Canadian Ecommerce Company EMERGE Sees Significant Growth Through Website Acquisitions

By

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January 3, 2021

The EMERGE team celebrating a successful 2020 despite the odds. Photo: EMERGE Instagram

EMERGE, a disciplined, diversified, rapidly-growing acquirer and operator of e-commerce assets, has seen tremendous growth as it rides the wave of the growing trend in online shopping.

In its third quarter, for the three months ending September 30, the Toronto-based company saw gross merchandise sales growth of 251 percent from a year ago to $7.7 million. Revenue jumped by 196 percent to $2.2 million. Also Adjusted EBITDA was positive $62,196 compared to negative $173,681 in Q3 2019.

“EMERGE’s third quarter results demonstrate the impact of the acceleration of consumer spending online,” said Ghassan Halazon, Founder and CEO of EMERGE. “Our diversified e-commerce portfolio grew rapidly in the quarter as we saw strong demand in a number of key verticals, including groceries, essentials, and golf products, which offset COVID affected categories. This performance is a testament to the agility of our business model, the resilience of our merchant partner network, as well as the great trust instilled in us by our loyal customer base.

“The quarter continues the trend this year of strong revenue growth and positive Adjusted EBITDA, demonstrating our consistent commitment to disciplined operations and prudent capital allocation. It’s truly a momentous time to be at the forefront of Canadian e-commerce, a sector that has experienced more growth in recent quarters than it has over the prior decade. EMERGE is better positioned than ever to continue to acquire, integrate, and accelerate quality e-commerce brands.”

EMERGE Connects 2 Million Members With 12,000 Merchant Partners Across North America

Halazon said the company, which was founded in 2016, connects more than two million members with 12,000 merchant partners across North America. Its portfolio includes UnderPar.com, JustGolfStuff.ca, WagJag.com, and BeRightBack.ca.

“We’re a disciplined acquirer and operator of digital or niche e-commerce brands. Our network of e-commerce sites provide offers on everything from golf to groceries, essentials, nearby staycations and experiences,” said Halazon.

“Right now we’re focused on pure play e-commerce sites.”

EMERGE was named one of the fastest growing companies in Canada by the Startup 50, and the Globe and Mail’s 2020 Canada’s Top Growing Companies.

Halazon said he and other veteran e-commerce and technology entrepreneurs and operators have been in this space for the past decade or so.

“We realized that the small to mid market e-commerce is challenged from an exit opportunities perspective. That is to say that the small bootstrap niche e-commerce companies were not getting a lot of attention from the Amazons of the world. So Amazon is more interested in acquiring the Whole Foods of the world. Private equity folks are interested in acquiring sorts of relatively bigger e-commerce companies that are either public or that have sort of $100 million plus range in sales,” said Halazon.

“That carved us an interesting opportunity to consolidate this small to mid market. That’s what we do. We actually go out, we acquire these often bootstrap businesses in e-commerce and when we acquire them we consolidate them. So we integrate them under a universal platform and playbook where they share everything from technology to resources to data. So the idea is power in the group. Power in the scale.

“In essence what we do is when we acquire a business we’re basically helping them centralize a lot of things that are non-core to the niche itself.”

Halazon offered an example of what EMERGE can do. He said the company acquired WagJag for about $500,000 from newspaper giant Torstar which was looking to restructure. And EMERGE has since driven $30 million in gross sales in three years and made its money back in six months in what Halazon describes as a “very lucrative acquisition.”

The e-commerce trend has been a growing one in recent years but it has been accelerating for the past few months during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Obviously we’ve seen a monumental rise in e-commerce here where the last couple of quarters we’ve experienced more growth in the sector than e-commerce has seen in the prior decade,” explained Halazon. “So from our perspective, sitting at the forefront of Canadian e-commerce, there’s never been a better time for us to prove out this thesis and we believe we are well-positioned to go out and consolidate this small to mid market e-commerce space.

“There’s thousands of fast-growing, profitable e-commerce companies that have been created and are continuing to thrive in this pandemic world. As an acquirer and operator, from our perspective, there’s no shortage of pipeline to go after. The types of businesses we look at often exhibit between $1-$5 million in profit and between $5-$50 million in revenue. When we go speak to these groups, we offer them a win-win scenario where they get to continue on with us under the EMERGE umbrella, they keep their brand, they keep their team and offices, but they get the fair portion of the consideration in cash and the remainder they get through EMERGE shares which are faring quite well and some earn out over a multi-year period.”

Retail Insider Top 20 Most-Read Articles of 2020

By

Retail Insider

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December 30, 2020

In 2020, the Canadian retail industry changed significantly amid ‘non-essential’ store closures and shifting consumer sentiment. Retail is increasingly moving online while some retail brands struggle. We will be identifying the lasting impacts from 2020 for years to come.

Over the course of the year, some articles published in Retail Insider saw many thousands of readers, and we’ve listed the top ones below.

20. BRIEF: J. Crew Shuts all But 1 Store in Canada, Lululemon Expanding Flagship

Other News: Nordstrom shuts main floor designer boutiques in Toronto, Saks Food Hall shut until 2021, Balenciaga opens in Montreal, Zadel Jewellery Studio opens Granville Island workshop.

19. Nordstrom Launches Canadian E-Commerce Site After Shutting all Stores Amid Coronavirus [Analysis]

Nordstrom at CF Toronto Eaton Centre - Photo by Dri-Design — Nordstrom at CF Toronto Eaton Centre – Photo by Dri-Design

After opening its first store in Canada more than five years ago, the retailer has unveiled an ecommerce site featuring luxury brands to boost revenue in this country. Given the vast assortment, competitors could take a major hit.

18. Reitmans Files for and Obtains Bankruptcy Protection

Reitmans' New CF Carrefour Laval boutique - Photo by Reitmans — Reitmans’ New CF Carrefour Laval boutique – Photo by Reitmans

The iconic Canadian retailer says that this was “the hardest decision we have had to make as an organization in our almost one hundred years of history”.

17. Retailers Begin Opening Stores in Canada as COVID-19 Restrictions Are Lifted

Store owner turning open sign broad through the door glass and ready to service.

A careful, phased approach to the reopening of the economy has begun in several provinces after many businesses were effectively shut down in mid-March to prevent the spread of the potentially deadly virus.

16. President of Arc’teryx Urges Apparel Industry: Don’t Save Sinking Supply Chain by Pushing Garment Workers Overboard

Arc'teryx store in Toronto's Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Arc'teryx — Arc’teryx store in Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Arc’teryx

Jon Hoerauf, President of Arc’teryx, says that 2020 is a reckoning for the global apparel sector.

15. 1st Prototype Urban ‘Real Canadian Superstore’ Opens in Downtown Calgary

It is unlike any other Superstore location in Canada. The 80,000-square-foot store is also joined by other Loblaw nameplates in the same RioCan complex which is part of the city’s East Village revival.

14. Second Wave of Retail Bankruptcies Expected in Canada Amid COVID-19 Pandemic: Expert

An empty CF Toronto Eaton Centre - Photo by Toronto Tourism — An empty CF Toronto Eaton Centre – Photo by Toronto Tourism

It’s an inevitable consequence of the devastating economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic, though the future could be promising when retail adapts to a new world.

13. Invisible Face Mask ‘Mingle Mask’ Targets Canadian Retailers and Businesses

Model wearing a Mingle Mask - Photo by Mingle Mask — Model wearing a Mingle Mask – Photo by Mingle Mask

The made-in-Canada invisible, ergonomic mask provides all the benefits of mask protection while allowing one’s face to be completely visible.

12. The End of ‘Hero Pay’ for Grocery Workers in Canada an Operational Necessity: Expert

Smiling shopkeeper serving a customer while wearing a mask, coronavirus pandemic concept

Sylvain Charlebois says the temporary increased costs made operating grocery stores almost unprofitable.

11. Landlords to Face Mass Vacancies for Taking Hard Line on Retailer Rent Relief: Experts

Exterior of Yorkdale Shopping Centre - Photo by Yorkdale Shopping Centre — Exterior of Yorkdale Shopping Centre – Photo by Yorkdale Shopping Centre

Industry sources blast landlords and suggest solutions amid the COVID-19 epidemic which could result in “tumbleweeds blowing through malls” if businesses go under.

10. Hudson’s Bay Exiting Downtown Edmonton After 207 Years

The loss of the last department store in downtown Edmonton is a blow to the city’s core which saw Holt Renfrew exit earlier this year, as well as Woodward’s and Eaton’s in years past.

9. Retail in Canada to Change Forever Amid Restructuring, Bankruptcies and Permanent Store Closings

Army & Navy department store on Whyte Ave, Edmonton - Photo by Google street view — Army & Navy department store on Whyte Ave, Edmonton – Photo by Google street view

Retailers across the country are evaluating operations to determine if they can remain operational. Some retailers such as Army & Navy have already announced that they will close forever.

8. Reitmans Permanently Shutting all 131 Addition Elle and Thyme Maternity Storefronts Amid Restructuring

Exterior of Addition Elle Store - Photo by Addition Elle — Exterior of Addition Elle Store – Photo by Addition Elle

After obtaining bankruptcy protection last month, the company will shut two of its retail banners while at the same time reducing its workforce by about 1,400 employees.

7. Cadillac Fairview Prepares to Reopen Canadian Shopping Centres with Plans and Protocols [Interview]

CF Polo Park - Photo by Cadillac Fairview — CF Polo Park – Photo by Cadillac Fairview

Executive Vice President of Operations Sal Iacono discusses what will be done to enhance safety as mall stores across the country reopen in the coming weeks.

6. Canadian Government Announces 75% Rent Relief for Small Retailers and Businesses

Crescent Street in Montreal - Photo by Betakit — Crescent Street in Montreal – Photo by Betakit

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Friday that the federal government has reached an agreement to implement the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) which could help save the economy.

5. Victoria’s Secret Quietly Closing Canadian Stores

One major landlord says that the US-based lingerie and underwear retailer has seen plummeting sales in Canada over the past two years.

4. Mass Store Closures in Canada Escalate Significantly Amid COVID-19 Pandemic [Update]

Hudson's Bay, Queen Street, Toronto - Photo by Hudson's Bay — Hudson’s Bay, Queen Street, Toronto – Photo by Hudson’s Bay

A sudden collapse of retail in Canada has some shaming retailers that remain open while malls operate at reduced hours.

3. Hundreds of Stores to Close in Canada in Early 2020 [Analysis]

Retail Insider counts well over 700 retail locations that will shutter early on this year amid a shift in consumer preferences and an otherwise challenging time for the industry. At the same time, some analysts expressed optimism as new concepts open and expand in Canada.

2. BRIEF: Hudson’s Bay Receives Eviction Notices From Malls, Banana Republic Shutters on Bloor

Other News: Diesel opens only Canadian store at Yorkdale, Frank And Oak looks to international expansion after acquisition, Oxford Properties supports food banks, interview with Muji President, King & Bay innovates to fight the spread of COVID-19.

1. Wave of Store Closures to Hit Canada in the Summer of 2020

Frank And Oak storefront - Photo by Retail Insider — Frank And Oak storefront – Photo by Retail Insider

The COVID-19 pandemic is partly to blame for hundreds of permanent retail store closures that will happen over the next couple of months.

Keep reading Retail Insider, as we’ll be reporting on Canadian retail industry stories in 2021. Let’s all have a safe and prosperous new year!

Retail Profile: Guildford Town Centre in Surrey During COVID-19

By

Lee Rivett

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December 30, 2020

Guildford Town Centre. Photo: Lee Rivett

Retail Insider continues its Photo Tour series of Canadian malls to provide a window into shopping centres which may be less frequented lately due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This edition takes us to Guildford Town Centre in Surrey, near Vancouver, which is the third largest mall in the province after Metropolis at Metrotown (see our Metropolis and Metrotown photo tour) in Burnaby and Park Royal Shopping Centre (see our video tour of Park Royal) in West Vancouver.

Google Map of Guildford Town Centre Location

Photograph of the old Guildford Mall sign at the corner of 152 Street and 104 Avenue – Photo by Royal Canadian Mounted Police Veterans Association

Guildford Mall nearing completion in 1966 – Photo by Heritage Surrey Twitter

History of Guildford Town Centre

Guildford Town Centre was built in 1966 and has undergone several renovations. Under the ownership/management of Ivanhoe Cambridge, the latest modernization renovation began in 2010 and in 2014 across three phases. The first phase focused on a new Walmart Supercentre and a two story parkade and completed in 2011. The second and third phases focused on modernizing the existing interiors as well as adding 200,000 square feet to the south end, including a 1,034-seat food court and 75 new stores.

Upper Level Mall Entrance from new, southern two-level parkade – Photo by Lee Rivett

Main Plaza of Guildford Town Centre – Photo by Lee Rivett

Upper Level Mall Map of Guildford Town Centre.

The Guildford Shopping Centre has two retail shopping levels. To separate the shopping centre into manageable pieces, we’ll divide the centre into five zones for each floor/level. Based on the map above, the quadrants break down to the ‘right addition’, ‘lower centre’, ‘upper centre’, ‘upper left’ and ‘lower left’.

Upper Level ‘Right’ Zone tour at Guildford

Ground Entrance – North Zone – Photo by Lee Rivett

Anchor at north end of overpass – Photo by Lee Rivett

Guildford Centre Mall Map – Upper Level with Right Zone Circled.

To start off the tour, we arrived and parked in the north parking lot and entered through entrance number nine on the lower level (ground level). To access the upper level, there is a very small entrance hall that hosts the BC Liquor Store, a Lyft ride share kiosk area and the anchor tenant, Life Instyle Furniture on the bottom floor of the large building at the extreme north end of the shopping centre.

Ground Floor anchor on north side of Guildford Mall

There are very few retailers on the ground level in this area as the majority of it is located on the upper level right accessible by escalators right inside of the doors. Urban Behavior occupies the floor above the furniture store and is located at the top of the escalators.

North hallway on ground/lower level in the north end of Guildford. Below is BC Liquor Store and above is mall administration offices – Photo by Lee Rivett

Escalator ascending to Upper Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

Urban Behavior as the Upper Level Anchor Tenant – Photo by Lee Rivett

What was unique about the second floor extension was that the retail was within an overpass above 104th Avenue. Once shoppers reach the Urban Behavior entrance, it is not readily noticeable that one is walking above a busy street below.

Overpass over 104th Avenue containing majority of retailers in this area

Overpass Signage in 104 Ave Overpass retailer space at Guildford Town Centre – Photo by Lee Rivett

Overpass Retailers in Guildford Town Centre – Photo by Lee Rivett

Stretching from Urban Behavior anchor to the Hudson’s Bay Store, notable retailers in this overpass zone include:

Mobile Klinik (see related article “Mobile Klinik Professional Smartphone Repair Plans Major Expansion Post-TELUS Acquisition” from July 2020)
LensCrafters (see related article “Ray-Ban Opens 1st Standalone Store in Canada” from September 2020)
Nutrition House
American Eagle Outfitters
TipTop
Miniso (see related article “Miniso Canada Investors Protest Chinese Parent Company” from October 2020)
Garage (see related article “Groupe Dynamite Files for and Obtains Creditor Protection Amid Pandemic Struggles” from September 2020)
Bellissima

OverPass Retailers at at Guildford Town Centre.

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Atrium at the Guildford Shopping Centre

Guildford Mall Map – Centre Atrium Location

Once visitors trek over the overpass, the main shopping centre generally follows the shape of a square; however, there are some additional twists that keep this square ‘thinking outside of the box’. The centre atrium at the core of the shopping centre is a wide open space with living, green walls and provides a perfect space for events in a non-COVID era.

Guildford Atrium (South View) – Photo by Lee Rivett

Living Wall in Guildford Centre Atrium – Photo by Lee Rivett

Guildford Atrium (North View) – Photo by Lee Rivett

Upper Level ‘Lower Centre’ Zone Tour at Guildford

Guildford Mall Map – Lower Centre Zone on Upper Level

Continuing the tour, the ‘lower-center’ zone has the historic and major anchor of Hudson’s Bay, but other major tenants in the area include UNIQLO, Old Navy, Atmosphere and Lululemon.

See related articles for these major tenants:

Hudson’s Bay: Hudson’s Bay Receives Eviction Notices from Malls for Unpaid Rent from October 2020
UNIQLO: Uniqlo Opens Massive Downtown Montreal Flagship as it Enters the Quebec Market [Photos] in October 2020
Old Navy: Old Navy Marks Successful Canadian Store Expansion with 100th Location in November 2019
Lululemon: Lululemon Expanding Robson Street Flagship in Vancouver in September 2020

Other retailers amongst the larger retailers include:

L’Occitane en Provence (related article “L’Occitane en Provence Unveils First-of-its-Kind Digital Experience Flagship” from December 2017)
Pandora (related article “Pandora Jewellery Launches First-in-Canada Concept Store in Montreal” from July 2020)

Hudson Bay at Guildford Town Centre – Photo by Lee Rivett

Old Navy at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

Lululemon at Guildford – Photo: Lee Rivett

Atmosphere at Guildford – Photo: Lee Rivett

L’Occitane at Guildford – Photo: Lee Rivett

Pandora at Guildford – Photo: Lee Rivett

We continued onward towards the lower left zone, passing by the side of UNIQLO with a view of the skylights and red ribbon to soften the aesthetics.

Corridor Outside of Uniqlo Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

Upper Level ‘Lower Left’ Zone Tour at Guildford

Guildford Mall Map – Lower Left Zone on Upper Level

Continuing the tour to the ‘lower-left’ zone, this area is accessible by the two-level parkade through entrance 10. The major anchor retailers in this area are on either side of entrance 10, being Thrifty’s by Bluenotes and Aritzia. Select other retailers amongst the larger retailers include:

Kiehl’s (related article “Kiehl’s Partners with Sephora in Canada” from August 2018)
Steve Madden (related article “Steve Madden Launches New Concept Store in Canada” from October 2015)
Browns Shoes (related article “Browns Shoes Maps Out Early 2019 Store Expansion Amid Continued Success” from January 2019)
La Senza
Guess?
Bikini Village (related article “Bikini Village Launches Multi-Location Store Expansion” from August 2018)
Apple Store (related article “Apple Opens Massive Store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre” from December 2019)
Victoria’s Secret (related article “L Brands to Permanently Shutter 13 Victoria’s Secret Stores in Canada” from May 2020)

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Upper Level ‘Upper Left’ Zone Tour at Guildford

Guildford Mall Map – Upper Left Zone on Upper Level

Continuing the tour to the ‘upper-left’ zone, this area is accessible by the two-level parkade through entrance 11. The major anchor retailer in this area just inside of entrance 11 is H&M.

Related H&M articles include “H&M continues Canadian store expansion as it looks to sustainability” from October 2019.

Other select retailers amongst the larger retailers include:

The Latest Scoop (related article “The Latest Scoop to Open New Pop-up Store at Guildford Town Centre” from August 2020)
Roots (related article “Roots Continues Multi-Year Global Expansion with New Stores in Canada and Abroad” from May 2019)
Fossil (related article “Fossil to Expand Canadian Operations as it Prepares to Open 2nd ‘Maker’ Concept Store” from June 2019)
Saje Natural Wellness (related article “Saje Natural Wellness Continues with Store Openings After Rapid Expansion” from April 2019)
Aldo (related article “Canadian Footwear Retailer ALDO Files for and Obtains Creditor Protection” from May 2020)
La Vie En Rose (related article “La Vie En Rose Bucks Trend as it Rapidly Expands Storefronts” from April 2019)
Torrid (related article “Plus-Sized Retailer Torrid Plans Up to 50 Canadian Locations” from September 2015)
Ever New (related article “Australian Fashion Brand ‘Ever New’ Opening 2 Canadian Stores this Spring” from April 2019)

H&M at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

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The corridor along the upper level between the left and center zones is quite open and expansive.

Upper Level Corridor at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

Upper Level ‘Upper Centre’ Zone Tour at Guildford

Guildford Mall Map – Upper Center Zone on Upper Level

The last area of the mall the ‘upper-center’ zone, this area is accessible by the two-level parkade through entrance 6. The major anchor retailers in this area are London Drugs as well as Muji Canada. Related articles for the major anchor retailers for this area include:

London Drugs: London Drugs Offering Shelf Space in Stores to Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19 from May 2020
Muji Canada: MUJI Opens 2nd Largest Store in Canada at Surrey’s Guildford Town Centre from June 2020

Other select retailers amongst the larger anchor retailers included:

Le Chateau (related article “Le Chateau Shutting Operations After CCAA Filing” from October 2020)
The Gap (related article “The Gap to Close Bloor Street Flagship Store in Toronto in January 2021” from December 2020)
Le Maison Birks (related article “Q&A with Jean-Christophe Bedos, CEO of Birks, on His Career and the Future of Retail in Canada” from June 2020)
Soft Moc
Below the Belt
Ann Louise
Change Lingerie (related article “Change Lingerie Announces 4 More Canadian Locations Amid Expansion” from September 2019)
Bath & Body Works
MAC Cosmetics

Muji at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

London Drugs at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

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Before we leave the upper level, the high ceilings provide a theatrical and airy feel to the shopping centre.

Upper level Guildford (facing Ann Louise and Change) – Photo by Lee Rivett

Upper level Guildford (from Grand Artium) – Photo by Lee Rivett

Upper level Guildford (facing Muji) – Photo by Lee Rivett

Lower Level at the Guildford Shopping Centre

Heading down the escalators in front of Birks, we found ourselves on the lower level at the Artium. We could see grand views of the Hudson’s Bay and the architecture truely shone in the winter afternoon sunlight.

Atrium at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

Hudson’s Bay from Atrium at Guildford on Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

Swarovski and LUSH from Atrium at Guildford on Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

To organize the photo tour for the lower level, we separated the floor into three zones (upper zone, middle zone and lower zone) which we will run through for major tenants as well as the select retailers amongst them.

Lower Level “Upper” Zone Tour at Guildford

Guildford Mall Map – Upper Zone on Lower Level

Continuing the tour to the ‘upper-left’ zone, this area is accessible by ground level through entrance 5. Walmart Canada is the major tenant which isn’t directly accessible through the inside of the mall, but the lower floor of H&M is the other major tenant. Related articles for the major tenant (besides H&M which we previously covered) include:

Walmart Canada: Walmart Canada Announces Major Investment to Integrate Ecommerce with In-Store from November 2020

Select other retailers amongst the larger retailers include:

Swarovski (related article “Swarovski Unveils First Canadian Crystal Studio Retail Location at CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto” from October 2020)
Boathouse
Champs Sports
Bluenotes (related article “US Retailer Aéropostale to Re-Enter Canada Appearing in Bluenotes Stores” in November 2019)
Naturalizer (related article “Naturalizer Shoes to Close All Canadian Stores” from November 2020)
Sunrise Records (related article “Canadian Music Retailer Sunrise Records Bids on UK-Based HMV” from February 2019)
Carter’s Oshkosh (related article “Biway will carry Carter’s Oshkosh in Store” from August 2020)
Stokes (related article “Stokes to Permanently Close 40 Store Locations in Canada” from May 2020)
Suzy Shier (related article “Engaging in a Noisy World: the Case for Suzy Shier” from October 2019)
Ardene (related article “Canadian Fashion Retailer ARDENE Launches 1st Menswear Line” from August 2020)
The Praguery
The Body Shop (related article “The Body Shop Launches New Eco Store Concept in Canada” from March 2020)
Skechers
Call it Spring (related article “ALDO Footwear Brand ‘Call It Spring’ Announces it has Gone Vegan” from June 2019)

H&M Man at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

Walmart Canada (seen from upper level parkade) at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett

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Lower Level “Middle” Zone Tour at Guildford

Guildford Mall Map – Middle Zone on Lower Level

Continuing the tour to the ‘middle’ zone, this area is to the left of the main atrium and above the main food court. Muji Canada and Sport Chek are major tenants. Select other retailers amongst the larger retailers include:

Boys’Co (related article “Boys’Co to Relocate Flagship from Downtown Vancouver to Coquitlam” from July 2018)
Mountain Warehouse (related article “Mountain Warehouse to further expand into Canada” from January 2014)
Just Cozy
Bootlegger (related article “Parent Companies for Jack & Jones, Bootlegger, Cleo, and Ricki’s File for Bankruptcy Protection in Canada” from June 2020)
Michael Hill (related article “Michael Hill Jewellers on Track for 100 Canadian Stores” from August 2017)
Disney Store
Lego (related article “LEGO to Open Experiential Retail Space at West Edmonton Mall this Fall” from October 2020)
Bentley (related article “Bentley Leathers Exits Court Protection After Successful Restructuring Proceedings” from December 2019)
Reitmans (related article “Reitmans Files for and Obtains Bankruptcy Protection” from May 2020)
RW&Co (related article “RW&CO Launches New Store Design” from July 2017)
Vans
Nike Store (related article “Nike to Open Massive Flagship at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre” from September 2019)
Foot Locker (related article “Foot Locker Opening 2 “Community Power Store” Flagships in Canada” from December 2020)
Jack and Jones (related article “Parent Companies for Jack & Jones, Bootlegger, Cleo, and Ricki’s File for Bankruptcy Protection in Canada” from June 2020)
Hot Topic

SportChek at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

Muji at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett

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Lower Level “Lower” Food Court Zone Tour at Guildford

The final area in our Guildford Town Centre tour is the food court area in the lower zone on the lower level.

Guildford Mall Map – lower food court zone on Lower Level

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We had a very interesting photo walk around Guildford Town Centre, and we hope you enjoyed coming along with us. Don’t forget to check out the Yorkville photo tour in Toronto that came out earlier this month.

Retail Profile: Brentwood Town Centre in Burnaby During COVID-19

By

Lee Rivett

-

December 29, 2020

20201220_114457 — Brentwood Shopping Centre in December 2020. Photo: Geetanjali Sharma

Retail Insider continues its Photo Tour series of Canadian malls to provide a window into shopping centres which may be less frequented lately due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This edition takes us to Brentwood Town Centre (now known as “The Amazing Brentwood”) in the north side of Burnaby just east of Vancouver.

History of Brentwood Mall

Brentwood Town Centre opened in 1961 and is older than any other shopping centre in Burnaby including Metropolis at Metrotown (see our latest photo tour of Metrotown as well). The grand opening of Brentwood included anchor tenants Eaton’s and Zellers department stores in an open air strip-mall style which was covered in a renovation/expansion in the early 1970s.

Other than a second floor and food court addition in the late 1980s, the Brentwood Town Centre Skytrain station opened in 2002 establishing it as a major transportation hub for North Burnaby. Shape Properties purchased the shopping centre in 2010 as the centre reached 125 retail stores and services. Shape began redevelopment plans to create a master-planned neighbourhood which would incorporate office, residential and retail components.

The plans included increasing retail space from 500,000 sq. ft. to over 1.1 million square feet.

Google Map of Vancouver with Brentwood Town Centre Highlighted

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Construction was still ongoing in December 2020 when Retail Insider headed onsite to see how the mall has progressed. For perspective, Shape Properties had a Leasing Plan available on their website which includes the layout of the future state of the shopping centre, including the new “Town Centre Plaza” at the bottom left and the legacy shopping centre in the upper right which is receiving an overhaul and a new food court.

The Amazing Brentwood Lease Plan – Photo by Shape Properties

From the lease plan above, the “Town Centre Plaza” is at the bottom left where our first-impressions of the mall were made. The eye-popping corner of Willington and Lougheed highway has a modern architecture which was obviously intended to impress visitors as they approach.

Town Centre Plaza from The Amazing Brentwood Lease Plan – Photo by Shape Properties

The red star on the lease plan above shows the perspective and grandeur of the façade from the street perspective:

Corner of Willingdon and Lougheed Highway – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Town Centre Plaza Fountain Area

Ascending the stone staircase with inset LEDs which change color, we arrived at the “Town Centre Plaza” itself with a water feature with a tree in the centre. The south side of the plaza hosted a Starbucks with an amazing view towards the future entertainment and cinema space.

Brentwood Mall Courtyard – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

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Town Centre Plaza – Future Retail Complex (South East Side)

At the south east corner of the Town Centre Plaza was a new retail complex which remained under construction. The main tenant appeared to be Sephora based on the construction hoarding that was in place and is a prime location as the Brentwood Skytrain station platform connects to the shopping centre at this point.

Retail Complex under Construction in South East Corner in Town Centre Plaza – Photo by Shape Properties

Retail Complex under Construction at South-East corner of Town Centre Plaza – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Town Centre Plaza – Retail Aspects

It is safe to say that the Town Centre Plaza has that impressive factor. Looking into the retail offerings around the plaza identified their major commercial anchor tenant was Sporting Life.

Sporting Life Exterior – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

In addition, there were a few other hidden gems at ground level next to the parking area before you head up the staircase, including:

Body Energy Club (related article ‘Body Energy Club’ Opens 4 New Stores Amid Retail Expansion)
Express News
Presotea

Body Energy Club Exterior – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Excited to get into the retail interior section, we headed towards a large glass wall to what we presumed would lead to the retail centre marked on the map below with a red star. The lease plan notes this as the entrance to the “Grand Lobby” with a large “WELCOME” sign above the doors; however, the double doors were locked solidly and was not open to the public.

Grand Hall Entrance in Town Centre Plaza – Photo by Shape Properties

Entrance to retail section of shopping centre – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Passing the locked “WELCOME” doors, we passed through the exterior corridor in the photo above which brought us to an additional exterior section with retail storefronts hidden behind construction hoarding with promotional marketing proclaiming their future opening. Examples include:

Suitsupply (related article Suitsupply to Significantly Expand Canadian Presence with Multiple Store Openings)
Saku
Adidas (related article Beyoncé’s “Deal of a Lifetime” with adidas as Latest Creative Partner)

Positioned on Halifax Street (red star) facing SuitSupply (circled in red).

Suit Supply coming up soon, leading to another retail section. Photo: Geetanjali Sharma

Continuing to the left of SuitSupply was the exterior of the original shopping centre. There were a few retailers already open for business, including a Nike showroom and some food trucks. Construction hoarding proclaimed Adidas and Saku would be coming soon as well. To the right of the Nike showroom was the entrance to the interior retail section.

Positioned in front of the Nike showroom (red star) with entrance to interior retail shopping centre to its right (circled in red).

Nike Exterior, Brentwood Boulevard – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Adidas Exterior, Brentwood Boulevard – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Saku Coming Soon Signage – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Interior Retail Shopping Centre – Lower Level (Right Side)

Heading into the older, legacy portion of the shopping center, we should point out that there were two levels which were called the lower level (ground) and an upper level (second floor). Using the map below, we came into the mall using the entrance marked with a red star. The first interior retail area we visited in the lower level was the ‘right zone’.

Brentwood Lower Level Map – Right Section

Retailers in the lower level ‘right zone’ included:

Naturalizer (related article Naturalizer Shoes Shutting All Stores)
Roden Jewellers and
Champs Sports (related article Foot Locker Opening 2 “Community Power Store” Flagships in Canada)

Naturalizer at Brentwood – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Champs Sports at Brentwood – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Rodan Jewellers at Brentwood – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

The remaining retailers on the lower level could be found in the ‘left zone’. These included:

Suzy Shier (related article Engaging in a Noisy World: the Case for Suzy Shier)
Thinka
Core Games
Daniadown and
Lushwear

Brentwood Lower Level Map – Left Section

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Moving up to the upper (second) level, we emerged at the centre of the floor noted by a red star in the map below. Construction hoarding was in place keeping visitors from entering the area and the signage attached to the hoarding promoted their future ‘The Food Lounge” which was coming soon.

Brentwood Upper Level Map – Food Court Section

Looking at the lease plan from Shape Properties website, an entire section of the shopping centre will be dedicated to “The Food Lounge”.

The future Food Lounge on The Amazing Brentwood’s leasing plan. Red circled is the area noted as “Food and Beverage” tenant by the pink color within the lease plan.

Moving along from the future food court area, the upper level “right zone” was anchored by Sears Canada while it was operating but you can see by the map that Shape Properties hasn’t updated their online mall maps yet. It was currently occupied by “Accents @ Home”.

Brentwood Upper Level Map – Right Section

ACCENTS @ Home at Brentwood Mall – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Other retailers in the vicinity include:

There were some other non-retail services operating, including Wanna Do Beauty Studio and Instant Tailoring

Purdy’s Chocolates at Brentwood – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

iParty Dollar Store at Brentwood – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

As we headed to the last retail area for the mall on the upper level, adjacent to the future food court location was the London Drugs anchor tenant at the top of the map:

Brentwood Mall Upper Level – London Drugs Location

London Drugs at Brentwood Mall – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

The final retail area did not have a major retail anchor tenant, but the upper level ‘left zone’ had the following notable tenants:

Wireless Wave
Vitamin Centre
Shoe Warehouse (related article DSW Inc. Changes Name as it Maps Out 3-Year Canadian Expansion)
Channel 3 (clothing)
Match Front (clothing)

Brentwood Upper Level Map – Left Section

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Looking back at the Brentwood Town Centre, there is mounds of potential as a community hub in addition to the retail possibilities. The redevelopment still underway is hampering the full potential as of December 2020 but when construction completes (and hopefully COVID-19 eases along with the associated restrictions) we absolutely want to return to see how the The Amazing Brentwood blossoms.

Plans are in place to include a corridor of luxury stores and it’s not clear how far leasing activities have gone in terms of securing those tenants. L Catterton, the investment arm of LVMH, acquired a stake in The Amazing Brentwood in 2017 and plans were in place for a luxury run that would have been anchored by a Holt Renfrew store, according to sources. Holts is said to have since cancelled plans for a second Vancouver-area store.

Don’t forget to check out the Yorkville photo tour in Toronto that came out earlier this month.

Retail Profile: Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby During COVID-19

By

Lee Rivett

-

December 28, 2020

metropolis-at-metrotown-ext-2 — Metropolis at Metrotown facade facing Kingsway

As part of our ongoing Photo Tour series, Retail Insider visited Metropolis at Metrotown in the Vancouver suburb of Burnaby, British Columbia, to provide an inside view of the shopping centre with retail insights leading up to the Christmas holiday season.

Owned by Ivanhoé Cambridge, the property is located in the “Metrotown” community and features a retail shopping centre and is accompanied by two Metrotowers office buildings. Metrotown is well-connected to the public transit system with a Translink Metrotown Skytrain station as well as a 24-hour bus loop.

Google Map of Vancouver showing location of Metropolis at Metrotown.

Metrotown area in 1952 when a Ford Auto Plant (left side of photo) occupied the land as well as warehouses and residential schools/homes – Photo by Vintage Air Photos (British Columbia)

History of Metropolis at Metrotown

For a bit of history on the shopping centre, the core “Metrotown Centre” opened in 1986 on land which previously was a Ford Canada factory and has seen several renovations, including a new wing featuring Hudson’s Bay in 1992.

The “Eaton Centre Metrotown” and “Station Square” shopping centres were built adjacent to “Metrotown Centre” over the years; however, a megamall expansion project in 2005 merged two shopping centres and demolished “Station Square” in 2013 for mixed-use high-rise complexes.

Metropolis at Metrotown – Ground Level – Photo by Metropolis Website.

To separate the shopping centre into manageable pieces, we’ll cover the center into four quadrants for each floor. Based on the map above, the quadrants break down to:

Lower left
Upper left
Core/centre
Right/Hudson Bay

Lower Level ‘Lower Left’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

Our photo tour begins at the ‘lower left’ quadrant which is accessed from the ‘back side’ of Metrotown and is the typical access point when arriving from the Metrotown Skytrain station which runs along Central Boulevard. The ‘front face’ of Metrotown on the other side of the shopping centre has ample surface parking facing the main traffic through-fare of Kingsway.

Metrotown Mall Map (highlighting Ground Floor lower left quadrant).

Metrotown Central Boulevard Entrance – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

The first, ‘lower left’ quadrant of the Metrotown lower floor is circled in red above. It has a main anchor of FGL Sports-owned Sport Chek which opened in December 2014. A selection of other retailers on our tour which call this area home include:

Urban Behavior
Aldo Shoes (related articles include questioning the retailer’s future in ‘Canadian Footwear Retailer ALDO Files for and Obtains Creditor Protection‘)
Roots (related articles include following the retailer’s multi-year, global expansion in 2019) and
Nike Store (related articles include Nike to Open Massive Flagship at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre).

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Metrotown Atrium Court – Photo from Google Maps

Tour of ‘Atrium Court’ at Metrotown

On the border between the zones of our tour, the “Atrium Court” delineates between our ‘lower left’ and ‘upper left’ tour areas. The notable Metrotown retailers which encircle the atrium include:

Purdy’s Chocolates,
Samsung (This is the first Canadian retail store for Samsung which opened in the spring of 2012)
Kiehl’s (related articles include Kiehl’s Canadian Growth Plans for 2017)
Lush (related articles include the unveiling of the Lush Vancouver downtown flagship in 2017 and the recent COVID reopening plans following a ‘People First’ phased approach) and
Coach (related articles include revealing Coach ‘Next Generation’ flagships in 2015).

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Metrotown Mall – Lower Level. Upper left Quadrant.

Lower Level ‘Upper Left’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

Continuing the photo tour northward, the ‘upper left’ quadrant of the ground level is anchored by the Real Canadian Superstore and Indigo Books. Other Metrotown retailers within this area include:

Bentley Leathers (related articles include revealing the launch of a new store concept in October 2019 followed swiftly by announcing restructuring and store closures a month later). and
Club Monaco (related articles include opening a new store at CF Carrefour Laval in December 2020).

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Metrotown corridor between Banana Republic and Build-A-Bear

Lower Level ‘Core/Centre’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

Moving our tour into the third section of the Metrotown lower level, the ‘core/centre’ quadrant is densely packed with numerous domestic and international retailers, including:

Michael Kors (recent articles include unveiling the Yorkdale Flagship in Toronto in December 2018 and opening a massive 3-Level flagship in Montreal in November 2019)
Arc’teryx (recent articles include Arc’teryx CEO urging apparel industry not to push garment workers overboard in December 2020)
Little Mountain
Banana Republic (recent articles include the shuttering of its store at 80 Bloor Street West in Toronto in October 2020 which had operated at that location since 1995)
Uniqlo: This is the first Uniqlo location in the greater Vancouver area and opened in October 2017.
H&M
Urban Planet (recent articles include parent-company conglomerate YM Inc. scooping up many of the leases from recently departed Forever 21 for Urban Planet and West49 locations)
Reitman’s (recent articles include Reitman’s obtaining bankruptcy protection in May 2020 followed by Reitman’s permanently shutting all 131 Addition Elle and Thyme Maternity storefronts amid restructuring in June 2020) and
Walmart is located in the former Target location which Walmart Canada announced taking over the location in June 2018.

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Hudson Bay wing on the lower level at Metrotown (right quadrant of map).

Lower Level ‘Right/HBC’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

The final area on the tour of the lower, ground level is the right side of the map which is anchored by department store retailer Hudson’s Bay. Other retailers residing in this area include:

Steve Madden (related articles include launching a new concept store called Shoo in Canada in 2015)
Change Lingerie: This location is 1,045 square feet and was opened in 2018
Oak + Fort (recent articles include a product line expansion as its store network grew in May 2019)
MUJI Canada: Metrotown is MUJI’s fifth Canadian location and first location in western Canada which opened in August 2017 and was expanded from a 7,770 square foot store and will grow to an impressive 12,305 square feet in 2018
Vans
Uncle Tetsu.

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Completing all four areas of the lower, ground level at Metrotown at the Hudson’s Bay, the retailer spans both the lower and upper levels. Much of the shopping centre has the open atrium spanning the length of each quadrant.

Mall Halls at Metrotown – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Upper Level Food Court at Metrotown

Moving up to Metrotown’s upper level, it follows the same footprint noted as the tour visited the lower level. Some of the main anchor tenants stretch both floors, including the Hudson’s Bay department store. The upper level wing next to Hudson’s Bay hosts a food court which was part of the megamall expansion project in 2005.

Centre piece at the centre of the Metrotown Food Court.

Metrotown Food Court – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Upper Level ‘Centre/Core’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

After walking from Hudson’s Bay and across the glass bridge through the centre of the Metrotown food court, the photo tour arrives at the ‘centre/core’ section of the shopping centre. This section on the upper level mirrors the density on the lower level below, including:

Mountain Warehouse (related articles include Mountain Warehouse continued expansion plans in Canada announced in January 2014)
Little Burgundy
Swarovski (related articles include continued expansion plans in Canada announced in January 2018 and the opening of it s first Canadian Crystal Studio retail location at CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto in October 2020)
Saje Natural Wellness
Lululemon (related articles include the overhaul to its 1st Store in 2017 and the opening of its first menswear location in December 2016
Kate Spade (related articles include continued expansion plans in Canada announced in March 2016)
Aritzia (related articles include photos/videos of the re-opening of the Toronto/Mink Mile flagship in February 2019)
Apple (related articles include the opening of the CF Toronto Eaton Centre in its new location in December 2019)
Armani Exchange
Boys’ Co. (related articles include Boys’Co relocating Vancouver flagship from downtown Vancouver to Coquitlam in July 2018)
Sephora (related articles include Sephora opening largest Canadian location in Vancouver in November 2014)
Dynamite and Garage (related articles include Groupe Dynamite Files for and Obtains Creditor Protection Amid Pandemic Struggles in September 2020)
Aldo (related articles include questioning the retailer’s future in ‘Canadian Footwear Retailer ALDO Files for and Obtains Creditor Protection‘) and
L’Occitane En Provence (related articles include unveiling a first-of-its-kind digital experience flagship in Toronto in December 2017).

Center/Core area on the Upper Level at Metrotown.

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Upper Level ‘Upper Left’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

The second-last stop on the photo tour is the ‘upper left’ quadrant on the Metrotown upper floor, which is anchored by Winners/Homesense and Old Navy. Other retailers in this quadrant include:

Old Navy and The Gap (related articles include Gap Canada Donates Over $3 Million of New Clothing to Canadians in Need in July 2020)
Carter’s OshKosh
Fresh Slice Pizza
Laura
Rocky Mountain Soap (related articles include a retail expansion announced in July 2017)
Pandora (related articles include Pandora Jewellery Launches First-in-Canada Concept Store in Montreal in July 2020)
Plenty (related articles include opening its first store outside of BC in August 2013)
OOMOMO (related articles include announcing a Canadian expansion in April 2018)
Montecristo Jewellers and
Weekend By Max Mara (related articles include the downtown Vancouver ‘Max Mara’ relocation in January 2020).

Upper left quadrant of the Upper Level at Metrotown.

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Upper Level ‘Lower Left’ Zone Tour at Metrotown

The final area on Metrotown’s upper floor is the “lower left” quadrant above where the tour began. The major anchor tenant for the area will be Zara (construction signage shown below) with other retailers including:

MAC Cosmetics (related articles include MAC Cosmetics Continues Expansion, Opens 100th Canadian Store in June 2016)
Colton’s Couture: This location featured in a Retail Insider Brief when it opened in January 2018 becoming the retailer’s third store
RW&Co (related articles include Reitmans President Discusses Diversity Campaign & Company’s Restructuring Post-Filing in August 2020)
tna
Indochino (related articles include launching virtual consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020)
Tommy Hilfiger
Hot Topic
Guess
Ever New and
Jack & Jones.

Upper level of Metrotown, lower left quadrant.

Zara ‘opening soon’ at Metrotown – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma

Zara is expanding in the mall to encompass about 40,000 square feet over two levels. It will be certainly one of the largest Zara stores in Canada when it opens next year.

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Couturist at Metrotown (July 2021). Photo: Lee Rivett.

We had a very interesting photo walk around Metropolis at Metrotown, and we hope you enjoyed coming along with us. Don’t forget to check out the Yorkville photo tour in Toronto that came out earlier this month.

Photo Tour: The Toronto PATH & Financial District Holiday Decoration Walk 2020

By

Dustin Fuhs

-

December 25, 2020

BrookfieldPlaceDaytimeTree — Brookfield Place Holiday Decorations 2020 - Photo by Dustin Fuhs

This holiday season has been a change for most of us, to say the least, but one constant has been the dedication to a traditional showing of holiday decorations in Toronto’s Financial District. When we asked our readers, writers, and social media community what they’d like to see during our traditionally quiet period over the holidays, the overwhelming response was to show what most of us can’t see: malls and retail.

We’re going to be adding more as we find them, so feel free to tag us on Instagram if you’d like us to share what you & your company have done over the 2020 holiday period.

Here’s a Photo Tour of The PATH, and other holiday sightings in Toronto’s downtown core.

Brookfield Place – Brookfield Properties

The holiday decor previously found in Brookfield Place has a full backstory, with Frost, Flurry and Gust (designed by Studio F Minus) being represented in an amazing display of light. In 2020 however, the team at Brookfield wanted to bring the various elements of the building to light without attracting too much walkthrough traffic.

Still present is the tree that brings life to Sam Pollock Square. The Allen Lambert Galleria is adorned with breathtaking string lights and Gust is still present in areas around the Bay Wellington tower.

Brookfield Place Holiday *(Dec 22, 2020)* – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Commerce Court – QuadReal Property Group

Our next stop is travelling north from Brookfield Place into Commerce Court. Usually, this corridor is packed with thousands of people from the surrounding office towers heading for lunch or getting a little bit of last-minute shopping before the holidays. Instead, today, as you can see, the halls are quiet.

Scotia Plaza – Bentall Kennedy

We’ve seen dozens of businesses in The PATH close since the beginning of the pandemic back in March 2020. This Second Cup location in Scotia Plaza recently closed, but the mall management still decided to decorate with the same strategy as the rest of the concourse. Notice the blue arrow on the ground.

Former Second Cup Location in Scotia Plaza (Dec 2020 @ 1135a) – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

With Hudson’s Bay closed during the lockdown, the PATH doesn’t connect to the CF Toronto Eaton Centre underground, so we took this opportunity to walk outside and see the decorations outside Scotia Plaza on Adelaide.

Scotia Plaza Entrance (*Dec 22, 2020 @ 1135a) – Photo by Dustin Fuhs*

This photo was important to share, as it shows a moment in time when social distancing markers are on benches and no outdoor skating rink. A large pine tree and lights in the small trees are the only noticeable decorations.

Arnell Plaza @ Bay Adelaide Centre *(Dec 22, 2020 @ 1135a) – Photo by Dustin Fuhs*

Hudson’s Bay Queen Street

One of the only Hudson’s Bay stores in Canada to do a window display in 2020, the Queen Street location has taken the opportunity to keep with tradition while also playing into the current pandemic. Each of the toy soldiers that protect the windows are adorned with face masks and signage that reminds folks to social distance.

Hudson’s Bay and the adjacent Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks Food Hall by Pusateri’s are shut until at least January 23, 2021 due to provincial lockdowns. It’s uncertain when the food hall will reopen as it is reliant on office and commuter foot traffic.

Hudson’s Bay Queen Street Windows – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

CF Toronto Eaton Centre – Cadillac Fairview

Stopping into CF Toronto Eaton Centre, we get our first view of a mall in true lockdown. The only stores open are ‘essential retail’ and to even get past security you have to tell them why you’re there and what store you’re visiting.

Flight Stop at CF Toronto Eaton Centre *(Dec 22, 2020 @ 1140a) – Photo by Dustin Fuhs*

That being said, we had to share the photo of Flight Stop, as it was this was the scene of an infamous lawsuit in 1981 Michael Snow v Eaton Centre LTD. If you notice, there are no red scarves on the geese.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CF Toronto Eaton Centre (@cftoeatoncentre)

From the Eaton Centre, we walk south to the PATH entrance outside of City Hall.

Toronto City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Richmond-Adelaide Centre – Oxford Properties

After walking through the Sheraton Centre, we arrive into another spot on our Holiday decoration tour at Richmond Adelaide Centre. The uniform trees bring a nice distraction from the number of retailers that have closed temporarily or permanently.

Exchange Tower – Brookfield Properties

One of the highlights of any tour is a food court, and the one at 130 King Street W is great. You’d know that address because it was the first home to the innovation cafe by Tim Hortons, which brings the elements of your community store with food & drink that would appeal to a busy financial district (pre-pandemic, of course).

Exchange Tower Food Court – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

After the food court, we next start our final home stretch to First Canadian Place.

First Canadian Place – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

First Canadian Place – Brookfield Properties

In the past, the green & red colour palette would contrast beautifully with the white marble interior of the building, but 2020 has a different feeling altogether. Seeing a tree in front of the BMO offices just makes the space feel cavernous, especially with the lack of people and the abundance of mall employees.

First Canadian Place with a Closed UNIQLO Pop-up – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

First Canadian Place Christmas Tree – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Toronto-Dominon Centre – Cadillac Fairview

We end the PATH Holiday decoration tour with a stop at the Toronto Dominion Centre. With the CN Tower in the background and The Pasture art installation (the cows) on the left, lots of potential for future tours.

TD Centre with CN Tower – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

If you liked this one, please share this on social media and we’ll be sure to do more. Below are more photos of the PATH during December 2020.

The PATH Holiday Decorations – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Hudson’s Bay Queen Street Holiday Windows Nighttime 2020 – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Second Lockdowns Will Obliterate Small Retailers and Businesses: Experts

By

Mario Toneguzzi

-

December 23, 2020

A quiet day on Toronto's King Street East. Photo: Dustin Fuhs — A quiet day on Toronto's King Street East - Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Extended lockdowns will put thousands of entrepreneurs out of business, warns Dan Kelly, President and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.

A survey released Monday by the CFIB said one-third of Ontario businesses report they will not survive the second lockdown extending into January, adding that the Ontario government’s decision to extend and expand lockdowns across the province is another big hit in a long line of crushing blows to small business owners.

CFIB Reports 1/3 of Ontario Businesses Will Not Survive 2nd Lockdown

“[The] announcement guarantees the demise of thousands upon thousands of Ontario’s small businesses,” said Kelly. “The government should have used this as an opportunity to fine-tune existing restrictions based on the data, instead of expanding this blunt measure to additional regions of the province. Workers are going to lose their jobs. Business owners and their families will see their dreams crushed and their homes lost to the banks.

“Our original estimate was between 55,000 and 220,000 permanent business closures as a result of COVID-19 (in Canada). We’re re-doing that estimate right now because the second wave was not factored in and the second round of shut downs was not factored into those discussions. We’re hoping to have some new numbers out early in the New Year with an updated estimate on the number of business closures.

“What I can tell you is the data from Ontario suggest that a third of businesses will not survive a second lockdown. They report that they are at risk of permanent bankruptcy which of course on any measure is tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of businesses. This is deeply worrisome. I don’t see any pathway where we’re going to have fewer than 100,000 businesses closed across Canada as a result of the second wave. Of course lockdowns are not just here in Ontario. They’re now spreading right across the country in different sectors and different provinces doing it differently. But we’re likely to see a bleeding of independent businesses especially those with storefronts like we’ve just never seen. Main street locations that are going to be empty likely for years because there aren’t going to be the normal number of new entrants into the business community that would typically take their place.”

The Provincewide Shutdown will go into effect as of Saturday, December 26 at 12:01 a.m. It was last until January 23 for all regions in southern Ontario. The shutdown prohibits in-person shopping in most retail settings — curbside pickup and delivery can continue. Discount and big box retailers selling groceries will be limited to 25 percent capacity for in-store shopping. Supermarkets, grocery stores, and similar stores that primarily sell food, as well as pharmacies, will continue to operate at 50 percent capacity for in-store shopping.

The shutdown also prohibits indoor and outdoor dining. Restaurants, bars, and other food or drink establishments will be permitted to operate by take out, drive-through, and delivery only.

“Ontario has now expanded the most anti-small business lockdown measure in the country. No other province in Canada closes small businesses while allowing big-box stores to sell similar goods in-store. Our members are dumbfounded as to why their government continues to feel that it is safer to buy a book, bracelet or pair of shoes at Walmart or Costco than to buy the same items at their quiet, local independent retailer,” said Ryan Mallough, CFIB’s director of provincial affairs for Ontario. “The government has consistently chosen big box over small business throughout the pandemic. Today’s move puts a bow on an even merrier Christmas for Walmart and Costco at the expense of Ontario’s small retailers.”

Bruce Winder, Author of RETAIL Before, During & After COVID-19 and President of Bruce Winder Retail, said the future of independent businesses will be uncertain at the individual company level over the next one to two years.

“The sector will include much in the way of bankruptcies and liquidations but will also spawn a new breed of entrepreneurs with updated business models designed to thrive in this new abnormal. Industry ‘churn’, that is, the number of companies departing the industry plus the number of companies entering the industry will be high. Why? Because lockdowns often favour large chains who carry essential items and punish small to medium sized retailers that often don’t,” he said.

“Some independents will make it through to the other side, albeit with too much debt and with a reduced footprint. Some will retreat to e-commerce as they lose the ability to fund a bricks and mortar store. Others will declare bankruptcy as liabilities and almost zero cash flow will leave them no choice. Some will thrive as they were fortunate enough to win the lottery of carrying essential products or happen to be in a particular product category that soared in sales during the pandemic. New independents will emerge as entrepreneurs use COVID-19 to fill a gap in the market or offer a new in-demand service.”

He said a vaccine will improve business for independent retailers, eventually.

“As the vaccine makes its way through Canada, one can assume that eventually governments will feel comfortable easing lockdowns. Realistically though, it may be fall of 2021 before enough of the population is inoculated that both essential and non-essential retail is set free. Will independents be able to survive during this dark time? Will government subsidies be enough? Will online shopping and curbside pick-up and delivery make up enough sales to keep independents afloat? Will lenders and landlords have the patience to help them get through to the other side? It is like treading water in an ocean waiting for the lifeboat to arrive,” added Winder.

Experts Say COVID-19 Ramifications Will Still be Felt in 2022

And he said the ramifications of the virus and its impact will continue to be felt into 2022.

“Some of the things I discuss in my book Retail Before, During & After COVID-19 talk to this. We will see differences across many fronts. Income and wealth disparity will grow. Online shopping will be considerably higher than pre-pandemic levels. Retail will consolidate. More work will be done through the gig economy. Demand for products and services will change as citizens work from home more. Society will party hard and indulge themselves on many of the things they missed out on during 2020 and 2021. But there will also be a sense of caution for many as they subconsciously or consciously prepare for the next pandemic. Many people will continue to wear masks, more people will save money for a rainy day,” explained Winder.

“I think you will see some people leave entrepreneurship and try and get a 9 to 5 job, worn and frayed from the stress of trying to keep their business alive. But a far greater number of people will see this time as an opportunity. An opportunity to work for themselves and carve out a sustainable niche in the market. Some will be nudged in that direction based on downsizing and layoffs. Others will see this as the best time to pursue a lifelong dream. Some may choose to start online and only add a bricks and mortar store once they determine if their new venture is profitable. Entrepreneurship will never die. It will continue to thrive in a world that has changed as a result of COVID-19. New and exciting businesses will come out of this era.”

Diane J. Brisebois, President and CEO of the Retail Council of Canada, said the latest lockdown will definitely be the last nail in the coffin for many small retailers in Ontario.

“Unless there are substantial programs that are going to be helping them in relation to all of their overhead expenses which they have to carry regardless, these businesses won’t be able to make it, keeping in mind that southern Ontario with the lockdown has been in place for a couple of weeks now and it appears they are talking now an additional month. This is unsustainable,” said Brisebois.

“Because of the different restrictions and mixed messages and the lack of predictability that does take the wind out of the sales of an entrepreneur. So when you’re an entrepreneur you’re putting everything on the line. And if you think of retail entrepreneurs, especially the smaller ones but not exclusively, they mortgage their house, they mortgage everything for their business. This is definitely impacting those entrepreneurs that may be looking at having to close their businesses and it will make them hesitate to jump in again.

“I’m talking to our small merchants every day. Our helpline talks to them every day. And they’re just deflated. They’re borderline crying every time we’re talking to them and they are just so absolutely frustrated because they feel that they’ve become collateral damage and yet they have done everything to keep everybody safe and so this really just kicks your get up and go spirit. It really does.”

Kelly said he believes it will be awhile before people are courageous enough to take that first step towards entrepreneurship. Many of them will be seeking after COVID the security of a white collar job that could be done from home.

Certain types of businesses will be looked at for awhile as being super risky such as hospitality, service based and bricks and mortar retail. But Kelly said there has been a drive in recent years towards self employment and entrepreneurship and more and more young people want that as part of their lives.

“There will be two forces running against each other for a period of time. One that people will be looking in the short term for security and avoiding what is perceived as riskier businesses that were shut down during the pandemic. The other towards entrepreneurship and away from traditional employment. It’s too early to know which one is going to win out but I would put money on the power of entrepreneurship as a good long-term prospect. I think that over time people will start to return to things that they thought were important and wish to set up businesses of their own.”

On Monday, the Ontario government also announced the Ontario Small Business Support Grant which starts at $10,000 for all eligible businesses with the grant providing businesses with dollar for dollar funding to a maximum of $20,000 to help cover decreased revenue expected as a result of the provincewide shutdown. The businesses must demonstrate they experienced a revenue decline of at least 20 percent when comparing monthly revenue in April 2019 and April 2020. This time period was selected because it reflects the impact of the public health measures in spring 2020, and as such provides a representation of the possible impact of these latest measures on small businesses, according to the government.

“Today’s grant announcement is a step in the right direction, but the province must open its wallet even more to help small businesses make it through the lockdown period,” said Kelly. “Let’s not forget that the government chose to close small businesses, so they cannot be expected to survive without full economic support. Nothing short of 100 per cent support for affected businesses will get them to the other side of COVID-19.”

The CFIB is recommending that the Ontario government:

Expand small business support to: immediately top up the federal Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) to up to 100 per cent for businesses in lockdown zones and immediately top up the federal Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) to up to 100 per cent for businesses in lockdown zones;
Expand eligibility for the Ontario PPE grant to all businesses, regardless of size or sector, and substantially increase the value from the current $1,000; and
Increase funding to the $600-million program for energy and property taxes to reflect the additional volume of businesses in lockdown.

Canadian Retail Sees Sales Surge, but So Does COVID

By

Ed Strapagiel

-

December 23, 2020

Shoppers outside Hudson's Bay at Guildford Mall. Photo: Lee Rivett

Overall Canadian retail sales have moved up smartly in recent months, according to the latest numbers from Statistics Canada. But it probably won’t last. A second COVID surge is now prompting a new round of lockdowns, which will possibly be more severe than before. Ontario, which accounts for about 37% of retail sales in the country, has already announced new lockdown measures to last until January 23.

Over the 3 months ending October 2020, Canadian retail sales were up 6.0% year-over-year. This was the highest such result since 2017, but it was not enough to offset the declines earlier in the year. For 2020, year-to-date retail sales are still down 2.5% versus a year ago, and things are likely to improve only marginally by year end.

Food & Drug

The Food & Drug sector has been reporting high year-over-year retail sales gains. For the 3 months ending October 2020, retail sales were up 8.4% over the same period a year ago, and year-to-date sales are up 8.3% after 10 months. Food & Drug is poised to have a record year in 2020.

Supermarkets & other grocery stores continue to enjoy high retail sales growth. Their sales gained 9.5% year-over-year for the 3 months ending October. Year-to-date sales after 10 months of 2020 are up 11.5%, the highest of any retailer type. Convenience stores, specialty food stores, and beer, wine & liquor outlets are also having strong retail sales gains.

Health and personal care stores were the poor cousins of the sector earlier in the year but now appear to be strengthening. Their retail sales were up 6.7% for the 3 months ending October 2020.

Store Merchandise

After a precipitous decline in Q2, the Store Merchandise sector now seems to be reaching for the top, with retail sales up a very healthy 9.5% for the 3 months ending October 2020. The 3 month trend (orange line in the chart) continues to strengthen and appears to be heading for an all-time high. The underlying 12 month trend (green line) is also improving.

But looks can be deceiving. Store Merchandise is likely to be negatively impacted by the new COVID surge and subsequent retailer and shopping mall lockdowns. I’m dreaming of a slow Christmas. At least this time around many retailers should be better prepared with options like online selling, direct delivery, and curbside pickup.

Many retailer types had strong recent retail sales growth, including general merchandise, furniture stores, electronics & appliance stores, building material & garden equipment/supplies dealers, and even the miscellaneous store retailers.

On the other hand, clothing and clothing accessories stores are simply failing to bounce back. Their sales declined 11.9% for the 3 months ending October.

The Automotive & Related sector now appears to be rising from the dead, although it still remains weak. The 3 month trend finally crossed into positive territory with a 1.0% gain in October, but this is well behind other areas of retail.

Improving retail sales at automobile dealers are the main reason behind these results. Their sales were up 5.8% for the 3 months ending October, which is quite a comeback from down 31.7% in Q2 2020.

Retail sales at gasoline stations however continue to languish. They declined 14.6% year-over-year for the 3 months ending October, although this was better than the 35.1% drop recorded for Q2. Gas stations are the single largest drag on overall Canadian retail sales.

By The Numbers

Note that the data and analysis in this report are always based on not seasonally adjusted (or unadjusted) retail sales statistics.

For definitions of store types, see Statistics Canada NAICS.

Canadian E-Commerce Sales

The chart above shows that Canadian e-commerce retail sales doubled year-over-year in Q2 2020 with the onset of the COVID pandemic. That has since cooled off somewhat, but to “only” a 68.5% increase for the 3 months ending October. By any measure, this is still red hot growth.

Overall, e-commerce represented about 5.4% of Canadian retail sales for the 12 months ending October 2020, including both pure play as well as brick & clicks stores. Note that Canadian consumers may also buy online from foreign websites which is not captured in these numbers.

Location based retail is the same as that in the preceding “By The Numbers” table. It’s what’s normally reported as Canadian retail sales. Except that it isn’t. Location based retail excludes another section called Non-Store Retailers (NAICS code 454), which includes electronic shopping and mail-order houses, which in turn is where (mostly) pure play e-commerce businesses are. For the 12 months ending October 2020, electronic shopping and mail-order houses had an estimated $20.7 billion in e-commerce sales.

But that’s not the only source of e-commerce, as (mostly) bricks & mortar location-based retailers also sell online. For the 12 months ending October, this group had an estimated $12.9 billion in e-commerce sales. With electronic shopping and mail-order houses, there’s a grand total of $33.7 billion in e-commerce sales by Canadian operators. Note that this does not include foreign e-commerce purchases made by Canadian consumers, but it does include e-commerce purchases made by foreigners at Canadian operations.

For electronic shopping and mail-order houses, an estimated 92.7% of their sales are allocated to e-commerce. For (mostly) bricks & mortar retailers, it can be estimated that 2.2% of their total sales are attributable to e-commerce.

In the final section of the above table, (mostly) pure play operators (namely, under electronic shopping and mail-order houses) generated an estimated 61.6% of all e-commerce sales in Canada, while (mostly) bricks & mortar location-based retailers’ share of e-commerce was 38.4%.

For more explanation on the e-commerce numbers, see Statistics Canada: Retail E-commerce in Canada.

BRIEF: Saint Laurent Opens at West Edmonton Mall, Starbucks Opening 1st Sustainably-Constructed Storefront

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Retail Insider

-

December 22, 2020

Saint Laurent Opens at West Edmonton Mall

French luxury fashion brand Saint Laurent (formerly Yves Saint Laurent) has opened its third standalone Canadian store at West Edmonton Mall in Edmonton. The 2,900-square-foot store is the latest luxury brand to open in North America’s largest shopping centre.

The boutique features a range of ready-to-wear fashions for women and men as well as bags, accessories, jewellery and footwear. One source noted that many of the staff in the store formerly worked at Holt Renfrew and thus have client lists to target shoppers in the region. An expanded assortment of fashions are expected to be included for the spring season amid uncertainties pertaining to the pandemic.

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Best Edmonton Mall recently toured the mall and provided a photo tour for Retail Insider that we will run next week. One photo showed a small crowd of shoppers waiting to get into the Saint Laurent boutique, which is a good sign. Gucci will open a 5,000-square-fo o t store next to Saint Laurent next spring, with a Louis Vuitton store that opened last year being located next to the new Gucci.

Retail construction build specialist Amachris Corporation built the new Edmonton Saint Laurent store. They were responsible for all general contracting work and installation of interior finishings. Precision construction was required right down to the millimetre to install the exquisite floor to ceiling marble and metal in the beautiful new store. Amachris also completed the renovation of the Saint Laurent shop-in-store at Saks Fifth Avenue in downtown Toronto and has worked with several other luxury brands.

West Edmonton Mall is expected to secure more luxury brand stores in 2021 following the closure of Holt Renfrew in downtown Edmonton in January of this year.

Read more about Saint Laurent coming to West Edmonton Mall, including a full analysis here.

Rendering of Starbucks Canada's first sustainably-constructed drive-thru cafe. Rendering: Starbucks — Rendering of Starbucks Canada’s first sustainably-constructed drive-thru cafe. Rendering: Starbucks

First Sustainably-Constructed Starbucks Café to Open in Canada

Starbucks Canada has announced the first-of-its-kind, sustainably-constructed Starbucks drive thru café in Canada, assembled in just six days, with near-zero construction waste and designed to reduce energy needs for heating and cooling compared to standard construction builds.

Designed, manufactured, and constructed by Vancouver-based green building company Nexii Building Solutions, the Starbucks drive-thru café – set to open in early 2021 in Abbotsford, B.C. – represents a significant step forward in the company’s aspirations to operate more eco-friendly stores, a key component of the company’s global sustainability strategy which aspires to store more carbon than the company emits; reduce waste sent to landfills; and provide more freshwater than the company uses. Starbucks has set ambitious sustainability targets to cut its carbon, water, and waste footprints in half by 2030.

“Buildings and construction can have a substantial impact on Canada’s environmental goals,” says Catherine Anderson, vice president of Store Development at Starbucks Canada. “Working with like-minded innovators like Nexii, we are excited to lead the industry in modelling the benefits of green construction and share what we learn with others to help action meaningful, global change.”

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Starbucks has been a global leader in designing its cafés to achieve LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification standards since 2005, ensuring energy and water efficiencies and using sustainable building materials.

“All aspects of the Nexii system – from the products we create to the way we assemble our buildings – are designed with sustainability at the core, so that we can create affordable, green buildings,” says Stephen Sidwell, CEO of Nexii, who adds that as Nexii panels create a thermally efficient, airtight envelope, the Starbucks building will require less energy to heat and cool compared to standard construction builds, greatly improving energy efficiency over its building lifecycle, lowering operating costs.

Please click here for a timeline of Starbucks sustainability initiatives.

Kijiji logo

Kijiji Canada Poaches Loblaw Exec for General Manager Role

Kijiji Canada has announced the addition of Herman Paek, a seasoned e-commerce veteran. Joining Canada’s number one classifieds platform and online marketplace as its General Manager, Herman brings with him a long track record of leadership and success in Canada’s digital economy.

Herman Paek headshot

Most recently he was Senior Vice President at Loblaw, leading e-commerce and digital for the organization. As a founding member of the Loblaw Digital team, he played a leading role in transforming it into one of Canada’s most prominent e-commerce brands.

“Kijiji is an iconic brand that continues to have a tremendous impact with Canada’s consumers, small businesses and automotive industry. I’m excited to join such a talented team and look forward to working with them and our partners as we deepen our connection with our buyers and sellers, reinforce our commitment to the Auto industry through Kijiji Autos, and explore new ways of serving our audiences,” said Paek.

Paek’s arrival comes as Kijiji continues to build momentum in the Canadian market. By listening and responding to the needs of its customers, the company has played a leading role in fuelling a $27.3 billion second-hand economy that has grown in size annually since 2015. With the launch of Kijiji Autos in 2019 to expand on Kijiji’s country-leading online automotive marketplace, the company has solidified its position as a trusted marketplace for buyers and dealers, tracking 4.1 million monthly unique visitors in September 2020.

With Paek as part of the team, Kijiji will continue to solidify its position as a trusted marketplace for all Canadians, and as the country’s number one classifieds platform that reaches more than 15 million visitors each month.

Children interacting with one another in McCarthy Uniforms' face masks. Photo: McCarthy Uniforms — Children interacting with one another in McCarthy Uniforms’ face masks. Photo: McCarthy Uniforms

McCarthy’s Reinvents School Fundraising for the Age of COVID and Rounds Out PPE Line With Masks for Toddlers

Building on its commitment to support Canadians through the COVID-19 pandemic, McCarthy Uniforms, through its non-uniform line, Navy & White, is now offering McCarthy Rewards, a cashback fundraising program that gives 5% of the price of all purchases right back to schools or community groups (sports teams, camps, workplaces, etc.). With restrictions on in-person activities, many schools and other organizations are struggling to find ways to raise funds this year—McCarthy Rewards is the solution.

McCarthy Uniforms' 'donut mask' designed specifically for children. Photo: McCarthy Uniforms — McCarthy Uniforms’ ‘donut mask’ designed specifically for children. Photo: McCarthy Uniforms

The program allows schools to raise money while offering easy access to spirit wear — comfy apparel and accessories such as T-shirts, hoodies, gloves, fanny packs, and masks, customized with their school logo or other personalized artwork.

Any organization can build a custom program through McCarthy Rewards, whether they have a uniform program with the company or not, and reap the benefits of 5% cashback.

“We’re hearing that student and parent councils are struggling this year to find convenient ways to raise funds for schools, which would normally happen through pizza lunches, bake sales, and subscription programs,” says Vanessa Iarocci, president of McCarthy Uniforms. “There is a huge sense of financial burden from COVID-19, so we worked quickly to find a solution to help our communities raise money from purchases they already make.”

The fundraising program extends to McCarthy’s line of COVID-safe necessities, including its new mini masks, designed to fit children aged three to six. These comfortable non-medical masks feature fun designs by kids, for kids, and have adjustable toggles so they grow as your kids do. The new mini masks join McCarthy’s popular line of cost-effective kids’ and teens’ masks, and all are made of breathable 100% Egyptian cotton.

“With kids and teens wearing masks all day in school, it’s incredibly important that their masks fit comfortably,” says Iarocci.

SPINCO's 'Podium' at-home stationary bike. Photo: SPINCO — SPINCO’s ‘Podium’ at-home stationary bike. Photo: SPINCO

SPINCO and Echelon to Unveil SPINCO’S First Connected Bike to Home Market

Canada’s largest spin studio, SPINCO, has announced the launch of its first home fitness bike, Podium, alongside connected fitness industry leader, Echelon Fitness. This relationship is set to usher in a new generation of fitness bikes featuring state-of-the-art technology that transforms workouts into unparalleled fitness experiences, competing with Peloton which is also seeing significant market growth.

Flagship retail locations are set to open in Spring 2021. SPINCO operates 18 studio locations across Canada and has more than 150,000 members. This born-and-bred Canadian company has grown significantly every year since its founding in 2014, earning a reputation for cultivating a strong community of riders committed to physical and mental wellbeing.

“Our bike was created with our passionate riders in mind,” said Michelle August, Founder of SPINCO. “When you step inside a SPINCO studio, there is an unexplainable feeling that riders experience and we set out to recreate that raw experience at home with custom content created just for them. We believe that the result is a bike that is true to our brand and an exceptional addition to our in-studio programming.”

Podium will feature immersive content that is exclusively Canadian made and curated by SPINCO’s top instructors from across the country. Additionally, riders will also have 24-7 access to the Echelon catalogue of live and on-demand workouts.

“There were no shortcuts when we created this product,” said August. “Great steps were taken to ensure our bike was approachable, intuitive and met the needs of today’s consumer. We have included key features that truly set us apart, including a 22-inch HD touch screen, 32 levels of electronically controlled resistance, best-in-class components and innovative aesthetics that are perfect for any rider.”

SPINCO would not have been able to make this bike a possibility without the support of Echelon. “SPINCO came to us with a unique value proposition that truly excited our team,” said Echelon Founder and CEO Lou Lentine. “Our DNA is so similar, delivering incredible fitness that drives brand love and a sense of true community. The commitment to their clientele pushes them to keep innovating and we know that dedication will make their at-home product an incredible success.”

The SPINCO bike will be available exclusively at www.spincopodium.com for $1999.00 with guaranteed delivery in spring 2021.

GH+A Design Studios logo

GH+A Design Studios Wins Five Design Awards

Design firm GH+A has announced that it has won five awards for design excellence. GH+A design studios is a proud collaborator on the following projects:

ICSC Global Awards North America
Category: Renovations/Expansions projects under 150,000 square feet
Project: CF Chinook Centre Dining Hall, Calgary, AB
Prize: Silver

ICSC Global Awards North America
Category: Renovations/Expansions projects over 500,000 square feet
Project: Devonshire Mall, Windsor, ON
Prize: Silver

ICSC Global Awards North America
Category: Renovations/Expansions projects over 500,000 square feet
Project: Devonshire Mall, Windsor, ON
Prize: Sustainable Gold

DrivenxDesign London Design Awards
Category: Interior Design – Retail –
Project: RS No.9 Carnaby St., London, UK
Prize: Silver

Canadian Interiors Best of Canada Awards Competition
Category: Retail & Showroom
Project: Canada Goose, Beijing, China
Prize: Winner

Mastermind Toys Play Preview logo

Calling all Inventors, Manufacturers, and Vendors – Mastermind Toys Wants to See Your Very Best Products for 2021

Mastermind Toys is looking for the next best toys and games with its Mastermind Toys Play Preview initiative. For inventors, manufacturers, and vendors, it could be your chance to capture the Mastermind Toys team’s attention and become a part of the brand’s 2021 plans.

For years Mastermind category buyers have relied on toy fairs around the world to assemble its curated assortment of toys. Due to COVID-19, this simply won’t be possible, and so with an eye on its 2021 offering, Mastermind Toys is excited to announce that it will be hosting a Mastermind Toys Play Preview — a virtual toy fair with vendors worldwide.

Mastermind Toys is Canada’s largest specialty toy and children’s book retailer, with 68 stores coast-to-coast and a wonder-filled website. As Canada’s Authority on Play, Mastermind Toys works harder to be ahead of the trends and discover the very best in play—always with an eye on the end consumer. Great products for every age and stage drive the brand, and Mastermind Toys is very thoughtful in its product selection.

To learn more visit https://www.mastermindtoys.com/pages/mastermind-toys-play-preview

Canadian Optical Brand ‘Clearly’ Relaunches Brick-and-Mortar Store Expansion After 7 Year Hiatus

By

Mario Toneguzzi

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December 22, 2020

Exterior of new Clearly store in CF Chinook Centre. Photo: Clearly

Eyewear retailer Clearly, based in Vancouver, has opened its fourth retail location with plans for further growth in the brick and mortar space.

The company, which began in 2000 as strictly an online retailer, opened its first store in Calgary, at CF Chinook Centre on December 21, to complement its existing two retail locations in Vancouver (on Robson Street and West 4th Avenue) and one in Toronto (on Queen Street).

The first retail location opened in 2013 on Robson Street.

Clearly was originally founded by a local entrepreneur in Vancouver but the company was bought by EssilorLuxottica in 2014. The company has a distribution and production centre in Vancouver as well.

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According to CEO, Clearly has Plans for Future Expansion in 2021

“We have a plan to potentially expand as well in the next year,” said Arnaud Bussieres, CEO of Clearly.

“We are a digital brand and we were the first ones in the market to sell contact lenses, eyeglasses and sunglasses online. We have one mission, which we live and breathe, to eradicate poor vision in the world. There’s roughly 2.7 billion people worldwide and just here in Canada two million people. So what we are trying to do is to fulfill that mission by bringing affordability, bringing access and creating awareness about the importance of good vision and eye health and providing solutions for the consumers.

“We have the most affordable and the widest I would say range of products on both eye glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses and we do that with a nice mix of ecommerce and in store as well.”

The company has about 200 employees.

The company says that nearly 25 percent of Canadian children experience vision issues which can lead to learning at a slower rate, developing a negative self image and experiencing frustration with learning.

Exterior of new Clearly store in the CF Chinook Centre. Photo taken in late November. Photo: Retail Insider

“Vision problems are almost impossible to identify without a proper, comprehensive eye exam, especially in young children who aren’t yet able to recognize – let alone explain – that something doesn’t feel right. Whether it’s spotting a crucial problem that can save their vision or simply making it easier for a child to see letters on a page, a 20-minute sit-down with an optometrist can change the course of a child’s entire life,” said Bussieres.

He said the rationale for the company to have a retail network is primarily to offer its access and service to more consumers.

“We really believe that the best experience you can have buying eyeglasses is to start with an eye exam. Today the only and the best way to get an eye exam is actually to have an optometry clinic and have an appointment with an optometrist. So that’s why we’ve been looking at opening more stores. It’s a great way for consumers to discover the brand, experience and test the product, and get some advice around what is the right frame for me, what is the right lense for me,” said Bussieres.

“So we really use those retail locations as eye health centres where we can have eye exams and then education centres where we can really ensure the best service and the best experience for consumers to get the best products.

“Chinook is our fourth store and we are contemplating opening more stores in order to have good coverage in other parts of the country not only Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto. So we are not yet in a place where we can say we are going to open next month in this location. But we are looking at the opportunities there. Doing that in partnership with the rest of the industry, with the rest of the group as well, because we are owned by Essilor. That’s the process we are in right now and how we are going to move forward next year.”

Ecommerce continues to be a strong component of the company’s operations.

“It was growing very, very fast up until this year. We’ve been fortunate to operate a business that has been 95 percent ecommerce. We’ve enjoyed the very, very fast growth. We are probably the third largest online retailer for optical goods in the world and we’ve doubled the size of the business in the last five years and we intend to double it again in the next three years. The growth has really exploded and it’s driven by a lot of consumer adoption of online purchases of optical goods,” said Bussieres.

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