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Brunello Cucinelli Opens Store at Yorkdale in Toronto [Photos]

By
Craig Patterson
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Brunello Cucinelli store at Toronto's Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tablizo Media

Italian luxury brand Brunello Cucinelli has opened a beautiful store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. The brand will expand further in Canada next year as well with a location at Oakridge Park in Vancouver. 

The Yorkdale Brunello Cucinelli spans about 4,200 square feet on one level, in a new luxury wing at Yorkdale that is being developed by landlord Oxford Properties. The store features a sophisticated and understated aesthetic that Brunello Cucinelli is known for. 

The retail space is broken into three rooms, one in front of the other, with a back wall housing a coffee bar where Champagne is also served to visitors. An expansive range of Brunello Cucinelli clothing as well as bags, accessories, footwear and some home items are also carried in the store. Brunello Cucinelli is known for its high-quality cashmere garments, some with eye-popping prices. 

Brunello Cucinelli store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tablizo Media
Brunello Cucinelli store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tablizo Media

The store’s overall design was inspired by large Italian cities, according to the brand. The entrance of the store features an oval mahogany table from the early 1900s. Other furniture pieces include Remmi armchairs (designed in 1969), known for their clear lines. They sit alongside Saporiti Italia sofas that were designed in the 1980s.  

Perimeter walls of the store are covered with a modular system designed for the display of clothing, accessories and other items, allowing for product updates as seasons change. Clever storage spaces were also created to house product efficiently. 

Brunello Cucinelli store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tablizo Media
Brunello Cucinelli store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tablizo Media

David Wedemire and Stan Vyriotes of DWSV Realty Inc. negotiated the Yorkdale lease deal on behalf of Brunello Cucinelli. Oxford Properties is the landlord for Yorkdale. 

The team at DWSV Realty also negotiated a lease deal for a new Brunello Cucinelli store that will open at Vancouver’s Oakridge Centre in the fall of 2025. That location was announced publicly in February of 2024, joining the brand’s downtown retail spaces. 

Coffee/Champagne bar at the Brunello Cucinelli store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tablizo Media

Brunello Cucinelli’s Canadian store expansion has been ongoing for nearly a decade. The brand’s first Canadian store opened at 745 Thurlow Street in Vancouver in the fall of 2015, spanning about 2,700 square feet. A flagship location opened in early 2019 at 102 Yorkville Avenue, spanning more than 8,000 square feet over three floors. The brand also operates an outlet store at the Toronto Premium Outlets in Halton Hills. 

At Yorkdale, Brunello Cucinelli opened a ‘world of’ concession at Holt Renfrew about three years ago. The concession remained open for a couple of years before it moved into a temporary space across from its new permanent storefront in early 2024. Chanel is currently expanding its concession presence at Holt Renfrew, which included annexing the former Brunello concession space as well as the entire Holts women’s contemporary department upstairs. 

Chanel will be expanding its concession at Holt Renfrew Yorkdale. That includes annexing space occupied by Brunello Cucinelli in this photo from December of 2023, while also taking space upstairs. Photo: Craig Patterson
Chanel’s concession at Holt Renfrew Yorkdale is expanding significantly, including taking the former Brunello Cucinelli concession space on the main floor. Photo: Craig Patterson

In Canada, Brunello Cucinelli also operates concession spaces at Holt Renfrew stores. The Vancouver concession on the third floor of Holts is said to do particularly well, with a combined offering of women’s and men’s fashions. Harry Rosen also houses a selection of Brunello Cucinelli fashions, as do a handful of high-end independent retailers such as Via Cavour in Toronto.

Luxury wing at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre, September 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson

The new Yorkdale luxury wing is well under development. The approximately 60,000 square foot space was created by relocating retailers along the central hall of the mall, creating a new luxury offering that will include more big names. A Rimowa store will open soon beside Brunello Cucinelli, and Versace and Jimmy Choo will open across the hall. A Loewe store opened across the hall from Brunello Cucinelli in April of 2024. Another Italian luxury cashmere brand, Loro Piana, opens soon in Yorkdale’s luxury wing as well. More will soon be announced (DWSV Realty represented Versace and Jimmy Choo in Yorkdale lease deals).

Future Rimowa store next to Brunello Cucinelli at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson

These new retailers join the biggest clustering of luxury brands in Canada, which have opened at Yorkdale over the past decade. It’s one of two luxury nodes in Toronto, with Bloor-Yorkville also attracting shoppers to its numerous luxury stores. Vancouver will also have two luxury nodes next year, with Oakridge Park competing with the downtown core for luxury shopping dollars. Luxury retail dynamics in Montreal also recently changed with the opening of Royalmount earlier this month, featuring a range of luxury brands, many of which open early next year.

Pace of inflation slows in August: Statistics Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

The annual rate of inflation in Canada in August increased at the slowest pace since February 2021, reported Statistics Canada on Tuesday.

The federal agency said the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose two per cent on a year-over-year basis in August and down from a 2.5 per cent gain in July.

“The deceleration in headline inflation in August was due, in part, to lower prices for gasoline, due to a combination of lower prices and a base-year effect. Excluding gasoline, the CPI rose 2.2 per cent in August, down from 2.5 per cent in July,” it said.

“Mortgage interest cost and rent remained the largest contributors to the increase in the CPI in August. On a monthly basis, the CPI fell 0.2 per cent in August, after a 0.4 per cent increase in July. The monthly decline was led by lower prices for air transportation, gasoline, clothing and footwear and travel tours. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, the CPI rose 0.1 per cent in August.”

Year over year, prices at the pump fell 5.1 per cent in August following a 1.9 per cent increase in July, said StatsCan.

“This was due to a combination of a base-year effect and current events, with prices, on a month-over-month basis, rising 4.6 per cent in August 2023 and falling 2.6 per cent in August 2024, the third monthly decrease in four months. The decline in August 2024 was mainly due to lower crude oil prices amid economic concerns in the United States and slowing demand in China.”

Prices for clothing and footwear declined 0.6 per cent on a month-over-month basis in August. A drop in prices in the month of August has not been observed since 1971, as this month is typically associated with back-to-school clothes shopping, with stronger demand putting upward pressure on prices. Compared with August 2023, retailers offered more and larger discounts in August 2024 to entice consumer spending amid recent slowing demand, said the federal agency.

Photo by cottonbro studio

Year over year, clothing and footwear prices fell for an eighth consecutive month, down 4.4 per cent in August following a 2.7 per cent decline in July, it added.

“On a year-over-year basis, consumers paid 2.4 per cent more for food purchased from stores in August after a 2.1 per cent increase in July. This was the result of a base-year effect, notably coming from prices for dairy products (+3.3 per cent) and fresh fruit (+1.5 per cent). Despite this, grocery prices decreased on a month-over-month basis in August (-0.2 per cent), largely due to a seasonally typical decline in prices for fresh vegetables (-2.8 per cent).”

Montreal-based DAVIDsTEA sees sales growth in Q2

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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(Image: DAVIDsTEA)

DAVIDsTEA, a leading tea merchant in North America, saw increasing sales during its second quarter for the period ended August 3, the company announced on Tuesday.

Key financial highlights include:

  • Sales of $11.1 million, an increase of 12.8 per cent over the prior year;
  • Gross profit margin of 47.3 per cent, significantly better compared to 36.9  per cent in prior year;
  • SG&A expenses of $6.7 million, down 15.2 per cent versus prior year;
  • Net loss of $1.5 million, improved from loss of $4.3 million in prior year:
  • Adjusted EBITDA1 of negative $0.3 million versus negative $2.6 million in prior year; 
  • New store opened September 5 in Montreal’s Royalmount Mall; and
  • Additional store opening in the Montreal Eaton Centre expected in early November
Image: Sarah Segal

“We are pleased to report that DAVIDsTEA reached a key inflection point in the second quarter of 2024 with sales increasing by 12.8 per cent year-over-year,” said Sarah Segal, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Brand Officer, DAVIDsTEA. “We are grateful for the trust of our loyal consumers who seek out the best flavour profiles available on the market as we continue to innovate and introduce new and incredible tasting tea blends for consumers to enjoy.

“Sales momentum continues into the early third quarter with revenues up more than 18 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. We are excited to mark our renewed focus on brick-and-mortar retail with the opening of a new location in the Royalmount Mall in Mount Royal, Quebec, and look forward to launching a new store in downtown Montreal in early November, raising the total number of flagship stores to 20. As we prepare for the revenue-intensive third and fourth quarters, our focus remains on delivering excellent value, service and innovation to our consumers.”

Frank Zitella

Frank Zitella, President, Chief Financial and Operating Officer, said the financial results are moving in the right direction as the company continues to execute its operational strategy.

“Revenues are up and costs are down, both year-over-year and sequentially, across all categories. We also have significant leverage in our business model, which positions us well for the second half of the year as we stabilize the business against unfavourable headwinds and double down on investments in both our brick-and-mortar and online operations,” he said.

DAVIDsTEA offers a specialty branded selection of high-quality proprietary loose-leaf teas, pre-packaged teas, tea sachets, tea-related accessories and gifts through its e-commerce platform and the Amazon Marketplace, its wholesale customers which include over 4,000 grocery stores and pharmacies, over 1,500 convenience stores in Canada and 170 grocery stores in the United States, as well as 19 company-owned stores across Canada.

Unique Vancouver gift store OBSESSIONS celebrates 25th anniversary (Photos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS

OBSESSIONS was originally founded in 1988 in the trendy area of Earls Court, London England. A small boutique store offering a unique selection of personal and home accessories.

The Vancouver store was founded in February 1998 by Mark Kenna, who arrived in Canada from England with a dream of introducing distinctive gift products to Vancouver and OBSESSIONS quickly made its mark. 

Starting with a modest kiosk selling funky watches, men’s and ladies accessories, the kiosk success led to the expansion of two additional kiosks within three months. By June 1998, OBSESSIONS opened its first full-fledged store on Denman Street, and by 2006, it had grown to four locations throughout downtown Vancouver.

Often voted ‘Vancouver’s Best Gift Shop’ now a beloved icon in the heart of Vancouver, it is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS

“We are incredibly grateful to our loyal customers and dedicated team who have supported us throughout the years,” said Kenna. “Reaching this 25-year milestone is a testament to our commitment to providing a unique shopping experience and our passion for sourcing unique, quality and affordable products. We look forward to continuing to serve our community and welcoming both new and returning customers to experience what makes Obsessions truly special.

Since its inception, OBSESSIONS has evolved from a small kiosk at Pacific Centre Mall into one of the city’s most recognized and award-winning gift stores, establishing itself as a premier destination for unique, affordable and high-quality gifts.

Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS

The company was an instant success when it first started in Vancouver, growing from one small kiosk in Pacific Centre Mall, downtown Vancouver to four street locations within five years plus a vibrant ‘Corporate Gift Division’ plus an online website. 

“Unfortunately the company was hit hard by the world wide recession some years ago and an unforeseen government construction project outside one of the company’s stores which inhibited consumer access both led to the company being downsized then subsequently being purchased by a new business partner with the co-operation of Mark Kenna who still manages and purchases the stores gift items,” says the company on its website. 

“Despite the company’s ups and downs, this store is considered one of Vancouver’s premier gift stores often winning annual awards for ‘Best Gift Shop’.  The company has one prime location in the centre of town on the corner of Dunsmuir and Howe Street, and is comfortable with no intention of expanding except for a new website with the ability to buy online. The ‘Corporate Sales Division’ continues to also thrive and increase annually. Providing first class customer service to its many loyal shoppers and greeting many new ones each day and each season as the tourists come and go…after 28 years in business this robust, hardy and unique company intends to be around for many more years to come.”

Today, it operates from its prime location at the corner of Dunsmuir and Howe Street, continuing to offer a curated selection of exceptional gifts plus design-led personal and home accessories. Also known for its engraving facility, with fast turnaround times—often as little as 24 hours—it boasts no minimum order requirements, setting it apart from many competitors.

OBSESSIONS offers an exclusive selection of pens and art supplies by the Swiss manufacturer ‘Caran d’Ache’, also the Swiss made line of watches ‘Mondaine’ and the hugely popular line of plushies by ‘Jellycat’ from the UK. It also supports many Canadian designers such as Pixie Mood and Matt and Nat bags and wallets plus much, much more including a fantastic collection of cards and gift wrap. Whether it be Christmas, Valentines, Mothers Day etc.  OBSESSIONS is ‘the ’ go-to’  destination for gifts for every occasion. In recognition of its outstanding service and unique offerings, OBSESSIONS has repeatedly been awarded ‘Best Gift Shop’ in annual city-wide awards. Despite its success, the company remains committed to its core location and high-quality, personalized service, with plans to enhance its online presence through a new website, allowing ‘Corporate’ customers to shop from anywhere.

“We’re located in the downtown core so we have the office workers during the week but we’re also close to the cruise ships and we have a big tourist customer,” added Kenna, saying the tourism industry has returned.

“We were lucky. After we got through COVID that was a struggle and a lot of our bread and butter wasn’t there. A lot of people were working from home. It was a slow turnaround. Like most businesses, we were sort of on our knees basically just trying to get through it. Fortunately after we came out of the COVID we saw that weather was mild and we found more Canadians traveling locally or from other provinces. And there was a lot of drive to support local businesses. Now we’re seeing more international people coming to us as well.”

OBSESSIONS has a special ‘25th Anniversary’ event until September 29. Expect to see special offers all around the store, multiple daily prize draw give aways from gifts donated from all our loyal suppliers over the past 25 years plus a massive draw at the end of the event for a prize price worth more than $1,000.

Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS
Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS
Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS
Photo courtesy of OBSESSIONS

Related Article: Vancouver’s Retail Landscape Thrives: Economic Growth, Tech Boom, and Tourism Fuel Expansion

Toronto’s retail market continues to soften: JLL report

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

In Q2 2024, Toronto’s retail market softened, and this downward trend is expected to persist throughout the year, according to commercial real estate firm JLL’s most recent Toronto Urban Retail Report Q2 2024.

The report said:

  • Q2 2024 average asking rents across Toronto’s 11 retail corridors decreased by 2.2 per cent to $91.58 net per square foot;
  • The number of direct ground floor availabilities totaled 109, or 8.26 per cent of the storefronts in the corridors tracked by JLL; and
  • Ossington Avenue, Leslieville and Queen Street West (Spadina to Bathurst) remain Toronto’s tightest submarkets.

“Torontonians have significantly adjusted their spending habits, prioritizing essential expenses such as housing, rent, and food. Discretionary categories, including previously strong performing sectors like home improvement and furnishings, footwear, sporting goods, and cannabis, have faltered,” said the JLL report.

“Notably, laptops and cell phones have emerged as resilient segments. Despite challenges in retail, Toronto’s real estate market has demonstrated its resilience and remarkable recovery. Downtown office worker attendance has consistently increased, with Wednesdays witnessing an impressive return to nearly 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. Local transit and regional commuter rail have witnessed a commendable resurgence, reaching 78 per cent of pre-pandemic ridership. 

“Toronto’s tourism industry is also showing promising signs of revival, outpacing 2019 spending figures, particularly with the return of international visitors. Furthermore, the downtown core has become an attractive investment hotspot, fueled by the resurgence of office workers and the revival of tourism.”

The report said the recent opening of three exciting food halls, Queen’s Cross at the Eaton Centre, Wellington Market at The Well, and Waterworks at 50 Brant Street, has added to the vibrant culinary landscape, catering to both Torontonians and visitors. 

“Despite sector-specific challenges, the Toronto real estate market is displaying positive recovery and adaptive characteristics. The increasing presence of office workers, strong public transit ridership, robust investments in the downtown core, and the gradual revival of tourism collectively contribute to the ongoing recovery of the city’s real estate market,” added the report. 

In total, 24 new leases were transacted in Q2 2024 totaling over 41,000 square feet. The two most active submarkets by number of lease transactions completed were Queen Street West (Spadina to Bathurst) with eight and Yonge Street (Eglinton to Blythwood) with five, explained JLL.

The largest lease of Q2 2024 was signed by a medical clinic who leased over 4,600 square feet at 11 Yorkville Avenue at the base of Riocan, Capital Developments and Metropia’s new 11YV development, it added.

“Queen Street West (Spadina to Bathurst) saw the greatest number of square feet leased at 12,365 square feet with Yonge Street (Eglinton to Blythwood) in second position at 6,929 square feet. Once again, food & beverage (F&B) was the leading category in terms of number of new retail transactions (12) as well as total square footage leased at nearly 22,000 square feet,” said the report.

“Notable transactions include Alpha’s Shawarma securing approximately 3,000 square feet at 245 Yonge Street and Poulet Rouge leasing nearly 2,700 square feet at 360 Queen Street West. 

“The average availability rate for the 11 retail corridors tracked by JLL decreased to 8.26 per cent, the lowest figure since the inception of this report. King Street West (Spadina to Bathurst) had the highest percentage of available retail space at 18.42 per cent, while Ossington Avenue (Queen to Dundas) had no availability as of June 30, 2024. 

“Average Asking Rents across Toronto’s 11 retail corridors decreased to $91.58 per square foot, led by Bloor Street at $219.92 per square foot and followed by Yorkville Avenue (Yonge to Avenue) and Queen Street West (John to Spadina) at $102.50 and $90.50 per square foot, respectively at $107.50 and $100.57 per square foot, respectively.”

Related Article

Retail industry undergoing financial stress: Equifax

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Woman shopping in an eco-friendly store.
Woman shopping in an eco-friendly store.

The retail industry is undergoing financial stress, according to Equifax Canada’s Q2 Business Credit Trends Report, which reveals an uptick in businesses missing credit payments.

The report said the retail sector is experiencing a rise in payment arrears especially in financial trade delinquencies, where the 60+ day delinquency rate has risen from 3.7 per cent in Q2 2023 to 4.2 per cent in Q2 2024.

“The slowdown in consumer credit card spending and increased missed credit payments may have a direct impact on retail businesses as we enter the holiday season. Meanwhile, businesses in the retail sector are pushing holiday promotions even earlier in the year, potentially reflecting a growing reliance on the holiday season to boost revenues. However, the retail sector could continue to face high delinquency rates as inflation and unemployment impact household budgets,” added Equifax.

According to the data from Equifax, over 56,000 businesses missed at least one financial trade in Q2 2024, up 10.2 per cent from the same period in 2023. 

At a trade level, the 60+ day (volume) financial trade delinquency rate went up from 2.8 per cent to 3.1 per cent in the last 12 months, driven largely by installment loans. Businesses that rushed to take installment loans to pay off their Canada Emergency Business Account loans before the deadline, coupled with elevated interest rates, may be contributing to this rise in loan arrears. The delinquency rate for industrial trades saw a similar rise from 5.1 per cent in Q2 2023 to 5.7 per cent in Q2 2024. Data also indicates that businesses that opened in the last 24 months are starting to miss more payments, though still at lower levels than the national average, said the report.

Jeff Brown

“As we analyze the current landscape, while business insolvencies are stabilizing, delinquency rates continue to rise across the board. Sectors like retail and construction could be feeling the pressure as consumer spending weakens and uncertainty remains high for many Canadian businesses,” said Jeff Brown, Head of Commercial Solutions for Equifax Canada. “The economic impact of natural disasters, inflation, and fluctuating interest rates have created a challenging environment for businesses to navigate.

“As we head into the holiday season, businesses are preparing for one of the most crucial periods of the year, but many are entering it from a weakened position. There is still a lot of uncertainty in the market, and businesses are being very prudent with their financial planning.”

The report said the gradual lowering of interest rates may provide the economic boost many businesses have been hoping for. While interest rates have been lowered in response to the lull in economic activity, the conservative pace of these reductions may have left businesses and consumers hesitant to make significant investments.

SecondShop launches innovative e-commerce platform to help Canadians combat rising cost of living

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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SecondShop CEO and Founder Cedric George (CNW Group/SecondShop)

SecondShop has launched an e-commerce platform, aimed at providing high-quality, like-new discount home goods in Canada. It has also announced it has secured $2 million in seed financing, led by Harvest Venture Partners with participation from leading angel investors in the space.

Cedric George

“In a time when the cost of living continues to rise, SecondShop is committed to helping Canadians maintain their standard of living without additional financial strain,” said Cedric George, CEO and Founder of SecondShop. “We’re not just another discount e-commerce site; we provide a complete solution — from easy online ordering of name-brand products to direct home deliveries — eliminating the need for customers to navigate the often cumbersome process of liquidation auctions and warehouse pickups.

“We’re excited to raise the bar and transform the re-commerce space. Our goal is to help Canadians feel good about their purchases — to feel good about their savings and their positive impact on the world. With SecondShop, quality and savings do go hand in hand.”

With the price of goods remaining high and borrowing costs putting pressure on consumers, Canadians are increasingly seeking cost-effective shopping options, said the company in a news release. SecondShop said it addresses this need by leveraging reverse logistics to breathe new life into over 45 million annually returned goods, offering essential products at up to 70 per cent off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

Alex Gold

“Our investment in SecondShop is based on our belief that re-commerce represents a new category where vertical integration between software and services is key,” said Alex Gold, General Partner at Harvest Venture Partners. “Similar to our work with Neo Financial, OneVest, Walnut Insurance, and other category leaders, we’re excited to partner with Cedric George and the SecondShop team to transform this growing space.”

SecondShop is a nationally distributed, Toronto-based online re-commerce platform that offers overstock and open-box home goods directly from retailers and manufacturers at reduced prices, promoting sustainability and accessibility in consumer goods.

Related article: Vancouver-Based Luxury Clothing and Consignment Retailer FAULKNER Expands

Home Hardware Honors 18 Stores for Exceptional Performance

By
Retail Insider
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Shepherd's Home Hardware Building Centre Dealer-Owners and Home Hardware Stores Limited at the Proud of My Home Achievement Awards. (CNW Group/Home Hardware Stores Limited)

Home Hardware Stores Limited, Canada’s largest dealer-owned hardware, lumber, building materials, and furniture home improvement retailer, recently recognized outstanding achievements within its network.

Home Hardware Award Winners Shine at Annual Ceremony

On September 12, Home Hardware Stores Limited honored 18 exceptional stores during its Proud of My Home Achievement Awards. This prestigious event, part of the company’s annual Homecoming buying event and recognition ceremony, showcased the best in Canadian retail excellence.

Shepherd’s Home Hardware Building Centre in Armstrong, B.C., claimed the top honor, receiving the Walter J. Hachborn Store of the Year Award. Dealer-Owners Kyle and Brett Melvin accepted this distinguished recognition, which celebrates their commitment to Home Hardware’s founding principles of value, service, and dependability.

“We’re honored to receive these awards as we approach our store’s centennial celebration in Armstrong,” said Kyle Melvin. “As second-generation owners, Brett and I are proud of our role in the store’s rich history. We share this recognition with our parents, Sandy and Dale Melvin, who laid the foundation for our success.”

A Testament to Excellence

The Walter J. Hachborn Store of the Year Award, named after Home Hardware’s co-founder, recognizes the top performer among more than 1,000 stores across Canada. It honors excellence in retailing, merchandising, staff performance, and overall quality and service.

Kevin Macnab, President and CEO of Home Hardware Stores Limited, praised the Melvin brothers’ achievements: “Kyle, Brett, and their team truly embody the spirit of this award. Their commitment to treating customers like family and providing unparalleled service makes them outstanding ambassadors for the Home brand.”

The Proud of My Home Achievement Awards celebrated excellence across various categories, including:

  • Paul Straus Public Relations Award
  • Best Home Furniture
  • Best Young Retailer (in four regions)
  • Best Home Hardware (in four regions)
  • Best Home Building Centre (in four regions)
  • Best Home Hardware Building Centre (in four regions)

These accolades recognize superior customer service, excellence in store presentation, and active participation in Dealer network initiatives.

As Home Hardware continues to evolve in the competitive Canadian retail landscape, these award-winning stores serve as beacons of excellence. They demonstrate the power of local ownership combined with the support of a national brand, setting new standards for customer service and community engagement in the home improvement sector.

Healthy Planet set to open its 3rd location in London

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo courtesy of Healthy Planet

Healthy Planet, Canada’s largest health and wellness e-commerce website and one of Canada’s largest health and wellness store chains, is opening a new 18,000-square-foot store in London, Ontario. The new location, at 3325 Wonderland Road South, will officially open its doors to the public on October 4.

In a news release, the company said the new store will offer the London South West community a wide range of products, including fresh organic produce, premium quality meat, natural beauty products, vitamins and supplements. With its commitment to providing high-quality, affordable, and natural health products, Healthy Planet said it has established itself as the go-to destination for health-conscious shoppers across Canada.

Muhammed Mohamedy

“We are thrilled to bring our Healthy Planet experience to the London South West community,” said Muhammed Mohamedy, General Manager of Healthy Planet. “This new store represents our continued commitment to offering fresh, organic produce, top-quality vitamins, and eco-conscious products in a one-stop-shop environment.

The store will also offer a wide selection of vegan and gluten-free options, catering to a diverse range of dietary preferences and lifestyles.

“We believe in making health and wellness accessible for everyone, and we are excited to serve the people of London with our extensive range of natural health solutions,” said Mohamedy.

Healthy Planet is a health and wellness store with 35 locations and growing in Ontario.

JOLT powers up Toronto: Free EV charging hits Canada

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo courtesy of JOLT

Canada’s path to an electric future just got a major boost.

JOLT, the global leader in free, fast, and clean EV charging, kicked off a nationwide initiative to electrify the country, starting with the first installation in the City of Richmond Hill, part of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Richmond Hill represents the first municipality in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to offer the first 7kWh free-of-charge to EV drivers in the community and supports the federal government’s ambitious goal of installing 200,000 public EV chargers by 2030, said the company in a news release.

JOLT’s debut in Richmond Hill brings a game-changing service to the community: free EV charging that’s as fast as it is green. Every JOLT station provides 7 kWh of daily energy for free through the JOLT app, delivering 40-50 kilometres of range in just 15-20 minutes depending on the vehicle – enough time to grab a coffee, do some shopping, and get back on the road. This convenience translates to over $1,100 in annual savings for Canadian drivers, making EV ownership not just a smart choice, but an easy one, explained the company.

Brendan Dhillon

“JOLT is all about making EV ownership accessible, affordable, and seamless,” said Brendan Dillon, Country Manager, JOLT Canada. “Our state of the art chargers run on renewable energy. With our launch in Richmond Hill, we’re not just installing chargers—we’re supercharging communities, driving local economies, and accelerating electrification for cities.

“As more Canadians switch to EVs, our mission is to eliminate the barriers that would otherwise hold them back. With the support of forward-thinking partners like the City of Richmond Hill, we’re delivering infrastructure solutions that make the EV transition not just possible, but inevitable.”

These new charging stations in Richmond Hill are just the beginning, said JOLT, adding it plans to install up to 5,000 public DC fast chargers across Canada, with an integrated Digital Out-of-Home advertising network, which funds the free charging allocation. This platform allows municipalities and brand marketers to connect with the highly engaged communities in sustainable and creative ways.

Originating in Australia, JOLT has already made its mark as the largest free EV charging network across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Now, with its expansion into Canada, JOLT said it is poised to reshape the EV landscape across the country, ensuring that charging is accessible, equitable, and seamlessly integrated into daily routines.

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