Adopt, a French brand renowned for affordable fine fragrances, has made its Canadian debut with a store at Galeries d’Anjou in Montreal. The 629-square-foot location introduces Adopt’s unique and customer-centric approach to fine fragrances to Canada, emphasizing affordability and accessibility.
Marcel Rinaldy, the entrepreneur who oversees Adopt’s Canadian expansion, highlighted the significance of the launch, stating, “The Anjou shopping centre is a mature centre with a good representation of customer diversity. We had the opportunity to open first on this site, but we are continuing to establish ourselves in Montreal and its surroundings.”
A Rich Heritage of Fragrance Craftsmanship
Founded by perfumer Dominique Monlun in 1986, Adopt brings a distinctive offering of more than 150 original fragrances. Complementary products, such as body creams, candles, essential oils, lip balms, and skincare, are crafted at a historical production site in Cestas near Bordeaux. “We offer a range of 150 fragrances,” said Rinaldy, emphasizing the brand’s approach to tailoring offerings for the Canadian market through customer-focused testing and feedback.
Adopt’s stores are designed to reflect its brand ethos of accessible luxury. “The concept is constantly evolving to adapt to the natural developments of our activity. It reflects our values through the smallest detail,” Rinaldy shared. Each store design element serves to enhance the customer experience and convey the brand’s commitment to quality.
Customer Experience at the Heart of Adopt’s Concept
Adopt’s retail approach extends beyond product offerings. The brand differentiates itself through an engaging in-store experience, facilitated by trained sales advisors and visually informative displays designed to guide customers in finding their ideal scent. “We have sales advisors who are fully trained to meet customer expectations. In-store marketing also allows our customers to navigate alone, visually informing each perfume of its main notes,” explained Rinaldy.
The brand’s commitment to sustainability further sets it apart. As a fragrance manufacturer, Adopt controls its creative process and emphasizes ethical sourcing through initiatives like the “hummingbirds” program. This program supports value chains such as Tiaré flowers from Polynesia and Bourbon vanilla from Madagascar. “Unlike a traditional perfumery which sells perfumes from other brands, our creations are unique and reflect our values,” noted Rinaldy
Quebec Expansion Plans and Future Growth Across Canada
Adopt’s expansion in Canada aligns with its broader international strategy, positioning the country as a priority market. “The Canadian market is one of the priority objectives in our international development,” Rinaldy noted, reflecting the brand’s readiness to expand its footprint.
Following the Galeries d’Anjou opening, Adopt will launch two more Quebec locations later this month—a 616-square-foot store at CF Carrefour Laval near Montreal and a 536-square-foot space at Place Ste-Foy in Quebec City. Additionally, plans for 2025 include six to eight new stores across Quebec, with a potential Ontario market entry by late 2025.
Adopt’s plans for expansion extend beyond Quebec, with a focus on super-regional malls and high-traffic commuter hubs, such as airports and train stations. Tony Flanz of Think Retail represents Adopt’s Canadian expansion, helping to identify key opportunities for growth and ensuring the brand’s integration into the Canadian market.
Adopt should be looking at establishing locations at Square One in Mississauga, Chinook Centre in Calgary, West Edmonton Mall, Polo Park in Winnipeg and Coquitlam Centre.