

“It’s a very broad client base. For the most part, if I were to create a typical profile, it would be a 28- to 45-year-old female as our primary consumer,” he noted.

STRONG Pilates photo
STRONG Pilates photo

“The really cool thing with us is we’re very gender-neutral in our branding and the way we communicate. Pilates has traditionally been very female-focused in the past, but we probably have the highest male participation of any Pilates brand as well. Some of our studios can get up to 25–30% male participation, which is huge. The average Pilates studio would generally be 90–95% female.

“It’s been really positive for us to get men into Pilates. As I mentioned before, they also get strength training and cardio as well, so it’s a perfect combination.”

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Yorkdale Outpaces Canadian Malls by $700 Per Square Foot

By
Craig Patterson
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Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, 2025. Photo: Craig Patterson

Yorkdale Shopping Centre is not simply Canada’s top-performing shopping centre, it is operating at a level far beyond its peers.

According to the latest data from the International Council of Shopping Centers, Yorkdale achieved $2,368 in sales per square foot in 2025, maintaining its position at the top of the national rankings. The scale of that performance becomes clearer when compared to the next closest competitor. CF Toronto Eaton Centre recorded $1,642 per square foot, leaving a gap of more than $700.

The ICSC rankings highlight a clear tier of high-performing malls across the country, including CF Pacific Centre, CF Chinook Centre, and Square One Shopping Centre. These centres continue to post strong productivity numbers, often exceeding $1,300 per square foot.

However, even within this top tier, Yorkdale stands apart. The gap between first and second place is unusually large for a mature retail market, suggesting that consumer spending is increasingly concentrating in a small number of dominant destinations.

This trend points to a broader industry reality. The best-performing malls are not just competing, they are separating themselves.

Strategy Behind the Performance

Robert Horst

The strength of Yorkdale’s shopping centre sales performance is not accidental. It reflects a deliberate strategy focused on securing category-defining brands and delivering elevated retail experiences.

Robert Horst, Vice President, National Retail at Oxford Properties Group, explained that Yorkdale has consistently prioritized “category defining luxury, first-to-market global brands and flagship formats” that reinforce its position as a leading destination.

Retailers entering Canada often look to Yorkdale first, using the centre as a platform to establish or elevate their presence. This approach has created a virtuous cycle, where high-profile brands attract high-spending customers, which in turn attracts more brands seeking visibility and performance.

Luxury and Experience Drive Results

Luxury retail continues to play a central role in Yorkdale’s dominance. Recent openings and expansions from global brands such as Dior, Saint Laurent, and the upcoming 12,000 square foot Gucci flagship are reinforcing the centre’s position as Canada’s leading luxury destination.

At the same time, Yorkdale’s tenant mix extends beyond traditional luxury. Experiential concepts such as Gentle Monster introduce immersive retail environments that draw visitors and increase dwell time. Dining has also become a strategic component, with premium casual and upscale restaurant offerings contributing to longer visits and higher spending.

Horst noted that these elements work together to create a cohesive ecosystem, where retail, food, and experience reinforce each other and ultimately drive productivity.

Dior Yorkdale store in Toronto. Photo: Daniel Bray, Here and Now Agency

A Destination Model for Canadian Retail

Yorkdale’s performance reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour. Shoppers are increasingly gravitating toward destinations that offer depth, variety, and a high-quality overall experience.

As Horst observed, customers are “gravitating towards best-in-class destinations where they can get the highest depth and breadth of products.” This shift benefits centres that can deliver scale and differentiation, while placing pressure on those that cannot.

New 11,000 sq ft Saint Laurent flagship at Yorkdale. Photo: Dan via Google Maps

Context Within the Oxford Portfolio

Other properties within Oxford’s portfolio are also performing strongly, though at different scales. Square One Shopping Centre reached $1,396 per square foot, ranking among the top centres nationally, while Scarborough Town Centre surpassed $1,000 per square foot for the first time, reflecting significant growth in recent years.

These results highlight the strength of major regional centres in the Greater Toronto Area, particularly those benefiting from population growth, mixed-use development, and evolving tenant strategies.

The Implications for the Industry

Yorkdale’s widening lead is more than a headline figure. It signals a deeper transformation within Canadian retail, where performance is increasingly concentrated in a small number of dominant, experience-driven centres.

For landlords and retailers alike, the message is clear. Scale, brand curation, and customer experience are no longer optional. They are essential to competing in a market where the gap between the leaders and the rest continues to grow.

As the data shows, Yorkdale is not just leading the market. It is redefining what leadership looks like in Canadian retail.

Newly opened RIVIAN showroom at Yorkdale in Toronto. Photo: Yorkdale

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Bath Depot Opens 50th Store, Expands Western Footprint

By
Lee Rivett
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Photo: Bath Depot

Canadian home retailer Bath Depot has reached a milestone with the opening of its 50th store, as the company continues to expand its presence across Western Canada. The newest location opened on April 24 at 170 Mayfield Common NW in Edmonton, marking the retailer’s second store in the city and reinforcing its growing national footprint.

The milestone reflects a broader shift for the Quebec-based company, which has steadily evolved from a regional player into a national contender in the home renovation retail sector. With a growing store network and expanding e-commerce capabilities, Bath Depot is positioning itself to compete across multiple Canadian markets.

A Strategic Milestone in Edmonton

While the Edmonton opening represents the company’s 50th store overall, it is also part of a carefully sequenced expansion into Alberta. Bath Depot first entered the province in September 2024 with a large-format showroom in Calgary on Macleod Trail SE. This was followed by the opening of its first Edmonton location at the Mayfield Common retail node later that year.

The new store builds on that initial momentum, signalling confidence in the Edmonton market and the broader Prairie region. The showroom format, typically between 4,500 and 5,000 square feet, is designed to deliver a customer-focused experience that contrasts with the warehouse-style layouts of many big-box competitors.

“Our 50th store is an important milestone, not just in terms of growth, but in what it represents,” said Andrew St-Charles, Vice President, Strategy at Bath Depot. “We’ve always believed that a Canadian company can compete at a national level while staying true to its values.”

From Quebec Roots to National Expansion

Founded in 2008 in the Greater Montreal area by the Nadeau family, Bath Depot built its early success by focusing on a one-stop-shop model for bathroom, kitchen, and lighting products. The company established a strong base in Quebec before expanding into Ontario, where it now operates more than 20 locations.

Today, the retailer’s network spans 50 stores across Canada, including a growing presence in the Maritimes and Western Canada. The move west began in earnest with a Winnipeg opening in 2025, marking the company’s first entry into the Prairie provinces. Alberta quickly followed as a priority market, with multiple locations opening in rapid succession.

This progression highlights a deliberate strategy to move beyond its Quebec stronghold and establish a coast-to-coast presence.

Image: Bath Depot

Positioning in the Mid-Market Home Renovation Segment

Bath Depot has carved out a distinct position between high-end specialty boutiques and mass-market big-box retailers. Its model relies on direct relationships with manufacturers and a vertically integrated supply chain, including exclusive product lines, allowing it to offer well-designed products at accessible price points.

This “middle-ground” positioning has proven effective in a category where consumers often balance cost, design, and functionality. The showroom approach further supports this strategy by emphasizing curated displays and practical inspiration, rather than bulk inventory presentation.

Riding the Renovation Wave

The company’s expansion comes at a time when Canadian consumers are increasingly investing in their existing homes. Elevated interest rates and housing affordability challenges have contributed to a “renovate rather than relocate” trend, particularly in major urban and suburban markets.

Bathroom and kitchen renovations remain among the most resilient categories within home improvement retail, offering both functional upgrades and lifestyle enhancements. Bath Depot’s focus on these core areas aligns well with current consumer priorities, particularly as wellness and at-home comfort continue to influence spending decisions.

The company’s recent national campaign, “Create Your Escape,” reflects this shift by positioning the bathroom as a personal retreat rather than a purely functional space.

Infrastructure and Long-Term Growth Strategy

Behind the expansion is a significant investment in infrastructure. Between 2021 and 2024, Bath Depot modernized its digital and operational systems, implementing platforms such as LS Central and Microsoft Business Central to support national e-commerce and multi-store operations.

As the company surpasses 50 locations, further investment in logistics is expected, particularly to support Western Canadian growth and reduce shipping times outside of its primary distribution hub in Blainville, Quebec.

Bath Depot remains privately owned by the Nadeau family. This structure allows the company to pursue long-term growth strategies without the pressure of quarterly shareholder expectations, enabling measured expansion into new provinces and markets.

With Alberta now firmly established, Bath Depot is expected to continue expanding westward into British Columbia and Saskatchewan, while also exploring additional opportunities in Atlantic Canada. These moves would complete a truly national footprint and further solidify the company’s position in Canada’s competitive home renovation retail landscape.

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Loblaws Humbertown Reopens Amid Major Redevelopment

By
Craig Patterson
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Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies

The Loblaw Companies Limited banner has returned to Humbertown Shopping Centre with a significantly reimagined Loblaws store, marking a milestone in the broader Humbertown redevelopment underway in Toronto’s west end. The 34,000 square foot supermarket at 270 The Kingsway officially reopened on Friday, following a comprehensive redesign that positions it as a more experiential and community-focused grocery destination.

While the reopening represents the return of a familiar grocery anchor, it also signals a shift in how retail is being integrated into a transforming mixed-use environment. The store is a key component of a multi-phase redevelopment that is reshaping Humbertown from a mid-century suburban plaza into a modern, walkable urban village.

“We are so excited to reopen this highly anticipated Loblaws, designed with our customers in mind,” said Ryan Nelson, Store Manager. “Many returning colleagues and I are excited to welcome the community back to the store.”

Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies

From Suburban Plaza to Urban Village

The Loblaws Humbertown redevelopment is part of a broader transformation led by First Capital REIT in partnership with Tridel. The project is reimagining the 1950s-era Humbertown Shopping Centre into a mixed-use destination that blends retail, residential, and public space.

The grocery store serves as the retail anchor for this master-planned community, which will ultimately include new condominium towers, townhomes, and an expanded retail network. Phase one, which includes the Loblaws redesign and the southern retail portion of the site, is now complete. Subsequent phases will introduce additional retail, office space, and residential density over the coming years.

Urban planning elements are central to the redevelopment. The site is transitioning away from a traditional parking-lot format toward a structured streetscape that includes new pedestrian corridors, public gathering areas, and improved connectivity to surrounding neighbourhoods.

Humbertown Masterplan, image via Urban Strategies

A More Experiential Grocery Format

Inside the store, the redesign reflects a broader evolution in grocery retail toward curated, experience-driven environments. The updated Loblaws Humbertown introduces expanded prepared food offerings, including a prominent grab-and-go section featuring fresh meals, sandwiches, and salads aimed at time-conscious shoppers.

A standout feature is the addition of a cheese wall with more than 300 varieties from around the world, alongside an upgraded bakery with artisanal breads and a dedicated cake counter. These elements position the store closer to a specialty food destination than a conventional supermarket.

The store also includes enhanced international food assortments and a significantly expanded natural and organic department, reflecting growing demand for global flavours and health-oriented products.

Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies

Designed for a Changing Trade Area

The repositioning of the store aligns with the demographics of the surrounding Edenbridge-Humber Valley neighbourhood, where higher-income households are driving demand for premium grocery experiences. The design adopts a more refined aesthetic and a curated merchandising approach, moving away from a traditional big-box format.

This approach signals how grocery retailers are tailoring formats to specific urban trade areas, particularly as mixed-use developments bring new residential density and evolving consumer expectations.

One of the most notable aspects of the Humbertown redevelopment is its emphasis on integrating retail into a broader public realm. The redesigned Loblaws connects to a new outdoor breezeway that encourages pedestrian flow and creates a more open, street-like shopping experience.

The master plan also introduces several public spaces, including landscaped seating areas, pedestrian pathways, and a central village-style square intended to host community activity. These elements reflect a growing trend toward retail environments that function as social and civic spaces rather than purely transactional destinations.

Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies

Part of a National Investment Strategy

The Loblaws Humbertown redevelopment is also part of a broader capital investment program by Loblaw, which is investing approximately $2.4 billion in 2026 to modernize its store network across Canada.

The strategy includes upgrades to 191 locations, with a focus on improving energy efficiency, enhancing fresh and prepared food offerings, and elevating the overall in-store experience. At Humbertown, this includes updated refrigeration systems and energy-efficient lighting aligned with the company’s sustainability goals.

Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies

What Comes Next at Humbertown

With the grocery anchor now complete, attention will shift to the next phases of the redevelopment. Work is ongoing on the northern retail section and second-floor office spaces, with completion targeted for later in 2026.

Future phases will introduce additional residential towers ranging from mid-rise to over 20 storeys, along with new retail space at grade. The evolving tenant mix is expected to include boutique food operators, wellness services, and specialty retailers tailored to the area’s demographic profile.

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Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza grand opening in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies
Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza grand opening in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies
Loblaws at Humbertown Plaza in Toronto. Photo: Loblaw Companies

Specsavers Launches Hilary MacMillan Eyewear Line

By
Lee Rivett
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Specsavers (Image: Southcentre Mall)

Specsavers is deepening its connection to the Canadian market through a new designer collaboration with Hilary MacMillan, introducing a capsule eyewear collection that blends fashion-led design with accessible pricing. The launch reflects a broader strategy by the optical retailer to localize its offering while continuing its rapid national expansion.

The Specsavers Hilary MacMillan eyewear collection, which debuted on April 16, includes 13 optical frames and four sunglasses. The collection is available at all Specsavers locations across Canada, reinforcing the company’s ability to scale designer collaborations nationally through its growing store network.

 

Canadian Design Meets Accessible Eyewear

The collaboration places a spotlight on Canadian fashion design at a time when retailers are increasingly seeking localized partnerships to resonate with domestic consumers. Founded in Toronto in 2013, Hilary MacMillan has built a reputation for bold colour, extended sizing, and a focus on inclusivity, elements that translate into the eyewear collection’s design language.

Drawing inspiration from 1970s aesthetics, the collection incorporates sculptural silhouettes, colour transitions, and subtle tartan detailing tied to MacMillan’s Scottish heritage. The result is a range positioned as both expressive and wearable, aligning with broader consumer demand for individuality in everyday accessories.

“As someone who’s worn glasses on and off throughout my life, I’ve always understood how deeply personal eyewear is,” said Hilary MacMillan. “Intention is everything. I’m always thinking about how something fits, how it feels, how it empowers the wearer.”

That philosophy is evident in the collection’s emphasis on versatility and comfort, with designs intended for regular use rather than occasional styling.

 

Localization as a Growth Strategy

For Specsavers, the partnership signals a continued shift toward embedding itself within Canada’s fashion and retail landscape. Since entering the market in late 2021, the company has expanded aggressively, opening more than 270 locations across nine provinces and one territory in just a few years.

By collaborating with a Canadian designer, Specsavers is positioning itself beyond a value-focused optical retailer and into a more fashion-conscious space. This approach mirrors strategies seen in other retail categories, where global brands partner with local creatives to build cultural relevance.

“When values align, collaboration feels effortless,” said Juan Carlos Camargo, Product Director at Specsavers Canada. “Hilary’s approach to fashion mirrors our mission to make high quality eyewear easily accessible to Canadians.”

The Specsavers Hilary MacMillan eyewear collection also reinforces the company’s core value proposition. Pricing begins at $199 for two pairs, maintaining the brand’s emphasis on affordability while introducing a designer-led aesthetic.

Eyewear as a Fashion Category

The launch reflects a broader evolution of eyewear within retail, where glasses and sunglasses are increasingly treated as fashion accessories rather than purely functional products. As consumers seek both style and value, retailers are responding with collaborations that deliver design credibility at accessible price points.

In this context, the Specsavers Hilary MacMillan eyewear collection positions the brand at the intersection of fashion and healthcare retail. Each Specsavers location in Canada is equipped with optical coherence tomography technology, supporting early detection of eye conditions while also offering a curated retail experience.

“Partnering with Specsavers was an easy decision,” said MacMillan. “They helped bring my vision for the collection to life in a way that felt natural for our brand.”

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Daily Synopsis: Apr 24, 2026

By
Retail Insider
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8 Best NetSuite Implementation Providers in 2026

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Retail Insider
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NetSuite unifies customer relationship management, inventory, financials and e-commerce into a single cloud-based system. For retailers managing multiple sales channels, it promises to streamline everything from order processing to financial reporting.

However, the reality of implementation does not always align with marketing promises. Retailers that underestimate the technical complexity and workflow customization requirements will struggle to make NetSuite function as intended. Without expert guidance, what should be a quick project stretches into a months-long slog with setbacks.

Third-party implementation partners bridge this gap. They provide consulting expertise, technical configuration and continuous support. Not all service providers offer the same service depth or regional accessibility. Selecting the right one determines whether implementation succeeds or stalls.

How the Best NetSuite Providers Were Selected

Every company on this list assists with implementing the enterprise resource planning (ERP) software NetSuite. Their range of services covers consulting, implementation, customizations and ongoing support.

These companies were vetted based on their status as certified Oracle Partners or leading NetSuite Solution Providers. Their consultants and developers hold NetSuite certifications, demonstrating expertise in administering and utilizing the platform.

These partners provide highly structured implementation methodologies designed to ensure business processes and customizations work seamlessly. Oracle NetSuite awards its five-star rating only to top solution providers in the global partner program. Those who have received it represent the strongest choices.

While some partners have country or region-wide service areas, they have proven track records in key metropolitan areas. For effective implementation, clients need local support from named professionals who operate in the same time zone.

Top NetSuite Implementation Providers by Region

The Vested Group, Bee Aura Tech, AlphaBOLD, Rand Group, Anchor Group, Centium Consulting, Versich and Suite Solutions Group are among the leading NetSuite implementation providers in the United States. Each one has a unique set of strengths and excels in different regions.

1. The Vested Group: Best in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area

As a certified NetSuite ERP provider, The Vested Group is the premier NetSuite implementation provider in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It specializes in consulting, implementation, customization and ongoing support for the full range of NetSuite products, delivering comprehensive services.

Its fully managed NetSuite support service keeps retail operations running smoothly. Retailers interact with a named account team for consistent communication and accountability. Program implementation follows project initiation, solution design, application configuration, testing and preparation, and deployment and support.

Key Features

  • Comprehensive NetSuite expertise: It specializes in the full range of NetSuite products with certified consultants who understand retail-specific requirements.
  • Structured implementation methodology: The five-phase approach ensures systematic deployment from initial planning through ongoing support.
  • Named account teams: Retailers work with dedicated professionals who provide consistent support and build deep familiarity with clients’ businesses.

2. Bee Aura Tech: Best in New York City

With over 75 NetSuite-certified consultants and developers, Bee Aura Tech delivers world-class services to clients in New York City. The team maintains an on-time delivery rate of 98%, and offshore centers offer 24/7 support.

It offers onshore and offshore services to keep support and implementation cost-effective. Clients save 45% more with these services than they would with other NetSuite partners. In addition to consulting, implementation and support, it delivers customized reporting and analytics solutions tailored to retail operations.

Key Features

  • Large certified team: Over 75 NetSuite-certified professionals provide deep expertise across all implementation phases.
  • 24/7 support availability: Offshore centers ensure round-the-clock assistance for urgent technical issues.
  • Cost-effective service model: The hybrid onshore-offshore approach reduces implementation costs compared to competitors.

3. AlphaBOLD: Best in the San Diego County Region

The technical team at AlphaBOLD goes beyond providing setup assistance, tailoring the platform to retailers’ workflows and return-on-investment objectives. As a NetSuite Alliance Partner, it delivers specific industry expertise to configure the platform to retailers’ unique business needs.

By automating invoice generation, financial consolidation and expense reporting, it has configured NetSuite to decrease month-end close time by up to 50%. Its suite of tools and processes has helped businesses reduce excess inventory by 20% and improve supply chain visibility by 30%.

Key Features

  • ROI-focused customization: Tailors platform configuration to specific workflow and financial performance objectives.
  • Proven efficiency gains: Clients achieve up to 50% faster month-end close times through automated financial processes.
  • Inventory optimization: Implementation strategies have reduced excess inventory by 20% and improved supply chain visibility by 30%.

4. Rand Group: Best in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago-based businesses can work side-by-side with the Rand Group team. It offers consulting, implementation, reporting and support services with deep expertise in both NetSuite tools and the business operations behind the applications.

Retailers can choose between rapidly deployed preconfigured packages or fully tailored custom NetSuite solutions. This flexibility allows them to select the implementation approach that best matches their timeline and customization requirements. Its 90% client retention rate demonstrates commitment to long-term relationships and lasting success.

Key Features

  • Dual expertise: The team combines technical NetSuite knowledge with a deep understanding of retail business operations.
  • Flexible deployment options: It offers preconfigured packages or fully customized solutions tailored to client needs.
  • High client retention: The 90% retention rate reflects strong ongoing relationships and consistent delivery quality.

5. Anchor Group: Best in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

As a certified Alliance Partner and Commerce partner, Anchor Group delivers development, consulting, accounting, e-commerce, bookkeeping and managed services. While its headquarters are in Wisconsin, it can send consultants and developers to Pennsylvania for flexible, on-site support.

In 2022, it was named NetSuite’s Alliance Partner Spotlight Winner for retail, demonstrating its history of delivering measurable results for businesses in this sector.

Key Features

  • Multicertified partner status: Holds both Alliance Partner and Commerce partner certifications for comprehensive service capabilities.
  • Flexible support model: Provides on-site consultants in Pennsylvania for hands-on implementation assistance.
  • Retail-focused excellence: 2022 NetSuite Alliance Partner Spotlight Winner for retail demonstrates sector-specific expertise.

6. Centium Consulting: Best in Jacksonville, Florida

Over 500 clients across midmarket industries trust Centium Consulting with NetSuite implementation and optimization. Its core services cover implementation, performance tuning, role-based reporting and ongoing support. It keeps retailers up to date with new features, integrations and continuous improvements.

The team has experience with retailers in and around Jacksonville, bringing both NetSuite expertise and hands-on industry experience to the table. Its implementations have helped Jacksonville businesses achieve 99% system uptime, 30% productivity increases and 20% faster performance.

Key Features

  • Extensive client portfolio: Over 500 midmarket clients demonstrate scalable expertise across industries.
  • Performance optimization focus: It delivers performance tuning and continuous improvements that achieve 20% faster system performance.
  • Exceptional reliability: Clients experience 99% system uptime and 30% productivity increases post-implementation.

7. Versich: Best in Phoenix, Arizona

The Versich team helps businesses implement, integrate, customize and optimize NetSuite. It has worked with multiple retailers in Phoenix and positions itself as a strategic partner, rather than just a service provider.

The team can help clients implement NetSuite in four to eight weeks, which is much faster than the 12 to 16 weeks that other partners take. At three, six and 12 months, it measures clients’ return on investment to quantify real-world business impact.

Key Features

  • Accelerated implementation timeline: It completes implementations in four to eight weeks compared to the typical 12 to 16 weeks.
  • Strategic partnership approach: The company positions itself beyond transactional service delivery to provide ongoing strategic guidance.
  • ROI measurement framework: It tracks and quantifies business impact at three, six and 12-month intervals post-implementation.

8. Suite Solutions Group: Best in Seattle, Washington

Based in Seattle, Washington, Suite Solutions Group serves business-to-business enterprises across a range of industries. It offers optimization, implementation, ongoing support, training and outsourced administrator solutions.

The certified NetSuite consultants and developers bring years of hands-on experience to every engagement. They even conduct NetSuite audits and health checks to guarantee optimal usage and identify configuration improvements.

Key Features

  • Comprehensive service portfolio: The company covers optimization, implementation, support, training and outsourced administrator services.
  • Proactive system maintenance: Regular NetSuite audits and health checks identify optimization opportunities before issues arise.
  • B2B specialization: Its focus on business-to-business enterprises ensures understanding of complex multientity requirements.

Choosing the Right NetSuite Implementation Partner

Retailers should choose a partner that aligns with their company’s specific needs, budget and geographical location. Consultants with regional expertise understand local market conditions and can provide on-site support in clients’ time zones.

Decision-makers should evaluate potential partners based on their NetSuite certifications, service offerings and implementation methodology. They should also ask about timeline expectations, cost structures and post-implementation support options to find their ideal provider.

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