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Three new restaurants to open in Montreal’s Maestria Condominiums project (Photos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Image courtesy of Groupe Devimco

Groupe Devimco, in collaboration with Groupe Grandio, has announced the expansion of their successful partnership with the opening of three new restaurants in the commercial core of the Maestria Condominiums project, located in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles in Montreal. 

“This initiative is part of a continuity process, as the Grandio Group has already established successful franchises in the Solar Uniquartier project in Brossard,” said the company in a news release.

“At a time when the restaurant industry is facing some significant challenges, Devimco and Grandio are showing boldness and optimism by joining forces to launch new culinary destinations in downtown Montreal. 

“This expansion also marks the Cochon Dingue’s first foray into the Montreal region. Known for its diversified menu from breakfast to dinner and warm atmosphere, Le Cochon Dingue will open its doors in the spring of 2025. The beloved chain among Quebec City residents, which currently operates six establishments in the Capitale-Nationale region, will be able to accommodate up to 250 customers.”

The company said IRU Izakaya will follow in June 2025, offering an authentic Japanese bistro experience, and Chez Lionel in September 2025, with its friendly atmosphere and French brasserie-style menu.

Caroline Girard

“In tune with urban transformation and densification, our partnership with Groupe Grandio demonstrates our commitment to creating mixed-use projects. The opening of these three restaurants within Maestria Condominiums is proof of our confidence in the future of the restaurant industry in Montreal and a celebration of our shared desire to offer exceptional culinary experiences. Our continued collaboration with Groupe Grandio reinforces our shared vision of enhancing urban living through innovative, high-quality projects,” said Caroline Girard, VP, Property Management and Leasing, Devimco Group.

Jean Bédard

“Our team is proud to expand its presence in downtown Montreal with brands that are new to the area. Our diverse restaurant offerings will surely delight festivalgoers, businesspeople, and visitors who frequent the Quartier des spectacles and its surroundings,” said Jean Bédard, President and CEO, Groupe Grandio.


Groupe Devimco is a leader in developing mixed-use real estate projects in Quebec. 

Groupe Grandio brings together Quebec restaurateurs in a single company and it has over 4,000 employees in more than 64 locations under the following banners: La Cage, Cochon Dingue, Lapin Sauté, Ciel!, Paris Grill, Café du Monde, Madame Chose, Chez Lionel, IRU Izakaya, Moishes, Gibbys, PF Chang’s, and Brasseurs du Monde.Grandio famous. 

Image courtesy of Groupe Devimco
Image courtesy of Groupe Devimco

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web For September 12, 2024

By
Retail Insider
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Canadian Retail News From Around The Web

News at a Glance

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.

Dollarama reports strong Q2 sales growth (Retail Insider)

Dollarama keeping an eye on competitors as Loblaw launches new ultra-discount chain (Canadian Press)

Air Canada strike would significantly disrupt supply chains, business groups warn (Financial Post)

Loblaw launching second ‘Get to Give Days’ campaign (Retail Insider)

More people turning to non-profit grocery store as food costs surge (CTV)

Select Sask. pharmacies to test and treat strep throat, ear infections (CBC)

City to provide True North with $40M in grants, tax relief to enable Portage Place redevelopment (CBC)

Street disorder threatens viability of BC retailers: Poll (Retail Insider)

Dolce Vita opens 1st Canadian flagship store at Royalmount (Retail Insider)

Unified Commerce Reshapes Retail Landscape

By
Retail Insider
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Unified commerce is transforming retail. Photo: Shutterstock

Unified commerce is transforming the retail industry, moving beyond traditional omnichannel strategies to create seamless shopping experiences. The approach integrates all customer touchpoints onto a single platform, aligning with evolving consumer behaviours and expectations.

A Coresight Research survey conducted on July 8, 2024, revealed that 65.8% of US consumers use multiple channels when shopping. Of these, 31.9% frequently use multiple channels and switch between them, while 33.9% sometimes use different channels but generally stick to one primary method.

The impact of multi-channel shopping on consumer behaviour is significant. Nearly one-quarter of survey respondents reported that their overall spending has increased either significantly (8.2%) or slightly (16.6%) as a result of engaging with retailers across multiple channels.

Key technologies driving unified commerce include customer data platforms (CDPs), RFID for real-time inventory management, and advanced order fulfillment systems. CDPs aggregate data from various touchpoints, creating a centralized repository that ensures retailers have a comprehensive view of each customer.

RFID technology enhances inventory visibility, crucial for preventing stockouts and enabling omnichannel fulfillment services. In January 2024, Sensormatic Solutions announced its continued collaboration with Allbirds to enhance the latter’s shopping experience through RFID-enabled inventory accuracy.

Order fulfillment remains a critical challenge in unified commerce. A Coresight Research survey found that 40% of retailers identified high delivery costs as their top last-mile challenge. To address this, companies like Locus offer delivery-linked checkout features that enable retailers to fulfill orders on customer-preferred timelines while maintaining optimal capacity and service efficiencies.

The digitalization of physical stores is another crucial component of unified commerce. Technologies like smart shopping carts, electronic shelf labels (ESLs), and digital screens are blending online convenience with in-store experiences. In April 2024, Amazon announced the deployment of its Dash Carts to all Amazon Fresh stores and select Whole Foods Market and third-party grocery locations.

Target has implemented a unified commerce approach by providing customers with flexible fulfillment choices and implementing RFID tags for real-time inventory visibility. Similarly, Walmart has invested heavily in digital technologies, including the launch of Walmart Connect, a digital advertising platform.

The benefits of unified commerce extend beyond customer convenience. Kroger noted that customers who shop both in-store and online spend 3–4X more than in-store-only shoppers. Ulta Beauty reported that its omnichannel guests spend 2.5–3X more than in-store-only shoppers.

As unified commerce continues to reshape retail, shoppers can expect more innovative and integrated experiences. Retailers who successfully implement unified commerce strategies will be well-positioned to thrive in this evolving retail landscape, meeting the needs of increasingly tech-savvy and channel-agnostic consumers.

Dolce Vita opens 1st Canadian flagship store at Royalmount (Photos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita

Steve Madden-owned New York City-based fashion footwear & accessories brand Dolce Vita has opened its first flagship store outside the United States at the newly opened Royalmount Mall in Montreal.

The brand has another retail location in Metrotown in Burnaby, BC.

“We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our new Dolce Vita store at the Royalmount Mall following the successful launch of our Canadian website in 2023. We look forward to providing a true Dolce Vita brand experience to complement the online experience that launched last year,” said Kerry Norlin, President of Dolce Vita.

Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita
Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita

“As we enter this new market, our focus is on connecting with the community and tailoring our approach to fit the market’s unique needs. It’s with huge thanks to Jennifer Walewski, President of Canada, and her team that we’re able to celebrate this milestone.” 

The retailer said in-store, shoppers can find a curated assortment of women’s styles, from stylish heels and waterproof boots to everyday sneakers and chic handbags. Known for combining versatile silhouettes with premium materials, Dolce Vita’s fall collection is currently available to be shopped in-person with styles starting at $130, sizes 5-12, with wide-calf options available.

Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita
Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita

“Since its beginnings, Dolce Vita has been synonymous with chic, trend-setting footwear. The brand has long put a heavy emphasis on community, with a commitment to craft items that resonate with us all. Dolce Vita’s entrance into Canada retail will expand on the Dolce Vita shopping experience customers have come to know and love. The 1,536-square foot store boasts arched recessed shelving and reclaimed oak touches for a comforting feel and floating display shelves for a convenient shopping experience,” it said.

The brand opened a ‘test store’ at Metropolis at Metrotown near Vancouver in August of 2023. The store remains open.

“Dolce Vita currently operates online in the US, Canada and Mexico, with retail locations in Los Angeles, New York City, Washington D.C and Austin. Shoppers can visit dolcevita.ca or follow the brand on social at @dolcevita to keep up to date on the latest offers.

Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita
Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita
Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita
Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita

Cadillac Fairview hosts Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations

By
Retail Insider
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Mid Autumn Festival. Image: idealwine.info

Cadillac Fairview is hosting Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations at two of its shopping centres. The events, taking place at CF Markville in Markham and CF Richmond Centre in Richmond, are part of an effort by the landlord to attract Chinese shoppers.

There are significant Chinese populations in both Markham and Richmond. Markham boasts the highest visible minority population of any major Canadian city at 78%.

The event in Markham is a collaboration with the Chinese Collective Arts Association. Visitors can enjoy captivating displays and engaging activities suitable for all ages. On September 14th and 21st, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, the Centre Court near Uniqlo will come alive with dazzling dance performances showcasing various Chinese dance styles by local artists.

CF Richmond Centre in Richmond, British Columbia. Uniqlo store in photo. Photo: Cadillac Fairview

CF Richmond Centre has partnered with Angel Entertainment for its cultural event. The Main Galleria will host special dance performances on the same dates, September 14th and 21st, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.

Both shopping centres are offering exclusive Mid-Autumn Festival passports to enhance the experience. Shoppers can collect themed stamps during the events for a chance to win CF SHOP! cards and prizes from center retailers. The passports include a scavenger hunt, guiding participants to food vendors and unique retailers throughout the malls.

CF Markville in Markham, Ontario. Photo: Cadillac Fairview

Visitors are encouraged to capture memories of the festivities by taking pictures with lion and rabbit displays or in front of festival-themed backdrops. CF Richmond Centre is also offering a lantern-making workshop as part of its celebration.

As a major player in the Canadian real estate landscape, CF manages over 36 million square feet of leasable space across 68 landmark properties in Canada.

Related Articles:

Cadillac Fairview Unveils Significant Digital Display Expansion in Canada’s Top Malls with Cineplex [Interviews]

Cadillac Fairview Launches Experiential Activation ‘Mirror Mirror’ in CF Chinook Centre’s Former Nordstrom Space [Interviews/Photos]

Cadillac Fairview Portfolio Dominates in ICSC Mall Productivity Ranking Study [Interview]

UNIQLO opens latest store at Montreal’s Royalmount (Photos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Uniqlo's new store in Royalmount in Montreal. Photo courtesy of Uniqlo

Japanese retailer UNIQLO has opened it fifth Quebec store at the recently opened Royalmount shopping centre in Montreal.

“Royalmount Mall is groundbreaking for UNIQLO. Quebec remains a key market in our Canadian growth strategy, and we are excited to be part of the next evolution of retail. At the same time, we introduce LifeWear to new guests—clothing that is made for everyone every day,” said the company in a statement to Retail Insider.

“Earlier this summer, we announced our plans to open four more new stores in Ontario and British Columbia this fall.”

Uniqlo’s new store in Royalmount in Montreal. Photo courtesy of Uniqlo

The new UNIQLO stores opening in Fall 2024 are: CF Sherway Gardens (Toronto); Heartland Centre Town (Mississauga); Bramalea City Centre (Brampton); and Willowbrook Shopping Centre (Langley).

Jeff Berkowitz of Aurora Realty Consultants has negotiated Uniqlo’s leases since the brand entered the country nearly eight years ago, and continues to do so with the most recent store announcements.

Uniqlo’s new store in Royalmount in Montreal. Photo courtesy of Uniqlo

“UNIQLO continues to resonate with Canadian customers. This latest new store opening builds upon the momentum the brand initiated in 2022 to reach 200 stores in North America by 2027,” said the retailer.

UNIQLO said its Royalmount Mall store will offer the brand’s iconic products for men, women, and kids, such as Ultra-Light Down—warm, packable jackets perfect for layering or travel—and HEATTECH products— made of an innovative fabric that uses the moisture on your skin to generate heat. Other staples include high-quality Knitwear, including 100 per cent cashmere; premium denim; t-shirts; and more.

Uniqlo’s new store in Royalmount in Montreal. Photo courtesy of Uniqlo

“Additionally, for any pair of pants $20 or above (excluding athletic wear and sweatpants), UNIQLO provides free hemming services to ensure pant lengths fit the customers’ unique measurements. UNIQLO also offers complementary in-store pick-up for online orders. Their online store offers a full variety of products, styles, colours, and extended sizes that are not available in-store.

UNIQLO opened its first store in Hiroshima in 1984 and now has over 2,400 stores worldwide, including 24 in Canada, and online at UNIQLO.ca. UNIQLO creates apparel based on the Japanese values of simplicity, quality, and longevity. Its products feature timeless designs, supreme fit, and comfort, shaped by customers’ needs to improve their daily lives.

Uniqlo’s new store in Royalmount in Montreal. Photo courtesy of Uniqlo

The company said LifeWear is “apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity.

“Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives,” it said.

UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, PLST (Plus T), Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam, J Brand and Helmut Lang.

Related: Uniqlo to Open 5 Canadian Stores in Fall 2024

Loblaw launching second ‘Get to Give Days’ campaign 

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Image: Loblaw

Loblaw Companies Limited is launching its second Get to Give Days campaign from September 12-15.

During this time, the company said it will donate a portion of the proceeds from every PC product sold in its grocery stores to President’s Choice Children’s Charity – which operates the nation’s largest charitable direct-to-school food program.

“Food security has long been an issue of concern in Canada, especially for children, where the problem can hinder their ability to learn and increase their levels of anxiety,” stated Loblaw in a news release. “Data from the University of Toronto’s PROOF research program indicates that, in 2023 alone, 2.1 million kids faced food security challenges. President’s Choice Children’s Charity, and Loblaw, believe our children deserve better.”

The company said the Get to Give Days campaign will help the Charity as it strives to feed 1 million kids annually through its Power Full Kids™ program in approximately 2,200 schools across Canada. The program provides children with good food and teaches them how to grow and cook food as well.

Mark Wilson

“Supporting President’s Choice Children’s Charity is a foundational part of who we are as an organization,” said Mark Wilson, Chief Human Resources Officer at Loblaw and Chair of President’s Choice Children’s Charity. “With the help of our customers, $2M will go a long way towards helping the Charity feed 1 million kids.”

Lisa Battistelli

“In 2023, our Power Full Kids™ program helped provide 990,000 Canadian children with over 142 million meals and snacks,” said Lisa Battistelli, Executive Director, President’s Choice Children’s Charity. “We are grateful to our founding partner, Loblaw, and its customers for their support, which will help turn classrooms into places of hope and nurture our future leaders.”

Loblaw said this is how people can support President’s Choice Children’s Charity:

  • Shop in-store from September 12-15, 2024 – Purchase any PC product* at a Real Canadian Superstore, No Frills, Maxi, Your Independent Grocer, Zehrs, Fortinos, Loblaws, Atlantic Superstore, Dominion, Provigo, Wholesale Club, Club Entrepot or Valumart, and a portion of proceeds will be donated to President’s Choice Children’s Charity, up to $2M collectively.
  • At Cash – Customers can join the movement by donating at checkout at any time throughout the year.
  • Online at pcchildrenscharity.ca – Click the ‘Donate’ button.

100 per cent of At Cash and online donations go directly to President’s Choice Children’s Charity to feed students across Canada, it said.

Marie Kondo partners with Transformer Table to showcase space-saving furniture

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Transformer Table x Marie Kondo collaboration! (CNW Group/Transformer Table)

Transformer Table, an industry leader in smart home furniture, is teaming up with Marie Kondo, bestselling author and renowned tidying expert, to showcase how multifunctional furniture can keep a home tidy and organized.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Marie Kondo as she has a unique understanding of the importance of saving space and making your home work for you, which has long been a part of our mission here at Transformer Table,” said Alex Doré, Co-Founder of Transformer Table. “We hope that together we can help people organize their homes and live the lives they want to live.”

“I am so excited to announce that I am teaming up with Transformer Table. One of my goals when organizing is to help clients make space for what matters most to them, regardless of the size of their home,” said Marie Kondo of KonMari Media.

“Many people today need their spaces to serve multiple purposes so they can easily live, work, dine and host. Transformer Table creatively supports each moment while keeping the home feeling calm and organized.”

This partnership will feature Marie Kondo as the face of Transformer Table and include collaboration across content, branding, and promotion. The partnership will continue until December 2024.

Founded in 2016, Transformer Table is an industry leader in smart home furniture, designing space-saving, modular furniture for homes around the world.

Street disorder threatens viability of BC retailers: Poll 

By
Craig Patterson
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Photo: Zosi

Business Improvement Areas of BC (BIABC), a coalition representing over 70 business districts across British Columbia, has released a startling new poll. The survey unveils the profound impact of street disorder and public safety issues on retailers and other businesses throughout the province.

The poll, conducted this summer, gathered responses from more than 500 small and medium-sized business owners across British Columbia. It aimed to gauge their perspectives on various issues, with a particular focus on public safety concerns and their effects on business viability.

The results paint a grim picture of the challenges faced by BC’s retailers and business community. A staggering 97% of businesses reported increased operational costs over the past five years. For 53% of respondents, these increases exceeded 20%, driven by factors such as rising insurance premiums and heightened security expenses.

Since 2023, businesses have witnessed a sharp uptick in various forms of street disorder. The poll reveals that 58% of respondents experienced increased violence and aggression, while 56% reported a surge in theft and shoplifting incidents. Graffiti also saw a significant rise, with 63% of businesses noting an increase, and 53% reported more frequent cases of broken windows.

The mental toll on business owners and employees is equally concerning. An overwhelming 82% of respondents admitted to experiencing increased fear, anxiety, and stress due to rising street disorder. This includes issues related to theft, violence, mental health crises, drug-related activities, vandalism, and homelessness.

In response to escalating property crime, 61% of business owners have been forced to invest in additional safety measures within the past two years. These include installing cameras, upgrading alarm systems, erecting gates, improving lighting, and reinforcing locks.

Perhaps most alarmingly, 39% of respondents expressed doubt about their ability to remain viable or continue operating successfully beyond two years if current conditions persist. This figure rises to 52% when the timeframe is extended to four years.

Jeff Bray, BIABC President and CEO of the Downtown Victoria Business Association, emphasized the severity of the situation. “Business owners have made it very clear that they and their staff are enduring circumstances that are placing a significant financial and emotional toll on them,” Bray stated. He added that many find the situation unbearable and expect decisive action from the next government.

As British Columbia prepares for upcoming elections, BIABC says it plans to appeal to candidates and political parties. They aim to garner support for a sector that is not only integral to provincial and local economies but also vital to the vibrancy of neighbourhoods and communities.

Jess Ketchum, Co-Founder of Save Our Streets (SOS), a coalition member of BIABC, emphasized the broader implications of these issues. “Of course, when businesses have to close their doors, employees lose their jobs, which further impacts families around the province,” Ketchum noted. He called for a coordinated approach to address street disorder and mental health crises, stressing the need for new ideas and proven effective practices.

In response to these challenges, Save Our Streets will host the Communities Driving Change Forum in Vancouver on January 23, 2025. The event will bring together experts and community leaders to explore solutions to issues related to mental health, addictions, and crime. Topics will include judicial reform, policing reform, addiction treatment, mental health care continuity, and housing.

Related articles:

Retailers Sound Alarm on Rising Crime in British Columbia; New Coalition SOS Urges Government Intervention [Clint Mahlman Interview]

Retailers in British Columbia Demand Government Action as Crime and Safety Concerns Reach Crisis Point [Interview]

Nova Scotia Leads Canada in Shoplifting Rates, StatCan Data Reveals

Birks opens new store concept at Royalmount (Photos)

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Photo Credit: Olivier Blouin - Birks’ Royalmount store facade. (CNW Group/Birks Group Inc.)

Montreal-based luxury fine jewellery brand Birks has unveiled its new store design at the new Royalmount shopping centre in Montreal.

Birks, one of Canada’s leading fine jewellery and bridal brands, said it designed a new concept store that captures the very essence of the brand, drawing inspiration from Canada’s rich natural landscapes and heritage.

Jean-Christophe Bédos

“As a brand with over 145 years of history, we take great pride in our Canadian heritage and are excited to share our rich legacy in a fresh and elegant way,” said Jean-Christophe Bédos, President & CEO of Birks Group Inc.

“With this new store concept, our goal is to offer clients another opportunity to immerse themselves in the World of Birks, while highlighting the craftsmanship, design, beauty and value of our collections. This new store, entirely dedicated to Birks’ own jewellery collections, redefines and elevates the brand experience.“

The retailer said the store was designed by the French luxury retail architecture firm Landmark Architecture and the new store concept embraces Canada’s diverse landscapes throughout the seasons, blending luxury with modernity.

“The store’s ambiance is defined by three key themes—refinement, charm, and brilliance—expressed through soft curves, warm tones, state-of-the-art lighting design and signature blue hues that symbolize various aspects of Canadian beauty. Spanning approximately 500 square feet, the elegant space captures Birks’ rich history and evolution,” it said.

Photo Credit: Olivier Blouin – Interior of the Birks store at Royalmount. (CNW Group/Birks Group Inc.)

The small Birks store is located next to multi-brand watch retailer TimeVallée, which Birks also launched last week in Canada with its first location being at Royalmount.

“Established in 1879, Birks celebrates its 145th anniversary this year. The new concept store at Royalmount is a fitting tribute to this remarkable milestone as this design honours over a century of craftsmanship and expertise. The innovative retail experience reflects Birks’ commitment to exceptional quality and timeless elegance, bridging its storied history with a forward-looking vision.”

Photo Credit: Olivier Blouin – The 500 sq. ft. Birks store interior. (CNW Group/Birks Group Inc.)
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