Harvey’s Aims to Open Substantially More Locations in Canada as Restaurant Chain Marks 65 Years [Interview]

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April 23, 2024

Harvey’s celebrated its 65th anniversary last month and is continually making adjustments to improve its restaurants by enhancing customer experience, improving technology, and new menu innovations. Michael Nault, chief operating officer at Harvey’s, discusses Harvey’s past 65 years in Canada and what consumers can expect going forward, including the ultimate goal of potentially hundreds of more locations within the next five to ten years.

“Over the past 65 years, there is a lot that has changed, but our focus on customization and taking care of our guests has always been at the core of what we do. Looking forward, we are not just about growing our number of locations; we are about enhancing the whole Harvey’s experience. From digital advancements that streamline the ordering process to innovative menu additions that delight our customers, we are committed to evolving while maintaining the essence of what has made Harvey’s a beloved brand in Canada,” says Michael Nault.

The past 65 years

Over the past 65 years, Harvey’s has evolved from a simple burger restaurant into a larger fast-food chain in Canada, adapting to the changes in customer preferences and technology. The first location opened in 1959 in Richmond Hill, north of Toronto.

Nault says Harvey’s has broadened its menu innovations, embraced digital transformation through its app and digital menu boards, and has committed to sustainability by maintaining eco-friendly practices such as partnering with Tree Canada.

“Looking back over the past 65 years, Harvey’s has not just adapted but thrived by embracing change all while staying true to our roots in customization and quality. Our journey has been more about than just serving meals – it is about creating a community around our brand, one burger at a time.”

Harvey’s continued focus on customization, quality, and community engagement reflects its dedication to maintain its values while continuing to expand throughout Canada. The success of Harvey’s is pinpointed to its power to adapt and listen to consumer needs.

“Authenticity has been a big pillar on how we have been able to succeed for the past 65 years, along with customization. The second piece I would really have to attribute to is our associates and our franchisees. We have a great collaboration with a number of our franchises across the system and we work with them very closely on programs that we put into our restaurants and how we do things.”

Burger hunt across Canada

To celebrate the occasion, Harvey’s planted burger cards around the country, including around Harvey’s locations and iconic landmarks in Canada. The hunt started on March 26th and is still on-going as not all cards have been found.

Harvey’s planted 1,650 free burger cards which included four VIP ‘Harvey’s for a year’ cards – one of which is yet to be found in Montreal.

Harvey’s is also selling limited edition merchandise, where consumers can customize a shirt.

“We kicked off the great Canadian burger find on March 26th, hiding 1,650 burger cards across the country. This includes four VIP cards for ‘Harvey’s for a year,’ with one still waiting to be discovered in Montreal. And to make the celebration even more special, we introduced limited edition merchandise, offering our loyal customers the chance to customize their own Harvey’s shirt, celebrating our years in a truly personal way.”

Going forward – expansion plans

With 300 chain restaurants, Nault says they are always looking to grow and expand across Canada.

“We have a good presence in Ontario, so we are continuing to look at different footprints for Ontario and in Quebec there are lots of opportunities for us to expand. We opened up a few restaurants recently in Ontario, which have been great success and now we have sites in the West and East and are looking forward to opening them and they are all different footprints. Whether it is a gas station, a mall, or just our traditional footprints, we will continue to look for those opportunities across the board.”

Nault says Harvey’s is planning on opening around ten locations in 2024 with key areas being Montreal, around the GTA, London, Ontario, Alberta, and some locations in Calgary.

“Harvey’s has set out a target of 500 locations over the next five to ten years, and I’d say that we are continuing to work towards that target and build opportunities. We are on pace and still working towards that as our target – so we are going to place Harvey’s in the hands of more people across the country.”

Harvey’s renovation program & innovations

Harvey’s at 2986, boul. Saint-Charles, Kirkland, Quebec (Image: Harvey’s)

Nault says around 85 per cent of Harvey’s restaurants have been renovated and they are continuing to complete the rest of the locations.

“One of the things for us is creating an experience within the four walls, so making sure it is bright, vibrant, and energetic. This is something we are exploring, and it is really just keeping the look and feel of the restaurants and keeping the atmosphere vibrant.”

As far as new innovations in restaurants, Nault says for years Harvey’s has had digital menu boards and an app for consumers to order from, but is looking to take it further to include kiosks.

“Is there also an option for us to continue down this path and have guests place their own orders within the restaurant, on a kiosk rather than just having the opportunity on a mobile app? That is something we are exploring.”

Evolving the menu

In the past, Harvey’s has continually developed its menu options to evolve with consumer’s needs. While the company started with just burgers and hot dogs, it has evolved by expanding its offerings. Last year, Harvey’s introduced the pickle poutine and is constantly looking for new ways to innovate its menu.

Nault says some of its ideas come from consumers themselves through social media.

“Social media shows how our guests are being creative, such as dipping donuts in milkshakes, and it is a fun way to connect with them. This also leads to innovations like the pickle poutine – a menu hack inspired by media that turned into a limited-time offer. It is how we discover fun ideas that could become the next big thing.”

Harvey’s QSR Restaurant Chain Looks to Add 200 Locations in Canada in National Rollout

Miele Expanding Canadian Footprint with Retail Space at CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto [Interview]

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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April 23, 2024

Future Miele Experience Centre at CF Sherway Gardens (Image: Craig Patterson)

Miele, the world’s leading manufacturer of premium domestic appliances, founded in 1899 in Germany is expanding its Canadian retail store footprint.

Miele Canada will open by the end of May its sixth location and second in-mall store at CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto.

“Our future Miele Experience Centre at CF Sherway Gardens reflects Miele’s commitment to continually strengthening our brand while delivering unmatched quality and innovation,” said Nelson Fresco, President and CEO of Miele Canada. “We’re creating a space where consumers can explore the possibility of building their dream home.”

Other locations are at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, in Vancouver, in Calgary and in Montreal. The company’s first store opened in Vaughan in 2006 in 6,000 square feet of space.

Vancouver was initially about 4,000 square feet but expanded to about 5,000 square feet. Calgary is about 4,000 square feet. In 2017 and 2018, the company took a different approach wondering if it really needed so many appliances on the floor. So it decided to go to a smaller footprint with less appliances in the store.

“We opened up Yorkdale in 2018. We really streamlined the lineup and that one’s about 2,100 square feet. So very compact. Our latest one in Sherway mall will be even smaller than that. It will be about 1,600 square feet,” said Fresco. “And really we’re just going to focus on the fast-moving SKUs – dishwashing, laundry, ovens. It’s really about educating the consumer on the brand.”

Miele at CF Sherway Gardens (Image: Miele)

The new flagship store at Sherway will showcase appliances from Miele’s latest Generation 7000 cooking line, MasterCool built-in refrigeration, W1 and T1 laundry appliances, coffee machines, an assortment of robot, bagged and bagless canister vacuums, as well as the latest Miele Triflex cordless stick vacuum cleaners, and Miele’s own Cleaning and Care Products.

“The introduction of this new retail space presents an exceptional chance for us to showcase our innovative appliances to the residents of the West Greater Toronto Area, while inviting them to discover an exceptional customer experience while exploring the Miele Brand,” said Phil Angemi, Vice President of Sales of Miele Canada.

The store will also allow consumers to experience interactive product demonstrations led by expert sales associates, providing invaluable insights into the world of Miele craftsmanship and innovation.

Miele Experience Centre at Yorkdale Shopping Centre (Image: Miele)

Besides its retail stores, the brand has a strong presence across Canada in other stores with its products. There’s more than 1,000 points of distribution across the country with many of its smaller products. As for major domestic appliances, they are sold in just under 200 locations across Canada.

“I really want to build the brand in Canada. That to me is number one and I want to do it in partnership with all our partners because we have a lot of partners across Canada,” said Fresco.

“So the stronger I can make the Miele brand and our team here Miele Canada can make the brand the better it is for our partners as well. So this will be our sixth location in Canada. I can see a couple more in the future and really I want that consumer to feel why we’re different than any other manufacturer across the country.

“For me it’s about the customers. Everything we do is about the customer. We really want to make sure that they’re at the centre of everything we do. We have three contact centres in Canada. I don’t know how many brands have that. How many brands have service from Halifax to B.C.? And it’s in a home. Service technicians are Miele employees. We deliver our own appliances. Nobody else delivers our appliances. When you look at other brands, everybody else, the stores do it. They deliver. No, we deliver our own. We need to control that experience.

“Sustainability is another big one for me. We build our appliances to last 20 years. So really the best way to contribute to (sustainability) is buying products that last. When I ask people what they think of Miele, if they say quality, that puts a smile on my face.”

Miele was founded by Immer Besser with a simple phrase meaning Forever Better. Today, the family-run business, now in its fourth generation, employs a workforce of around 22,300, of which approx. 11,200 employees work in Germany. The company has its headquarters in Gütersloh in Westphalia.

Miele Canada was established in 1989 with headquarters located in Vaughan, Ontario.

Despite Economic Challenges, Edmonton Retail Leasing Market Experiences Growth and Expansion: JLL Report/Interview

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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April 23, 2024

ice-district-image-1__CropWidthWzE5OTld_ScaleMaxWidthWzE0NDBd — Downtown Edmonton. Photo: One Properties

There is increased demand for retail space in Edmonton amid slowing retail sales, according to the latest Edmonton Retail Insight Spring 2024 report by commercial real estate firm JLL.

The Edmonton retail leasing market is experiencing increased net absorption and consistent leasing volumes and major international retailers, particularly in the athletic, fashion, and luxury sectors, are actively expanding their presence in the market, it said, adding that Edmonton’s consumer spending remains robust, suggesting that growth is still expected in the retail sector this year.

“Leasing activity in Edmonton’s retail market has increased. Demand for retail space is surpassing supply, creating an increase in net absorption and a decrease in availability,” said JLL.

“Major international sportswear, fashion, and luxury brands such as Nike, Uniqlo, and Moncler have expanded in the market. Additionally, Hudson’s Bay has been opening Zellers pop-up stores within select shopping centres, and Rona has converted some Lowe’s locations to the new Rona+ banner.

“Rental growth has slowed. However, inflation and property taxes are anticipated to trigger higher rental charges when landlords shift these expenses onto tenants. Construction activity is currently low, with Ever Square the only major development expected for completion this year.

New Moncler store at West Edmonton Mall. Photo: Moncler.

Most leasing activity is based on general retailing, neighbourhood centres, and malls. New retail concepts continue to be introduced at West Edmonton Mall and Southgate Centre, especially within the apparel and accessories category.

“In conclusion, the Edmonton retail leasing market is experiencing high demand and this trend is set to continue, reducing availability.”

JLL said the retail market in Edmonton remains attractive for expanding national and international retailers. Despite the softer outlook, rapid population growth, a positive outlook for the oil industry, and the presence of high-paying government jobs sustain local retail growth, it said.

“Although Edmonton’s retail sales growth is slowing, there are still prospects for growth in the current year. Edmonton residents have been placing a higher importance on food services, shoes, groceries, and cannabis, rather than on home improvement,” explained the report.

Whyte Avenue in Edmonton, April 2024. Photo: Mario Toneguzzi

“Despite a weaker economic forecast, Edmonton is in a strong position to withstand a potential decrease in the national economy. The provincial government, ongoing activity in the oil and gas industry, and a rapidly growing population are all expected to continue supporting the local economy.

“In 2023, restaurants offering both full service and limited service have outperformed retail goods, and this trend is anticipated to continue with a slower growth rate in the single digits.”

Increased pedestrian traffic, a change in safety perception, and more funding over the past year are all positive signs that downtown Edmonton is on the road to normalcy. However, Edmonton still lags other major Canadian cities in terms of transit ridership, added JLL.

Rendering of the ICE District in Edmonton, via One Properties

Southgate Centre in Edmonton. Image: YEG Adventures

“Downtown is becoming lively again due to the return of workers, the revival of events and activities, and investments from partners and government agencies. The city’s collaboration with higher levels of government to increase safety and police presence has improved,” said the report.

“Hosting prestigious events such as the Juno Awards continues to boost Edmonton’s economy, image, and reputation. According to Expedia, Edmonton is a top destination for concert and live-performance enthusiasts.

“With air-passenger traffic at more than 90 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, Edmonton’s tourism industry continues to recover, keeping its momentum.”

Ron Odagaki, Associate Vice President, Retail at JLL, said the vacancy rate in Edmonton is a little higher than Calgary because it has more supply but it’s still healthy.

“The demand for space still is quite strong even if it has weakened a little bit. The lack of supply still keeps rental rates stable. The one difference to Calgary is that Calgary’s downtown is a lot stronger in terms of recovery and therefore as Edmonton tries to revitalize the downtown I still think Calgary is ahead in terms of that pace of return to the office and a revitalization of the downtown core for longer hours, evenings, weekends, entertainment,” he said.

Odagaki said there are more employees in the downtown core in Calgary compared to Edmonton.

“There are a few more headwinds that I think Edmonton will have to experience but we’re hoping that it continues to recover over time,” he said.

There are similar trends to the Calgary market.

Henry Singer Stantec Tower, Ice District in Edmonton (Image: Henry Singer)

But Edmonton’s downtown is showing some positive signs of recovery with the popular ICE District and the recent opening of the new flagship store in the area for Henry Singer.

“There are some signs of recovery. It is happening. Calgary is just a little bit further ahead,” added Odagaki.

“On the consumer side of things, I hear consumers are trying to stretch their dollar but the point being the dollar is still being spent and I think that’s indicative of the consumer spending data that we’re seeing.

“The mall world in Edmonton, you’re seeing some activity and leasing activity in the major enclosed malls as well which I think is a good sign.”

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For April 23rd, 2024

By

Retail Insider

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April 22, 2024

News at a Glance

Retail Insider is streamlining its Canadian retail news from around the web to include a handful of top news stories that can be viewed quickly during the day. Here are the top stories from the past 24 hours.

How Knix is mapping out its growth strategy post-acquisition (Modern Retail)

Opinion: Why the rise in shoplifting? Blame our addiction to online shopping (Globe & Mail / subscriber paywall)

Turkish grocer BIM could evaluate Canada market if invited: CEO (Daily Sabah)

Empire and Sobeys exceed food rescue goal for 2023 (Canadian Grocer)

Alexis Brown promoted to director of social impact and community for North America at Eataly (Grocery Business)

French used less often as exclusive language to greet customers, OQLF says (Montreal Gazette)

Union files application to represent workers at Amazon facility in Laval, Que. (Financial Post)

Innisfil Canadian Tire opens ‘new chapter’ with grand reopening (Innisfil today)

Calgary halal grocers and wholesaler shut down by Alberta Health Services over sales of uninspected meat (CBC)

This teen was poisoned by carbon monoxide on the job at a grocery store in Saskatchewan. His parents say the employer got off easy (CBC)

LCBO tells customers not to confront shoplifters after fight caught on camera at Toronto store (NOW)

Hellmann’s Canada drops limited edition sneakers made from food waste, supports Second Harvest (Grocery Business)

Public hearing in West Vancouver to limit certain businesses in Ambleside and Dundarave (North Shore Daily Post)

Meet artist J-Positive and the family behind his art store (CBC)

Bloor Street Luxury Run in Toronto Adds Saint Laurent Flagship as Area Transforms

By

Craig Patterson

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April 22, 2024

Toronto’s Bloor Street luxury run is seeing an unprecedented number of luxury brands opening flagship stores. Last week, Kering-owned Saint Laurent opened a 10,400 square foot location at 110 Bloor Street West, featuring a brutalist facade and updated design concept.

The new store features the full range of Saint Laurent’s ready-to-wear for women and men as well as bags, footwear, accessories, jewellery and other categories. The store’s striking concrete brutalist facade is meant to be “raw and refined” according to Saint Laurent, featuring a corduroy imprint that was inspired by architecture from the 1970s. The overall design concept is new and was conceptualized by Saint Laurent’s creative director Anthony Vaccarello, who joined the brand in 2016.

The store’s interior is stunning — Saint Laurent provided photos for this article showcasing snippets of the space and materials used, though unfortunately the brand did not authorize or provide photos of the store showing product inside or its overall flow which consists of several rooms showcasing product, as well as art work.

Interior of Saint Laurent on Bloor Street in Downtown Toronto. Photo: Saint Laurent.

Marble is used throughout the store — giallo siena and cipolino marbles were used for niches, while brown spider marble was used for benches. Black cosmic and golden spider marble was used on tables in the store. Other signature features in the new Bloor Street Saint Laurent include smoked glass counters, marble and glass display tables, black mirror finishes, floating shelves and concrete columns, and wool felt curtains and rugs that are meant to add a soft touch to the space.

Unique furniture pieces in the store include two tall sculptures by Canadian artist David Armstrong Six and a Rie & Yiouri Augousti chair, in addition to a Carlo Scarpa sofa, a pair of Carl Gustaf Hiort Af Ornas armchairs, and Osvaldo Borsani sidetables that are all located in the VIP room in the store.

The Bloor Street Saint Laurent flagship takes security seriously — customers have to be buzzed in by a security guard, which is something being seen more with luxury stores globally.

Arlin Markowitz of CBRE’s Urban Retail Team negotiated the lease deal on behalf of Saint Laurent and ProWinko. ProWinko Canada owns the retail podium of 110 Bloor Street West. Markowitz and the CBRE Urban Retail Team co-listed the space, as well as other retail spaces at 110 Bloor, with Philip Traikos and Carmen Siegel of Cushman & Wakefield. Concreteworks manufactured the concrete facade and interior (and will give a similar treatment to a new Saint Laurent opening at Royalmount in Montreal in August).

The flagship opening of Saint Laurent shows confidence in the Bloor Street luxury run which was once known as the Mink Mile. An unprecedented number of luxury brands have opened large storefronts along the street over the past couple of years, and even more will come.

Arlin Markowitz of CBRE said, “The opening of one of the largest Saint Laurant boutiques in North America in Toronto is an incredible vote of confidence in our market from Kering and the team at Saint Laurant. Bloor Street is trending like no time before in recent memory, and I am fortunate to have been a part of the transformation. The size of the store speaks volumes to the confidence in our country’s best luxury retail node.“

110 Bloor Street West — Alexander Wang opened in December, with Anne Fontaine and Paris Baguette to open this year. Photo: Craig Patterson

The 110 Bloor Street West retail podium has undergone an overhaul — Saint Laurent occupies space formerly tenanted by J.Crew and Brooks Brothers. In a few weeks, Montreal-based restaurant chain Mandy’s Gourmet Salads will open behind Saint Laurent facing Cumberland Street, next to a popular Starbucks that has operated there for years. On the Bloor Street side of the building, luxury brand Alexander Wang opened its first Canadian store in December. Coming up next are locations for French women’s brand Anne Fontaine and bakery concept Paris Baguette, both of which are under construction. Winners continues to occupy the second and third floor spaces of 110 Bloor, with home furnishings retail concept HomeSense occupying space directly above the new Saint Laurent flagship. In the basement, ice bath/sauna concept Othership recently opened, as did fitness concept Jaybird.

Saint Laurent operates a concession with its own street entrance at Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor St. W. Photo: Craig Patterson

Close up of the Saint Laurent concession with its own street entrance at Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor St. W. Photo: Craig Patterson

Saint Laurent also operates a ‘world of’ concession at Holt Renfrew about 800 feet east of the new flagship — the main floor concession with its own street front door at 50 Bloor Street West opened in the spring of 2018, featuring ready-to-wear for women and men as well as bags, footwear, jewellery and accessories. The 3,000 square foot concession will remain open despite the Saint Laurent flagship being so close, according to staff in both stores when asked over the weekend.

In Toronto, Saint Laurent also operates a storefront at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre. The 3,000 square foot store opened in November of 2016. Sources told Retail Insider that Saint Laurent will be relocating its store at Yorkdale to a massive new 11,000 square foot space in the mall’s new luxury wing next year which will also house Loewe, Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana and other brands.

Saint Laurent has confirmed that it will be opening a 6,000 square foot storefront at Royalmount in Montreal in August of this year. The large store is currently under construction along with others in the centre’s new luxury wing.

Gucci will be expanding its storefront at 130 Bloor St. W. by annexing a 2,500 square foot space formerly occupied by St. John Knits. Photo: Craig Patterson

Bulgari will join other luxury brands this year at The Colonnade at 131 Bloor St. W. in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Bloor Street West in Toronto, showing Van Cleef & Arpels and a future Burberry store. The new Saint Laurent flagship can be seen in the distance. Photo: Craig Patterson

Saint Laurent’s first standalone Canadian store under corporate ownership opened in Vancouver at 746 Thurlow Street in the summer of 2016. The 4,800 square foot two-level store was the largest in Canada until last week. During the pandemic in late 2020, Saint Laurent opened a 2,900 square foot storefront at West Edmonton Mall in Edmonton.

Saint Laurent operates an outlet store at Toronto Premium Outlets in Halton Hills that opened in the winter of 2018. The brand also operates concessions within the Holt Renfrew Ogilvy store in downtown Montreal for women and men.

Luxury retail at 150 Bloor Street West in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson

Rolex recently opened a store at 101 Bloor Street West in Toronto, in partnership with Royal de Versailles jewellers. Photo: Craig Patterson

In Vancouver, Saint Laurent operated concessions at Nordstrom including shops for handbags and women’s ready-to-wear until last year when the Seattle-based retailer exited Canada. And in early 2022, Saint Laurent shut a bag/accessory concession on the main floor of Saks Fifth Avenue in downtown Toronto following an overnight robbery. That followed the closure of a ready-to-wear space for the brand on the third floor.

Anthony Vaccarello is the designer for Saint Laurent, having replaced Hedi Slimani in 2016. Fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent founded the brand in 1961 and in the 1980s and 90s, Yves Saint Laurent was considered to be the pinnacle of fashion globally. The company had stores around the world including a substantial number of units in the United States. Department stores were an important part of the ‘Saint Laurent Rive Gauche’ expansion strategy. Department stores such as Marshall Field’s, Dayton’s, Wanamaker, Rich’s, L.S. Ayeres, Kaufman’s, Halle’s, Nan Duskin, I.Magnin, and others featured Rive Gauche shop-in-stores.

In Canada, Yves Saint Laurent boutiques once operated in Toronto at Hazelton Lanes (now Yorkville Village) as well as at 1330 Sherbrooke Street West in Montreal. Department stores such as Simpson’s (now the Hudson’s Bay Company) and Morgan’s also carried the brand in decades past.

Montreal’s Le Groupe Brande Thrives with Lightspeed Capital: A Case Study in Expansion and Efficiency

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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April 22, 2024

Montreal-based Le Groupe Brande is in expansion mode these days and its ambitious plans are being fueled by Lightspeed Capital, a merchant cash advance system.

Tyan Parent, Founder and President of the retailer which offers the latest fashion trends, said the future is bright for the company as it looks to grow its store footprint in Quebec.

“A couple of years ago when they started their Lightspeed Capital process, they reached out to us saying you can have access to a certain amount of capital to go through your business, do whatever you want with it pretty much,” he said.

“At first, we were skeptical. We wanted to make sure that this was not something to be hard to manage. Easy to follow in terms of payment. And in all honesty, the process is very simple, very easy to maneuver, very easy to get information on the payments.

“Now, it’s been the fifth time we’re using Lightspeed Capital. The process is easy. It’s part of your cash flow model now. Every time we have access to extraordinary funds provided by Capital it helps us to buy more products ahead of time. Our model is to provide products at a discount. In order to do that, and get better margins, get better profits and products, we have to be able to pay in advance. Sometimes we don’t always have the cash laying around to buy products in advance. That’s why Lightspeed Capital became very handy for us to help grow the company.”

Parent said the company has had access to between $60,000 and $70,000 over the last two years.

The retailer, which started in 2017, currently has three stores operating in Quebec – MODA 1987 at Carrefour De L’Estrie (Sherbrooke); MODA 1987 at DIX 30 (Brossard); and Magasin Entrepot Brande at Decarie (Montreal).

“We’re looking to expand in the spring of this year,” said Parent. “We’re looking to open in Bromont.”

Future growth plans are based on the success of that new Bromont store.

“If someone is willing to invest $10 million tomorrow, I could probably open a larger number of stores. But it’s a private company. We’re not going to banks. So, we have to be very careful with our cash flow,” said Parent.

“Having access to extra capital (through Lightspeed) is helping us to be ahead of the curve, ahead of the game, in terms of getting product . . . Because of Lightspeed Capital we have access to products faster and access to deals where we might have said no to in the past.”

Unlike a loan, a cash advance, through Lightspeed Capital, has a fixed price and no set repayment schedule. The price doesn’t change regardless of how quickly the advance is repaid. It’s a huge benefit for small and medium size businesses who need superfast, stress-free funding.

Lightspeed is able to rely on its existing merchant relationship to make the merchant funding process seamless, including eligibility and underwriting, as well as risk mitigation. Because merchants use Lightspeed as their core operating system, Lightspeed has real-time visibility into a merchant’s performance.

Lightspeed sees an even greater opportunity today to double down on this offering given inflation and other economic challenges. Demand trends show an uptick during the summer months and holiday season for both retailers and restaurateurs. ‘Inventory/Purchasing’ is the most common reason merchants used their Lightspeed Capital funds.

In June 2023, Lightspeed expanded its international offering of Lightspeed Capital to the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Quebec.

“Businesses are the backbone of our communities, and Lightspeed’s goal is to make owning a successful business easier than ever,” said Asha Bakshani, Chief Financial Officer at Lightspeed.

“Our goal is to help alleviate roadblocks that traditional funding channels may require so our merchants can continue to focus on what matters most: growing their business while providing the best customer experience.”

Lightspeed Capital empowers business owners with its unique approach to funding:

Simple Application: A quick, seamless and stress-free application process for merchants with no personal credit checks;
Flexible Funding: Working capital is available in as few as two business days and can be used for any business need, from inventory and equipment through to staffing;
Transparency & Stability: Flat-fee pricing, and no high or shifting rates, allows business owners visibility and peace of mind;
Empowering Growth: Merchants have access to the cash flow they need to expand and take their business to the next level

How does Lightspeed Capital work?

Cash Up-Front: The cash advance program provides working capital up-front to grow and support the merchant’s business;
Predictable Payments: Merchant payments are a percentage of their daily sales; they pay more when their business is doing well, and less if things are slow;
Secure Fees: Flat fees mean merchants don’t have to worry about fluctuating rates;
Clear Communication: Merchants receive notification, in app or by email, that outlines how much they’re eligible for as a cash advance and the flat fee;
No Deadline, No Interest: Merchants remit at the speed of their business. With no strict deadline, merchants can gradually pay the advance as a percentage of their daily transactions.

Lightspeed has created new teams dedicated to Lightspeed Capital adoption. Recently, Lightspeed made it so products now show a prompt in the product back office that will display if a merchant is eligible for a Capital offer. These prompts can be displayed in the different areas of the product, ideally in context to where they might be more apt to accept an offer (e.g. if a merchant sees a Capital offer when they go to manage orders with their suppliers). Merchants can then apply for that offer directly in the back office of Lightspeed – no need for an external application or a third party.

Le Groupe Brande has cut operational costs in half thanks to Lightspeed products and services. The company has experienced a 66 per cent reduction in training time as well as 60-to-70-man hours saved per week.

In 2020, Le Groupe Brande felt their old retail management system was holding it back, costing it time and money. Based on a business model that relies on high efficiency and low operational costs, the old system was not working for them.

The company found a solution with Lightspeed – a one-stop commerce platform that helps merchants streamline their operations and run their businesses more smoothly and efficiently.

“Since day one, the system has been pretty much self-explanatory. You look at the icons in the cash (register) and you can navigate easily through all the reports from a staff point of view, seamless operation. We saved time, and efficiency as well,” said Parent.

*Partner content. To work with Retail Insider, email Craig Patterson at: craig@retail-insider.com

Disposable Income Spent on Food by Canadians Varies by Provincial Tax Rates [Op-Ed]

By

Sylvain Charlebois

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April 22, 2024

Interstore_Schweitzer_Sobeys_Orangeville_15 copy — Photo: Sobeys

As Canadians sit down to their dining tables, the financial burden of what lies on their plates extends beyond mere calories. Recent data from Statistics Canada paints a stark picture of household disposable income being consumed by food retail across the provinces, with a noteworthy correlation to the tax rates levied upon their earnings.

The bar chart representing the percentage of disposable income spent on food retail in 2022 and 2023 shows Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) leading the charge, with 11% of household income dedicated to sustenance (up +1.1% from 2022). This is closely followed by Quebec (QC) (Up +0.6% from 2022), Nova Scotia (NS) (UP +0.2% from 2022), and New Brunswick (NB) (Up +0.3% from 2022), all hovering around the 10% mark. In stark contrast, Alberta (AB) expends only 8.1%, the lowest among the provinces.

Simultaneously, a table detailing the income tax rates reveals a story in parallel. Quebec, despite its renowned culinary culture, imposes a notable tax burden on its residents, with rates climbing to 19% on income just shy of $100,000. This is the province where citizens dedicate a significant portion of their income to food, second only to NL, which also features higher tax rates compared to the national average.

Is it a mere coincidence that provinces with higher tax rates see a greater share of income going towards food? Or is this an indicator of a larger economic narrative where the tax burden intersects with the cost of living, amplifying the impact on disposable income and, consequently, on food affordability?

Consider this: taxes affect disposable income, which in turn influences purchasing power. The interplay is especially evident in the realm of food, a necessity that consumes more of the household budget in regions with higher taxes. The situation begs a question of policy and priorities: Are we taxing our way into tighter kitchen budgets?

Provinces like Alberta, with its lower tax rates, see a lesser percentage of income spent on food. This leaves room for investment in quality, nutrition, and diversity. It might also create a wider economic space for citizens to engage in other sectors, bolster savings, and stimulate local economies beyond the grocery store aisles.

Furthermore, there’s an element that transcends the raw numbers. These figures do not only represent economic data; they reflect the lived realities of Canadian families. The percentage points translate into decisions about whether to buy fresh fruit or canned, organic or non-organic, local or imported. They influence lifestyle choices, dietary health, and, in broader terms, the wellbeing of communities.

Provinces and the Canadian government and policy makers must heed these statistics as more than fodder for fiscal debates. They are a call to action to balance the scales between taxation and affordability. With food prices continuing to escalate worldwide, there’s a pressing need to ensure that tax policies don’t inadvertently tighten the financial belts of Canadians around their dinner tables.

A policy reevaluation seems prudent, one that considers the cost of living, particularly food, in its formulation. It could be a step towards ensuring that families in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, and indeed across all provinces, are not disproportionately burdened by a basic human need.

As we navigate the complex web of economic policies and their social consequences, Canada stands at a crossroads. Will the country adjust its fiscal policies to nurture not just a healthy economy, but also a healthy populace? The data is on the table, and it’s time for a national conversation about the recipe for a balanced, affordable, and nutritious food environment for all Canadians.

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For April 18th, 2024

By

Retail Insider

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April 21, 2024

News at a Glance

Retail Insider is streamlining its Canadian retail news from around the web to include a handful of top news stories that can be viewed quickly during the day. Here are the top stories from the past several days.

The Body Shop Canada explores sale as demand outpaces inventory: court filing (The Canadian Press)

Feds targeting a dozen foreign grocery chains for expansion in attempt to increase competition (CityNews)

What Australia and U.K.’s grocery codes can teach us about Canada’s food fight (CityNews)

‘Won’t be a quick fix’: Indigo needs turnaround as privatization nears, experts say (The Canadian Press)

Lululemon to shutter Washington distribution center, lay off 128 employees (Reuters)

A novel experience: Why small bookstores are thriving in Canada (The Toronto Observer)

Quebec business community pens open letter denouncing French-language commercial signage rules (CBC)

Vancouver Hudson’s Bay store suffering months-long maintenance issues (Daily Hive)

Toronto airport gold heist loot was melted in a forge in local jewelry store’s basement (National Post)

This Toronto thrift store sells items by the pound (CTV)

Calgary Co-op breaks ground on new location coming to Cochrane (Calgary Herald)

Shopping infrastructure highlights food-choice differences in Beaches/East York vs. Scarborough (The Toronto Observer)

‘A BIT OBSCENE’: People encouraged to ‘steal from Loblaws’ (Toronto Sun)

Royalmount in Montreal Announces Major Retail Tenants and Food Hall Ahead of August 2024 Grand Opening [Interview]

By

Craig Patterson

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April 21, 2024

382238361_715129983992911_6079165171849561955_n — Rendering: Carbonleo

The Royalmount development in Montreal has announced new retailers ahead of its August 15 grand opening date, as well as an exciting new food hall concept. Earlier this month, developer Carbonleo also installed a skybridge linking Royalmount to the De la Savane metro station.

The $7 billion development, set to open in August of 2024, will be the largest such project of its kind in Canadian history according to Carbonleo. The project has been under construction since before the pandemic and in the spring of 2019 Retail Insider attended the ground-breaking of Royalmount which at the time was a former industrial site with construction equipment ready to dig.

Carbonleo just released details of Royalmount’s new food hall, Le Fou Fou, which will span about 35,000 square feet and be run by MTB Collective. The European-style food hall will have 12 distinct culinary offerings including catering plus four bars with indoor/outdoor dining that seats over 900 guests. It’s described as being Montreal’s first food hall to combine top-tier talent, hi-touch technology and programming all year round.

Rendering of Le Fou Fou by LemayMichaud (CNW Group/Le Fou Fou)

In anticipation of the August 15 opening, Royalmount has been announcing new tenants periodically since November of 2022. Announcements began with a roster of luxury brands opening in the retail component of Royalmount, and this week Carbonleo is releasing the names of more retailers offering a broad range of price-points for shoppers.

“Building on our prior announcements regarding luxury brands that will be opening at Royalmount, I am excited to unveil an expanded tenant roster, encompassing additional high-end names as well as many of the best more accessibly priced brands in the world,” said Michael Stroll, Senior Vice President of Leasing at Carbonleo.

Newly announced retail tenants for Royalmount include Zara, Nike, Moncler, Longchamp, Veronica Beard, Anine Bing, Mango, H&M, Alo Yoga, Canada Goose, Sephora and Roche Bobois.

Rendering of the luxury wing at Royalmount — Tiffany & Co. will be in the unit with the light blue facade, with Louis Vuitton across from it. Rendering: Carbonleo

Construction progress as of March 14, 2024 at Royalmount. Photo: Carbonleo via Facebook

Zara, H&M and Mango will offer affordable fashions to shoppers — Royalmount is targeting all shoppers according to Stroll. Sephora will be one of the beauty options in the centre and will attract crowds.

“The inclusion of these brands is pivotal to Royalmount’s success. Royalmount is a project for everybody, for all Montrealer’s and visitors alike to celebrate.”

“Our mission for the first phase has always been to establish Royalmount as the number one destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city. To achieve that, you need volume and a broad audience. With this latest announcement and the commitment by these brands, we are one step closer to realizing on our mission,” Stroll said.

Mango’s storefront at Royalmount will be the first for the brand in Quebec, after entering the Canadian market via Toronto in early 2023. Both Zara and H&M operate several storefronts in the Montreal region.

Nike and Alo Yoga are both athletic-focused brands, and will be a welcome addition to Royalmount. Nike, operated in Canada by Israel-based Fox Group, has been opening stores across the country. Alo Yoga has also been expanding rapidly in the Canadian market, having recently opened a store at CF Carrefour Laval near Montreal while building another flagship location on Ste-Catherine Street in downtown Montreal.

Newly announced brands at Royalmount including Moncler, Longchamp, Veronica Beard, Anine Bing, Roche Bobois and Canada Goose skew towards the high-end, and will further strengthen the clustering of luxury brands that have been secured for the shopping centre. Moncler’s Royalmount location with the the first standalone location in Quebec for the Italian luxury brand. France-based Longchamp, known for its popular bags, is opening its second store in Canada at Royalmount following the 2015 opening of a store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Upscale US-based women’s fashion brand Veronica Beard’s second Canadian store will also be at Royalmount, after opening in Toronto’s Yorkville area last year. US-based women’s fashion brand Anine Bing will open its first Quebec storefront at Royalmount, after opening two in Toronto over the past 12 months. Upscale French home furnishings retailer Roche Bobois will attract moneyed shoppers, while Canada Goose has been expanding distribution via its own stores, with Royalmount being the second for the brand in Quebec.

Rendering of the skybridge from De la Savane metro station to Royalmount — the bridge was installed earlier this month. Rendering supplied.

“We are now well over 90% leased, featuring a tenant composition that includes the best brands in the world,” said Carbonleo’s Michael Stroll. “Notably, approximately half of these tenants do not yet have stand-alone mono brand stores in Montreal.”

In November of 2022, Royalmount announced a roster of luxury brands secured for the retail centre that include Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Gucci, as well as French contemporary brands Sandro and Maje. In June of 2023, Royalmount announced further luxury brands including Saint Laurent, Versace, Jimmy Choo, David Yurman and TAG Heuer — all of which will be the first standalone locations for the Montreal market.

In June of 2023, several Montreal-based brands were announced to be opening stores at Royalmount. They include Acuité Visuelle, Aldo, Arc’teryx, Bikini Village, Browns Shoes, Dynamite, Garage, Influenceu, Judith & Charles, La Canadienne, La Vie en Rose, Mackage, Moose Knuckles and Rudsak.

Rendering of the new sky bridge at Royalmount, image: Carbonleo

Louis Vuitton and other retailers at Royalmount. Image: Carbonleo (screen shot from a video)

Other brands released by Carbonleo for publication include US-based Michael Kors — owned by the same parent company as Versace and Jimmy Choo. Previous larger-format retailer announcements include home furnishings retailer RH (occupying about 46,000 square feet) and Rennaï, a beauty hall concept spanning about 36,000 square feet housing a retail presence for various leading brands.

Rendering of the new Rennai beauty hall at Royalmount. Image supplied.

“The addition of these leading global brands to Royalmount’s already rich roster of iconic names speaks to the power of the vision behind the project,” said Andrew Lutfy, CEO of Carbonleo. “We’re satisfying Montrealers’ untapped desire for luxury goods and a unique lifestyle experience, and elevating the moment with world-class shopping, dining, art and entertainment. This is how we’ve always envisioned Royalmount, as a gathering destination for everyone, a shared space for people to connect and make memories. We cannot wait to welcome visitors to Royalmount in August.”

Michael Stroll said that he’s excited about the opening of the centre, which is about four months away. A skybridge over a freeway, linking Royalmount to the De la Savane metro station, was recently installed to help attract more shoppers via public transit. It’s the first private structure built over a public highway in the province.

Luxury wing, Royalmount (Image: Carbonleo)

Royalmount’s first phase will include an 824,000 square foot two-level retail and lifestyle complex. Royalmount will be the first 100% carbon-neutral mixed-use development in the Americas and the largest LEED Gold retail project in Canada. Previously announced components include an aquarium and Cineplex, which will bring premium cinemas and The Rec Room entertainment concept to Royalmount.

The privately-funded Royalmount project will become a state-of-the-art lifestyle hub for the region, with L Catterton, an investment arm of LVMH, being a key investor. The development will include a mix of experiences and will also be home to a three-kilometre linear park called Le Champ Libre, along with an outdoor public plaza.

Carbonleo is a privately owned, Quebec-based real estate development and management company. Founded in 2012, the company has more than 170 employees and counts several major projects to its credit, including Quartier DIX30 and the Four Seasons Montreal Hotel and Private Residences.

Home Société Group Expands Ontario Footprint with Opening of 1st Standalone MUST Stores in Toronto and Mississauga [Interview/Photos]

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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April 21, 2024

Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

Leveraging over 50 years of expertise in the home furnishing industry, Home Société Group, parent company of furniture brands Maison Corbeil, MUST, La Galerie du Meuble, Jardin de Ville and Home Société, is expanding its footprint in Ontario with the launch of its first standalone MUST stores in the province.

The newly-opened Mississauga and downtown Toronto stores will serve as design destinations that answer the need for more modern and cutting-edge furniture and accessories at accessible price points.

“As MUST enters the GTA with two new locations and a fully operational e-commerce site, we’re thrilled to offer our quality designs at accessible prices to more customers. This expansion highlights our dedication to providing exceptional service and meeting the demands of modern-day consumers across Ontario,” said Éric Corbeil, Co-President at Home Société Group, in a statement.

“Our commitment to staying current with the latest trends shines through in every detail, ensuring our stores remain inviting spaces of inspiration. Drawing from the latest architectural and color trends, we’ve crafted spaces that resonate with our customers’ evolving tastes,” added Émilie Corbeil, Product Director at MUST, in a statement.

Walid Laaraba, Chief Merchandising, Marketing, and Digital Officer with the company, said MUST has four standalone stores in Montreal, one in Quebec City and the two in Toronto. As well, the MUST brand is present in all the other company stores.

There are also two Home Société stores in Toronto and Ottawa.

MUST Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Home Société)

Founded in 1973 by Collette and Raymond Corbeil, Maison Corbeil introduced Canadians to contemporary and modern furniture. Today, there are three Maison Corbeil stores in the Montreal area.

Laaraba said MUST was launched in 2005, offering modern and accessible furniture options.

“The idea was offering to consumers a diverse selection of styles combining design quality but also affordability,” he said. “At the beginning, the MUST brand was only a collection within the Maison Corbeil store. At that time, the owners wanted to build a new fresh brand that has the affordability variable with keeping the design and quality. It was a big success and we started opening stores since then.”

He said the focus of the brand is giving the customer the best experience and best in-class product.

Besides focusing on the new locations, the brand also has been focusing on growing its online business, added Laaraba.

He said the plan is to continue expansion online across the country. There are plans in the future to potentially open stores in other provinces.

“Located in Heartland Town Centre Mississauga, the first standalone MUST store in Ontario boasts the largest square footage, along with the widest range of on-trend furniture and accessories in the province, including the exclusive MUST outdoor collection. Inside, shoppers can explore stylish home furnishings in a welcoming ambiance, punctuated with graceful arches, rich walnut and vibrant green accents,” said the company.

“Situated on Parliament Street, the downtown Toronto store will serve as the ultimate one-stop shop for home essentials. Offering a diverse assortment of furniture and accessories, including cozy bedroom pieces, functional kitchen items, and chic outdoor furniture, MUST Toronto will offer complete collections in a setting inspired by the heart of the city. This location will also proudly introduce the first Ontario outpost of the renowned Quebec-based flower shop, Prune Les Fleurs, enhancing the shopping experience with exquisite floral arrangements and botanical delights.

“Conveniently situated right next door to the MUST Downtown Toronto store, the new Home Société two-storey space will invite customers to continue their shopping journey with iconic designs. Here, they can explore higher-end pieces and indulge in a more luxurious aesthetic, all while experiencing the seamless blending of styles and brands in the store’s presentation. The furniture selection boasts renowned designers and European brands like Ligne Roset, Cattelan Italia, Kartell and new Italian labels. Home Société’s contemporary furniture adheres to timeless designs while providing extensive customization options.”