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.
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 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: CarbonleoConstruction 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.
Construction progress as of March 14, 2024 at Royalmount. Photo: Carbonleo via FacebookRendering of Le Fou Fou by LemayMichaud (CNW Group/Le Fou Fou)
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.
Construction progress as of March 14, 2024 at Royalmount. Photo: Carbonleo via FacebookRendering 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: CarbonleoLouis 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.
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 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.
MUST MISSISSAUGA (Image: Home Société)MUST MISSISSAUGA (Image: Home Société)MUST MISSISSAUGA (Image: Home Société)
“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.
Émilie Corbeil
“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
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.
MUST Home Société Toronto Downtown
(Image: Home Société)
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.
MUST Home Société Toronto Downtown
(Image: Home Société)
“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.”
Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)Home Société Toronto Downtown (Image: Dustin Fuhs)
There are numerous metrics to gauge a nation’s wealth, and one revealing measure is how much its citizens spend on food relative to their disposable income. The Trudeau government has expressed a commitment to aid the impoverished and disadvantaged. However, new data from Statistics Canada indicates that, since the onset of the pandemic four years ago, their plight has worsened rather than improved.
A vivid illustration of Canada’s economic disparities can be found in the kitchen pantries across the nation, with the divide deepening over time. A longitudinal analysis comparing household disposable income to the percentage of income spent on food highlights an alarming trend of increasing disparity.
For the lowest income quintile, a concerning pattern emerges. In 2001, this group allocated 21.2% of their disposable income to food purchases, not including dining out. This figure peaked at 23.9% in 2005, dipped to 21.3% in 2012, and rose again to 23.5% in 2016. Initially, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) provided temporary relief during the pandemic, but it was short-lived. By 2020, this figure dropped to 19.1%, only to climb back to 21.3% by 2023, with no indication of a forthcoming decline.
In stark contrast, the highest income quintile shows a dramatically different economic trajectory. Their disposable income has surged, yet the proportion spent on food remains remarkably stable and low. In 2023, this group spent merely 5.0% of their income on food—less than a quarter of the expenditure by the lowest quintile.
This contrast is even more stark against the national average of 9.2%, underscoring a grim reality: the poorest Canadians spend more than twice the national average of their income on food. The issue isn’t just food inflation; stagnant wages also play a crucial role, evidenced by the growing reliance on food banks.
These statistics are not merely numbers; they represent a clarion call for a revaluation of our national policies on food affordability. They challenge the effectiveness of current social programs and question the fairness of our tax system, pointing to a systemic issue where the economically disadvantaged allocate an inordinate share of their limited resources to basic sustenance. Despite years of expansive government spending under the Trudeau administration, food affordability continues to trend in the wrong direction.
There is a dire need for policy interventions that tackle the root causes of this inequality. A reexamination of the guaranteed minimum income concept could ensure that incomes keep pace with the rising cost of living. While the CERB offered insights from a policy perspective, it also highlighted the limited financial flexibility for households, emphasizing food as a primary expense.
Subsidies and tax incentives should be better structured to aid those most in need, rather than applying broad measures that often miss the mark. At a broader level, these disparities should prompt us to reflect on the effectiveness of our country’s food programs and the urgency to develop a comprehensive national food policy that prioritizes affordability and access for all Canadians. Sadly, recent federal budgets have fallen short of addressing these crucial issues.
The data from Statistics Canada reveal a tale of two Canadas: one where food security remains accessible and another where it is a constant struggle. This division highlights systemic issues within our society and demands a multifaceted approach to ensure food security for every Canadian. While the government’s role is pivotal, relying solely on national programs isn’t the only solution. Many NGOs and community groups, which work miracles daily, could make a significant impact with enhanced support.
As we move forward, it’s crucial for Canada to chart a new course—one that measures the prosperity of its food economy not just by GDP, but by the well-being and food security of every citizen.
Future Apple flagship store at 1255 Ste-Catherine St. W. in Montreal. Photo: Craig Patterson
Big changes are coming to the corner of Ste-Catherine Street West and Rue De la Montagne in downtown Montreal, with Apple and Alo Yoga both building flagship stores at the intersection. Both additions to the downtown core signal confidence in Montreal as the suburban Royalmount development prepares to open in August.
Apple is under construction at 1255 Ste-Catherine Street West according to a French language article in Montreal-based publication La Press this week. Retail Insider was able to confirm this information with sources along with the opening of Alo Yoga, which is under construction across the street at 1256 Ste-Catherine St. West.
The Apple store will replace a smaller location nearby at 1321 Ste-Catherine St. West that opened in 2008. The current Apple store spans about 9,000 square feet over two levels, and the new store will be considerably larger. Retail Insider was in Montreal last week and noted that construction firm SAJO is building the new Apple flagship store, which will be the first in Canada to be in a heritage building. The new Apple store will occupy a building built in 1895 for department store retailer Ogilvy, which relocated to its current building at 1307 Ste-Catherine St. West in 1906 and was expanded to create Holt Renfrew Ogilvy and a Four Seasons Hotel prior to the pandemic.
Current Apple store at 1321 Ste-Catherine St. West in Montreal, and the new store under construction on the other side of Holt Renfrew Ogilvy. Photo: Craig Patterson Future Alo Yoga store at 1256 Ste-Catherine St. West in downtown Montreal. Swatch occupied the main floor of the building until last year. Photo: Craig Patterson
Alo Yoga is also building its two-level store across the street from Apple in a retail space vacated last year by Swatch (now at the Montreal Eaton Centre). Jeff Berkowitz of Aurora Realty Consultants confirmed with Retail Insider after publication of this article that he represented Alo Yoga in the lease deal. This will be Alo Yoga’s second store in the Montreal market, following the opening of a location at CF Carrefour Laval last year. Alo Yoga has also confirmed that it will be opening at the Royalmount development in Montreal in August.
Christopher Rundle of CBRE was the source of information for the article in La Presse which disclosed that Apple and Alo Yoga are on the way — he revealed what the industry has known for a while that both retailers are coming to the important intersection. The massive Holt Renfrew Ogilvy store occupies the northwest corner of the intersection of Ste-Catherine and De la Montagne, with Louis Vuitton occupying a concession presence at the corner. Montreal-based outerwear brand Mackage occupies the southwest corner of the intersection, creating a strong retail clustering for the area.
The La Presse article notes that the Gindi family from New York City owns 1255 Ste-Catherine Street West where Apple will be relocating — the family has various real estate holdings and also own the Century 21 discount department store chain. Cogir owns the current building where Apple is located on Ste-Catherine Street.
Another view of the future Apple flagship store at 1255 Ste-Catherine St. W. in downtown Montreal. Photo: Craig Patterson
Alo Yoga’s move to a two-level space on the corner is part of a bigger expansion plan for the brand to take market share from Lululemon. Vancouver-based Lululemon currently has two small stores on Ste-Catherine Street including a pop-up at the Montreal Eaton Centre.
Apple and Alo Yoga’s move into downtown Montreal spells confidence in the area as landlord Carbonleo prepares to open the massive Royalmount project in the Town of Mount Royal — the retail centre could take market share from the downtown core with its mix of high-end and big-name retailers, as well as foodservice businesses and entertainment. Next week Carbonleo will be announcing more retail tenants for Royalmount which is scheduled to open on August 15 of this year.
Anatomy of a Leader: Shashi Behl, Founder of Joydrop
A passionate entrepreneur and strong advocate for women in business, Shashi Behl has founded, partnered, and operated various businesses.
When she’s not sourcing the world for the best products, you will find her traveling with her family, road biking, practicing yoga, reading and hearing about other peoples’ stories.
The Founder of jewelry brand Joydrop has a passion for retail.
“At the end of the day, I love seeing people happy. When someone purchases something for themselves or for someone and they know that it’s perfect, there is a bit of joy that just emanates from them. And I love watching that. And I don’t get to see it as much anymore now that I’m not in the stores,” said Behl.
“But I know I get it from the team. Our stylists when they’re talking about the joy that it brings, especially jewelry it brings to people when they buy it. Joydrop, too, was fundamentally different from most jewelry stores. It was for women to buy for themselves or for other women . . . Joydrop is for a woman to come in and spoil herself.
“I love the psychology of retail. You can have the same product in one area and you put it into another area and it’s going to sell there. You really have to pay attention to humans in order to pick up on that. And I like that part of retail.”
Image: Shashi Behl
Behl was born in London, England and was raised in a small town in Saskatchewan called Punnichy in the Yorkton area.
She went to the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, taking economics.
“Honestly, I started out in psychology and I took economics because I needed to do something but I was the person that was doing the peer groups in university, starting Safe Walk. Even in university I was lucky enough to have a prof that was on secondment from the government and he gave me a job,” said Behl.
But she didn’t enjoy it.
“I think in my head I always knew I wouldn’t be a very good employee and I wanted to be doing something of my own and what that was I was going to create it,” added Behl.
Image: Shashi Behl
Initially she started Body Blocker Company with a partner – sun protective clothing for kids.
“We were well ahead of our time . . . That was when I really discovered that there’s a passion for business. I had a passion for creation. I would call that business my second degree. It did not make any money,” she says.
Then in 2001, she founded Twisted Goods which she eventually sold in 2015.
“At that time, we weren’t making any money and I was waitressing and I got my feet wet in the carts in the mall. At the time, that whole cart program was just starting. I realized when I started looking around in malls, and I was living in Calgary, there was nothing for a woman who just wanted a bit more vibrancy for gift giving. There was just nothing tongue in cheek, kind of fun, in the malls. That’s always a street. But you couldn’t get them in a mall.”
The idea resonated. The first store was opened in the Lawson Heights Mall in Saskatoon. She moved to Saskatoon for six months, wrote all the manuals, invested in software and got the business going. Then she approached Cadillac Fairview at Market Mall in Calgary which “took a flyer on an unknown operator.”
“The rest I just built from there,” she said. There were nine stores when she sold the company.
In 2012, she founded jewelry brand Joydrop.
“It also came out of Twisted Goods to be honest. In the last couple of years in Twisted Goods, I started bringing in Canadian designers. We had a showcase and that showcase took up six per cent of our square footage in the store and it was 22 per cent of our sales. I’m a numbers person,” said Behl.
“We really caught the market before the demi fine market became trendy and it was the same with Twisted Goods. We brought it in the mall and were the first ones there and developed our market.”
Joydrop Market MallJoydrop Market Mall
Behl is a board member of the Calgary Public Library Foundation and for years was involved with the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs network on its board and as board chair.
She has a keen interest in mentoring women in business.
“My first day as Chair I said ‘look the reason I’m taking this role is I want this organization not to exist’. My big goal is that 25 years from now we don’t have any AWE because it means we do not have to separate women and men. It’s just leaders. But right now we have to push that,” said Behl.
“When women are at the table they bring a different conversation. One is not right. One is not wrong. One is not better. One is not worse. It’s different. And when you get different conversations you get a better result and that is why I champion bringing more diversity and leadership. It’s a cause that’s near and dear to my heart.
“The Library Foundation fits in the same realm. Education is a great equalizer . . . If we all have access to reading and writing and education, that allows us all to shine.”
Behl loves reading, cycling and doing yoga. She also spends a lot of time with her family.
“I’m an active person so anytime I can be outside, I’ll say yes to anything outside. We travel a lot.”
Image: Shashi Behl
During her 24-year career in retail, Behl has seen a lot of changes in the industry.
“The people that keep on going are the ones that just adapt to what is going on in the environment. The thing that I love most about retail is that it is constant change. Retail is about detail but it’s also about being adaptable to the environment and not selling your brand but changing to the customer’s needs within your brand,” she said.
“We’re humans and we change. Things just happen in life and we have to adapt. And I think retail is a great adapter. You have to be nimble and you have to pay attention to the market . . . I’m not going to lie. COVID kicked my ass. I found it easier to have kids and still keep going than I did going through COVID.”
Behl said she has very much an immigrant mentality so she didn’t have debt at the time. She could refocus on rebuilding after COVID without a ton of debt.
“The tap shut off for us from a multi million dollar company to zero in 36 hours. I gave myself a couple of days. I had a pity party. I curled up on the floor and I cried and then I went okay I have to lay off my whole team and I have to figure out how I’m going to have that conversation and then I had to figure out how I’m going to hire everyone back. When we talk about how it is now, this is easy. COVID it didn’t just build a muscle. It gave steroids to muscles we didn’t even know we had.”
In a rapidly changing retail environment, understanding consumer preferences and behaviours is key to success. Sander Meijers, Adyen’s manager in Canada, discusses insights from the newly released Canadian Consumer Report, which includes a detailed analysis of consumer shopping habits, expectations, and current trends.
Based on a survey of 2,000 Canadian consumers and 500 businesses, it reveals new information on Buy Now, Pay Later options, different payment methods, and a demand for faster, technology-driven shopping experiences, especially regarding self checkouts. The report also points out the influence of social media on purchasing and the growing concerns over payment security.
“There are a lot of findings that are interesting for us. What is really interesting for us is that 30 per cent of the shoppers want retailers to use better technology to make their in-store shopping faster. The majority of Canadians are embracing technology in their shopping experience, from where they shop, how they shop,and how they pay.”
The report highlights a significant trend in consumers using BNPL services, with 70 per cent of shoppers using these services at least once a month with the average yearly spending being $420.06 per person. Annually, the total BNPL spend in Canada has reached 17 billion.
Sander Meijers
“Buy Now, Pay Later options ensure a smooth customer experience. These services continue to attract a robust following, especially among younger consumers, despite the negative press around these services in recent years. This resilience can be attributed to the intuitive design and user-friendly approach that these platforms offer, making them particularly appealing to those looking for flexibility in theri financial planning.”
Meijers says the ability to spread payments out over time aligns well with the current economic landscape, where consumers are being more budget-conscious but still want to purchase goods.
Payment Preferences
The report finds 57 per cent of consumers will abandon a purchase if they are unable to use their preferred payment method – highlighting the necessity for retailers to accommodate a variety of payment options to meet individual needs.
“If people can’t pay how they want, especially with options like Apple Pay or Google Pay not being available, they simply walk away. This trend is more than a minor inconvenience; it is a pivotal factor in consumer experience and satisfaction. In today’s digital age, shoppers expect seamless and flexible payment solutions as a basic part of their shopping experience. When these expectations are not met, it directly impacts their decision to proceed with a purchase.”
Meijers says retailers need to understand payment flexibility is not just an added value, but an expectation that can make or break the consumer’s experience and can impact loyalty.
Technological advancements in checkouts
Image: Adyen
Consumers are looking for a faster checkout process as the report shows 29 per cent of shoppers are asking for better technology to speed up in-store transactions, and 59 per cent are asking for more self checkouts. If a retailer doesn’t have self-checkouts or an outdated system – leaving consumers in frustration.
As checkouts are wanted for most shopping experiences in retail and in grocery stores – there is one exception. Meijers says “as no one wants to buy a Rolex watch at checkout, luxury brands don’t need them.” As high-end retailers depend on a personalized experience, a self checkout station wouldn’t suffice.
As for making transactions faster in-store, Meijers suggests retailers to have mobile terminals.
“Instead of considering it a gimmick, we really want to see more of it. And waiting in-line can sometimes be time consuming and retailers should be using a mobile terminal for busy days – like when Footlocker releases a new pair of shoes that everyone wants to have – that is a day where you can have a couple of associates having a mobile terminal in their pocket. It is really the brands that are taking advantage of modern payment technology that are the ones shoppers really like, and it has been said pretty loudly in this retail report.”
Other ideas Meijers suggests is to have shopping carts where consumers can scan and pay, streamlining the checkout process. Meijers also mentions the Amazon system where consumers can pick up an item and just walk out of the store without needing to stop at a checkout.
“Obviously one that really kicked it off with a further step was Amazon: walk in and walk out and it automatically, you just have to register your card once. So in those spaces where there is a lot of movement – you will see more and more of these coming up.”
Social media and shopping – be available on all channels
With 37 per cent of consumers using social media platforms for shopping, Meijers says it is necessary for retailers to integrate its shopping experience with social media – ensuring transactions from browsing to buying.
The report breaks down social media purchasing by age group as it is higher among the younger demographics, with Gen Z and Millennials using social media more frequently.
As more consumers use social media for purchasing it will continue to grow – if retailers don’t make this transition, they could potentially lose loyal customers.
“”If you want to reach Gen Z, then you are going to have to be on social media. You are going to have to be able to quickly link to a checkout via social media because that is where they hang out and that is where they shop. It is less about choosing which channels to be on and more about how to be efficiently available on all channels. For big brands, they risk losing touch with a major segment on their market. Making the buying process as seamless as possible on social media not only enhances the customer satisfaction, but also significantly boosts conversation rates.”
AI and machine learning in fraud detection
Foot Locker Avalon Mall
Meijers says feelings of safety have gone down in the last decade as 33 per cent of consumers today are feeling unsafe about shopping. Consumers’ main concern is regarding payment fraud.
Retailers can help consumers feel safer while shopping online and through social media by investing in tools to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions. Meijers says payment data contains many data points to help determine if a transaction is risky or not through machine learning models.
Although machine learning is a great tool to use, Meijers says retailers can override its decisions if needed. Overall, this would make the online shopping experience easier and would also address safety concerns.
Looking forward, consumers will continue to look for innovation in the retail industry, with preferences for quick, secure, and interactive shopping experiences. To effectively use these new technologies, retailers need to make sure they are using them correctly and to train all staff on handling the new systems and how to navigate consumers through it – if not, it could negatively impact the consumer’s shopping experience. Retailers that can meet consumer expectations are likely to thrive, while those who struggle, might not be able to connect with consumers.
“It is not just about having technology; it is about using it right to enhance the consumer experience. Brands that leverage modern payment technology effectively are the ones shoppers really appreciate, as seen in busy scenarios like new shoe releases at Foot Locker, where mobile terminals can transform the checkout process.
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.
New Sukoshi Mart store at CF Rideau Centre on opening day. Photo courtesy of Sukoshi Mart
SUKOSHI MART, the premier destination for Asian beauty and lifestyle products, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its largest location yet at CF Rideau Centre in downtown Ottawa. Spanning an impressive 4,300 square feet, this new store marks SUKOSHI MART’s seventh location, reflecting the brand’s growing popularity and commitment to bringing a unique shopping experience to North America.
New SUKOSHI MART store at CF Rideau Centre on opening day. Photo courtesy of SUKOSHI MART
SUKOSHI MART offers a carefully curated selection of skincare, makeup, K-pop music, lifestyle products, and collectibles. The brand’s ethos, inspired by the concept of ‘a small and certain happiness,’ resonates deeply with customers seeking quality, authenticity, and joy in their shopping journey.
“We are excited to open our largest SUKOSHI MART store yet, as it represents not just our growth but our commitment to creating spaces where people can come together to discover and share the joy of Asian culture,” says Linda Dang, CEO of SUKOSHI MART. “Our mission has always been to bring a slice of happiness to our customers’ lives through our products and shopping experience.”
Having forged successful partnerships with global icons such as LINE FRIENDS, BTS, Genshin Impact, and Studio Ghibli, SUKOSHI MART has positioned itself as a leader in the Asian beauty and lifestyle retail space. These collaborations underscore the brand’s dedication to delivering exclusive and sought-after products to its passionate fanbase.
New SUKOSHI MART store at CF Rideau Centre on opening day. Photo courtesy of SUKOSHI MART
A pioneer of experiential shopping, SUKOSHI MART goes beyond traditional retail to create immersive experiences that connect with its young, dynamic audience. Dang adds, “We believe in the power of experiential shopping to bring joy and excitement to our customers. It’s about creating a community and connecting with our demographic on a deeper level.”
Each store is designed to be a destination where customers can explore, discover new favorites, and indulge in their love for Asian culture and products. Strategically located in some of the top shopping centres in Canada, including the CF Toronto Eaton Centre and Square One Shopping Centre, SUKOSHI MART’s new flagship store is set to become a landmark for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. This expansion is a testament to the brand’s success and its vision to bridge cultures through retail.
Looking ahead, SUKOSHI MART is excited to announce plans for further expansion across Canada and into the U.S. market. This growth strategy reinforces the brand’s ambition to make ‘a small and certain happiness’ accessible to a wider audience, fostering a global community of fans and shoppers.
Experience the joy of SUKOSHI MART, where every visit is an opportunity to connect with a world of beauty, music, and Asian lifestyle.
New SUKOSHI MART store at CF Rideau Centre on opening day. Photo courtesy of SUKOSHI MART
About SUKOSHI MART:
SUKOSHI MART is a leading Asian beauty and lifestyle retailer that offers a diverse range of high-quality products, from skincare and makeup to K-pop music, lifestyle items, and collectibles. With a focus on experiential shopping and authentic cultural experiences, SUKOSHI MART serves as a bridge between Asia’s vibrant cultures and North American audiences. Committed to spreading happiness and connecting with its community, SUKOSHI MART continues to grow and inspire with every store it opens.To stay up to date with new store opening dates and exclusive events, sign up on sukoshimart.com to be notified.
