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Urgent carbon tax, capital gains questions: CFIB

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) said it welcomes Ottawa’s decision to scrap the carbon tax but is concerned about some important outstanding carbon, capital and alcohol tax matters.

Dan Kelly

“Small businesses will be pleased to see the end of the federal carbon tax. Given how long small business owners have been getting the runaround from the federal government, it’s not surprising that 83% of them wanted the entire system gone,” said Dan Kelly, CFIB president.

“But this move does not address all of the outstanding carbon tax business. Small firms need more certainty, especially as we gear up for a federal election and the ongoing trade war. They need clarity on the tax status of their carbon tax rebates heading into tax season. Despite repeated commitments from the Minister of Finance to ensure they are tax free, the CRA maintains that with no official order, the $2.5 billion small business rebate delivered last December remains taxable.”

While the federal government has announced the final round of carbon rebate payments for individuals on April 22, 2025, there is no word on the final year of the carbon rebate for small businesses which is expected to return over $500 million to small firms this year. In addition, many small firms are waiting on legislation which was to extend the deadline to qualify for the rebate to December 31, 2024, said the national organization.

The CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 100,000 members across every industry and region.

As small firms are dealing with U.S.-Canada and Chinese tariffs, the CFIB is urging government and all parties to find a way to fix the outstanding tax matters:

  • Return over $500 million in 2024-25 carbon tax rebates to small business (as promised)
  • Pass legislation to prevent over $3 billion in small business carbon rebates from being taxed (as promised)
  • Extend the qualifying deadline for past rebates to December 31, 2024 (as promised)
  • Scrap the automatic April 1 increase in the alcohol excise tax
  • Pass proposed legislation to increase the lifetime capital gains exemption threshold to $1.25M and legislate the Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive (as promised).
Corinne Pohlmann

“Leaving these tax issues outstanding is deeply unfair to Canada’s small businesses. Right now, Canadian entrepreneurs don’t even know if the rebate cheques they received in December are taxable, nor whether the 2024 payment will ever happen. Not only is this ridiculous, but it’s yet another tax uncertainty at a time of great economic turbulence,” said Corinne Pohlmann, Executive Vice-President of Advocacy at CFIB. “We need government and – in advance of the election – all political parties, to make clear where things are headed.”

Small businesses can learn more about CFIB’s advocacy on carbon tax here. 

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IKEA Canada breaks ground on new Customer Distribution Centre in Hamilton

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Breaking ground at the site of the future IKEA Hamilton CDC and Collection point // Selwyn Crittendon, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA Canada (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)

IKEA Canada has broken ground at the location of the future IKEA Hamilton Customer Distribution Centre (CDC) and Collection point.

The new unit is part of a more than $400 million investment to enhance its omnichannel journey and retail experience to become even more affordable and convenient for Canadians. Located at 212 Glover Road, with a final size of 483,285 square feet, once certified, the Hamilton CDC will be among the top five largest zero carbon industrial buildings in Ontario, said the retail giant.

Selwyn Crittendon
Selwyn Crittendon

“We are incredibly excited to announce this significant investment in one of our key markets across Canada,” said Selwyn Crittendon, CEO & Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA Canada.

“This expansion is a testament to our commitment to becoming more accessible, affordable, and sustainable for our customers. The groundbreaking of our new Customer Distribution Centre and Collection point in Hamilton marks a major milestone in our journey to enhance the omnichannel shopping experience and better serve the needs and dreams of Canadians. We are grateful for the exceptional support of the City of Hamilton and the local community in bringing this vision to life.”

The new Hamilton CDC and Collection point is anticipated to open in the summer of 2027. In the meantime, the company said it will continue to optimize its existing network design to ensure that the necessary capacity is available to support Greater Toronto Area market growth until the future Hamilton CDC is open.

“As a home furnishings retailer, IKEA believes in having a positive impact on both people and the planet. Globally, IKEA is on a journey to accelerate its climate actions, aiming to halve emissions across the entire IKEA value chain by 2030, reach net zero emissions by 2050, and achieve more than 90% of home deliveries made by zero-emissions vehicles by 2028,” said the company.

“To support its sustainability ambitions, the new Hamilton CDC building will aim for Net Zero Carbon national certification, LEED Gold certification, net positive energy annually, and contribute to zero emission transportation targets.”

The retailer said it is strengthening its fulfilment network in the GTA to be able to provide accessible and affordable home furnishings solutions to even more Canadians. The new IKEA Hamilton CDC facility will play a crucial role in keeping products readily available and delivery times short, while providing a dynamic omnichannel shopping experience that meets local needs and dreams. The location of Hamilton is highly accessible from a transport perspective and ideal for future growth in the market, it said.

Breaking ground at the site of the future IKEA Hamilton CDC and Collection point. Left to right: Lisa Quondamatteo, Swedish Canadian Chamber of Commerce; Liz Wilson, IKEA Canada; Drina Omazic, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce; Tammy Hwang, Hamilton City Councillor; Esther Pauls, Hamilton City Councillor; Selwyn Crittendon, IKEA Canada; Mark Tadeson, Hamilton City Councillor; Beth Izatt, IKEA Canada; Terry Cado, Burlington Chamber of Commerce; and Geoff Macdonald, IKEA Canada (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)

“The Hamilton CDC will feature a Collection point where customers can pick up their IKEA orders, providing a more convenient option for those living in the Greater Hamilton Area. IKEA products or food will not be available for immediate takeaway. IKEA has been successful in the Canadian market for nearly 50 years due to its deep understanding of how people live at home. Through home visits and life at home insights, IKEA understands its customers’ needs and dreams, helping to create functional and inspirational home furnishing solutions that meet them. It is the ambition that the IKEA Hamilton CDC will support customers in transforming their spaces to meet the evolving needs of home with affordable and convenient access to its home furnishing solutions,” added IKEA.

Andrea Howarth
Andrea Horwath

“I would like to thank IKEA for their commitment to Hamilton and its residents. When this net-zero distribution facility is completed, it will be built to some of the Canada Green Building Council’s highest environmental standards. And in offering an additional pick-up point for merchandise, this site will further reduce the distance that Hamiltonians need to travel to access goods from IKEA,” says Mayor Andrea Horwath, City of Hamilton.  “This investment is an outstanding example of how my Council colleagues, and I believe ecological stewardship and economic development are complementary forces to support long-term growth and prosperity.”
 
IKEA said the Hamilton CDC will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, including warehouse, delivery, kitchen installation, design services, B2B, and third-party (Task Rabbit) assembly roles – all dedicated to helping customers bring their homes to life.

“IKEA is committed to creating a lifelong relationship with its co-workers and is proud to offer an inclusive and supportive workplace where they can build their careers. IKEA’s Co-worker Resource Groups (CRGs) support individuals from racialized, Indigenous, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, as well as promote gender balance in the workforce, which is particularly important when it comes to opportunities in fulfilment. IKEA is equally committed to prioritizing co-worker wellness, ensuring that our approach is intersectional, addressing the diverse and overlapping needs of our workforce,” it said.

Founded in 1943 in Sweden, IKEA is a leading home furnishing retailer, offering a wide range of well-designed, functional home furnishing products at prices so low that as many people as possible can afford them. IKEA Canada is part of Ingka Group which operates 400 IKEA stores in 31 countries, including 16 in Canada. Last year, IKEA Canada welcomed 32.6 million visitors to its stores and 162.6 million visitors to IKEA.ca.

RioCan Addresses Impact of Hudson’s Bay CCAA Filing

By
Craig Patterson
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Hudson's Bay flagship store in downtown Montreal in 2021. Photo: Maxime Frechette

Toronto-based RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust has issued a statement in response to the Hudson’s Bay Company’s (HBC) recent filing under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA). The REIT, which has a long-standing relationship with HBC through the RioCan-HBC Joint Venture (JV), expressed its disappointment over the development but reiterated its confidence in mitigating any negative impacts on its portfolio.

HBC, which filed for CCAA protection on March 7, 2025, has been a key tenant in multiple RioCan properties. The restructuring process will likely lead to significant operational and financial changes for Canada’s oldest department store chain.

RioCan’s Exposure to HBC

According to RioCan, its financial exposure to HBC remains significant. As of December 31, 2024, the company held a $249 million carrying value in the RioCan-HBC JV, with the venture contributing $23.7 million to Net Operating Income (NOI) and $13.6 million to Funds From Operations (FFO). Additionally, RioCan has provided $88.7 million in credit support through a combination of loan guarantees and mezzanine loans to HBC, with collateral securing its interests in several JV properties. The company also earned $6.6 million in fees for these financial services and an additional $3.3 million in interest income from the JV.

Despite these figures, RioCan emphasized its strategic approach to protecting its assets and minimizing financial risk. The REIT stated that it has secured termination options and other rights to safeguard its position within the JV, ensuring flexibility as the situation unfolds.

Prime Locations and Redevelopment Opportunities

RioCan’s JV with HBC includes 13 properties, many of which are located in major Canadian cities, such as Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa. Some of these locations operate as standalone HBC stores, while others exist within multi-tenant properties like Oakville Place and Georgian Mall. One of the 13 stores is a Saks OFF 5TH at RioCan’s Tanger Outlets in Ottawa.

Jonathan Gitlin, President and CEO of RioCan, highlighted the value of these properties and their long-term potential. “The HBC JV assets are located in prime urban markets and hold substantial value, either as operating retail centres or as redevelopment opportunities,” said Gitlin.

Gitlin also reaffirmed RioCan’s ability to adapt to changing retail landscapes. “RioCan has a demonstrated track record of successfully backfilling vacancies and repositioning assets. We are well-prepared to manage this situation and will take the necessary steps to protect the interests of our unitholders and stakeholders.”

Navigating the Uncertainty

While the impact of HBC’s restructuring remains uncertain, RioCan remains committed to actively managing the situation. The company acknowledged that navigating the complexities of HBC’s financial restructuring will require collaboration with all involved stakeholders.

“This process will take time and will require a thoughtful and strategic approach,” Gitlin added. “We have a strong core business, a dedicated team, and a solid balance sheet that positions us well to address these challenges.”

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Hudson’s Bay Liquidation Sparks Real Estate Uncertainty

By
Craig Patterson
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Exterior entrance to the Hudson's Bay store at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Best Edmonton Mall

The proposed liquidation of the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) has cast uncertainty over its substantial real estate footprint, raising concerns among landlords and stakeholders about the broader impact on the retail sector. While immediate challenges are evident, particularly for property owners and creditors, the long-term outlook suggests that the sector will adapt, with prime locations poised to retain value. 

Court adjourned Tuesday with no decision made by Ontario Justice Peter J. Osborne about the liquidation of stores or the sale of any Hudson’s Bay properties. 

RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust is notably affected due to its joint venture with HBC, encompassing 12 store properties, including prominent downtown locations. In a press release on Tuesday, RioCan expressed disappointment over HBC’s filing for creditor protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) on March 7, 2025. The trust emphasized the necessity for any restructuring to be conducted on fair and balanced terms, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the interests of its unitholders and stakeholders.

Jonathan Gitlin, President and CEO of RioCan, stated, “The HBC locations in the JV include prime real estate within Canada’s major markets, that have value either as operating retail centres or redevelopment opportunities. Our team has a proven track record of finding solutions for vacant space and will work to protect the value of the real estate in the JV.”

For the year ended December 31, 2024, RioCan’s exposure to HBC was detailed as follows: 

  • Joint Venture Value: The RioCan-HBC JV had a carrying value of $249.0 million, representing 3.3% of RioCan’s equity.
  • Financial Contributions: The JV contributed $23.7 million to RioCan’s Net Operating Income (3.2% on a proportionate share basis) and $13.6 million to Funds From Operations (2.5% of FFO).
  • Credit Support: RioCan provided credit support totaling $88.7 million to HBC through the JV, including loan guarantees and mezzanine loans, secured by interests in several JV properties.

The specific properties involved in the JV include flagship locations in Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa, among others, totaling approximately 842,000 square feet of net leasable area.

Hudson’s Bay at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre is one of the stores jointly owned by RioCan. Photo: Greg Southern

Potential Redevelopment Opportunities

Despite the challenges posed by HBC’s liquidation, there are potential opportunities for landlords to repurpose the vacated spaces. Large retail areas could be transformed into smaller retail units, entertainment venues, or even grocery stores to align with evolving consumer preferences. This can be expensive, however.

The traditional reliance on department stores as anchor tenants has diminished, with brands like Nike, Apple, Canada Goose, and Lululemon now serving as primary traffic drivers. Mixed-use developments that incorporate residential, office, and entertainment spaces also help mitigate the impact of losing major retailers. 

Gitlin emphasized the value of the prime real estate within the JV, noting that these properties hold potential as either operating retail centres or redevelopment projects. He highlighted RioCan’s proven track record in addressing vacant spaces and its commitment to protecting the value of the JV’s real estate.

Hudson’s Bay flagship store in downtown Montreal in 2021. Photo: Maxime Frechette

Broader Implications for the Retail Sector

The release of significant retail space into the market is anticipated to exert downward pressure on lease rates in the short term, particularly in secondary and tertiary shopping centres. Malls with weaker foot traffic may face challenges in attracting tenants for large spaces, whereas high-performing malls are likely to adapt by attracting sought-after brands and incorporating experiential retail elements. 

Nonetheless, prime Hudson’s Bay locations are expected to remain in demand, and innovative repurposing strategies will be crucial for property owners aiming to maintain asset value. 

HBC’s filing under the CCAA allows the company to restructure its operations, streamline costs, and refocus on its core strengths. The company is exploring strategic alternatives and engaging stakeholders to explore potential solutions to preserve and strengthen its business. However, industry observers remain skeptical about the retailer’s ability to execute a successful turnaround, and we’ll know more with Justice Osborne’s upcoming ruling. 

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Alimentation Couche-Tard sees revenue and net earnings growth in Q3

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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PHOTO: CIRCLE K

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. (TSX: ATD) has announced its results for its third quarter ended February 2, 2025, indicating net earnings attributable to shareholders were $641.4 million compared with $623.4 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2024.

Alex Miller
Alex Miller

“We are pleased to report positive improvements in the business this quarter. While consumers continue to be cautious in their spending, we are seeing encouraging signs of resilience. Same-store sales were positive in both Canada and Europe compared to the same quarter last year, and we had sequential improvement in the United States, impacted by historic winter storms in our southern business units,” said Alex Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer.

“Food continued to grow in the United States as our meal deal promotions performed well and have been extended to Canada. In our fuel business, we are maintaining market share in the United States and margins aligned with recent quarters. As inflationary pressure persists, our number one priority is winning our customers by being ready with the products and services they want at compelling value.”

Filipe Da Silva
Filipe Da Silva

Filipe Da Silva, Chief Financial Officer, added: “We delivered notable progress this quarter, delivering our most improved performance in over a year as we continue to navigate challenging consumer trends, particularly in the United States. Our results reflect a balanced mix of organic growth and acquisitions, demonstrating the strength of our globally diversified network, the success of our integration activities and our commitment to drive long-term sustainable growth. This quarter also marks the one-year anniversary of the acquisition of certain assets from TotalEnergies, which is on track for synergy realization and continues to deliver solid results thanks to the dedicated efforts of all of our team members.”

Quarterly Highlights

  • Total merchandise and service revenues of $5.3 billion, an increase of 5.0%. Same-store merchandise revenues decreased by 0.1% in the United States, while it increased by 0.2% in Europe and other regions1, and by 2.8% in Canada.
  • Merchandise and service gross margin increased by 0.9% in the United States to 34.0%, decreased by 0.2% in Europe and other regions to 39.0%, and decreased by 1.8% in Canada to 32.4%.
  • Same-store road transportation fuel volumes decreased by 3.0% in the United States, by 0.9% in Europe and other regions, while it increased by 3.6% in Canada.

“Our revenues were $20.9 billion for the third quarter of fiscal 2025, up by $1.3 billion, an increase of 6.5% compared with the corresponding quarter of fiscal 2024, mainly attributable to the contribution from acquisitions and higher revenues in our wholesale fuel business, partly offset by a lower average road transportation fuel selling price, softness in fuel demand and traffic impacted by unusual winter conditions in the United States, as well as the net negative impact of approximately $212.0 million from the transaction of our foreign currency operations into US dollars,” said the company.

“For the first three quarters of fiscal 2025, our revenues increased by $4.9 billion, or 9.5%, compared with the corresponding period of fiscal 2024, mainly attributable to similar factors as those of the third quarter. The translation of our foreign currency operations into US dollars had a net negative impact of approximately $204.0 million on our revenues.”

Couche-Tard is a global leader in convenience and mobility, operating in 29 countries and territories, with close to 17,000 stores, of which approximately 13,000 offer road transportation fuel. With its well-known Couche-Tard and Circle K banners, it is one of the largest independent convenience store operators in the United States and it is a leader in the convenience store industry and road transportation fuel retail in Canada, Scandinavia, the Baltics, Belgium, as well as in Ireland. It also has an important presence in Luxembourg, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, as well as in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. Approximately 149,000 people are employed throughout its network.

Canadian Fashion Survey Launches to Understand Consumers

By
Craig Patterson
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In an effort to better understand the evolving landscape of Canadian fashion, Vainqueur Magazine (VQ) has launched an ambitious new survey aimed at decoding the behaviours, preferences, and cultural impact of consumers across the country. As Canada’s $35-billion fashion industry continues to shift, this study seeks to identify key trends, highlight influential designers, and map out regional style identities in an increasingly digital and globalized market.

[Take Vainqueur’s Fashion Culture Survey Here]

“This is a transformative year for Canada’s economic nationalism,” says Danica Samuel, founder, CEO, and editor-in-chief of Vainqueur Magazine. “We’ve been pushed politically into celebrating the greener grass on this side: our brands, our businesses, and our talent. I love that Vainqueur followers and subscribers are also committed to spotlighting Canadian fashion. There’s a mutual desire to place our culture at the forefront of the global fashion industry.”

The survey, which marks the launch of VQ’s new insights division, is led by data analyst Selasi Dorkenoo, who brings expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research. Dorkenoo aims to provide strategic insights that will help redefine Canadian fashion culture and inform the magazine’s editorial direction.

“Many surveys and reports have overlooked the homegrown designers, brands, and trendsetters shaping our fashion landscape,” says Dorkenoo. “I’m excited to work with Vainqueur to examine how Canadians engage with their own style and brands—from the casual shopper to the high-fashion enthusiast.”

The Push for Canadian Fashion Identity

The initiative comes at a time when Canada is experiencing a cultural shift toward prioritizing local brands and homegrown talent. While Montreal alone generates $8 billion in fashion manufacturing and wholesale sales, the country has struggled to establish a globally competitive luxury market. As international brands continue to dominate major retail corridors, Canadian designers often look abroad for recognition and opportunity.

“We missed a crucial opportunity in 2015  when fashion manufacturing took a hit,” explains Samuel. “When the industry moved toward fast fashion, manufacturing jobs in Montreal dropped from 22,000 to about 6,000. That was the time for Canada to reposition itself with a strong fashion identity, but we didn’t. Instead, we continued to rely on imports and foreign trends.”

By gathering comprehensive consumer data, Vainqueur’s survey aims to identify the motivations driving Canadian fashion choices and provide key insights for economic strategies in major metropolitan markets like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

The Struggle to Retain Canadian Talent

Despite having a wealth of creative talent, many of Canada’s top designers have sought opportunities abroad. Christopher Bates operates in Milan, Dan and Dean Caten of DSquared2 base their global operations out of Italy, and Erdem Moralioglu has long been a fixture of London’s high-fashion scene.

“It’s a challenge for luxury designers to build a brand here,” Samuel acknowledges. “We’ve produced LVMH Prize winners such as Thomas Tai and Vejas Kruszewski. We have incredible talent, but we’re not supporting them the way other countries do.”

Retail, on the other hand, has seen stronger success. Brands like Aritzia, Canada Goose, and Lululemon have scaled internationally, proving that a Canadian retail model can work—just not necessarily in the luxury fashion segment.

“The question is, how do we treat these players at home? How do we claim them as part of our national identity?” Samuel asks.

Reclaiming Canada’s Fashion Capital Status

One of the biggest challenges for Canadian fashion has been the loss of major fashion weeks. While Montreal’s Mmode continues to host events, Toronto’s once-prominent Fashion Week collapsed in 2016 due to sponsorship losses. Unlike Paris, Milan, or even New York, Canada has struggled to maintain an internationally recognized platform for showcasing homegrown talent.

“Toronto Fashion Week was close to becoming a recognized stop on the global circuit,” Samuel recalls. “But when sponsors pulled out and Fashion Television ended, we lost momentum.”

Newer initiatives like Fashion Art Toronto (F.A.T) and the RCHIVE Fashion Club are attempting to fill the void, but sustaining a strong fashion identity requires broader industry support.

Encouraging Canadians to Shop Local

One key insight from early survey data suggests that Canadians want to support local fashion but often don’t know where to start. Samuel believes the media plays a crucial role in shaping consumer habits.

“We need to shift the conversation,” she says. “Rather than positioning Canadian fashion as a niche alternative, we should be presenting it as a world-class industry—just like we do in music, film, and literature.”

Vainqueur’s goal is to normalize Canadian fashion as part of the global conversation, rather than relegating it to “Canadian brands to watch” lists.

“We’re not framing Canadian fashion as an underdog story,” Samuel asserts. “We’re treating it as fashion—period.”

Next Steps: Data, Reports, and Policy Impact

The survey is set to run through Q3 and Q4 of 2025, with a target of at least 200 respondents. Vainqueur hopes to publish a comprehensive industry report detailing findings on regional style differences, spending habits, and brand recognition. The magazine is also exploring partnerships with major research firms like Léger, which could expand the survey reach to thousands of Canadians.

For Samuel and her team, this is just the beginning. “This survey is a stepping stone toward larger conversations on fashion policy, economic investment, and cultural capital. If we truly want to make Canada a leader in fashion, we need real data to support it.”

As the industry waits for the full results, one thing is certain: Vainqueur’s efforts could play a critical role in reshaping the future of Canadian fashion.

[Take Vainqueur’s Fashion Culture Survey Here]

Sephora Canada launches first-ever Sephora Squad to celebrate diversity and uplift emerging creators

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Image: Sephora

Sephora Canada is set to amplify the unique beauty of Canadians with the introduction of its inaugural Sephora Squad Canada. This new program aims to spotlight the country’s diverse talent by creating a space where emerging creators can thrive.

Applications for the Sephora Squad Canada officially open on March 25. The program will bring together up to 10 passionate beauty lovers from all walks of life, each representing the rich cultural mosaic of Canada. Sephora is seeking creators who reflect the diversity, authenticity, and values of the brand, and who are committed to fostering a sense of community within the beauty space.

Allison Litzinger
Allison Litzinger

“We knew it was time to bring together a Sephora Squad that’s uniquely and proudly Canadian – one that authentically represents the incredible diversity of our country,” said Allison Litzinger, SVP of Marketing at Sephora Canada.

“With our first-ever Sephora Squad Canada, we’re spotlighting rising and diverse creators who embody this spirit, giving them a platform to share their stories, a community that lifts them up, and a space where they feel seen and celebrated. We’re excited to expand and evolve this program here in Canada, helping to grow and shape the beauty creator landscape here in a meaningful and positive way.”

Sephora Squad Canada aims to provide its members with more than just exposure. Selected creators will gain access to exclusive content partnerships, mentorship opportunities, and direct connections with coveted beauty brands, founders, and local events. This initiative underscores Sephora’s commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices in the beauty industry, with a special focus on micro and mid-level creators active on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Although experience with beauty content is a must, Sephora Squad is also welcoming creators with diverse interests in lifestyle, fashion, wellness, and other creative fields. The program recognizes that beauty is intertwined with self-expression in all its forms.

To apply, creators must be 18 years or older and reside in Canada. For more information on how to apply, visit sephorasquad.ca and follow @sephoracanada on Instagram for updates.

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Consumer prices spike in February: Statistics Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.6% year over year in February, following an increase of 1.9% in January, according to a report released Tuesday by Statistics Canada.

While faster price growth was broad-based in February, the end of the goods and services tax (GST) /harmonized sales tax (HST) break partway through the month contributed notable upward pressure to prices for eligible products. Slower price growth for gasoline prices (+5.1%) moderated the all-item CPI acceleration, said the federal agency.

On a monthly basis, prices rose 1.1% in February. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, the the index rose 0.7%, it added.

“With the federal tax break ending on February 15, the GST and HST were reapplied to eligible products. This put upward pressure on consumer prices for those items, as taxes paid by consumers are included in the CPI,” explained Statistics Canada.

“As a result, prices for food purchased from restaurants declined at a slower pace year over year in February (-1.4%) compared with January (-5.1%). Restaurant food prices contributed the most to the acceleration in the all-items CPI in February. Similarly, on a yearly basis, alcoholic beverages purchased from stores declined 1.4% in February, following a 3.6% decline in January.”

On a year-over-year basis, gasoline prices decelerated, with a 5.1% increase in February following an 8.6% gain in January. Prices rose less month over month in February 2025 compared with February 2024, when higher global crude oil prices pushed up gasoline prices, leading to slower year-over-year price growth in February 2025, noted the federal agency.

“Month over month, prices for gasoline rose 0.6% in February. This increase was largely related to higher refining costs amid planned refinery maintenance across North America. This offset lower crude oil prices, which were largely a result of increased American supply and tariff threats, which contributed to concerns of slowing global growth.”

Tariffs affect many facets of the economy, including inflation. The imposition of tariffs by the United States and/or countermeasure tariffs by the Canadian government will have an impact on prices paid by Canadian consumers in the coming months. Read more about the potential impacts of US tariffs on the Bank of Canada’s website, said Statistics Canada.

Katherine Judge
Katherine Judge

Katherine Judge, Senior Economist at CIBC Capital Markets, said the unexpected pickup in core measures isn’t good news as this doesn’t yet reflect the impact of tariffs, which will see headline CPI exceed 3% y/y in the coming months.
Katherine Judge

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IKEA Canada shines spotlight on sleep poverty this National Sleep Awareness Month

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

This National Sleep Awareness Month, IKEA Canada is addressing a pressing issue that affects families across the country—sleep poverty. As a leader in home furnishings, IKEA said it is dedicated to helping people achieve better sleep because, as the company believes, a good night’s sleep is essential for a healthier, happier life. In line with this mission, IKEA Canada has launched its first-of-its-kind global IKEA Sleep Report 2025, which explores how people sleep, what affects their sleep quality, and how these issues can be addressed.

A key finding of the report highlights the connection between financial insecurity and poor sleep quality. Those experiencing financial struggles report a 15% decrease in sleep quality compared to the average person. This insight led IKEA to explore the realities of sleep poverty—where thousands of children and families across Canada lack access to a proper bed, contributing to disrupted sleep patterns.

Tanya Bevington
Tanya Bevington

“One of the most concerning things we found in our research was the number of children who go to sleep each night without a proper bed,” said Tanya Bevington, Head of Communications at IKEA Canada.

“At IKEA, we believe every child deserves a safe, comfortable place to sleep. That’s why we’re taking action to ensure as many kids as possible have access to a quality bed.”

To raise awareness about this hidden crisis, IKEA Canada has launched the Sleepless Lamp, an innovative installation designed to spotlight the sleep deprivation faced by nearly 500,000 children in Canada. The lamp visually represents the fragmented and erratic sleep of children affected by sleep poverty. Inspired by real sleep data, the Sleepless Lamp flickers and dims to mirror the sleep disruptions that many children experience—up to 20 per hour—due to inadequate sleeping environments, such as lack of proper beds or supportive mattresses.

Children suffering from sleep poverty are more likely to experience a range of health and developmental challenges, including:

  • 38% higher likelihood of reporting feelings of sadness
  • 24% of adolescents with poor sleep quality experience lower academic performance
  • Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of cognitive impairment, obesity, and mental health issues
  • 17.2% of children with insufficient sleep report hyperactivity, compared to 11.9% of those who get adequate sleep

“We’re using the Sleepless Lamp to shed light on the real, emotional impact of sleep deprivation,” said Bevington. “Sleep isn’t just about rest—it’s foundational to a child’s health and wellbeing. We want to raise awareness and make sure that every child has access to a good night’s sleep.”

IKEA Canada’s commitment goes beyond awareness—through a partnership with Furniture Bank, IKEA is investing $300,000 over three years to provide 1,200 Sleep Well Kits in 2025. Each kit includes a bed, mattress, pillow, bedding, and a soft toy, designed to provide essential sleep support for children in need. Additionally, IKEA is committed to refurbishing and redistributing gently used mattresses and other sleep essentials to ensure that they meet health and safety standards.

“When a child lacks a proper bed, they’re not just missing furniture—they’re missing the foundation for success in school, emotional wellbeing, and healthy development,” said Dan Kershaw, Executive Director of Furniture Bank. “Working with IKEA Canada, we’re shining a light on this hidden struggle and providing real solutions, one Sleep Well Kit at a time.”

IKEA is also advocating for government action on sleep poverty by calling for the establishment of a National Sleep Well Program and the introduction of a tax credit for vulnerable Canadians to help them access essential home furnishings.

To further support this cause, Canadians can engage in the movement by signing the pledge at IKEA.ca/SleeplessLamp, donating directly to Furniture Bank, or visiting the Sleepless Lamp installation at Scarborough Town Centre from March 27-30. The immersive installation offers free entry, with no reservations required.

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MPG announces launch of shop-in-shop experiences at premier Sporting Life locations

By
Mario Toneguzzi
-
Source- Mondetta website
Source- Mondetta website

MPG (Mondetta Performance Gear) has announced the launch of its exclusive shop-in-shop experiences at select Sporting Life locations across Canada. This new initiative builds on MPG’s ongoing partnership with Sporting Life, a relationship that has been flourishing since 2018. The shop-in-shops will serve as a dedicated space for customers to explore MPG’s premium collections, which combine technical precision with modern aesthetics.

Ash Modha
Ash Modha

“We believe in empowering movement with each design,” says Ash Modha, CEO of MPG. “Now, more than ever, it is vital for two homegrown Canadian companies to unite in a spirit of collaboration to celebrate the excellence and ingenuity that defines our nation. Our partnership with Sporting Life has been instrumental in helping us share our vision with more Canadians, and we’re thrilled to take this collaboration to the next level with dedicated MPG shop-in-shop experiences.”

The new MPG shop-in-shops will showcase the brand’s ethically crafted collections, featuring signature fabrics like Sculpt and Dreamweave, which offer a luxurious feel and exceptional performance. With sustainably sourced materials and expertly tailored fits, each piece is designed for comfort, movement, and confidence.

Kara Anastasiadis
Kara Anastasiadis

“We are passionate about curating premium apparel that speaks to both performance and style,” says Kara Anastasiadis, Vice President of Purchasing at Sporting Life. “Our partnership with MPG aligns perfectly with our mission to offer the best in innovation, function, and style. As two proudly Canadian brands, we are excited to strengthen our collaboration and introduce dedicated MPG shop-in-shop experiences.”

The first of the exclusive MPG shop-in-shops will open at Yorkdale Shopping Centre on March 19, with additional locations opening soon after:

  • CF Sherway Gardens – March 21
  • Hillcrest Mall – March 24
  • Mapleview Centre – March 26
  • CF Market Mall – April 2

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