IKEA Canada Returns to Interior Design Show with Immersive Kitchen Showcase and Exclusive Product Preview (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)
IKEA Canada says it is making a bold return to the Interior Design Show (IDS) in Toronto, Canada’s premier design event attracting over 33,000 visitors. This return reflects its commitment to better living through smart, affordable design solutions for Canadian homes, said the retailer.
“Kitchens are a key growth area for us as they represent where life happens–where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are made. Our presence at IDS reinforces our ambition to make a better everyday life for the many Canadians in their kitchens through smart storage solutions that are functional, high quality and affordable.”
At IDS, the retailer said it will unveil a 600-square-foot booth centred around the theme of Cooking & Eating that celebrates the kitchen as the heart of the home and showcases the retailer’s leadership in design, quality, and affordability. The immersive space features a main kitchen highlighting SEKTION’s flexibility and style, a hidden prep kitchen for behind-the-scenes functionality, a walk-in pantry for smart storage and organization, and a dining area with a beverage workstation that brings people together. This thoughtfully designed booth demonstrates how the company combines beautiful design with practical solutions for real Canadian homes, addressing everyday challenges like waste sorting, organization, and maximizing space.
“Our IDS booth reflects what we hear in real Canadian homes,” said EJ Middelhoven, Head of Home Furnishing & Retail Design, IKEA Canada. “People want smart storage, clutter‑free countertops, and the kind of pantry they’ve always dreamed of. Our SEKTION kitchen system delivers this through flexible, beautifully designed solutions that make everyday life easier–and keep great design affordable for the many.”
IKEA Canada Returns to Interior Design Show with Immersive Kitchen Showcase and Exclusive Product Preview (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)
What to Expect at IDS 2026
Exclusive Preview: TERRSJÖ, a new textured kitchen door style debuting April 2026
Immersive Kitchen Experience: A 600 sq. ft. showcase featuring SEKTION, one of Canada’s most trusted and flexible kitchen systems
Special Offer: IKEA Family members receive an exclusive discount coupon during the event when they visit the booth
Event Details: Interior Design Show (IDS) Toronto January 22-25, 2026 Metro Toronto Convention Centre
IKEA Canada Returns to Interior Design Show with Immersive Kitchen Showcase and Exclusive Product Preview (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)IKEA Canada Returns to Interior Design Show with Immersive Kitchen Showcase and Exclusive Product Preview (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership) IKEA Canada Returns to Interior Design Show with Immersive Kitchen Showcase and Exclusive Product Preview (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership)
Swiss watchmaker Tissot has officially entered the Canadian mono-brand retail market with the opening of its first standalone boutique, located inside the Montreal Eaton Centre. The opening represents a notable milestone in the brand’s North American expansion and introduces a fully immersive brand environment to Canadian consumers for the first time.
The Montreal location places Tissot in one of the country’s most active pedestrian retail corridors, positioning the brand within a high-visibility downtown setting that serves both local shoppers and visitors. For Tissot, the opening reflects a shift toward deeper market engagement through branded retail, complementing its long-standing wholesale presence in Canada.
The approximately 650-square-foot boutique has been designed to deliver a focused yet elevated retail experience. A contemporary layout showcases the brand’s core collections, supported by a vaulted display concept that emphasizes individual timepieces and reinforces Tissot’s visual identity.
The store also incorporates an interactive hologram presentation, adding a digital storytelling element that aligns with the brand’s emphasis on innovation. A dedicated L’Atelier service area provides on-site watch repair, maintenance, and restoration, positioning the boutique as both a retail destination and a long-term service hub.
Customers are guided through the assortment by trained Tissot Ambassadors, offering personalized service and detailed product knowledge. The boutique will also serve as a priority access point for new launches and special editions, including the Tissot Limited Edition RockWatch, the Tissot PRX UFO Robot Grendizer 50th Anniversary edition, the Tissot NBA Supersport Chrono, the Tissot PRC100 Solar, Tissot MotoGP models, and the full Tissot PRX collection.
Tissot at Montreal Eaton Centre. Photo supplied
Montreal as a Strategic First Step
Tissot cited Montreal’s cultural alignment with the brand as a key factor in selecting the city for its first Canadian boutique. Founded in Le Locle, Switzerland, the brand points to shared French roots and Montreal’s strong Francophone identity as a natural fit for its initial standalone store in Canada.
The boutique has been designed to reflect Tissot’s heritage while delivering a modern retail experience, reinforcing what the company describes as a gold-standard brand environment. By choosing a prominent downtown Montreal location, Tissot is clearly prioritizing visibility, cultural relevance, and experiential engagement as it deepens its Canadian presence.
Tissot at Montreal Eaton Centre. Photo supplied
Strengthening the Brand’s North American Retail Strategy
The opening marks an important evolution in Tissot’s North American strategy, which increasingly blends wholesale distribution with branded retail. While the brand has long been available through authorized jewelers across Canada, the Montreal boutique allows Tissot to present its collections within a fully controlled brand setting.
“Launching our first Canadian boutique in Montreal is a meaningful milestone for Tissot,” says Rick Ostrom, Managing Director of Tissot Canada. “It marks the beginning of a deeper connection with Canadian customers and an opportunity to bring our collections and innovations to life through a dedicated brand environment that reflects the full Tissot experience.”
Tissot at Montreal Eaton Centre. Photo supplied
Tissot’s Position in the Global Watch Market
Founded in 1853, Tissot operates in the accessible luxury segment of Swiss watchmaking, balancing traditional manufacturing with broad global reach. The brand produces Swiss-made mechanical and quartz watches that appeal to both first-time buyers and experienced collectors, offering a wide range of styles and price points.
Tissot is part of the Swatch Group, the world’s largest watch producer and distributor, providing the brand with extensive industrial capacity and distribution support. Over its history, Tissot has been associated with a number of technical milestones, including early mass-produced pocket watches, dual-time models, and pioneering anti-magnetic wristwatches in the early twentieth century.
Its current portfolio spans classic dress watches, sport and diver-inspired models, and technology-forward collections such as T-Touch, which incorporates touch-sensitive sapphire crystals and multifunction features. Across its assortment, the brand emphasizes Swiss-made construction, industrialized quality, and modern materials.
Boutiques as Brand Anchors
Globally, Tissot sells through a large network of authorized retailers alongside official e-commerce platforms and a growing number of branded boutiques. These standalone locations function as experiential anchors, allowing the brand to communicate its full identity through consistent design, storytelling, and service.
Recent international boutiques have opened in destinations such as Interlaken and Zurich, joining a broader network that includes cities like Paris, Osaka, and Rome. The Montreal boutique follows this model, serving as a flagship-style presence within a market historically dominated by wholesale distribution.
Galerie de Bellefeuille at Yorkville Village in Toronto. Photo: Galerie de Bellefeuille
Galerie de Bellefeuille, one of Canada’s most established and respected commercial art galleries, has announced plans to expand into the United States with new gallery locations in New York City and Miami scheduled to open in 2026. The expansion coincides with the gallery’s 45th anniversary and represents a major milestone in its evolution, extending its presence into two of the world’s most influential art markets while continuing its long-standing commitment to promoting Canadian artists internationally.
Founded in 1980 in Montreal by Jacques and Helen Bellefeuille, Galerie de Bellefeuille has grown from a family-run gallery into a central player in Canada’s contemporary and modern art landscape. Over more than four decades, the gallery has built a reputation for curatorial rigor, accessibility, and a program that balances internationally recognized artists with leading and emerging Canadian talent. Today, the gallery represents more than 100 artists across multiple generations and disciplines.
The move into the United States reflects a long-term strategic vision focused on fostering cross-border cultural dialogue and increasing the visibility of Canadian artists within global art conversations. At the same time, the gallery will continue to present internationally significant works across North America, reinforcing its role as a bridge between Canadian and international art markets.
“New York and Miami represent two of the most dynamic and influential art capitals in the world,” says Jacques & Helen Bellefeuille. “This expansion allows us to further bring our artists into global conversations while remaining rooted in the values and curatorial integrity that have defined Galerie de Bellefeuille for over four decades.”
New York City Gallery Planned for Midtown Manhattan
The first of the two new U.S. locations is scheduled to open in Spring 2026 at 211 West 58th Street in Midtown Manhattan. Located just steps from Central Park and the area commonly known as Billionaires’ Row, the New York gallery will occupy approximately 5,000 square feet within a historic building originally constructed in the mid-1880s. The property is distinguished by its Romanesque arches and preserved architectural character.
Designed by FRW Architects, the Midtown space is intended to serve as Galerie de Bellefeuille’s flagship U.S. location. The gallery plans to present museum-calibre exhibitions in a setting that places it at the centre of the global art market, offering increased visibility among major institutions, collectors, and international audiences.
Rendering of the new Galerie de Bellefeuille in New York City. Image: Galerie de Bellefeuille
Miami Gallery to Open in the Wynwood Art District
The second U.S. location is planned for Miami’s Wynwood Art District, with an opening targeted for Summer 2026. Situated at 136 NW 25th Street, the gallery will span approximately 4,000 square feet within Wynwood Art Plaza, a purpose-built cultural development located on a 14,000-square-foot lot.
Designed by Blitstein Design, the Miami space will feature outdoor sculptures and public art installations, reflecting Wynwood’s reputation as a destination for large-scale and accessible contemporary art. The new gallery builds on Galerie de Bellefeuille’s established presence in Miami through its annual participation in Art Miami, further strengthening its connection to the city’s international collector base and global art fair circuit.
Positioning Canadian Artists in an International Context
Across both U.S. locations, Galerie de Bellefeuille will present a dynamic exhibition program that includes modern masters, emerging voices, and a strong emphasis on Canadian artists. The gallery aims to position Canadian work within an international framework, presenting it alongside globally recognized names and engaging audiences beyond the domestic market.
The gallery’s roster includes artists such as Jim Dine, Hunt Slonem, Zhang He, Jane Waterous, and James Lahey, alongside significant works by Damien Hirst, Robert Indiana, Jeff Koons, Alexander Calder, Lynn Chadwick, and Jean-Paul Riopelle. This breadth of representation has long defined the gallery’s identity in Canada and will remain central to its programming as it expands internationally.
Galerie de Bellefeuille at 1444 de la Montagne in Montreal. Photo: Galerie de Bellefeuille
A Multi-City Canadian Platform Anchoring Global Growth
In Canada, Galerie de Bellefeuille now operates a network of major gallery spaces across Montreal and Toronto. The gallery currently highlights four primary gallery addresses, three in Montreal and one in Toronto, totaling more than 27,000 square feet of exhibition space, in addition to a sculpture park in Knowlton, Quebec that is available by appointment.
In Montreal, the gallery maintains its longstanding flagship presence on Greene Avenue in Westmount, where two facing spaces at 1366 and 1367 Greene Avenue function as the original Galerie de Bellefeuille and Galerie de Bellefeuille II. These locations remain central to the gallery’s year-round exhibition program and client engagement, reflecting its deep roots in the city’s art community.
The gallery also operates a major contemporary exhibition space at 1455 Sherbrooke Street West in the Port Royal building, often referred to as Galerie de Bellefeuille III. Located in the Golden Square Mile near the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the high-ceilinged space is used for large-scale curated exhibitions and significant programming, further strengthening the gallery’s institutional presence in Montreal.
Galerie de Bellefeuille on Sherbrooke St. in Montreal. Photo: Galerie de Bellefeuille
Most recently, Galerie de Bellefeuille expanded its Montreal footprint with the opening of a new location at 1444 rue de la Montagne in the street-level retail of the Four Seasons Hotel Montreal. Opened in August 2025, the space offers approximately 8,200 square feet of exhibition area and is now positioned as the gallery’s Golden Square Mile flagship within Montreal’s luxury hotel and retail corridor. The addition significantly increases the gallery’s total wall space and complements its established Greene Avenue and Sherbrooke Street operations.
In Toronto, Galerie de Bellefeuille operates a roughly 7,000-square-foot gallery at 87 Avenue Road in Yorkville Village. Since opening in 2017, the space has served as the gallery’s Toronto hub, presenting curated exhibitions of Canadian and international contemporary art within one of the city’s most prominent cultural and luxury districts.
Together, these Canadian locations form a robust domestic platform that supports the gallery’s expanding international ambitions, providing the foundation for its upcoming U.S. openings in New York City and Miami and its longer-term plans for further global growth.
Retail sales increased 1.3% to $70.4 billion in November. Sales were up in eight of nine subsectors, led by increases at food and beverage retailers. Core retail sales—which exclude gasoline stations and fuel vendors and motor vehicle and parts dealers—were up 1.6% in November. In volume terms, retail sales increased 1.1% in November, reported Statistics Canada on Friday.
“Core retail sales rose 1.6% in November after decreasing in the previous two months. The largest increase to core retail sales came from food and beverage retailers (+3.0%). The increase in this subsector was led by beer, wine and liquor retailers, which were up 14.3% in November after falling 11.8% in October amid labour disruptions in British Columbia that impacted the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages. In the food and beverage retailers subsector, higher receipts were also recorded at supermarkets and other grocery retailers (+1.2%),” explained the federal agency.
“Also contributing to the gain in core retail sales in November were higher sales in the health and personal care retailers subsector (+1.6%).
“Clothing, clothing accessories, shoes, jewellery, luggage and leather goods retailers (+2.4%) were up in November. Clothing and clothing accessories retailers (+2.7%) led the increase in this subsector, following two consecutive monthly declines.”
Higher sales were also recorded at building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers (+2.1%) in November. The increase marks a second consecutive monthly gain for this subsector, said StatsCan, adding that the sole decrease to retail sales in November came from sporting goods, hobby, musical instrument, book, and miscellaneous retailers (-0.2%).
Statistics Canada said sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors (+2.0%) were up in November after falling 1.4% in October. In volume terms, sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors rose 0.7% in November.
“On a seasonally adjusted basis, retail e-commerce sales decreased 2.8% to $4.0 billion in November, accounting for 5.7% of total retail trade, compared with 6.0% in October,” it said.
“Statistics Canada is providing an advance estimate of retail sales, which suggests that sales decreased 0.5% in December. Owing to its early nature, this figure will be revised. This unofficial estimate was calculated based on responses received from 61.3% of companies surveyed. The average final response rate for the survey over the previous 12 months was 88.0%.”
“The 1.3% increase in sales during November was a tick above the advance estimate and consensus forecast, and reflected a 1.1% gain in inflation-adjusted terms. Core retail sales (ex autos and gasoline) rose by 1.6%, on the back of broad-based increases led by food & beverage stores. However, even after the latest increase, sales volumes remained weaker than they were in August, thanks to declines in the previous two months. Moreover, the advance estimate for December suggested that sales pulled back again with a 0.5% nominal reduction estimated. In other words, the November gain hasn’t changed what has been a broadly sideways trend in retail spending since the start of 2025.”
Shelly Kaushik
Despite a decent November report, Canadian retail sales continue to be choppy. Considering the significant headwinds of trade uncertainty, consumers appear to be holding on, supported in part by past interest rate cuts, said Shelly Kaushik, Senior Economist, BMO Capital Markets.
“November delivered a welcome rebound, but there is little to get excited about. Part of the strength reflects volatility tied to a labour dispute, rather than a meaningful improvement in underlying demand. The pick-up follows a weak and downwardly revised October and is already giving way to softer momentum in December. Looking through the monthly volatility, the underlying trend in real sales remains negative. Soft consumer sentiment is likely a key factor: the Bank of Canada’s latest consumer survey shows households are feeling increasingly pessimistic about their finances, weighing on spending decisions,” said Maria Solovieva, Economist, TD Economics.
Maria Solovieva
“Our outlook for Q4 real consumption growth remains subdued, tracking close to 0.9% (quarter-on-quarter, annualized). There is some upside risk from services, as our internal credit and debit card data point to building momentum toward year-end. Still, we don’t think expect it to be large enough to lift overall consumption above a below-trend pace.”
World-renowned luxury hospitality brand, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the leading hospitality group Accor, in partnership with development group Truman, has announced the development of a new 225-key Fairmont hotel slated to open in Q4 2031 in what officials are calling a premier location within Calgary’s Greater Downtown. But they did not disclose an exact location.
The new mixed-use development when complete, will house beautifully appointed guest rooms; a signature spa and wellness offering; a robust meetings and events program supporting Calgary’s burgeoning convention demand and 100 luxury branded residences, they said.
Fairmont Calgary is a direct beneficiary of the Stampede Park transformation project, a major revitalization of Calgary’s Culture and Entertainment District centered around the government funded $500 million expansion of its BMO Centre, completed in 2024. The new BMO facility has created Western Canada’s largest convention facility, alongside infrastructure upgrades, new public spaces, and improved transit access to attract more events and visitors to the area, said officials in a news release.
Omer Acar
“We are honored to play a role in this incredible new property at such a pivotal moment in Calgary’s development. Adding a second property in this flourishing city where the beloved Fairmont Palliser currently resides will be a significant achievement, and reinforces Fairmont’s leadership position in Western Canada, as well as strengthens our long-term brand commitment to Calgary as a destination. Fairmont Calgary will become an exciting new social hub for the local community, hotel guests and residents alike, blending both tradition and modernity,” said Omer Acar, CEO, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
The project will bring together a world-class team of architects and designers to build and create the mixed-use building combining a Fairmont hotel with branded residences. The design concept will be announced, and the regulatory approvals process will be initiated in Q1 of 2026. The property’s development adds a major economic benefit to Calgary, providing employment opportunities during its construction and hospitality jobs once open, explained officials.
“This investment underscores our shared confidence in Calgary’s future. Fairmont Calgary will contribute meaningfully to the city’s economy, vibrancy, and its growing reputation as a global destination for business, tourism, and luxury living,” said George Trutina, President, Truman.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is renowned for the international luxury hospitality brand’s unrivalled portfolio of 96 extraordinary hotels. Fairmont is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,700 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL Accor, a booking platform and loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.
Truman is an Alberta-based family-owned developer and builder. Earlier this year, Truman and Marriott International, Inc. announced plans to open three hotels in Calgary, including W Calgary, JW Marriott Calgary and an Autograph Collection Hotel on Stampede Park.
As Canadians look ahead to 2026, many hope to rein in spending but new data shows just how tricky it can be. Despite intentions to spend less, post-season findings from NerdWallet Canada, based on a survey conducted by The Harris Poll, reveal that rising costs and holiday pressures likely pushed shoppers beyond their budgets.
The survey found:
Intention versus reality: 2025 holiday shoppers’ actual spend on gifts, $828 on average, is higher than what those who planned to buy gifts last holiday season anticipated they’d spend.
When surveyed in October 2025, Canadians who planned to purchase gifts expected to spend $708, on average.
The post-holiday average suggests actual spending exceeded earlier projections by $120.
Overspending wasn’t because of poor planning: Only 7% of 2025 holiday shoppers blame their lack of planning for overspending/overbuying on gifts.
Inflation was still The Grinch of the season: 43% of 2025 holiday shoppers say higher cost of living/inflation impacted the amount they spent on gifts this past holiday season.
Canadian holiday shoppers are getting savvier: 33% of 2025 holiday shoppers shopped only during sales, deals and promotions and 23% used loyalty points or cashback to pay for holiday gifts.
Elbows are still up: 20% of 2025 holiday shoppers bought more ”Made in Canada” gifts, which were more expensive than foreign-made gifts.
Most Canadians were still in the spirit: 89% of Canadians purchased gifts for friends and loved ones this past holiday season.
NerdWallet Canada personal finance expertShannon Terrell said even the best-laid, most well-intentioned budgets aren’t impervious to the stressors of the season.
Shannon Terrell
“Holiday gift giving is an overwhelming gauntlet of inflation creep, scarcity marketing, BOGO traps and spend-to-save thresholds. Throw in some emotionally-loaded gifting anxiety for a good measure and you’re looking at the perfect financial storm. Intentions alone aren’t always enough.
“I think higher prices did a lot of heavy lifting this holiday season. Was poor planning or frivolous spending a factor? For some folks, sure. But many Canadians used thrifty gifting strategies to try and get ahead this season, like crafting their own gifts, shopping only during sales and using loyalty points to cover the cost of gift purchases. Yet, even when Canadians stuck to their lists, shopped the sales and cashed in their points, they still came in over budget. That speaks to a fundamentally different financial landscape than the one Canadians were budgeting for based on previous years’ experience.
Terrell said we need to stop framing holiday overspending as a moral failing and start acknowledging the systemic pressures working against even the most diligent budgeters.
“Both in person and online retail environments actively encourage consumers to spend more, often via an artificial sense of urgency. It can feel deeply compelling, even financially irresponsible not to take advantage of whatever ‘deal’ is being waved before your eyes. A budget is only half the battle. Implementing a 24-hour cooling off period, where you sit on a purchase overnight, can help dissipate the sense of urgency. This way, you can make a more clear-eyed decision about whether to make the purchase.”
More Canadians are shopping sales and using loyalty points and cashback programs. Are these tools genuinely helping people control costs, or do they sometimes encourage higher spending?
“It can be both, which is what makes these programs so appealing — and dangerous. Swiping your credit card to rack up rewards points or cash back is fine, so long as you have an actionable plan for paying back what you owe before it starts to accrue interest. Interest charges actively devalue your rewards, so unless you’re staying on top of your balance, you may be paying more to grow your point balance than you realize,” explained Terrell.
She said Canadians may not be able to control the ongoing tariff dispute, but they do get to choose how and where they spend their hard-earned dollars.
“In the past year, we’ve seen people voting with their wallets in a show of community support and national economic resilience. I think Canadian retailers have an interesting opportunity here. Yes, there appears to be a growing appetite for Canadian-made goods. But if a home-grown or locally-made product comes at a consistently higher cost, does it become a luxury only higher-income households can afford? The interest is there. The question is whether the industry can meet it without forcing Canadians to choose between purchasing products that align with their values or safeguarding their household budgets.”
Tourisme Montréal and the Palais des congrès de Montréal say a series of major international and North American conventions confirmed in recent months will bring more than 100,000 hotel room nights to the city and generate economic benefits estimated at close to $100 million.
The organizations said the bookings, spread over several years, add to Montréal’s pipeline of large-scale business events and are all slated to take place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal.
Pipeline of large conventions
Among the newly confirmed events are conventions by the World Science Fiction Society, expected to draw about 4,000 delegates in 2027, and the Canadian Labour Congress, with approximately 3,500 delegates anticipated in 2032.
Tourisme Montréal said the confirmations are the result of long-term planning and coordination with partners.
Mylène Gagnon
“Behind every confirmed convention are years of work, relationship building, strategic planning and an exceptional level of mobilization by our teams and partners. It is this rigour that allows Montréal to remain a destination of choice for business tourism on the international stage. By attracting major conventions, we are laying solid foundations for business tourism and creating a sustainable base for Montréal’s visitor economy,” said Mylène Gagnon, vice-president, sales, convention services and membership at Tourisme Montréal.
Several of the conventions benefited from support through Destination Canada’s Convention Business Fund program, the organizations said. These include the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer annual meeting, scheduled for 2031 with an estimated 6,000 delegates, and the Orthopaedic Trauma Association annual meeting in 2030, expected to attract about 2,700 delegates.
Recurring events extend calendar
The new confirmations are supplemented by recurring large conventions, including the annual event of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. That conference alternates between Vancouver and Montréal, with the Montréal editions held in odd-numbered years.
Tourisme Montréal and the Palais des congrès said the Montréal events typically draw close to 2,000 delegates and have now been confirmed through 2035, extending the city’s booking horizon for major industry gatherings.
The Palais des congrès said the accumulation of confirmed conventions underscores the role of business events in Québec’s economy.
Emmanuelle Legault
“Tourism is a powerful and sustainable economic lever for Québec. At a time when market diversification and international competitiveness are essential, business events provide a tangible and immediate response. By attracting large-scale conventions, we are investing in a form of collective wealth that supports the economy, innovation and Montréal’s long-term appeal,” said Emmanuelle Legault, president and chief executive officer of the Palais des congrès de Montréal.
Sector mix and longer-term impact
Beyond their immediate economic contribution, the organizations said the confirmed conventions are intended to support Montréal’s longer-term positioning in knowledge-based sectors.
Of the 12 conventions confirmed in 2025, five are in the life sciences sector, which Tourisme Montréal described as an area of strength for the city. The concentration of life sciences events is expected to contribute to professional and scientific exchange while reinforcing Montréal’s profile in that field.
The organizations said the conventions also play a role in building Montréal’s international reputation and strengthening its professional networks across scientific, social and economic domains.
Photo: Pascal Bernardon
International rankings cited
Tourisme Montréal and the Palais des congrès also pointed to Montréal’s standing in international rankings for business events, including those published by the International Congress and Convention Association and the Union of International Associations.
They said Montréal has held the position of leading destination in the Americas in those rankings for a ninth consecutive year, citing the city’s event infrastructure, accessibility and experience in hosting large-scale gatherings.
Organizations involved
Tourisme Montréal is a private, non-profit organization that promotes the city as a destination for leisure and business tourism. Founded more than a century ago, it represents more than 1,000 member organizations connected to the tourism sector and is involved in developing visitor experience strategies and tourism-related economic initiatives.
The Palais des congrès de Montréal has hosted large-scale events since 1983 and positions itself as a centre for conferences and exhibitions. The organization said it focuses on innovation and sustainability in its operations and plays a role in Montréal’s economic and international outreach through business events.
Together, the two organizations said the newly confirmed conventions provide visibility several years into the future for Montréal’s business tourism sector, with additional events expected to be secured as bidding and planning continue.
Canadian retail design brand EQ3 has appointed Jim Hunt as President, which came into effect January 19.
Hunt brings a deep and longstanding connection to the company, having joined the company’s head office in 2008 during a pivotal period of transformation as the brand transitioned from a franchise model to corporately owned retail. At that time, five franchise locations owned by Hunt were the first to make the transition.
Jim Hunt
Hunt subsequently joined EQ3 in Winnipeg as Vice President of Retail Operations, leading the front end of the business and playing a key role in shaping the brand’s retail experience. Hunt later assumed responsibility for Sales and Marketing before moving to Palliser in 2016, where he spent nearly nine years leading sales teams across the U.S. and, later, Canada.
In 2024, he rejoined EQ3 and most recently served as Chief Commercial Officer across both EQ3 and Palliser.
In his new role as President, the company said Hunt will now focus exclusively on the company, with a clear mandate to strengthen profitability, drive long-term growth, and continue building on the brand’s strong design-led foundation.
Peter Tielmann
“Jim’s deep understanding of EQ3, including its people, its customers, and its evolution, makes him uniquely suited to lead the brand into its next chapter,” said Peter Tielmann, President & CEO of Palliser Holdings Ltd., EQ3’s parent company. “His experience across retail, sales, and brand leadership will be instrumental as EQ3 continues to grow with intention.”
“EQ3 has always been special to me. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together and I’m excited to lead EQ3 into this next era,” added Hunt.
Los Angeles is different from most furniture markets considering that people here live outdoors almost as much as inside. Patios, decks, rooftop lounges, those are not just extras, they’re part of daily life. In Los Angeles, outdoor furniture is not something seasonal or occasional, but it is a constant consideration, making the competition in the outdoor furniture market intense. Local boutiques, national chains, online sellers, all chasing the same shoppers. In that environment, an outdoor furniture store Los Angeles shows what works: the right location, a thoughtful mix of products, and staff who really know their stuff.
What Shoppers Actually Want
Buying decisions in LA extend beyond digital images now, as the real world experience is what drives purchase decisions. They want to see it, touch it or sit in it. To see if a chair creaks, whether the cushions sag, how furniture looks under certain lighting. As much as style matters, durability matters just as much and convenience plays a key role as well. Hence, shoppers want to move between online research and in-store experience.
From a retail perspective, Los Angeles outdoor furniture retail teaches that customers respond to guidance as much as product. A salesperson who can explain materials, suggest layouts, or highlight seasonal pieces can make a huge difference. And digital tools help but they’re only helpful if they complement the experience rather than replace it. That balance is what separates a casual browse from a confident purchase.
Displays That Speak
The way furniture is displayed can shape choices more than discounts. Many successful stores arrange products by season: dining sets in spring, lounge furniture in summer, fire pits in the cooler months. Accessories, cushions, umbrellas, lights, they aren’t afterthoughts but they tell the story of the space.
Apart from that, digital touchpoints are subtle but effective. QR codes for stock checks or product info, digital catalogs that mirror the in-store collection. It’s part of a trend that’s become clear in outdoor furniture merchandising trends in Southern California: the best retailers mix tactile and digital, letting shoppers feel and imagine, while providing information quietly in the background. Too much flashy tech can feel pushy. Done right, it supports the human experience rather than replaces it.
Inventory is another challenge. Downtown buyers favor sleek, modern pieces. Suburban shoppers often want softer, more resort-like setups. Staff who understand these nuances—materials, maintenance, layout advice—can transform the visit. A knowledgeable team gives customers confidence, which often leads to larger purchases.
Beyond the Store
Marketing matters, but context matters more. Partnerships with designers, pop-up installations, and small events create touchpoints that feel natural. Online campaigns that show furniture in actual homes resonate far more than staged images. In-store, shoppers appreciate space to explore, sit, and imagine their own outdoor living areas.
This isn’t just about immediate sales. It’s about trust. Shoppers remember whether they felt understood and supported, and that often leads to repeat visits and word-of-mouth referrals.
Key Takeaways
For outdoor furniture retailers in Los Angeles, success is rarely about one single tactic. It’s about combining curation, service, and insight in ways that feel natural. Stores that focus on experience rather than just promotion tend to convert more visitors into buyers.
For businesses exploring strategies for selling outdoor furniture in Los Angeles retail, the lesson is clear: prioritize experience, provide guidance, and let customers feel the space. When done right, even a crowded market can feel navigable. Every display, conversation, and product choice contributes to the overall impression, shaping whether a customer leaves with confidence—or walks out undecided.
Dr. Phone Fix Canada Corporation says it expanded its national retail footprint to 44 locations by the end of 2025, while also posting higher average revenue across its existing stores.
The Edmonton-based consumer electronics repair and resale company said that it grew from 35 to 44 locations over the final 44 days of 2025, a 26 per cent increase in its store count, driven by acquisitions and new store openings.
The company, which trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol DPF, also reported improved same-store performance in the final quarter of the year, with average annualized revenue per store rising across its original locations.
Late-2025 expansion
Dr. Phone Fix said six of the nine new locations were added through its previously announced acquisition of the assets of Geebo Device Repair Inc. in Atlantic Canada.
The remaining three stores were opened organically, with one new location each in Alberta, Nova Scotia and Ontario.
The company said the expansion reflects its ability to add locations quickly while maintaining operational performance across its retail network.
Piyush Sawhney
“This update reflects the strength of our operating model,” founder and chief executive officer Piyush Sawhney said in a statement. “We are expanding rapidly while simultaneously improving performance at the store level. That combination is exactly what we believe will drive long-term shareholder value.”
Same-store performance improves
Alongside the store count growth, Dr. Phone Fix reported gains in store-level economics at its existing locations.
From October to December 2025, the average annualized revenue across the company’s original 35 stores increased to about $350,000 per store, up from approximately $320,000 earlier in the period.
The company attributed the increase to stronger execution, improved operational processes and growing brand recognition, saying the results demonstrate its ability to scale while improving productivity and unit economics.
Growth strategy outlined
Dr. Phone Fix said its growth strategy continues to centre on two areas: improving performance at individual stores and expanding its national footprint.
On the operational side, the company said it remains focused on driving revenue growth and margin expansion at each location through cost controls, standardized processes, supplier scale benefits and investments in training and systems.
At the same time, Dr. Phone Fix said it plans to pursue further expansion through a mix of acquisitions and organic store openings in high-traffic markets.
The company said it is targeting the acquisition of independent and regional repair chains, alongside new store development, as part of a broader plan to grow its corporately owned store network.
Building on its recent expansion, Dr. Phone Fix said it is evaluating a pipeline of acquisition opportunities and active site development, with a stated objective of scaling its store count to about 70 locations over the next 12 months.
“We believe the market opportunity remains highly fragmented and under-consolidated,” Sawhney said. “Our proven ability to integrate acquisitions, improve store-level performance, and scale profitably gives us confidence in our path forward.”
Image: Dr. Phone Fix
Demand and market conditions
The company said it continues to benefit from strong consumer demand for device repair services, citing rising device replacement costs, increased reliance on mobile technology and a growing focus on repair and sustainability over replacement.
Dr. Phone Fix did not provide financial guidance or earnings figures in the update, which was described as a corporate and operational overview.
About the company
Founded in 2019, Dr. Phone Fix operates corporately owned retail locations across Canada that provide cell phone and electronics repair services, along with the resale of certified pre-owned devices and accessories.
The company describes itself as eco-friendly and customer-centric and says it works with original equipment manufacturers and certified suppliers to maintain quality standards across its network.
Dr. Phone Fix said it now operates 44 corporately owned locations nationwide following its most recent expansion.
