In a news release, the company said these new partnerships complement Voilà, Empire’s existing online grocery home delivery service. Instacart and Uber Eats users will now see Empire banner stores on their apps in Ontario, with rollout across Canada to follow.
“By making its banners available on the additional channels of Instacart and Uber Eats, Empire is responding to evolving market dynamics and customer demands, particularly in the immediacy segment of e-commerce. Customers in Ontario will now have more ways to enjoy product offerings from Empire’s banners using Instacart and Uber Eats. And, for the first time, FreshCo customers in the province can have their favourite products delivered right to their door,” it said.
Doug Nathanson
“We are excited to be expanding our e-commerce offering and continuing to grow the market. Through these new partnerships with Instacart and Uber Eats, Empire has expanded how customers can shop our banners, giving us access to a larger segment of the e-commerce market,” said Doug Nathanson, Chief Development Officer, Empire. “We have proudly offered home delivery service to customers with our world-class Voilà platform since 2020 and now expand our reach to give more customers more choices, faster. That’s a winning recipe.”
Delivery will be available at Sobeys, Farm Boy, Longo’s and, for the first time, FreshCo.
Empire said customers simply download their app of choice, select their preferred participating Empire banner store, and fill their baskets with their favourite products.
Chris Rogers
“At Instacart, we’re always looking for ways to bring more variety and convenience to our customers, so we couldn’t be more thrilled to grow our presence in Canada by welcoming Empire’s iconic grocery store banners to the Instacart App,” said Chris Rogers, Chief Business Officer at Instacart. “As someone who calls Canada home and has been going to these grocery stores for as long as I can remember, I’m excited to provide Empire’s customers with an additional channel of exceptional online grocery experience.”
Klaas Knieriem
“We are thrilled to welcome Empire and its banners to the Uber Eats app. Canadians now have more grocery options available to choose from right from the Uber or Uber Eats apps they already have on their phone with the on-demand speed Uber is known for,” said Klaas Knieriem, Head of Grocery and Retail for Uber Eats in Canada. “Uber Eats has grown quickly from a platform to get your favourite meals delivered to a one-stop-shop for anything you need—from pharmacy essentials to groceries to alcohol and everyday household items. We’re continuously expanding the in-app selection by bringing new retailers onto the delivery platform to deliver Canadians their favourite items.”
MINISO’s IP Collection Store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre, Toronto. Image: Miniso
MINISO, the renowned global lifestyle brand, recently opened its newest IP Collection Store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre, Toronto featuring the Sanrio characters.
“Building on the success of the West Vancouver flagship store, this new IP Collection Store further underscores MINISO’s commitment to providing well-designed, diverse IP products and delightful shopping experiences across Canada, said the company in a news release.
“As the latest of MINISO’s beloved IP Collection stores, the new Toronto store welcomes customers with enchanting Sanrio character-themed elements, including soft pink decorations and a charming storefront adorned with Sanrio character displays, blended into the overall design. The new store spans around 300 square meters in the Eaton Centre, which is one of the city’s busiest retail hubs, ensuring exposure to a wide and diverse audience. Inside the store, customers can explore well-organized zones for perfumes, personal care, cosmetics, and electronics, along with themed sections celebrating popular IPs such as Sanrio, Harry Potter, Loopy, and Barbie, bringing the joy of multiple IP worlds together in one store.”
The company said Harry Potter collection is making its Canada debut in the Eaton Centre store, bringing the joy and magic of the Harry Potter films to life across a huge range of categories.
“The collection was enthusiastically received at its launch in Hong Kong and has since brought fan-favorite characters and enchanting designs to Harry Potter and MINISO fans globally. Lovers of all things enchanted will discover everything from collectible blind boxes and adorable plushies, to everyday items like stationery, bags and accessories, helping them to relive childhood nostalgia and make special new memories,” it explained.
“This new store marks a significant milestone in MINISO’s expansion across Canada, building on the momentum of the successful Vancouver launch. With more locations planned in key malls and exciting new IP collaborations on the horizon, MINISO is set to continue bringing innovative and engaging shopping experiences to communities across Canada and beyond.”
Beginning Saturday (Oct. 26), until Saturday, Nov. 9, customers can donate to Operation Santa Claus at their local Giant Tiger store by rounding up their purchase or donating $1 or $2 at checkout. (CNW Group/Giant Tiger Stores Limited)
Retailer Giant Tiger is launching Operation Santa Claus in partnership with Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) to help deliver care packages to more than 2,500 members of the Canadian Armed Forces deployed in Canada and across the world who are unable to be with their families for the holiday season.
Beginning Saturday (Oct. 26), until Saturday, Nov. 9, customers can donate to Operation Santa Claus at their local Giant Tiger store by rounding up their purchase or donating $1 or $2 at checkout.
Gabrielle Hargrove
“As a community-focused retailer, we have proudly supported Operation Santa Claus since 2014, and we’re thrilled to continue this meaningful initiative again this year,” said Gabrielle Hargrove, Senior Vice President and Chief HR Officer, Giant Tiger Stores Limited. “This program delivers a piece of home to those away from their loved ones during the holidays, and it’s a beautiful way to bring our communities together during the holiday season.”
“The package was filled with thoughtfully selected items, and we were truly impressed by the care put into each one. It included everything from toiletries and food to a coffee cup and a small bag. Every item was warmly received by our soldiers, and nothing went to waste. If a soldier preferred certain items, we pooled them for our weekly movie night. For a brief moment, it felt like a little piece of home, making each soldier feel valued. We cannot express enough gratitude to everyone involved in this wonderful initiative,” said a deployed CAF member recipient of an Op Santa Package in 2023.
In a news release, officials said Operation Santa Claus began in 1992 in Montréal initiated by women sending holiday packages to their spouses serving on peacekeeping missions abroad. These packages included cards, greetings from across Canada, and donated items from local businesses. The program quickly grew nationwide sending care packages annually to all deployed Canadian Armed Forced members thanks to the generous support of Canadians and Corporate Canada. Each package contains cozy essentials, treats, and self-care items, bringing holiday joy to deployed personnel, it was explained.
“Since 2014, Giant Tiger has contributed more than $610,000 in product through funds raised, helping to fill care packages for over 27,632 members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Last year alone, through the generosity of our customers, Giant Tiger Stores raised enough funds to supply products in 3,000 care packages. Donations to Operation Santa Claus can be made at your local Giant Tiger,” said the news release.
Giant Tiger, a privately held company, has over 260 locations across Canada and employs over 10,000 members of Team Tiger.
The share of Canadian small businesses directly affected by crime and safety issues has almost doubled in the last year, jumping from nearly a quarter (24 per cent) in 2023 to 45 per cent in 2024, finds a new report by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) released on Thursday.
Keyli Loeppky
“It’s been a nightmare on Main Street. Imagine working hard, providing jobs, contributing to the community, just to have your goods stolen, windows broken, and property vandalized. For small businesses, it’s devastating when they are hit by crime over and over again,” said Keyli Loeppky, CFIB’s director for Alberta and interprovincial affairs.
“As crime continues to rise, small businesses are being left to fend for themselves, shouldering the emotional and financial burden. It’s time for all levels of government to step up, protect our communities, and ensure that every tax dollar spent makes a tangible difference in improving safety for small businesses and the people they serve.”
Waste and litter (e.g. drug paraphernalia, garbage, excrement), vandalism, and theft were the most common types of crime small businesses experience. Crime and safety issues take an emotional toll on small businesses as well, with over two-thirds (68 per cent) worrying about their personal safety and that of their staff and customers, explained the CFIB.
“Businesses have spent a median of $5,000 on crime-related expenses in the last three years, such as replacing stolen inventory or equipment and vandalism repairs. In addition, 68 per cent of small firms do not consistently file crime-related insurance claims, with most saying they worry about driving their insurance premiums even higher, at a time when such costs are already skyrocketing,” added the national organization.
Small businesses say governments and law enforcement aren’t doing enough
The report said 54 per cent of business owners consistently file police reports, but only 33 per cent are satisfied with police response times and services. Some business owners reported that the crimes they experienced, such as theft or vandalism, were “too small” for police to take action, or that police wouldn’t come for hours or even days after they have been called in these cases.
To deal with safety concerns, 50 per cent of small businesses adjusted their ways of operating, such as shifting to appointment-only services, locking doors during business hours and/or leaving lights on overnight. Also, 67 per cent have invested in extra security measures such as surveillance cameras, window bars and security guards, said the CFIB.
SeoRhin Yoo
“Some security measures, while helpful and necessary, may come at a steep price, deter customer foot traffic and, as a result, lead to lower revenues,” said SeoRhin Yoo, CFIB’s senior policy analyst and report co-author. “Many businesses are already operating on thin profit margins, so just one crime incident could be make-or-break-for a small business owner.”
The CFIB said 79 per cent of business owners believe their tax dollars are not being used effectively to improve community safety, while 78 per cent think that governments are failing to work together on these issues.
CFIB is recommending governments:
Address underlying issues contributing to crime, including affordable housing, mental health and addictions.
Improve resources for small businesses including proactive funding for increased security, crime related repairs, and guidance, prevention and response strategies for business owners and their staff.
Strengthen collaboration between all levels of government, non-profits, community organizations, and small businesses to develop evidence-based policies and programs to address crime and safety.
Governments should also improve safety in commercial areas and public spaces, develop an improved approach to recidivism, and support diversity among insurance firms by reducing barriers to entry.
Facade of the Knix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image supplied
Knix, a leading Canadian intimates and activewear brand, has launched a new pop-up store at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto. It’s the brand’s fifteenth store in North America. Knix’s ambitious retail growth strategy includes plans to open over 20 new locations across Canada and the U.S. within three years.
“Community has remained at the heart of Knix since day one,” said Joanna Griffiths, Founder and President of Knix. “This location is one of the many ways we’re continuing to serve our customers, who may have never shopped with us in person before, in our hometown of Toronto.”
Knix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image supplied
Knix Yorkdale: Inclusive and Immersive Store Design
The new Knix pop-up spans 1,800 square feet, offering a fresh and welcoming design. The layout is thoughtfully arranged to make shopping easy. Dedicated sections for bras, underwear, and activewear are in place, with a special area for the teen line, Kt by Knix. True to Knix’s values, the store features mannequins in diverse sizes and skin tones, reflecting inclusivity. A focus on exceptional customer service ensures that shoppers receive personalized fittings.
Yorkdale is one of Canada’s most productive shopping centres in terms of sales per square foot. As a premium retail destination, it houses a diverse range retailers, including luxury. This strategic placement will provide Knix with high visibility and exposure to a discerning customer base. Yorkdale’s foot traffic offers a strong opportunity for the brand to connect with both loyal customers and new shoppers.
Knix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image suppliedKnix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image supplied
Knix Yorkdale Opening Perfect Timing for the Holiday Season
The timing of the store opening aligns with the busy holiday shopping season. Knix’s newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer, Nicole Tapscott, emphasized the importance of this launch. “We’ve made sure to highlight Toronto’s fan-favourites ahead of the gifting season, ensuring our customers can spot their go-to Knix products with ease,” said Tapscott.
The holiday collection features cozy modal lounge sets, sleepwear, lace lingerie, and best-selling bras and leakproof underwear. The collection includes rich tones and festive prints, perfect for gifting. Actress Gabrielle Union, Knix’s Brand Ambassador, will be featured in the holiday campaign. Select items are already available both in-store and online. Knix also recently introduced customizable shapewear, allowing up to eight adjustments for a perfect fit, making it ideal for the holiday season.
Knix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image suppliedKnix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image supplied
Knix: Pioneering the Future of Intimates
Founded in 2013 by Joanna Griffiths, Knix quickly became a disruptor in the intimates market. The brand launched its Leakproof Underwear in its first year, addressing a need for functional and comfortable products. In 2015, Knix introduced its first wireless bra, which became an instant hit. In 2016, the brand broke barriers by using real women of all sizes and backgrounds in its marketing.
The introduction of Kt by Knix in 2017 brought period-proof underwear to teens and tweens. Knix’s commitment to diversity and inclusion continued in 2019 with a campaign featuring women aged 50 to 81. The brand’s 2022 Confidence Tour encouraged women to walk the runway in their Knix intimates, promoting body positivity and empowerment.
Knix pop-up store at Yorkdale in Toronto. Image supplied
Calgary Value Village Boutique. Photo by Samantha Ungaro
Resale apparel sales has been the fastest growing segment in the Canadian apparel market for the past three years, says a new report by Trendex.
In 2023, the sale of resale apparel in Canada according to Trendex, increased 13 per cent to C$4.2 billion. The same year the sale of resale apparel in the U.S. according to Thread Up increased 11 per cent to C$71.6 billion, it said.
“A report published this year by Canada’s Value Village documented the importance of both second-hand shopping and the importance of the apparel category for Canadian second-hand retailers.”
Trendex cited the following data on second-hand shopping in general:
90 per cent of consumers have either shopped or donated a used item in the past year
25 per cent of consumers who have shopped in a second-hand marketplace, shopped for second-hand items monthly
84 per cent of consumers say that cost savings is the biggest motivator for second-hand shopping Apparel as a resale category:
Apparel is the number one item purchased in second-hand stores, followed by books and furniture
More than 30 per cent of second-hand shoppers report that second-hand apparel makes up nearly 40 per cent of their second-hand purchasing
60 per cent of Gen Z consumers say that second-hand apparel makes up a quarter of their wardrobe.
Trendex said a number of factors are driving the above average growth rate for the resale apparel market:
Economic conditions: Canadian consumers adversely affected by inflation and high interest rates have turned to retailers who offer demonstrable value. Consumers have also identified reselling their apparel as a means to generate revenue.
Availability: The number of apparel retailers have continued to expand in terms of both their number and accessibility
Lack of negative stigma: Historically second-hand apparel carried a stigma, but especially in the case of Gen Z consumers, buying used clothing is now seen as “cool”
Consumers have become concerned about the ecological sustainability of a model in which garments are often worn for less than a half dozen times then discarded. Companies including Nike and lululemon have set up their own apparel resale sites.
The advent of the internet has facilitated buyers and selling interacting in unprecedented ways. E-commerce based fashion resellers, including ThreadUp Canada and Calgary’s Upside facilitate the resale of apparel on both a national and international level (However resale apparel sales on the internet is one eighth the sales in brick-and- mortar stores)
“From a retailing standpoint, the resale apparel market is fragmented into eight channels of distribution. The most important of the channels include resale brick-and-mortar chains, consignment shops and local thrift/second-hand shops. Value Village with its new boutique stores, indicates that within the largest channel a new sub-upscale segment is developing that could compete with consignment shops. The fastest growing resale apparel channels in 2023 were the branded resale and online apparel resale channels,” said Trendex.
“The two largest apparel resellers in Canada during 2023 were Savers Value Village and the Salvation Army with 159 and 94 stores respectively. Trendex estimates that Value Village’s 2023 apparel sales increased 4.9 per cent to C$430 million,” said the report.
Calgary Value Village Boutique. Photo by Samantha Ungaro
A forecast of the Canadian resale apparel market is dependent on a number of factors, added Trendex:
The overall performance of the Canadian economy
The increase in the number of doors and online sites selling resale apparel
Increased consumer awareness of sustainability. It should be noted that the 2023 market entry and subsequent growth of Shein and Temu, both fast-fashion e-commerce retailers, could conceivably set back efforts to increase sustainability as their apparel is often characterized as disposable
The supply of better resale apparel
The number of apparel brands/retailers operating their own resale program . . . ThreadUp is forecasting that the U.S. resale apparel market will increase by 16 per cent in 2024 and by 87 per cent in 2028. Trendex is forecasting that the Canadian resale apparel market will increase by 15 per cent in 2024 and by 69 per cent in 2028.
Trendex said its estimate of growth for the Canadian resale apparel market will be less than that for the U.S. because: the Canadian online resale apparel market is not as developed; the relative importance of Shein and Temu which should limit resale apparel purchases; a lack of resale apparel donations as noted by Canada’s Value Village and the Salvation Army earlier this year.
“It needs to be noted that Winners will undoubtedly be negatively affected as it will increasingly have to share the consumer interested in a “treasure hunt” with the resale apparel sector. The sector will also affect the overall growth rate for all retail apparel sales, at least for now, to an unknown degree,” added Trendex.
Southcentre Mall in Calgary is bringing the unique PowerPlay, an entertainment and dining destination, to the shopping centre this November.
The cutting-edge, premium entertainment emporium is set to redefine Canada’s entertainment landscape by combining immersive experiences that feature state-of-the-art technology, high-tech interactive game zones and chef-led cuisine, said Southcentre in a news release.
PowerPlay enhances Southcentre’s position as a leading community destination with a wide range of retail, services, dining and entertainment for people of all ages. This first-of-its-kind venue will feature a range of elevated gaming, entertainment and dining including dine-in micro movie theaters, high-tech games, bowling, interactive simulators, full service premium dining and a coffee bar.
“PowerPlay’s arrival is a game-changer for the local recreational and dining scene. It is one more example of how we’re able to work with brands that connect the community to some of the best dining, entertainment and retail experiences available. This innovative Calgary concept is a model entertainment destination in the heart of a growing residential area that is creating jobs close to home,” said Abigail Alfonso, General Manager, Southcentre Mall.
Moe Farhat
“At PowerPlay, we are obsessed with redefining the entertainment experience by blending cutting-edge technology, premium dining, and immersive activities all under one roof,” said Moe Farhat, Managing Partner, PowerPlay. “From our world-class entertainment experience to our dine-in micro cinemas, we’re elevating every aspect of leisure, creating a space where people come together to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories.”
About PowerPlay
PowerPlay said it is revolutionizing entertainment with its blend of technology-driven attractions and premium hospitality that includes:
Immersive Gamebox: Offers a one-of-a-kind, interactive digital gaming experience where players can step into a digital world without needing VR headsets, creating an all-encompassing 360-degree experience.
Strikezon Baseball Simulator: Offers an immersive, life-like baseball simulator experience for people of all ages and skill levels. Strikezon combines HD screen simulation, high-speed camera sensors, a real time pitching machine and a variety of game modes.
Golfzon Social: State-of-the-art golf simulators powered by Golfzon Two Vision systems that replicate the feel, challenges, and excitement of renowned golf courses, offering an immersive and realistic golfing experience.
Bowling & Arcade: A stylish, premium atmosphere for casual and competitive players alike.
Dine-in Cinemas & Elevated Dining: Indulge in a premium micro-cinema experience featuring in-seat dining and gourmet bites. Plus, a unique self-serve concession area enhanced by advanced Amazon technology that will offer easy access to a wide selection of movie refreshments.
Following its grand opening this November, PowerPlay said it will expand its Southcentre experience in 2025 to include a speakeasy, rooftop patio, laser tag arena, and a Starbucks.
Southcentre Mall, celebrating 50 years, features more than 160 stores and services, including Calgary exclusives like Crate & Barrel and Restoration Hardware.
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.
INDOCHINO’S MADISON AVENUE STORE PHOTO: VIA INDOCHINO FACEBOOK
INDOCHINO, the world’s largest made-to-measure apparel brand, has appointed Sean Wrenn as its new Vice President of Retail Sales & Operations. Wrenn brings over 20 years of experience in retail leadership to the role. He will oversee INDOCHINO’s growing retail expansion plans, focusing on omni-channel engagement and profitability.
“Sean brings a wealth of store experience, combined with a deep understanding of the Direct-to-Consumer model,” said Drew Green, President and CEO of INDOCHINO. “With Sean heading retail, we’ll be able to speak to our customers with ‘one voice,’ a feat seldom achieved in brick-and-mortar retail.”
Strategic Leadership for INDOCHINO’s Retail Operations
Sean Wrenn
Wrenn’s primary focus will be on driving operational efficiency and expanding the company’s retail footprint. His appointment comes at a crucial time for INDOCHINO’s growth. The company is increasing its presence both online and in showrooms across North America.
Before joining INDOCHINO, Wrenn worked at Kendra Scott, a jewelry brand. During his six years there, Wrenn helped the company grow to over a billion dollars in revenue. His leadership enabled the brand to deliver best-in-class EBITDA performance year after year.
Wrenn’s background in managing both retail and Direct-to-Consumer operations uniquely qualifies him for this role. His ability to align digital and in-store operations will help INDOCHINO provide a seamless customer experience.
Wrenn is excited about his new position at INDOCHINO. He said, “This is the perfect ‘next’ in my career… a great balance of learning and contribution.”
Enhancing INDOCHINO’s Omni-Channel Strategy
INDOCHINO allows customers to shop online or in-store at one of its many showrooms. Customers can design their garments, selecting from various customization options. Each item is made to precise measurements and shipped directly to their door.
As a leader in made-to-measure apparel, INDOCHINO offers a personalized experience on a mass scale. Wrenn’s leadership will ensure consistency in the omni-channel experience. His efforts will help INDOCHINO maintain high service standards whether customers shop online or visit a showroom.
Wrenn’s expertise will also be vital as the company continues to grow. INDOCHINO’s innovative retail model has disrupted the traditional apparel sector, and Wrenn’s guidance will help the brand strengthen its position. Under his leadership, INDOCHINO’s retail operations are expected to accelerate, further solidifying its place in the market.
Lip Lab at the Distillery District in Toronto. Image: Supplied
Lip Lab, the custom lipstick retailer under LVMH-owned Kendo Brands, has opened its second location in Toronto. Following the success of its Queen Street West boutique, Lip Lab’s newest store brings the brand’s interactive and personalized beauty experience to the Distillery District, offering customers the chance to create bespoke lip colours in a highly immersive environment.
Lip Lab allows customers to craft their ideal lip products, including custom lipsticks, balms, and glosses, by selecting the shade, finish, flavour, and even engraving. With the help of a Lip Lab Colour Expert, customers can design products suited to their specific needs, whether for daily use or special occasions.
Custom Lipstick Experience at Lip Lab in the Distillery District
Lip Lab, which began its journey as the Canadian brand Bite Beauty, has reimagined the way consumers engage with beauty products. After Bite Beauty’s acquisition by Kendo Brands in 2014, the Lip Lab concept evolved, offering an in-store experience focused on social interaction and personalization.
Diana Peinado, General Manager and Vice President of Lip Lab
LVMH established Kendo to build and develop beauty brands into global powerhouses. Kendo’s portfolio includes Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Fenty Skin, KVD Beauty, OLEHENRIKSEN, and Lip Lab. The name Kendo is a playful adaptation of the phrase “can do,” which speaks to its innovation, dedication to quality, and authentic storytelling. The brand has established its products in over 35 countries worldwide and continues to expand its presence in the beauty industry. Headquartered in San Francisco, Kendo is part of the world’s largest luxury group.
In an interview with Diana Peinado, General Manager and Vice President of Lip Lab, she highlighted the importance of location in Lip Lab’s expansion. “Our Queen Street West store has always had a strong following, and we saw the Distillery District as the next step in bringing our custom lipstick experience to a wider audience. It’s a place where people come to discover something new and spend time with friends.”
Lip Lab’s Distillery District location is the 13th store in its growing North American footprint. Toronto is the only city in Canada to have Lip Lab stores. The Queen Street store, originally ‘Bite Beauty’, was the first for the Toronto-founded brand when it opened in 2016.
Lip Lab at Toronto’s Distillery District. Image supplied
A Growing Trend in Customized Beauty
Lip Lab is part of a growing trend in the beauty industry that prioritizes personalized products and experiences. Consumers today are looking for more than just convenience—they want experiences that feel unique to them, Peinado said. Lip Lab’s customizable offerings tap into this demand by providing a highly engaging and social shopping experience.
“Lip Lab is about creating memories as much as it is about creating lipstick,” said Peinado. “We focus on making the experience fun and collaborative. Our stores are designed to be welcoming spaces where groups of friends can come together to design their perfect shades.”
The new Distillery District store, located at 18 Gristmill Lane, offers all of Lip Lab’s signature services. Customers can choose from a wide range of pigments, finishes, and flavours, and have their products engraved for a personal touch. The boutique also features a ‘ready-to-wear’ collection, including lip primers, liners, and scrubs, allowing customers to build a complete lip care routine.
Lip Lab’s Unique Retail Strategy
As part of Kendo, Lip Lab is distinct in that it is the only physical retail concept within Kendo’s portfolio. Most of Kendo’s other products, including Fenty Beauty and Ole Henriksen, are distributed through other retailers like Sephora. However, Lip Lab stands out as a fully immersive, brick-and-mortar experience.
Peinado emphasized the importance of choosing the right locations for Lip Lab’s expansion. “We’re a small, handcrafted brand that doesn’t fit into every type of retail space,” she explained. “Our focus is on areas where people are looking for entertainment and memorable experiences, which is why lifestyle centres like the Distillery District are ideal for us.”
She emphasized that Lip Lab’s success is driven by its carefully curated store locations. “Our focus is on lifestyle centres and entertainment-driven locations. We’re not a traditional beauty retailer where customers come for replenishment. They come for the experience, to create something unique.”
Lip Lab on Queen St W. in Toronto. Photo: Lip Lab
The Toronto market has proven to be a strong one for Lip Lab, with Peinado noting that both Toronto stores are performing well. “Our new store is getting great feedback, and customers are really enjoying the space and the experience,” she said. “It’s a beautiful store, and we’ve seen strong sales and customer satisfaction since opening.”
In Expansion Mode
Lip Lab’s expansion strategy is ambitious, with plans to open 15 new stores in 2025 across North America. By the end of next year, Lip Lab expects to operate 30 locations, doubling its current presence. The company is actively exploring opportunities for further growth, including potential expansion to other Canadian cities, though Peinado was unable to provide specific details about those plans at this time.
Lip Lab currently operates a growing network of stores across North America, offering its unique custom lipstick experience in several key cities. In addition to its two Toronto locations, Lip Lab has expanded to several major U.S. cities, including New York City (Soho and Upper East Side), Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Nashville, Chicago, Scottsdale, Austin, Dallas (Knox Henderson), Washington, D.C. (The Wharf), Boston (Seaport), and Irvine. Additionally, Lip Lab also has a boutique in Napa, California, known for its wine and luxury tourism.
These locations, many situated in high-profile urban areas or lifestyle centres, reflect Lip Lab’s strategy of targeting social, interactive environments where customers seek more personalized, memorable experiences.
Sustainability and Customization
In addition to offering a unique beauty experience, Lip Lab is committed to sustainability. The company’s products are made with clean, vegan ingredients, and its lipsticks come in refillable packaging. Customers can bring their components back to the store to be refilled, reducing waste and promoting long-term use.
“Our custom lipstick service is inherently sustainable because it’s designed specifically for the customer, which means they’re less likely to waste products,” said Peinado. “We also make sure our packaging is eco-friendly, with refillable and recyclable components.”
