Costco is opening a store in Brantford, Ontario this week, with Ontario's first Costco sushi bar. Photo Costco
Costco is set to launch its first location in Brantford ON on November 8, 2024, at 175 Roy Boulevard, near Lynden Park Mall. The latest warehouse spans 150,000 square feet and introduces several features, including Ontario’s first Costco in-store sushi department.
In addition to the sushi department, members will have access to 24 gas pumps and 813 parking spaces. The store will also feature a selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, champagne, and ready-to-drink options, catering to a growing interest in convenience for a variety of household needs.
This location will also provide Costco’s well-known member services for optical needs, hearing aids, and prescriptions. These services are designed to give Costco members easy access to essential health and wellness products, further adding to the convenience that defines the retailer’s offerings.
First Ontario Costco with Sushi Department Reflects Changing Consumer Tastes
Costco’s decision to introduce an in-store sushi department in Brantford reflects a larger trend within the company to adapt to evolving consumer preferences. Following the successful launch of Canada’s first Costco sushi department in Richmond, British Columbia, earlier this year, the Brantford location brings this innovative offering to Ontario for the first time. Freshly prepared daily, sushi options include popular choices like salmon rolls, California rolls, and vegetarian options, catering to members seeking healthy, convenient meal options.
The inclusion of sushi aligns with similar moves by Costco in the United States, where the chain launched its Kirkland sushi line at the Issaquah, Washington location in June 2023.
Creating Jobs and Boosting Economic Activity in Brantford
Costco’s entry into Brantford has generated 180 permanent jobs, along with an additional 80 seasonal positions. The store’s opening is expected to drive local economic growth, as Costco’s presence tends to attract additional commercial activity in the surrounding area.
Costco’s Success and Expansion Across Canada
Since entering the Canadian market in 1985, Costco has grown to become one of the country’s largest and most successful retailers, now operating about 110 stores nationwide. This success is rooted in Costco’s commitment to providing quality products at competitive prices, which has helped the chain attract a loyal membership base.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to Mark the Grand Opening
To celebrate the opening, Costco will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Brantford warehouse. Media representatives are invited to attend the event, which will offer an exclusive first look at the new store layout and amenities.
Date: Friday, November 8, 2024
Time: Ceremony begins at 6:30 a.m. (media arrival at 6:15 a.m.); doors open to the public at 7:00 a.m.
Purdys Chocolatier pop-up store at Lloyd Mall in Lloydminster, Alberta. Photo: Purdys Chocolatier
Vancouver-based Purdys Chocolatier is bringing its renowned chocolates to new communities just in time for the holiday season. As part of a strategy to reach untapped markets, the company has launched six new pop-up locations across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. The temporary stores, which opened on November 1, aim to evaluate demand in new regions as part of a broader initiative that could lead to permanent stores in these areas.
According to Kriston Dean, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Purdys, the pop-up strategy extends the brand’s reach and provides a meaningful way to connect with new communities, ultimately determining which markets are ready for a long-term Purdys presence. This move follows the success of last year’s pilot pop-up locations, which saw a positive response and led to two permanent stores in Cranbrook, BC, and Fort McMurray, AB.
Pop-Up Locations Across Four Provinces
Kriston Dean
The six new pop-ups are located at Driftwood Mall in Courtenay, BC; LloydMall in Lloydminster, AB; South Edmonton Common in Edmonton; Cornwall Centre in Regina; The Centre Mall in Saskatoon; and Niagara Pen Centre in St. Catharines, ON. The selection was driven by a mix of data from Purdys’ distribution channels, social media feedback, and direct customer requests.
The Cornwall Centre store is the first for Regina, and The Centre Mall location is the second in Saskatoon.
“Locations like Lloydminster and St. Catharines have loyal customers who are thrilled to see Purdys arrive closer to home,” said Dean. “These pop-ups give us a chance to build connections with these communities and understand their needs before potentially committing to a permanent presence.”
Data-Driven Decision-Making for Pop-Up Locations
Purdys carefully considered its customer base in selecting these locations, employing a mix of quantitative data and anecdotal insights. Dean explained that the team analyzed data from Purdys’ fundraising and group purchase programs, which don’t require physical stores. They also reviewed feedback from social media and surveys, as well as comments from loyal customers who had often voiced their interest in having Purdys locations in underserved markets.
“Customers in places like Lloydminster and Courtenay have been asking for us,” Dean shared. “We combined sales data with customer feedback to make informed decisions about where to open these new pop-ups. It’s about being where our customers want us to be.”
Purdys Chocolatier pop-up store at The Centre Mall in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Photo: Purdys Chocolatier
Modular Design Ensures a Consistent Brand Experience
Each pop-up features modular fixtures designed to replicate the familiar look and feel of a permanent Purdys store. This innovative setup allows Purdys to maintain its brand identity in a temporary setting. The pop-ups are nearly indistinguishable from permanent locations, although they lack certain offerings like ice cream and custom chocolate cases due to food safety and plumbing requirements.
Dean explained that these modular designs are key to providing a consistent customer experience across all pop-up locations. “We’ve developed these pop-ups to be as close to our permanent stores as possible,” she noted. “This approach ensures new customers feel the full Purdys experience, even if it’s just temporary.”
Image: Purdys Chocolatier
Six-Month Trial Period Provides Insight for Future Locations
The new pop-ups will operate through Easter, giving each location a six-month period to evaluate customer demand beyond the holiday season. This extended timeline allows Purdys to observe customer response over multiple months, ultimately helping the company decide whether any of these locations should transition to permanent stores. Last year, similar pop-ups exceeded sales targets by 14.5%, which led to permanent stores in Cranbrook, BC, and Fort McMurray, AB.
“Operating through Easter gives us a real sense of the community’s response and sales performance,” Dean added. “With a six-month trial, we can make better-informed decisions about which markets have the potential for a permanent Purdys store.”
Purdys Chocolatier pop-up store at Driftwood Mall in Courtenay, BC. Photo: Purdys Chocolatier
Testing New Retail Formats at Power Centres
In addition to expanding geographically, Purdys is testing different retail formats through this pop-up initiative. Traditionally focused on mall-based stores, Purdys is now trying out locations in high-traffic power centres like South Edmonton Common to assess how the brand performs in a non-mall environment.
Dean emphasized the strategic importance of this experiment, as Purdys has built a strong presence in Edmonton over 45 years, making it an ideal location to explore new retail approaches.
Ontario Growth and Future Expansion Opportunities
While Western Canada is Purdys’ traditional stronghold, Ontario remains a significant growth area for the brand. With 27 stores across the province, Purdys continues to identify untapped opportunities in communities like Kitchener and Barrie. Dean highlighted that Ontario, though home to many Purdys stores, still offers a range of expansion possibilities, particularly in regions that are currently underserved.
“Ontario remains a priority for us, as do other regions where we’re not yet present,” Dean explained. “There are still several communities that would love to have a local Purdys, and we’re excited to explore these areas.”
Image: Purdys Chocolatier
Looking Ahead: Further Canadian Expansion
Beyond Ontario, Purdys sees potential in other provinces, including Quebec and the Maritimes, where the brand has not yet established a physical presence. Dean noted that while Purdys has significant brand recognition in Western Canada, there is ample room for growth across the country.
“We’ve been expanding eastward for years, but there are still many Canadian communities without a local Purdys,” Dean said. “We want to be where our customers are, and as a Canadian-owned, Canadian-founded chocolatier, there’s a special connection we aim to share with communities nationwide.”
Restaurant Brands International Inc. (TSX: QSR) reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30 showing an increase in system-wide sales.
Restaurant Brands International Inc. is one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant companies with over $40 billion in annual system-wide sales and over 30,000 restaurants in more than 120 countries and territories. RBI owns four of the world’s most prominent and iconic quick service restaurant brands – TIM HORTONS®, BURGER KING®, POPEYES®, and FIREHOUSE SUBS®.
Third Quarter 2024 Highlights:
Consolidated comparable sales were 0.3% and net restaurants grew 3.8% versus the prior year;
System-wide sales increased 3.2% year-over-year;
Income from Operations of $577 million versus $582 million in the prior year;
Adjusted Operating Income of $652 million increased 6.1% organically (excluding FX and RH) versus the prior year;
Diluted EPS of $0.79 was consistent with the prior year;
Adjusted Diluted EPS of $0.93 increased 4.6% organically (excluding FX and RH) versus the prior year.
Josh Kobza
“Our results demonstrate the resilience of our business and the dedication of our teams and franchisees. We remain focused on providing great value for guests, improving franchisee profitability, and investing in our brands for the long-term. We have been pleased to see an improvement in consolidated comparable sales in October and remain confident we will achieve our 8% plus Adjusted Operating Income growth target for 2024 and beyond,” said Josh Kobza, Chief Executive Officer of RBI, in a news release.
The company completed the acquisitions of Carrols Restaurant Group Inc. and Popeyes China on May 16, 2024 and June 28, 2024, respectively. Consolidated results include Carrols and PLK China revenues, expenses and segment income from their acquisition dates.
RBI hosted an investor event on February 15 and announced the following long-term consolidated performance that the company continues to expect to achieve, on average, from 2024 to 2028:
3%+ Comparable Sales;
5%+ Net Restaurant Growth;
8%+ System-wide Sales growth; and
Adjusted Operating Income growth at least as fast as system-wide sales growth.
Pet Valu Holdings Ltd., the leading Canadian specialty retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies, announced Tuesday that system-wide sales and revenue in the third quarter, ending September 28, were up compared to a year ago.
Richard Maltsbarger
“Third quarter performance tells a story of continued resilience and responsible execution as we delivered 5% revenue growth and 13% Adjusted EBITDA growth in a constrained demand environment,” said Richard Maltsbarger, Chief Executive Officer of Pet Valu, in a news release.
“We also reached an important milestone in our supply chain transformation with the successful transition and start-up of our new Surrey DC, unlocking incremental capacity and productivity in Western Canada.
“As we ramp up for the holidays, our merchandising and marketing teams have crafted an exciting slate of events delivering value and expertise to devoted pet lovers when they need it most. Supported by hundreds of local stores, a sharpened digital platform and an enhanced supply chain network, our curated offering of competitively priced premium products will help inspire magical holiday moments with pets.”
Highlights of the company’s Q3 include:
System-wide sales were $358.2 million, an increase of 0.3% versus Q3 2023. Same-store sales growth was -2.5%;
Revenue was $276.0 million, up 5.2% versus Q3 2023;
Adjusted EBITDA was $64.6 million, up 13.0% versus Q3 2023, representing 23.4% of revenue. Operating income was $40.4 million, up 8.0% versus Q3 2023;
Net income was $23.2 million, up from $18.0 million in Q3 2023;
Adjusted Net Income was $29.9 million or $0.41 per diluted share, compared to $28.2 million or $0.39 per diluted share, respectively, in Q3 2023;
Opened 6 new stores and ended the quarter with 805 stores across the network;
Officially opened the new Metro Vancouver Region (“MVR”) distribution centre;
The Board of Directors of the Company declared a dividend of $0.11 per common share.
The company said it expects revenue between $1.08 and $1.10 billion, supported by approximately 40 new store openings and flat same-store sales growth, Adjusted EBITDA between $243 and $246 million, and Adjusted Net Income per Diluted Share between $1.50 and $1.53 for 2024.
Pet Valu is Canada’s leading retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies with over 800 corporate-owned or franchised locations across the country. The company, which has been around for about 45 years, is headquartered in Markham, Ontario and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: PET).
Canadian performance lifestyle apparel brand DUER, known for flexible fabrics that offer versatility and style, has opened its first Edmonton storefront at Southgate Centre.
“After decades making jeans for some of the world’s best brands, I started DUER because I couldn’t find pants I’d want to wear to ride my bike to an important meeting—this was the inception story of Performance Denim,” said Gary Lenett, CEO of DUER.
“Partnering with Edmonton’s own Stuart Skinner is a natural fit as he embodies the active, on-the-go lifestyle that our clothing is designed for and has deep roots in the community.
“With our latest store in Southgate Centre in Edmonton now open, we are sitting at six stores in Canada and two in the United States. We had hoped to open a handful of stores this year but are judicious about signing the ‘right’ leases. We did open Ottawa in July to a really strong initial response that we’ve maintained. I’d like to think we got the lease right in this market! We’re hoping to see the same enthusiasm for DUER in Edmonton.”
Gary Lenett (Image: DUER)
Lenett said the retailer has some pretty grand goals for the business in the coming years.
“Our strategy is centered on expanding our retail footprint so more customers can experience the clothing firsthand. This in-person approach is how new customers understand what sets DUER apart from other apparel brands,” he said.
“Beyond North America, we’re working hard to establish a greater presence in the EU. We have an amazing network of partners around the globe and we’re now zeroing in on specific territories so we can level up the brand familiarity in geographies like Germany and the UK.
“On the manufacturing side, we’ve worked hard to advance the technology in our owned factory based in Lahore, Pakistan. From advanced laundry systems to solar panels that power much of our energy needs, we’re really driving at being a leader in this space.”
Photo- DUER
During the Grand Opening Weekend for the Edmonton store, fans can enter to win an exclusive meet-and-greet with Skinner, who was recently captured wearing DUER’s famous Performance Denim along with the brand’s more formal offering, NuStretch.
“These DUER pants feel awesome and look great too,” said Skinner. “Now that I’ve found pants with stretch that fit my muscular legs, they’ll be my Go-to.”
The 1,750-square-foot store will showcase DUER’s full range of men’s and women’s apparel.
“We’ve had a lot of success in Calgary and, even though the two markets are different in a number of ways, we believe we’ve got a lot of “Duers” in Edmonton,” explained Lenett.
“As is the case with any new venture, we’ve put in the groundwork and built a strong customer base in our wholesale division, which helps mitigate any risk and gives us a solid foundation to build on.
“We spent a long time looking at specific locations in Edmonton and ultimately Southgate Centre felt like the right fit, with neighbours like Apple and lululemon and an ideal store footprint. It’s also the mall where the locals go to shop, giving us a real opportunity to become a part of the community.”
He said the retailer’s stores typically range from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet, depending on the location and layout, giving it the flexibility to create an engaging shopping experience tailored to the market.
Photo- DUER
“We look at several factors, with an emphasis on our existing customer base. We look at demand from local wholesale partners like MEC and Sporting Life, online sales, and regional brand awareness,” said Lenett of the company’s real estate strategy.
“We’ve brought on local hockey star Stuart Skinner to support us in the launch period of the new store. This partnership supports our desire to build community in the markets we are entering. And in terms of Stuart, he absolutely embodies the active, on-the-go lifestyle that our clothing is designed for.
“I really believe consumers are much more curious about the experience rather than the ‘thing’. What I mean by this is although they may be coming into our store for pants, it’s going to be the atmosphere and experience that’ll leave an impression. And this goes beyond excellent store staff – although I genuinely believe we have the best in the business. It extends to the imagery and storytelling that appears throughout the store, making the space feel relatable and connected to who we are as a brand.”
Skip, Canada’s homegrown delivery network, has launched a new membership program, Skip+ as part of the company’s refreshed brand positioning, ‘Skip to the good part’.
Skip+ is a reinforcement of a commitment to offer Canadians even more of ‘the good part‘, including greater savings and access to exclusive perks and experiences, said the company in a news release.
“The new membership program blends essential features like $0 delivery fees, more bonus points and reduced service fees with unique rewards such as members-only access to exciting offers and experiences, brought to life through exclusive partnerships including Premiere partner CIBC, and WestJet, Live Nation Canada and the NHL®. Amongst a host of exclusive perks, Skip+ will also help customers save over $200 in their first 6 months of membership,” said Skip.
Some of the key benefits include:
Unlimited $0 Delivery Fees: $0 delivery fees on nearly every order
Lower Service Fees: Reduced service fees on all orders, up to 40% off
Bonus Points: Earn additional points even faster, so members can redeem discounts more often
Premium Deals: Take advantage of special deals and offers from Canada’s most popular restaurants and stores
Members-Only Access: Unlock VIP experiences powered by robust partnerships that feature beloved brands – enjoy exclusive travel perks with WestJet, priority access to the hottest live entertainment tickets with Live Nation Canada, and once-in-a-lifetime NHL® sporting events.
Rachel MacAdam
“While this membership program is purpose-built to deliver value, Skip+ is about so much more than savings,” said Rachel MacAdam, Vice President of Marketing at Skip. “Beyond satisfying Canadians’ love of great food, with Skip+, we’re giving our members meaningful ways to unlock more value in their delivery experience and connect with their passion points — whether it’s live music, travel or sports. It’s one of many ways we’re empowering Canadians to skip to the good part and enjoy life a whole lot more.”
With CIBC as the Premiere Skip+ partner, CIBC cardholders have access to exclusive benefits to make ordering from their favourite restaurants, retailers, and grocery stores more convenient and rewarding. These include a 12-month free Skip+ membership trial, a welcome voucher for up to $45 in savings, a preferred $6.99 monthly subscription fee following the free trial, and additional benefits and deals contributing up to $600 in savings across their first year of membership, said the news release.
“We know our clients value convenience and savings, and teaming up with Skip helps us deliver on both,” said Diane Ferri, Senior-Vice President, Cards, CIBC. “As we continue to provide a best-in-class client experience, opportunities like this help us deepen relationships with clients, bringing them more value and everyday savings to make it easier for them to achieve their ambitions.”
“From the comfort of home to the skies, Skip+ will usher in a new era of savings, perks and exclusive offers for convenience and travel seekers across the country,” said Jeff Hagen, WestJet Vice-President of Commercial Development & Strategic Partnerships. “Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or a dream vacation, these exciting new benefits will allow guests to start writing their travel story even sooner.”
“We are excited to partner with Skip to provide their Skip+ members unique opportunities to win exclusive VIP experiences at our tentpole NHL events,” said Nicole Lee, NHL Senior Director, Integrated Marketing. “Our goal is to showcase the many benefits of Skip+ to our passionate fans and entice them to sign up when they are at home watching NHL games”.
Porsche lounge at Royalmount in Montreal. Photo: Porsche Canada
Royalmount in Montreal has partnered with Porsche Cars Canada Ltd. to launch a luxury valet parking service complete with a dedicated Porsche Lounge. The collaboration aims to enhance Royalmount’s appeal to Montreal’s affluent clientele by offering exclusive services and sustainable luxury experiences, all in a venue designed for upscale shopping, dining, and relaxation.
Visitors to Royalmount will now have access to Porsche’s exclusive valet service, adding an extra layer of convenience for guests who value ease and efficiency. The valet service streamlines the arrival experience. Catering to an affluent demographic, the valet service aligns with Royalmount’s vision to create a premium, seamless experience for visitors who seek sophistication and high-quality service.
Alongside the valet parking service, Porsche has introduced the Porsche Lounge—a stylish, modern space where valet guests can relax and enjoy a luxurious atmosphere. The lounge reflects Porsche’s signature aesthetic, providing visitors with an environment that emphasizes both luxury and sustainability. Here, guests can also admire the all-electric Macan Turbo on display, showcased in a limited-edition Provence exterior colour. Now available at Porsche Centres across Canada, the Macan Electric exemplifies Porsche’s commitment to eco-conscious innovation, creating an opportunity for Royalmount visitors to engage with the latest in Porsche’s electrified lineup.
Porsche Macan at Royalmount in Montreal. Photo: Porsche Canada
Priority Charging Stations for Porsche Owners
As part of Porsche’s valet service, Royalmount features six Porsche-exclusive destination chargers, offering priority charging access for Porsche owners. These EV chargers cater to the growing demand for sustainable transportation options among customers, reinforcing Royalmount’s commitment to sustainability. Non-Porsche EV owners also benefit from Royalmount’s charging infrastructure, which supports the centre’s broader green initiatives and accessibility.
The exclusive charging access represents Porsche’s efforts to expand its electric vehicle ecosystem across premium locations in Canada. For Porsche drivers, the dedicated charging spots at Royalmount make the centre an appealing destination, blending exclusivity with convenience.
Royalmount in Montreal. Photo supplied by Carbonleo
Experience the Porsche Lounge at Royalmount
The Porsche Lounge is a highlight of Royalmount’s valet offering, giving guests a sophisticated environment to relax and enjoy the luxury automotive brand. The lounge is designed with Porsche’s minimalist, elegant style, providing a premium space that reflects the brand’s values.
Visitors can explore the latest Porsche models, including the Macan Electric, a vehicle that merges luxury and sustainability. For Porsche enthusiasts and potential buyers, the lounge serves as an immersive entry into Porsche’s evolving line of electric vehicles.
Royalmount: A Hub for Luxury and Sustainability
Developed by Carbonleo, Royalmount is designed to be a landmark in Montreal’s retail and lifestyle scene, focusing on luxury, sustainability, and accessibility. Located in midtown Montreal, this 824,000-square-foot development is Canada’s largest LEED Gold-certified retail project and one of the first carbon-neutral mixed-use projects in the Americas. Featuring high-end retailers, a diverse array of dining options, and experiential attractions, Royalmount is poised to redefine luxury retail in Montreal.
The venue includes a climate-controlled Skybridge connected to the De la Savane metro station, providing convenient access year-round. Royalmount’s unique layout, combined with sustainable features like extensive green spaces and EV chargers, appeals to environmentally conscious visitors and supports its mission to become a sustainable urban landmark.
WELL Health Technologies Corp. (“WELL”), a prominent digital healthcare company, has taken a step to increase primary care access by acquiring Canadian clinical assets from Jack Nathan Medical Corp. (“Jack Nathan”). The acquisition brings 16 owned and operated clinics and 62 licensee clinics into WELL’s network, establishing a new Affiliate Clinic model and extending WELL’s presence within Walmart Canada locations.
The 16 clinics, generating over $10 million in revenue in the last 12 months, are located in 13 cities across Canada. The 62 licensee clinics contribute an additional $2.2 million in annual revenue. WELL anticipates that its transformation programs and shared services support will help these clinics achieve profitability on an adjusted EBITDA basis by 2025.
Growing WELL’s Presence in Walmart Canada
As part of the acquisition, WELL gains Jack Nathan’s rights to operate clinics within Walmart Canada stores, an opportunity for nationwide expansion. With Walmart’s footprint of over 400 locations across Canada, WELL’s owned and operated clinics will now reach more communities, offering accessible, in-store primary care options.
Hamed Shahbazi, WELL’s Founder and CEO, highlighted the significance of this acquisition: “Acquiring Jack Nathan’s Canadian business is a substantial milestone in our mission to support healthcare providers across Canada. By adding 90 doctors to our network and creating opportunities for both owned and affiliate clinics, we are expanding our ability to support physicians in delivering quality care. Our presence in Walmart stores allows us to reach a broader population while benefiting from WELL’s digital tools that enhance clinic operations.”
PHOTO: JACK NATHAN HEALTH
Introducing the New Affiliate Clinic Model
The acquisition marks the launch of WELL’s high-margin “Affiliate Clinic” model. In this new structure, WELL will support independently owned and operated clinics by recruiting and placing physicians, while providing operational and technology solutions. These clinics, which will be owned by physicians, generate rental income for WELL without operational responsibilities, contributing to a more sustainable and profitable revenue stream.
Dr. Michael Frankel, Chief Medical Officer at WELL, commented on the impact of this model on primary care: “Primary care is essential to our healthcare system, and expanding our footprint allows us to better support physicians. This acquisition bolsters WELL’s role as a healthcare leader, enhancing workflows, improving clinic efficiency, and sustaining operations long-term.”
Expanding Geographic Reach and Patient Access
With this acquisition, WELL’s reach now spans multiple densely populated regions across 13 Canadian cities. The clinics, strategically positioned in Walmart locations, are expected to improve patient access and streamline healthcare experiences with support from WELL’s clinic transformation program. WELL’s digital tools and shared services program will be implemented across these clinics to optimize operations, boost efficiency, and improve the patient-provider experience.
The acquisition aligns with WELL’s long-term vision of creating a pan-Canadian network of accessible, tech-enabled healthcare clinics. By integrating Jack Nathan’s clinics into its platform, WELL is building on its position as Canada’s largest owner-operator of healthcare clinics, solidifying its role in addressing primary care accessibility.
Walmart Canada store. Photo: Getty Images
Streamlining Operations with WELL’s Digital Tools
Through this acquisition, WELL plans to implement its digital tools and clinic transformation program across all newly acquired clinics, enhancing operational efficiency. WELL’s technology solutions include front and back-office management software applications that aim to improve workflows and simplify clinic management. These innovations are designed to reduce administrative burden and allow physicians to focus more on patient care.
Empowering Physicians and Elevating Care
WELL’s investment in Jack Nathan’s network emphasizes its commitment to empowering healthcare providers through technology. As part of the transformation, the company’s clinic transformation team will work closely with physicians and staff, enhancing workflows and implementing WELL’s proven optimization strategies.
Mike Marchelletta, Executive Vice Chairman of Jack Nathan, expressed confidence in WELL’s ability to bring the clinics to the next level: “WELL Health’s expertise in technology and operations offers a unique opportunity to elevate Jack Nathan’s network. Their leadership and advancements in AI and clinical technology will help improve access to quality healthcare for patients and physicians across Canada.”
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.
Uniqlo store at CF Sherway Gardens on Friday, November 1, 2024. Photo: Uniqlo
Japanese fashion retailer Uniqlo opened five new stores across Canada this fall, cementing its growing presence in the Canadian market. This latest expansion includes high-profile locations in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec, adding to the brand’s established footprint across the country.
The openings underscore Uniqlo’s commitment to bringing its quality, staple-based clothing to Canadian consumers as part of a broader North American growth strategy. The brand entered Canada in 2016 with stores, and has been expanding since then.
Inside the new Uniqlo store at CF Sherway Gardens on Friday, November 1, 2024. Photo: Uniqlo
A Strategic Approach to Canadian Expansion
Uniqlo’s new stores in Ontario include CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto, Heartland Town Centre in Mississauga, and Bramalea City Centre in Brampton. British Columbia now boasts an additional location at Willowbrook Shopping Centre in Langley, while Quebec welcomes a new store at the highly anticipated Royalmount development in Montreal. Each store has been carefully selected based on Uniqlo’s data-driven approach to reaching high-demand, high-traffic locations across Canada.
CF Sherway Gardens: The CF Sherway Gardens store opened last week and occupies about 15,000 square feet, combining the mall’s former Laura retail space with adjacent areas to create a spacious layout that enhances the customer shopping experience. The format aligns with Uniqlo’s preferred size for non-flagship locations, allowing it to showcase a full range of essentials.
Heartland Town Centre: The Heartland Town Centre location, which opened in early October, represents a first for Uniqlo in Canada, as it marks the retailer’s debut in a power centre environment. Located in Mississauga, Heartland Town Centre is one of Canada’s most successful big-box retail hubs, known for its easy accessibility and ample parking. This location allows Uniqlo to serve a broader suburban demographic, offering convenience for shoppers outside traditional enclosed malls.
Bramalea City Centre: The Bramalea City Centre location brings Uniqlo to Brampton with a 12,167-square-foot store within this popular regional shopping mall. The store, which opened on October 18, reflects Uniqlo’s commitment to reaching diverse communities in the Greater Toronto Area.
Willowbrook Shopping Centre: In British Columbia, the new Willowbrook Shopping Centre store in Langley adds to Uniqlo’s Greater Vancouver Area locations, marking the brand’s fifth store in the region. The store, which opened October 25, highlights Uniqlo’s focus on reaching suburban areas.
Royalmount in Montreal: Uniqlo’s Royalmount location solidifies its presence in Quebec, adding a fifth store in the Greater Montreal Area. Royalmount, a new mixed-use complex, which opened on September 5 of this year, is expected to become a premier retail destination in Montreal. Uniqlo’s early entry into the development reinforces the brand’s confidence in Royalmount as a key retail hub.
Jeff Berkowitz of Aurora Realty Consultants has been instrumental in Uniqlo’s Canadian expansion, negotiating leases since the brand entered the country over eight years ago. His expertise has been pivotal in securing prime locations that align with Uniqlo’s strategic objectives.
Uniqlo grand opening at Royalmount in Montreal in September. Photo: Uniqlo
Understanding Canadian Consumers and Future Growth Plans for Uniqlo
Uniqlo’s success in Canada reflects a deep understanding of Canadian consumer preferences. The brand’s focus on high-quality, versatile basics aligns well with Canadians’ desire for functional, lasting clothing over fleeting trends. Uniqlo’s minimalist, durable styles appeal to shoppers looking for reliable and adaptable wardrobe staples.
Uniqlo’s North American strategy includes a target of 200 stores across the continent by 2027, with Canada positioned as a significant market. Potential future store openings could extend to cities like Winnipeg, Halifax, Quebec City, and London, Ontario, while the brand may also seek to increase its presence in power centres such as South Edmonton Common. The long-rumored possibility of a flagship store in downtown Vancouver could also come to fruition, with potential sites on Robson Street or in the former Nordstrom building, giving Uniqlo a prime street-front presence in Vancouver.
Competing in Canada’s Fast-Fashion Market
Uniqlo’s ongoing expansion brings it into competition with other fast-fashion retailers like H&M and Zara, both of which have strong store presences across Canada. However, Uniqlo’s focus on quality basics rather than trend-driven pieces differentiates it within the Canadian retail landscape. Canadian retailer La Maison Simons also provides competition, offering a curated selection of affordable fashion.
Meanwhile, a new international fast-fashion brand is expected to enter Canada as soon as next year, bringing large-format stores and trendy options that could intensify the competitive landscape. Despite the competition, Uniqlo’s steady expansion signals its commitment to Canada and confidence in its ability to grow its market share.
Inside the new Uniqlo store at Royalmount in Montreal. Photo: Uniqlo
Global Reach with Local Adaptation
These recent openings bring Uniqlo’s Canadian store count to 28, with the brand’s first two Canadian locations having launched at CF Toronto Eaton Centre and Yorkdale Shopping Centre in 2016. Uniqlo’s calculated expansion strategy underscores the brand’s importance to parent company Fast Retailing, one of the world’s largest apparel retailers. Uniqlo’s current store format in Canada typically spans between 15,000 and 40,000 square feet, allowing for a well-curated selection of products that appeal to Canadian shoppers.
Globally, Uniqlo now operates over 2,400 stores, with over 60 in the United States and an expanding presence in Canada.
