A partnership between Loblaw and Flashfood has been successful in reducing food waste across Canada. Through the program, quality food nearing its best-before date ends up on tables instead of going to waste – creating value for customers and reducing environmental impact across hundreds of Loblaw banner stores nationwide, said the company on Monday.
In 2025, the partnership saw more than 21 million pounds of food diverted from landfill and saved customers more than $58 million on groceries. The partnership also continued to expand its reach, welcoming more than 92,000 new Flashfood shoppers nationwide, it said.
Through Flashfood, customers can save up to 50 per cent on everyday essentials. Deals span a wide range of categories, including meat, dairy, seafood, fresh produce, prepared foods and more. Purchases are completed directly in the app, with orders picked up from the designated Flashfood Zone inside participating Loblaw stores.
Since launching in 2019, the partnership has diverted more than 105 million pounds of potential food waste from landfill supporting the goal of Loblaw to send zero food to landfill by 2030.
“Loblaw has been an exceptional collaborator from the beginning of our partnership together,” said Jordan Schenck, CEO of Flashfood. “They have consistently demonstrated industry leadership by embracing innovation that improves the lives of their shoppers. Their commitment to our shared mission has brought Flashfood to every province across the country and helped thousands of Canadians put fresh, affordable food on the table.”
First launched at Maxi grocery stores in 2019, Flashfood is available in over 900 Loblaw grocery stores and franchise locations across Canada, including select No Frills, Maxi, Real Canadian Superstore, Real Atlantic Superstore, Loblaws, Real Canadian Wholesale Club, Zehrs, Your Independent Grocer, Provigo and Dominion stores in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Vanessa and her son Henri (CNW Group/Henri Nutrition)
Henri Nutrition, the project of a mother and her 9-year-old son, has grown from a local startup to a national player in the healthy snack sector. The Quebec-based company now has products in 1,300 retail locations across Canada, up from just 40 this time last year. The result: two million bars sold and a tenfold increase in production capacity to meet the needs of families.
This rapid growth is driven by perfect market timing: Henri Nutrition arrives as consumers are actively seeking alternatives to ultra-processed products, with ingredients they can understand. Henri will be the first Canadian company to obtain the NON-UFP (Non-Ultraprocessed) certification, a new standard to help consumers make better choices, said the company.
Henri said its bars rely on a simple formula: a maximum of seven ingredients, no added sugar, and no priority allergens. This simplicity meets a real need in people’s daily lives, whether for lunchboxes that comply with school food policies, post-workout snacks, or busy mornings. One thing all Henri customers have in common: a refusal of ultra-processed foods without sacrificing convenience.
Vanessa Grondin
“Every week, we receive several messages saying our bars make daily life easier, whether for those looking for simple, allergen-free solutions or those wanting a source of protein on the go. Our bars were highly anticipated, and a year later, we can confirm they truly meet a market need. The repeat purchases speak for themselves,” said Vanessa Grondin, founder of Henri Nutrition.
For 2026, Henri Nutrition said it aims to double its number of retail locations and revenue.
“To achieve this, a move to larger premises allowing for greater automation and increased production will be necessary. The company, whose factory is based in Quebec City, will continue its expansion mainly in the rest of Canada, with a strong presence already established in several provinces. Currently, 20% of Henri Nutrition’s retail locations are outside Quebec,” it said.
In Quebec, the company added it wants to strengthen its presence in existing banners while targeting new networks, such as pharmacies, and by launching new flavours. Henri bars are available at IGA, Metro, Avril, Maxi, Marchés Tau, many independent markets, online.
Henri Nutrition has donated 22,000 bars to Moisson Québec and developed a partnership with the Pointe-de-l’Île School Board to distribute snacks in 20 underprivileged schools in Montreal. The company was born from a mother’s desire to provide her son, Henri, with a healthy and balanced snack. It is based in Quebec City.
AI fraud is quickly emerging as a major threat to Canadian organizations, with nearly three-quarters (72 per cent) losing as much as five per cent of their annual profits to AI-driven scams last year, new research from KPMG Canada shows.
The findings underscore an increasingly complex fraud landscape as 81 per cent of businesses that experienced fraud in the past year say they faced an AI-enabled attack with seven in 10 being targeted more than once. As a result, nine in 10 (94 per cent) business leaders say they are concerned about encountering AI-powered attacks in the year ahead. Yet despite the risks, only 26 per cent have a comprehensive and tested response plan to defend against AI–enabled attacks such as deepfakes and voice clones, said the company in a report released on Monday.
“Beyond the immediate financial hit, the reputational fallout from a fraud attack can be devastating. A single scam can shatter customer confidence, result in lost business, and leave lasting damage to a company’s brand. Now, with rise in AI-powered attacks that can mimic legitimate business interactions with alarming accuracy, the margin for error becomes razor-thin and having strong fraud defences is even more essential.”
The most common attacks they encountered were AI-generated phishing emails/chats (60 per cent), deepfake documents (39 per cent) and voice–clone executive impersonation calls (24 per cent), said the report.
Key poll highlights:
72 per cent say they lost between one and five per cent of their business profits to AI-powered fraud attacks in the past 12 months
81 per cent of 251 Canadian business leaders surveyed by KPMG who experienced fraud in the past 12 months say the attack was AI-enabled
72 per cent of organizations which experienced AI-enabled fraud attacks last year say they were targeted more than once
94 per cent say they are concerned about the risk of AI-powered attacks targeting their organization in the next 12 months
26 per cent say they have a formal, comprehensive and tested fraud incident response plan that explicitly covers AI-enabled attacks
As AI–enabled fraud becomes more frequent and difficult to detect, Canadian businesses are increasingly deploying AI as a defensive tool, with over half (52 per cent) saying they are directly “fighting AI with AI” by leveraging the technology to identify anomalies, authenticate users, and detect manipulated content. Recognizing the need to bolster their defences, six in 10 respondents plan to increase their fraud prevention and detection budgets by up to seven per cent this year. Further, 81 per cent of companies conduct employee fraud awareness training every six-to-12 months. Key investment areas include detection technology, employee training and transaction controls, added KPMG.
“The good news is that organizations are no longer standing still – they’re starting to invest, adapt, and treat AI–enabled fraud as a strategic business risk. While momentum is building, many organizations still have significant work ahead to fully modernize and strengthen their defences against rapidly evolving AI–enabled fraud.”
Galeries de la Capitale in Quebec City. Image supplied
Galeries de la Capitale is adding a wave of new retail tenants as the Quebec City shopping centre strengthens its merchandising mix. The leasing momentum includes a 36,000 square foot Winners opening March 2, alongside confirmed arrivals across fashion, beauty and quick service dining. The activity reflects sustained tenant demand at one of Eastern Canada’s most productive enclosed shopping centres and signals a strong start to the year for the Primaris REIT-owned property.
Among the most anticipated additions is lululemon, which will open a 3,750 square foot store this fall in the heart of the main mall corridor. The athletic apparel brand joins a growing roster of fashion and beauty tenants that reinforce the centre’s positioning as Quebec City’s dominant super regional retail destination.
Additional concepts will broaden the property’s merchandising mix in the months ahead. Kiokii and…, a retailer specializing in Asian inspired beauty and skincare products, is scheduled to open this fall. It will follow the April arrivals of Lovisa, café boutique Chaudron Bavard, and artisan workshop boutique Beau et Bon.
By summer, Boustan will join the quick service dining lineup, introducing its Mediterranean and Lebanese offerings to the centre.
Looking ahead to later in 2026, Les Ailes de la Mode is confirmed to occupy approximately 50,000 square feet, adding another major fashion anchor to the property and further strengthening its apparel category depth.
The wave of openings signals a particularly active start to the year for the shopping centre, with eight new retailers spanning fashion, beauty, accessories, food service and specialty concepts.
New Winners store at Galeries de la Capitale in Quebec City. Image supplied
Les Ailes de la Mode Expands Footprint with Quebec City Location
Scheduled to open this year, Les Ailes de la Mode will occupy approximately 50,000 square feet at Galeries de la Capitale, marking a step in the Quebec-based retailer’s continued expansion. The fashion banner already operates a handful of locations across Quebec, and another location is set to open at Promenades St. Bruno near Montreal, according to sources.
The Quebec City opening also follows a closely watched legal dispute involving a proposed move into the former Hudson’s Bay space at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto. That arrangement did not proceed after the Ontario Superior Court declined to approve the plan. While the Yorkdale proposal ultimately stalled, the Galeries de la Capitale lease demonstrates that Les Ailes de la Mode’s owners continue to pursue strategic growth opportunities within high-performing regional centres.
March Break Programming to Drive Traffic
The leasing activity at Galeries de la Capitale coincides with a robust March Break activation program. In partnership with Ashton, the centre will host a range of family-oriented activities in the central court, including a mechanical surf ride, creative workshops, face painting, airbrush activities and mascot appearances. Players from the Quebec Remparts hockey team are also scheduled to appear.
On March 2, the opening day of the new Winners store, stylist Mélissa Cauchon will be on site to offer personalized advice and help customers discover their ideal colour palette.
These initiatives are designed to drive traffic during a key seasonal period while reinforcing the property’s role as both a retail and entertainment destination.
New Winners store at Galeries-de-la-Capitale, image supplied
A Strategic Asset Within Primaris REIT’s Portfolio
The Galeries de la Capitale expansion is unfolding within the broader strategy of Primaris REIT, which acquired the property on October 1, 2024 from Oxford Properties and organization for $325 million. The transaction was completed on an unencumbered basis and funded through a mix of $170 million in cash and Primaris units.
As Quebec City’s largest shopping centre, Galeries de la Capitale spans approximately 1.3 million square feet and welcomes an estimated 9.5 million visitors annually. The property is home to more than 280 retailers and 35 restaurants. At the time of acquisition, committed occupancy stood at 98.3 percent, with annual sales reported at approximately $350 million.
Sales productivity has remained strong. As of late 2025, same store sales reached $859 per square foot, outperforming many comparable regional malls across Canada.
Entertainment Anchors Regional Draw
A defining feature of the property is its integrated entertainment component. Méga Parc, the indoor amusement park located within the mall, underwent a $52 million renovation in 2019 and features 18 rides, including the Zénith Ferris wheel and the Patinarium indoor skating trail. The property also hosts the only IMAX theatre in Quebec City.
This entertainment offering continues to differentiate the centre within the Primaris portfolio and strengthens its regional trade area.
Galeries-de-la-Capitale
Redevelopment and Long-Term Intensification
Primaris positions itself as Canada’s only publicly traded REIT focused exclusively on enclosed shopping centres. Since its 2021 spin off from H&R REIT, the company has acquired more than $2.4 billion in assets, including Promenades St Bruno in Montreal, Oshawa Centre in Ontario, Southgate Centre in Edmonton, CF Lime Ridge Mall in Hamilton, Halifax Shopping Centre and Conestoga Mall in Waterloo.
At Galeries de la Capitale, redevelopment opportunities remain significant. A primary focus is the lease up and repositioning of approximately 110,000 square feet of former Sears space. More broadly, Primaris is investing between $175 million and $225 million nationally to redevelop former Hudson’s Bay spaces into modern multi tenant formats, with several openings targeted for mid 2026.
The property’s location at the intersection of Highways 40 and 73, combined with its role as a major regional bus terminal serving more than 400 buses daily, enhances its long term intensification potential. The upcoming Quebec City Tramway project is expected to further strengthen accessibility and support future mixed use development on the 91 acre site.
Canadian technical apparel brand Kit and Ace has opened its new Victoria flagship, marking another milestone in the company’s accelerating national growth strategy. The 2,200-square-foot boutique at 1221 Government Street occupies a prominent heritage location at the intersection of Government Street and Trounce Alley, reinforcing the brand’s renewed focus on disciplined, Canada-first expansion.
The Kit and Ace Victoria store takes over roughly half of the historic space previously occupied by W&J Wilson, Victoria’s oldest continuously operating business, before its flagship closed in 2021. The move signals both a symbolic and strategic return to Vancouver Island for the brand, which has been rebuilding its physical retail footprint.
Under the ownership of Unity Brands Inc., co-founded by David Lui, Joe Mimran, and Frank Rocchetti, Kit and Ace has grown from just four stores in 2023 to 15 locations across Canada as of February 2026.
Kit + Ace Flagship Store, 2026
Blending Heritage With Brand Identity
David Lui
CEO David Lui said the Victoria location reflects a thoughtful balance between heritage preservation and the brand’s modern identity.
“It is heritage buildings, and we honour all the guidelines,” Lui explained. “We wanted to have a bit of a blend of who we are and a blend of heritage. It may not come out in the pictures, but it’s a bit more localized, something that speaks to the community.”
The boutique follows the company’s updated retail concept, emphasizing minimalist design, high-performance fabric storytelling, and intuitive navigation intended to encourage longer dwell times. However, the Victoria execution incorporates localized elements tailored to the surrounding historic streetscape.
Lui noted that the opening generated immediate local interest. “We already had a mini lineup at the opening,” he said. “That was good to see without advertising really pushing.”
Capturing Local and Tourist Demand
The Government Street corridor is Victoria’s busiest pedestrian zone, drawing both residents and tourists throughout the year. While peak summer tourism has yet to arrive, early indicators appear positive.
“One good thing is we get to track from our e-commerce sales and guests coming into Vancouver where they’re from,” Lui said. “We have a lot of existing guests that reside in Victoria, in the mainland and the island. Of course, we expect tourism to be a big contributor over the summer.”
He added that even during the softer winter season, ferry traffic remains steady. “The ferries are quite busy too, which is good for the local economy.”
The initial customer mix reflected a broad demographic range. “You’ve got people walking by, mixed demographic, which is great to see,” Lui said. “We serve a wide range of demographics.”
Womenswear Gains Momentum
Product evolution has played a central role in the brand’s resurgence. While Kit and Ace initially built its reputation around technical fabrics and elevated essentials, recent data shows meaningful growth in womenswear.
“Women’s has been increasing in terms of overall share of incremental revenue,” Lui said. “Women’s has been around fifty-five, forty-five percent roughly. We’re attracting a lot more women, which is great.”
He added that women represent nearly three-quarters of store traffic. “That’s good because our men’s sales are very strong. It’s telling us she’s buying for him, which is good.”
The Victoria store carries a full assortment of men’s and women’s technical apparel, including the brand’s well-known Navigator pants, core essentials, French Terry pieces, and expanding sweater and outerwear programs.
“Our sweaters are very strong, both men’s and women’s, and we practically sold through,” Lui said. “So we’re increasing our sweater programs. We’ve expanded our outerwear. We have our Oslo, our legendary Oslo, but we’re expanding the range and the detail and some of the designs.”
The company is also building out its parka program for next fall. “Sweaters and outerwear will be a very key component,” he said.
Women’s pants continue to be a standout category. “In womenswear, it’s hard to find the right fit. If they find the right fit, they’re loyal. Our pants have been selling really strong.”
Kit + Ace Flagship Store, 2026
Fabric First, including in-home
Beyond apparel, Kit and Ace is expanding its partnership with TJX banners, including T.J. Maxx and HomeSense in the home category.
“We started some throws with them. That was a big program,” Lui said. “Then some sheets. As we continue to grow with them, you’ll see a broader range. Throws have been selling really well. Bed sheets, bedding, pillows, a pretty broad range of home.”
Lui emphasized that the extension into home remains consistent with the company’s core philosophy.
“It’s all built around what our brand stands for, fabric first,” he said. “We have a separate production team that works on all of that.”
Disciplined Expansion Across Canada
The Kit and Ace Victoria store forms part of a broader rollout planned for 2026. Lui confirmed that five or six additional Canadian openings are targeted for this year.
“After Victoria, we plan to do five or six more for this year in Canada,” he said. “We want to be up to about twenty or twenty-one stores by the end of this year.”
The Victoria opening follows a high-velocity expansion in late 2025, including the November 2025 openings of a 3,500-square-foot store at Park Royal in West Vancouver and a new boutique at CF Rideau Centre in Ottawa. Earlier that fall, the brand debuted at Bayview Village in Toronto and completed a full-scale renovation of its CF Market Mall location in Calgary in September 2025. These milestones built upon the brand’s major summer move in July 2025, when it relocated to a 4,100-square-foot flagship at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, following successful 2025 launches at The Well in downtown Toronto and Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby.
“We’ve been happy with most of the new stores we’ve opened,” Lui said. “Not everyone is one hundred percent, but in most cases, yes.”
E-commerce remains an important complement to physical retail. “E-commerce has been really strong. It went down a bit and then it went back up this year. We’ve seen growth in e-commerce and growth in comp stores.”
Kit + Ace Flagship Store, 2026
A Broader Unity Brands Ecosystem
Lui’s leadership extends beyond Kit and Ace. Unity Brands’ portfolio includes Tilley and other retail ventures, with additional expansion underway.
“We just signed a lease for Tilley at Bayview Village,” Lui said. “We’re also opening Tilley at The Well in Toronto and in Victoria. There’s a lot happening on that side of the business as well.”
The company is also advancing franchising initiatives under other banners, underscoring a multi-brand growth trajectory.
Still, Kit and Ace remains a central pillar. The Victoria opening reinforces the brand’s recommitment to premium Canadian markets, particularly high-traffic urban corridors with strong local communities.
Consumer spending patterns are shifting with AI usage in Canada, according to Environics/RCC. Image: SmartDev
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how Canadians discover products, evaluate options, and make purchase decisions, according to new research presented during a recent webinar hosted by the Retail Council of Canada and Environics Analytics. The session explored how AI is already embedded across the AI consumer shopping journey, with nearly half of Canadian shoppers now using AI tools at some stage of the process.
Presenters emphasized that AI is actively influencing how consumers search, compare, and buy products today. The research suggests that retailers are entering a period where expectations are being reset by technology-enabled shoppers, particularly younger and more digitally fluent households.
AI Already Embedded Across the Shopping Journey
The presentation highlighted that AI is now present in multiple stages of the AI consumer shopping journey, from early inspiration to final purchase. According to the data, 42 per cent of consumers use AI to understand product features, compare specifications, and synthesize reviews before buying. Another 28 per cent rely on AI-powered tools to track discounts, compare offers, and identify the best prices.
This marks a shift away from the traditional linear purchase funnel. Consumers are increasingly moving in a loop where inspiration feeds research, research feeds new inspiration, and AI tools sit at the centre of that process.
Presenters also noted that AI is moving beyond traditional shopping tasks. Consumers are using it to plan meals, manage budgets, organize travel, and support health goals. As a result, retailers are no longer competing solely within product categories. They are competing for attention inside broader daily routines shaped by AI-assisted decision making.
Adoption Led by Younger, Urban, and Diverse Households
AI adoption is not evenly distributed across the population. The research shows that early adopters tend to be younger, more diverse, and concentrated in urban or suburban environments. Many are singles, couples, or diverse families who use AI to save time, manage budgets, and create more personalized experiences.
Three consumer groups were identified as leading adoption.
The first group, described as suburban sophisticates, includes higher-income, diverse households motivated by technology and aesthetics. These consumers use AI to visualize outcomes and make confident decisions around higher-value purchases, particularly in the home.
The second group, multi-generational families, uses AI primarily to find value. These households rely on AI tools to compare grocery prices, identify deals, and stretch budgets across larger families.
The third group, younger urbanites, integrates AI into everyday life. These consumers use AI for inspiration, product discovery, and decision support, shaping expectations around speed, personalization, and relevance.
Wealth and Spending Power Shifting Toward AI-Fluent Generations
The research also highlighted a demographic and economic shift that reinforces the importance of AI-driven behaviours. While baby boomers still hold a large share of national wealth, their share is declining. At the same time, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z are gaining both wealth and spending power.
Gen X has already overtaken boomers in total consumption spending, and younger generations continue to increase their share of discretionary spending. These groups are also more comfortable using AI to research, compare, and validate purchases.
This combination of shifting wealth and changing behaviour suggests that AI-driven expectations will increasingly define the mainstream retail experience in the coming years.
Hybrid Model Emerges as Stores Remain Central
Despite rapid digital adoption, physical retail continues to dominate the final transaction. More than 80 per cent of consumers still complete purchases in store, even as AI-assisted research becomes more common.
This creates a hybrid model where AI-enhanced digital discovery shapes in-store decisions. Consumers increasingly arrive at stores with more information, clearer preferences, and stronger expectations for personalization and service.
Personalization Gap Remains Significant
One of the most striking findings from the research is the gap between consumer expectations and actual experiences.
According to the data, 71 per cent of Canadian consumers expect retailers to anticipate their needs through relevant, tailored interactions. However, only about 20 per cent feel they currently receive that level of personalization. Just nine per cent are willing to pay extra for it.
This indicates that personalization is no longer a premium feature. It has become a baseline expectation for the AI consumer shopping journey, and retailers that fail to deliver it risk losing relevance with key customer segments.
What Canadians Actually Want from AI
While the technology continues to evolve, the research suggests that Canadian consumers are looking for practical benefits rather than novelty.
The most desired uses of AI include help finding better prices, providing more effective customer service, and tools that simplify decision-making. Consumers also want AI to synthesize reviews, identify trustworthy information, and deliver curated product recommendations.
In many cases, AI is replacing premium services such as personal styling or product advice, making those experiences accessible to a wider audience.
Loyalty and Trust Still Critical
Even as AI adoption grows, loyalty dynamics are changing. Younger, AI-forward consumers are less brand loyal than older segments, but they are more likely to engage with retailers that offer personalized experiences through loyalty programs.
At the same time, privacy concerns remain a barrier. More than 30 per cent of Canadians express concerns about data protection, and a larger share worries about misuse of personal information. This creates a delicate balance for retailers, who must deliver personalization while maintaining trust.
Retailers Enter a New Competitive Landscape
The overall message from the webinar was clear. AI is not just changing how businesses operate. It is fundamentally reshaping how consumers behave.
As younger, tech-forward households gain more spending power, their expectations around speed, relevance, and personalization will increasingly define the retail landscape. Retailers that adapt to this AI consumer shopping journey will be better positioned to connect with emerging customer segments, while those that lag risk losing relevance in an increasingly personalized and AI-driven market.
Leon’s Q4 results came in below expectations, reflecting a quarter shaped by factors outside the company’s direct control. In a February 26 research note, Stifel analyst Martin Landry maintained a HOLD rating and $30.00 target price on Leon’s Furniture Limited, citing weather disruptions, a Canada Post strike and a softer consumer backdrop as key contributors to the earnings shortfall.
For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, adjusted earnings per share were $0.74, up 1 percent year over year but below Stifel’s estimate of $0.79 and consensus expectations of $0.77. Revenue reached $671 million, up 0.7 percent from the prior year, but also below forecasts.
Martin Landry
Same store sales increased 0.6 percent, marking the slowest pace in four quarters. However, Stifel noted that industry data from Statistics Canada showed the broader furniture, appliance and electronics category rising just 0.2 percent year over year, suggesting Leon’s may have modestly gained market share during the period.
Furniture continued to lead performance, with sales up 2.7 percent year over year. Appliances also contributed to growth. By contrast, mattresses and electronics declined by mid single digit percentages as promotional intensity increased across the industry.
Gross margin improved 23 basis points to 46.1 percent, exceeding expectations. The improvement was attributed to favourable retail mix, strength in higher margin furniture sales and lower sourcing costs driven by assortment and procurement initiatives.
Selling, general and administrative expenses rose slightly as a percentage of revenue, reflecting higher occupancy and amortization costs tied to the Edmonton distribution centre lease commencement and additional lease renewals. These pressures were partially offset by lower retail financing fees following a decline in Bank of Canada interest rates.
Canada Post Strike and Snowfall Weigh on Traffic
According to the report, Leon’s Q4 results were significantly affected by a Canada Post strike in September. Approximately half of promotional flyers did not reach customers during a crucial period leading into Black Friday. While more flyers were delivered in time for the holiday season, the disruption came earlier in the quarter compared with the prior year’s strike, limiting its impact recovery window.
In addition, heavy snowfalls discouraged some consumers from visiting stores. Management also highlighted a shift in consumer behaviour toward value seeking and purchasing during promotional periods across all banners.
These dynamics underscore broader themes in Canadian retail, where discretionary categories remain sensitive to macroeconomic volatility and external disruptions.
Softer Outlook for Q1 2026
Looking ahead, Stifel expects near term headwinds to persist. The company is lapping a strong comparable period in Q1 2025, when same store sales grew 12 percent on a two year stack. The early part of 2026 has also been marked by continued snowfall and heavier promotional conditions in mattresses and electronics.
Additionally, a moderation in the builder pipeline and newly implemented Canadian steel derivative tariffs are expected to weigh on first quarter results. As a result, Stifel reduced its Q1 2026 same store sales assumption by 450 basis points to negative 2 percent.
The commercial segment remains a bright spot, with management indicating it has grown at a compound annual rate of more than 6 percent.
Leon’s store. Photo: Leon’s
Back Half Recovery Expected
Despite near term challenges, the outlook improves later in the year. Leon’s plans to open two corporate stores and up to five franchise stores in 2026. After Q1, the company will face easier comparable periods, which should support improved same store sales trends.
Stifel forecasts sequential improvement from Q2 through Q4 of fiscal 2026. Full year 2026 revenue is estimated at approximately $2.63 billion, with adjusted earnings per share of $2.33.
Valuation and REIT Considerations
Stifel maintained its $30.00 target price, derived using a blend of valuation methods including a 6.5 times multiple on 2027 adjusted EBITDA, a 12 times multiple on 2027 earnings per share and a discounted cash flow model.
The report also discusses the potential value of Leon’s real estate portfolio. Stifel estimates the portfolio could be worth close to $1 billion, or $13 to $15 per share. Under a favourable scenario, a sum of the parts valuation combining retail operations and a potential REIT structure could imply a higher overall valuation. However, the timing and structure of any such move remain uncertain.
A Measured View on Canadian Big Box Home Retail
Leon’s Q4 results highlight the challenging environment facing Canadian home retailers. Weather disruptions, delivery issues and changing consumer spending patterns are affecting sales from quarter to quarter. At the same time, controlling costs and focusing on higher margin product categories remain essential to protecting profits.
The first quarter of 2026 is expected to remain under pressure. However, easier comparisons later in the year and planned store openings could help improve performance in the second half. For investors and industry observers, Leon’s results provide a clear snapshot of the broader forces shaping Canada’s furniture, appliance and electronics retail sector.
The RNR Tire Express Canada expansion is officially underway as the U.S.-based tire and custom wheel retailer prepares to open its first international location in Oshawa, Ontario. The store is set to open this month at 1080 Simcoe St. N, marking a milestone for the 25-year-old franchise system.
Founded in 2000, RNR Tire Express operates more than 200 locations across the United States. The company has built its reputation on a flexible lease-to-own payment model designed to make essential automotive purchases more accessible to a broader range of consumers. With its Canadian debut, the brand is positioning Oshawa as the foundation for a broader national rollout.
The inaugural Canadian store is being led by franchise partners Rakesh Jegganolla and Sravan Sharma, two technology professionals who transitioned into entrepreneurship after extensive corporate careers.
Jegganolla worked as a software engineer for over 13 years before pivoting into franchising in 2020, initially entering the childcare industry. Sharma brings more than a decade of experience in technology, consulting, and working alongside Big Four accounting firms. The pair shared a long-term goal of launching a business together in Canada and spent considerable time evaluating opportunities before selecting the automotive sector.
Oshawa emerged as a strategic choice. The Durham Region city has experienced steady population growth, and the franchisees identified what they described as a gap in the local market. While traditional tire retailers operate in the area, they concluded that no existing competitors offer a lease-to-own payment structure combined with a broad inventory of custom wheels and brand-name tires. That perceived niche ultimately drove the decision to plant their first Canadian flag in Oshawa.
Photo: RNR Tire Express
A Lease-to-Own Model Targets Affordability
At the core of the RNR Tire Express Canada expansion is its lease-to-own structure, which allows customers to pay for tires and wheels through weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly installments, with no credit required. The model is designed to address the financial reality that a sudden tire replacement can exceed $1,200, creating strain for households without access to immediate cash or traditional financing.
By adapting a rent-to-own framework typically associated with furniture and electronics to an essential automotive product, the company has carved out a distinct niche in the U.S. market. Tires, unlike discretionary purchases, are a necessity for safe vehicle operation. The brand’s approach aims to balance access, safety, and affordability.
The Canadian store will mirror this model, offering consumers in Oshawa a payment alternative that differs from traditional upfront automotive transactions.
Photo: RNR Tire Express
Building a Canadian Team with U.S. Roots
As the opening approaches, the Oshawa location has been actively hiring its founding Canadian team. The recruitment process reflects the company’s effort to replicate its established U.S. operational standards north of the border.
New hires, including incoming Sales Associates, are required to travel to RNR’s headquarters in Florida for a two-week intensive training program. This cross-border training initiative is intended to ensure operational consistency and reinforce the company’s corporate culture from day one.
Job postings associated with the Canadian launch highlight several U.S.-based cultural practices that will be introduced in Oshawa. These include providing financial budgeting tools to employees and organizing community service initiatives. In the United States, the brand is known for giving away a car to a deserving mother each Mother’s Day, reflecting a community-focused identity that the company intends to extend into Canada.
Photo: RNR Tire Express
From Rent-n-Roll to National Franchise
The brand’s Canadian entry represents the latest chapter in a business model that originated in Tampa, Florida, more than two decades ago.
RNR Tire Express was founded in September 2000 by entrepreneur Larry Sutton. Sutton had already built and sold a successful rent-to-own television and appliance business before attempting early retirement in 1997. Dissatisfied with stepping away from business, he began searching for a new opportunity.
He identified a gap in the automotive market. While consumers could rent-to-own electronics and furniture, there were virtually no comparable payment solutions for high-cost automotive needs. Sutton opened his first store in a renovated gas station under the name Rent-n-Roll, initially emphasizing custom wheels.
Over time, the company shifted its focus. Custom wheels remained an important category, but Sutton recognized that scaling the concept required leaning into everyday passenger tires. Tires offered consistent, recession-resistant demand. The brand eventually rebranded to RNR Tire Express to reflect this broader, essential product focus.
Franchising followed shortly after. In 2003, former colleagues from Sutton’s earlier rent-to-own ventures encouraged him to formalize a franchise model after observing strong consumer demand in the Tampa stores. The system expanded steadily, and by 2017, RNR opened its 100th location in Sarasota, Florida. During that period, the company was opening approximately one new store per month.
Today, the retailer operates in nearly 30 U.S. states and consistently ranks within Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 list for the wheel and tire category. That sustained U.S. growth laid the groundwork for international expansion.
Canada as the Next Growth Frontier
According to RNR Tire Express CEO Adam Sutton, expanding into Canada represents a natural next step for the brand. The Oshawa store is intended to serve as the foundation for broader expansion across Ontario and other Canadian markets in the near future.
The RNR Tire Express Canada expansion signals the company’s confidence that its lease-to-own model can resonate in a new market shaped by rising living costs and increased scrutiny around household budgets. Automotive expenses remain unavoidable for many Canadians, particularly in suburban communities where car ownership is essential.
By selecting Oshawa as its initial entry point, the franchise partners are betting that population growth combined with demand for flexible payment options will create traction. If successful, the location could function as a proof of concept for additional Canadian stores.
Toronto, ON — Retail Insider, Canada’s most-read online retail and business publication, has announced a strategic national partnership with EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc. (ELL Comms), aimed at expanding Retail Insider’s editorial reach and commercial presence across all provinces and territories.
As Retail Insider’s coverage has grown beyond traditional retail to include development, restaurants, ecommerce, trend forecasting, and business commentary, the publication has identified the need for deeper and more consistent reporting from regions outside Toronto and Vancouver. The new partnership establishes a structured, Canadian-led framework to support that expansion while reinforcing Retail Insider’s role as a national business voice.
Under the agreement, ELL Comms will serve as Retail Insider’s official national content and business development partner. The firm will work to source sponsored business news stories across the country and support advertising growth, while maintaining Retail Insider’s editorial standards and independence. The initiative will also introduce province-based navigation on Retail-Insider.com, enabling readers to easily access regional business and retail coverage from coast to coast.
“Retail Insider has grown alongside Canada’s entrepreneurial economy, and the timing for this expansion could not be more relevant,” said Craig Patterson, Founder and CEO of Retail Insider. “More Canadians are starting businesses, yet many struggle to gain visibility beyond their immediate markets. This partnership will help us support regional business communities, expand original Canadian content, and strengthen our role as the country’s most trusted source for retail and business intelligence.”
The partnership also builds on a longstanding professional relationship between Retail Insider and ELL Comms’ Founder and Publisher, Helen Siwak.
“I have known Craig for over a decade, and my early work with Retail Insider as its West Coast correspondent coincided with the emergence of Vancouver’s Luxury Zone,” said Siwak. “This partnership builds on that shared history, bringing a structured national approach to supporting Canadian businesses and ensuring regional stories are represented with credibility and consistency.”
With expanded provincial representation, increased original Canadian reporting, and a scalable commercial framework, the partnership between Retail Insider and ELL Comms marks an important step in the publication’s evolution as a national business and retail authority.
Contact: Helen Siwak, EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc. helen@ecoluxluv.com | 778-847-3011 Vancouver, BC, Canada V5L 3Y1
Returns have become a normal part of modern retail. Online shopping, flexible purchasing habits, and increased product variety have reshaped customer expectations. Shoppers now view easy returns as part of the overall buying experience rather than a separate service. Retailers that treat returns as a cost center often lose valuable opportunities to build trust and repeat business.
Forward thinking companies approach reverse logistics as a customer experience channel. When returns are handled quickly, accurately, and transparently, they strengthen brand reputation and improve long term retention. The most successful omnichannel retailers combine careful inspection procedures, efficient repackaging, and real time visibility to keep inventory flowing while maintaining strong customer relationships.
Below are seven proven strategies retailers use to turn product returns into meaningful loyalty building opportunities.
1. Streamline Reverse Logistics With Reliable Pick Pack and Ship Operations
Efficient return handling begins with a strong fulfillment foundation. Retailers that maintain organized workflows inside their warehouses reduce delays and prevent returned inventory from sitting idle. A structured pick pack and ship operation supports both outbound and inbound order accuracy, creating a consistent customer experience from purchase through return.
Warehouses that rely on barcode scanning and quality checkpoints quickly verify returned items and determine their next destination. Inventory that passes inspection moves back into active stock without unnecessary delays. Items that require repackaging or refurbishment follow a defined workflow that protects product value. Retailers benefit from streamlined fulfillment systems in several ways:
Returned items reenter sellable inventory faster
Order accuracy remains consistent across all sales channels
Labor costs stay predictable during peak return seasons
Customer exchanges process faster, improving satisfaction
A reliable warehouse process reduces friction behind the scenes, which customers recognize through faster resolutions and smoother replacement orders.
2. Implement Detailed Inspection Procedures That Protect Product Value
Inspection serves as the foundation of successful reverse logistics. Retailers that standardize inspection processes preserve product integrity while minimizing financial losses. A detailed workflow ensures each returned product receives consistent evaluation. Professional inspection typically focuses on several key factors:
Product Condition Verification
Teams evaluate items for damage, missing components, or signs of use. Products that remain in sellable condition return to inventory quickly, maintaining profit margins.
Authentication and Compliance Checks
Retailers selling regulated or branded goods often require authentication to prevent counterfeit returns or compliance violations.
Restocking Classification
Returned merchandise is categorized into resale, refurbishment, liquidation, or disposal. This classification prevents inventory confusion and protects brand reputation.
Strong inspection procedures allow retailers to recover maximum value from returned merchandise while maintaining confidence in their inventory accuracy. Customers benefit from receiving replacement items that meet the same quality standards as original purchases.
3. Upgrade Repackaging to Strengthen Brand Experience
Repackaging presents an overlooked opportunity to improve customer perception. Retailers that treat replacement shipments with the same care as original orders reinforce brand consistency and demonstrate attention to detail.
Professional fulfillment partners often provide customized packaging solutions that protect products while maintaining visual presentation. Branded inserts, secure packaging materials, and thoughtful organization elevate the unboxing experience.
Repackaging plays an important role in reducing future returns as well. Protective materials prevent shipping damage and reinforce customer confidence in product quality. Retailers that invest in professional repackaging gain both operational and marketing advantages.
4. Use Real Time Dashboards to Maintain Inventory Accuracy
Inventory visibility remains one of the most valuable tools in modern retail logistics. Real time dashboards provide retailers with immediate insight into returned product status, stock levels, and order fulfillment performance.
Integrated fulfillment technology connects sales platforms, warehouses, and shipping carriers into one centralized system. Retailers gain continuous access to order updates and inventory data across all channels. Real time reporting supports several key improvements:
Faster restocking decisions
Improved demand forecasting
Reduced overselling risks
Enhanced communication with customer service teams
Accurate dashboards also help retailers monitor return trends. When specific products generate frequent returns, teams identify quality concerns, sizing issues, or product description mismatches. Addressing these patterns improves product listings and reduces return rates over time.
Retailers operating across multiple sales channels rely heavily on unified reporting systems to maintain consistency between online marketplaces, physical stores, and direct ecommerce platforms.
5. Offer Faster Exchanges Through Coordinated Fulfillment Systems
Speed plays a central role in customer loyalty. Retailers that prioritize exchanges over refunds often retain more revenue while improving customer satisfaction. Coordinated pick pack and ship workflows allow replacement orders to move quickly through fulfillment without waiting for the original return to complete its full processing cycle.
Advanced warehouse operations support exchange programs by reserving replacement inventory as soon as a return request is approved. Customers receive updated shipping notifications quickly, which reinforces trust in the brand’s responsiveness. Exchange focused return programs provide measurable benefits:
Increased retention rates
Higher lifetime customer value
Reduced refund processing costs
Faster product turnaround
Customers value convenience and efficiency. Retailers that replace products quickly demonstrate reliability and encourage repeat purchasing behavior.
6. Leverage Omnichannel Integration to Simplify Return Management
Modern consumers purchase products across multiple channels. They expect flexible return options that allow items bought online to be returned through different platforms or locations. Omnichannel integration eliminates confusion and creates a unified customer experience.
Integrated fulfillment systems connect inventory tracking, order management, and shipping networks into a single workflow. Retailers maintain accurate stock levels regardless of where products are purchased or returned.
Professional fulfillment providers support omnichannel operations by integrating with ecommerce platforms, marketplaces, and retail partners. This integration allows returned items to move seamlessly through warehouse processing while maintaining accurate inventory data across all sales channels. Retailers benefit from omnichannel return systems through:
Reduced administrative workload
Improved order tracking visibility
Consistent return policies across channels
Faster inventory reconciliation
Unified return management removes friction from the customer journey and supports brand consistency across purchasing environments.
7. Strengthen Customer Communication Through Transparent Tracking and Reporting
Communication remains a powerful loyalty driver throughout the return process. Customers appreciate clear updates that explain return progress, replacement shipments, and refund timelines.
Warehouses equipped with advanced fulfillment dashboards provide retailers with real time tracking data that customer service teams share with buyers. Transparent reporting reduces support inquiries and strengthens customer confidence in the brand’s reliability. Effective communication strategies include:
Automated Status Notifications
Customers receive immediate updates when returns arrive at the warehouse, complete inspection, and move toward restocking or replacement shipping.
Detailed Return Insights
Retailers gain performance reports that reveal processing timelines, product trends, and return frequency.
Clear Policy Visibility
Structured return workflows reinforce policy consistency and eliminate confusion for both customers and internal teams. Retailers that invest in communication transparency demonstrate accountability. Customers respond positively to brands that provide clarity and reliable updates throughout the return experience.
Building Long Term Loyalty Through Strategic Return Management
Retail returns represent more than operational challenges. They provide direct opportunities to demonstrate customer commitment and reinforce brand reliability. Retailers that approach reverse logistics with structured inspection, professional repackaging, integrated reporting, and coordinated pick pack and ship workflows create smoother return experiences that customers remember.
Efficient fulfillment partners support these strategies by combining scalable warehouse operations with advanced technology integration. Their systems maintain inventory accuracy, accelerate exchange processing, and strengthen omnichannel consistency. Retailers gain greater control over product flow while customers receive faster, more reliable service.
Companies that treat returns as part of the customer experience build stronger relationships and increase repeat purchasing behavior. A thoughtful return strategy transforms logistical complexity into a competitive advantage that supports long term retail growth.
