One of Canada’s highest profile entrepreneurs and biggest advocates for entrepreneurship, Arlene Dickinson, has launched a social media campaign to help struggling Canadian business owners as they navigate the turbulent waters caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a recent Facebook post, Dickinson said: “Small businesses are in DANGER! They make up the fabric of our communities but many are at risk of closing this winter. If you want to see your favourite places survive and thrive act now! Waiting until ‘it’s all over’ may be too late. So I’ve come up with a way to make a real difference to local shops and businesses now by helping their rankings on search — please write and perform a #RavingReview! You could sing it, dance it, stand outside your favourite shop and YELL it! Get creative and be as over-the-top complimentary as you can be!”
Arlene Dickinson
Dickinson is urging people to keep buying from local businesses but also to go a step further and help them in this social media campaign by following three simple steps:
Submit a review of a local business on Google/Yelp;
Record yourself performing it; and
Post it on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media sites with #RavingReview.
“Everybody’s talking about how important it is to support local and how meaningful it is for us to give them business but we can’t support every single business. Telling people to spend money is sometimes a really difficult thing for people to do right now. So we were thinking at Venture what could we do to support small business without it costing people more money and asking people to spend all the time,” said Dickinson.
“Small business relies on Google reviews and Yelp reviews because that helps them in their search ranking but also when you have a great review online you actually get more customers and you actually get them to spend more. So we knew there was a financial reward in having reviews and we knew that people liked to talk about the businesses they support with enthusiasm. So we thought why don’t we make that easier for people to do and get people to just do a rating review. Put something on Google and Yelp. Then record yourself and put it on your social media and amplify your voice. It works. Businesses are getting business as a result of it.”
Along with serving as Calgary-based Venture’s President and CEO, Dickinson is the General Partner of District Ventures Capital, a venture capital fund focused on helping market, fund and grow entrepreneurs and companies in the food and health space. The serial entrepreneur is a three-time best-selling author, podcaster, and accomplished public speaker. Dickinson is widely recognized for her role as a Dragon/Venture Capitalist for over 12 seasons on the multi-award-winning television series, Dragons’ Den. Dickinson is cause-oriented, passionate about the underdog, and brings a strong sense of social responsibility to everything she does.
Dickinson’s leadership has been recognized many times, including Canada’s Most Powerful Women Top 100 Hall of Fame, the Pinnacle Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence, as well as PROFIT and Chatelaine’s Top 100 Women Business Owners. She is a Marketing Hall of Legends inductee and a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Award. Dickinson has served for many years as an Honourary Captain in the Royal Canadian Navy. She also sits on several public and private boards and is actively involved in supporting community and country.
“I have a fear that big business is going to fill the void and what’s happening with small businesses being shut down and big business not being shut down. You’ve got entrepreneurs who are not able to deliver their goods and services the way that they should be able to. So I do worry alot about small business being impacted,” said Dickinson. “We’re hearing now that one in seven businesses are at risk of closing. I think that’s an underestimation actually. I worry about their ability to keep the lights on and also to keep growing.
“It’s one thing with these government programs for businesses to do just that — keep their lights on. It’s another thing for them to be able to recover to pre-pandemic revenues. How do we help them grow and get in the digital world and compete? This is where I feel there’s going to be a lot of damage done to small businesses.”
As small businesses navigate through these challenging times, Dickinson said this is an opportunity for them to make sure they are keeping track of their costs and keeping up with their ecommerce.
“Going where people are. Making sure you’re thinking about the things you’re really good at and how you deliver those goods and services in a new age where there’s curbside delivery or back door delivery for restaurants now with their delivery services. And try to understand that consumers are still shopping — we saw record numbers on Shopify as an example — we know that consumers are still consuming. How do you get in front of them where you have to find ways to leverage your existing customer bases through email marketing, through offers and through promotion on digital platforms,” said Dickinson.
“Some small businesses are caught without a digital presence and so making sure that you have one I think is really critical.
“Being an entrepreneur is never easy but I’ve said this before but I will say that everybody always loves to say entrepreneurs are the backbone of our country’s economy. Small business matters so much and employs the majority of our country. And yet when it comes to programs that actually help small businesses whether it’s tax policy, whether it’s opening policies during a pandemic and how that can work better, whether it’s programs to help digitalize better, we really don’t do a good job. And we need to do a better job of that as a country or we are going to lose the innovation that entrepreneurs and small business brings to us.”
Interior of new TUDOR boutique in Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: TUDOR
Every year Retail Insider tracks international retailers opening stores within the Canadian marketplace. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 saw at least 13 international brands enter the country. While it’s the lowest number since Retail Insider began tracking international entrants in 2014, it’s still an impressive number given what has been a transformative year for the retail industry in Canada.
Some international brands had already set out plans to open in Canada prior to the pandemic, and some continued to do so despite concerns about a changing consumer profile and mass shutdowns. Some brands, looking to a future where the pandemic is over, opened stores with an eye to long-term growth despite current challenges.
In terms of geography, the breakdown of cities that saw first-to-Canada stores open in 2020 are broken down as follows:
Toronto/GTA: 8
Montreal: 2
Vancouver: 1
Winnipeg: 1
Regina: 1
The Toronto area is clearly the primary entry point for international brands opening stores in Canada, far surpassing any other market in 2020. The Yorkdale Shopping Centre, which for years has launched more first-to-Canada brands than anywhere else, saw two of the 13 retailers we tracked for 2020 open in the mall. Luxury brands Celine and Golden Goose were both expected to open at Yorkdale in late 2020 but were delayed due to the pandemic.
First Capital REIT-owned Yorkville Village, including the adjacent Hazelton Hotel, is home to three of the 13 international retail entrants — representing 23% of the total.
The Montreal area saw two of the 13 international entrants open there while Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Regina each saw one first-to-Canada retailer opening. The Vancouver market in particular has seen a slowdown since 2017-2018 when a relatively high number of first-to-Canada brands launched there.
The following is Retail Insider’s count of the international brands that entered Canada in 2020 by opening standalone stores. The list is chronological from earliest to most recent openings.
Exterior of ba&sh store in Yorkville. Photo: Craig Patterson
ba&sh: In March, French women’s fashion brand ba&sh opened its first Canadian storefront at the base of the Hazelton Hotel in Toronto’s Yorkville area. The 1,300-square-foot boutique was open for a couple of days prior to being shut down temporarily along with other ‘non-essential’ retail, opening again in the early summer until a second shutdown hit stores in November. First Capital REIT owns the Hazelton Hotel at 118 Yorkville Avenue as well as the adjacent Yorkville Village.
Aéropostale was in Canada a few years ago but left the market in the spring of 2016 after the bankruptcy of its US division. The company had 41 stores in Canada at the time. Shane Butner, Director of Marketing & Brand for Bluenotes, Aéropostale Canada and Thrifty’s, said the company chose Winnipeg as its first entrance back into the market because the Manitoba city “was a strong market for Aéropostale when they were last in Canada and a great market to learn from before we open a store in Toronto.”
Exterior of YOYOSO store. Photo: YOYOSO
YOYOSO: In March, Chinese variety retailer YOYOSO is kicking off its entry into Canada with its first storefront at the Southland Shopping Centre in Regina. A second location recently opened at Cornwall Centre in Regina, with both stores being operated by a local franchisee.
The Southland store spans about 2,000 square feet featuring the retailer’s blue-green branding that is eye-catching. The retailer focuses on eight categories in its stores, including health and beauty/cosmetics, home accessories, fashion accessories, fashion bags, digital accessories, stationery & gifts, seasonal products, and imported food. A total of 5,000 products are available and YOYOSO says that 500 new items arrive in its stores each month.
YOYOSO was founded in 2014 and now operates more than 1,000 stores in 30 countries worldwide. Markets include China, Malaysia, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Bahrain, Brunei, Georgia, Kuwait, India, South Africa, Hungary, Mongolia, Brazil, the United States, Guatemala, Ecuador, France, Russia, and Iraq. South Africa is a new market for YOYOSO, according to its website.
Exterior of new Away store in Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Maxime Frechette
Away Luggage: In late summer 2020, New York City-based travel and lifestyle brand Away — known particularly for its innovative luggage — opened its first Canadian storefront at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. The Yorkdale Away location spans more than 2,880 square feet on one level, and features a unique design inspired by travel. That includes a double-height metallic facade with mock airplane windows above the glass storefront. The interior of the store includes light wood shelving and flooring that contrast with bright artwork such as large postcards on the walls. The direct-to-consumer brand is likely to open more stores in Canada as it also sells through its online channels and social media.
Exterior of QuanU store in Kennedy Commons in suburban Toronto. Photo: QuanU
QuanU: In July, Chinese furniture retailer QuanU opened its first Canadian store at Kennedy Commons in suburban Toronto. The company will continue to expand further into Canada in 2021 with plans for as many as 15 stores this year. QuanU has more than 5,000 stores in China and was founded in 1986.
Entrance of new Ray-Ban store in CF Toronto Eaton Centre. Photo: Craig Patterson
Ray-Ban: In September, upscale sunglasses and eyewear brand Ray-Ban opened its first standalone store in Canada at CF Toronto Eaton Centre in Toronto. The 650-square-foot boutique features the brand’s trademark red facade and interiors, as well as hundreds of styles of sunglasses. More locations are expected to follow as Ray-Ban expands its direct-to-consumer operations in Canada.
Exterior of Pilgrim store in Place Montreal Trust. Photo: Maxime Frechette
Pilgrim: In the fall, Danish jewellery brand Pilgrim opened its first permanent storefront in Canada in downtown Montreal. It follows last year’s openings of two Pilgrim pop-up stores in the Montreal area that proved successful. The new Montreal Pilgrim boutique is located at Place Montreal Trust located on Ste-Caterine Street. The boutique is 504 square feet in a prime corner retail space. More locations are expected to open in the Montreal area and possibly beyond in 2021.
Exterior of Thom Browne store in Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Thom Browne
Thom Browne: In November, New York City-based luxury fashion brand Thom Browne opened its first Canadian store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. The 1,430-square-foot store features a range of men’s and women’s fashions, bags, accessories, footwear, and fragrances. The store’s interior is unique with high ceilings and a design reflective of a mid-century office with signature slat blind-covered windows, “fluorescent” LED tube lighting, polished grey and black terrazzo flooring, and banker grey Bardiglio and Carrara marble walls. Mid-century furniture by American and French designers is featured throughout. The expansion will continue in 2021 with a second standalone Canadian Thom Browne store that will open in Vancouver, details to follow.
Avon make up counter. Photo: Avon
Avon: Beauty brand Avon officially launched a Canadian retail expansion in November with an initial plan to open three storefronts. The first of these opened in Montreal and locations in Toronto and Vancouver are also in the works. It’s part of an effort by Avon to create an immersive experience for consumers in dedicated spaces for the first time. The Montreal Avon flagship features a reception area, café and lounge space (with complimentary snacks and beverages), product displays, ordering stations, a ‘mini spa experience’, training area, and a conference room. The space encourages trial, sampling, and discovery through product knowledge training and beauty advice. Avon’s full range of skincare, colour cosmetics, fragrances, personal care items, and health and wellness items are carried along with Avon-owned brands.
The 3,200-square-foot Montreal ‘Studio 1886’ Avon location is at 5500 Trans-Canada Highway in suburban Pointe-Claire. The highly interactive retail space is contained within Avon’s Canadian headquarters. The open concept Avon space is a place where Avon’s independent sales representatives can meet with customers to showcase the latest products. It’s part of a multi-channel shift from Avon’s door-to-door sales which has been a core sales channel for the brand for over 100 years.
Interior of Yorkville Couple Diamonds store. Photo: Toronto Life
Couple Diamonds: New York City-based Lab-grown diamond brand Couple Diamonds opened its first permanent store at Toronto’s Yorkville Village shopping centre in the fall. The 900-square-foot boutique became Couple’s Canadian flagship store as part of a retail expansion for the brand. Couple specializes in lab-grown diamonds which it claims are identical to mined diamonds down to the atom. The raw diamonds are cut and polished and graded by the International Gemological Institute before undergoing a 12-step quality control process to ensure they meet an exceptionally high standard.
Exterior of the new Tudor boutique at Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Photo: Tudor
Tudor: In the fall, luxury watch brand Tudor opened its first standalone store in North America at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. The 450-square-foot boutique is connected to and operated by Raffi Jewellers. The boutique was only open briefly before being shut down temporarily in November — the store has yet to reopen as Ontario’s lockdowns extend until at least January 23rd.
The Toronto store features red, black, and grey colour hues and houses a range of price Tudor time pieces. We’ll update this with a full article when the store has reopened hopefully later this month.
The history of Whoo storefront. Photo: The history of Whoo
Exterior of Polestar in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
Polestar: In late December, Volvo-owned electric car brand Polestar opened its first location in North America at Toronto’s Yorkville Village shopping centre at 55 Avenue Road in Yorkville. The bi-level space includes a street-facing facade on busy Avenue Road as well as an entrance from within the mall. One-on-one appointments are permitted though the space is otherwise shut due to provincial lockdowns until at least January 23rd. Grand Touring Auto runs the Toronto space, as well as a new Montreal Polestar location (at 1255 boulevard René Levesque West) set to open this year. A Vancouver location under a different operator (at 827 Seymour Street) is also set to open and the company will open service centres in Victoria, BC and Waterloo, ON.
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Exterior of Polestar in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
Exterior of Polestar in Toronto. Photo: Craig Patterson
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.
Ghassan Halazon
“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.”
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.
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.
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.
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”.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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:
American Eagle Outfitter at Guildford Town Centre - Photo by Lee Rivett
Miniso at Guildford Town Centre - Photo: Lee Rivett
Tip Top at Guildford Town Centre- Photo: Lee Rivett
Garage at Guildford Town Centre - Photo: Lee Rivett
Bellissima at Guildford Town Centre - Photo: Lee Rivett
Mobile Klinik at Guildford Town Centre. Photo: Lee Rivett
LensCrafters at Guildford Town Centre - Photo: Lee Rivett
Nutrition House at Guildford Town Centre - Photo: Lee Rivett
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 RivettLiving Wall in Guildford Centre Atrium – Photo by Lee Rivett
Guildford Atrium (North View) – 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.
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:
Victoria's Secret at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Bikini Village at Guildford. Photo by Lee Rivett
Guess! at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
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.
The Latest Scoop at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Roots at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Torrid at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
La Vie en Rose at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Ever New at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
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:
Muji at Guildford – Photo by Lee RivettLondon Drugs at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett
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Le Chateau at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
The Gap at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Birks at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Soft Moc at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Below the Belt at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Ann Louise at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Change Lingerie at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
Bath & Body Works at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
MAC Cosmetics at Guildford - Photo by Lee Rivett
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:
H&M Man at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee RivettWalmart Canada (seen from upper level parkade) at Guildford – Photo by Lee Rivett
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Swarovski at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Boathouse at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Champs Sports at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
BlueNotes at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Naturalizer at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Ardene at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Sunrise Records at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Carter OshKosh at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Suzy Shier at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Stokes at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
The Body Shop at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Sketchers at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Call it Spring at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
The Praguery at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
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:
SportChek at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee RivettMuji at Guildford from Lower Level – Photo by Lee Rivett
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Boys'Co at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Jack and Jones at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Hot Topic at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Mountain Warehouse at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Just Cozy at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Bootlegger at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Michael Hill at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Disney Store at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Bentley at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Reitman's at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Lego Store at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Vans at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
RW&CO at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Nike Store at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
Foot Locker at Guildford from Lower Level - Photo by Lee Rivett
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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Guildford Food Court - Photo by Lee Rivett
Guildford Food Court - Photo by Lee Rivett
Guildford Food Court - Photo by Lee Rivett
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.
Discover More Related Photo Tours From Retail Insider:
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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The Amazing Brentwood under construction on August 1, 2017. (SHAPE Properties)
The Amazing Brentwood under construction on August 1, 2017 from the corner of Lougheed Highway and Willingdon Avenue. (SHAPE Properties)
The Amazing Brentwood’s central plaza under construction on August 1, 2017. (SHAPE Properties)
The Amazing Brentwood under construction on August 1, 2017. (SHAPE Properties)
The Amazing Brentwood under construction on August 1, 2017. (SHAPE Properties)
The Amazing Brentwood under construction on August 1, 2017. (SHAPE Properties)
The Amazing Brentwood under construction on August 1, 2017. (SHAPE Properties)
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
Town Centre Plaza – Social Areas
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
Corner of Willingdon and Lougheed Highway – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Corner of Willingdon and Lougheed Highway – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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
Brentwood Mall Courtyard – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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Brentwood Mall Courtyard Fountains - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Brentwood Mall Courtyard Fountains - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Brentwood Mall Courtyard – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Brentwood Mall Courtyard – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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 Exterior – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Express News Exterior. Photo: Geetanjali Sharma
Presotea Exterior. Photo: 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:
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:
Suzy Shear at Brentwood - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Thinka at Brentwood - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Core Games at Brentwood - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Dania Down at Brentwood - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Lushwear at Brentwood - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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 SectionACCENTS @ Home at Brentwood Mall – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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 LocationLondon 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 at Brentwood Mall - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Vitamin Centre at Brentwood Mall - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Shoe Warehouse at Brentwood Mall - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Channel 3 at Brentwood Mall - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Match at Brentwood Mall - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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.
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
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:
Metrotown Urban Behavior - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Roots Store at Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby, BC - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Metrotown Nike Store - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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:
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:
Real Canadian Superstore at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Bentley at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Indigo Books at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Club Monaco at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Middle/core of Metrotown’s lower level. 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:
Arc'Teryx at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Michael Kors at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
H&M at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Little Mountain at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Uniqlo at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Banana Republic at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Reitmans at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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:
Hudson's Bay at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Uncle Tetsu at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
MUJI Canada at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Steve Madden at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Vans at Metrotown - Photo by Kevin Gartner via Google Maps
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
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
Metrotown Food Court – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Metrotown Food Court – Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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:
Kate Spade at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Saje Wellness at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
L'Occitaine at Metrotow - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Little Burgundy at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Swarovski at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Mountain Warehouse at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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Aritzia at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Armani Exchange at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Boys'Co at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Sephora at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Lululemon at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Garage at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Dynamite at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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:
Upper left quadrant of the Upper Level at Metrotown.
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Weekend by Max Mara at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Pandora at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
MonteCristo at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Laura at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Plenty at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
The GAP at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Fresh Slice Pizza - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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:
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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MAC Cosmetics at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
RW&CO at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
Guess at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
tna at Metrotown - Photo by Geetanjali Sharma
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.
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 – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Brookfield Place – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Brookfield Place Holidays – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
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.
Commerce Court – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
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
Scotia Plaza – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Scotia Plaza – 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
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
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
The PATH Holiday Decorations – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
The PATH Holiday Decorations – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Brookfield Place Outdoors – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
The PATH – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Photo by Dustin Fuhs
The PATH Map – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Commerce Court – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Hudson’s Bay Queen Street Holiday Windows Nighttime 2020 – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
Hudson’s Bay Queen Street Holiday Windows Nighttime 2020 – Photo by Dustin Fuhs
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.
Dan Kelly
“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.
Bruce Winder
“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.”
“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.
Diane J. Brisebois
“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.
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.
Automotive & Related
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.
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%.
