Retail Insider continues to solidify its place as a leading voice in retail journalism, with Founder and Publisher Craig Patterson and Co-Editor-in-Chief Mario Toneguzzi named to RETHINK Retail’s prestigious Top Retail Experts list for 2025. This recognition not only highlights their individual expertise but also underscores the publication’s impact on the global retail landscape.
The honor is particularly significant for Retail Insider, which is the only Canadian news publication represented on the list. Patterson expressed pride in the achievement, noting, “It’s tremendous to have both Mario and myself recognized. It’s a testament to the hard work we’ve put into Retail Insider over the years, making it Canada’s top news publication for the retail industry.”
This isn’t the first time Retail Insider has been acknowledged on the global stage. Toneguzzi was recognized in 2024, alongside former Editor-in-Chief Dustin Fuhs. Patterson pointed out the consistent recognition as a reflection of the publication’s dedication to excellence. “This sustained acknowledgment highlights the depth and quality of our reporting and the importance of retail journalism in Canada,” he said.
Retail Insider began as a personal blog in 2012 when Patterson decided to channel his lifelong passion for retail into a creative outlet. Originally focused broadly on retail, the publication pivoted in 2014 to concentrate on Canadian retail news, filling a critical gap in the market. Today, Retail Insider has grown into a comprehensive platform, attracting more than 800,000 monthly visitors and boasting a strong social media following, with over 52,000 LinkedIn followers.
For Patterson, the growth of Retail Insider reflects his fascination with the art and history of retail. “I’ve always been intrigued by how retail spaces create experiences, whether in physical stores or online. It’s a dynamic industry that combines commerce with creativity,” he explained. This passion has been instrumental in shaping the publication’s unique voice and direction.
As the retail industry evolves, Retail Insider remains at the forefront of covering key trends and developments. Patterson emphasized that while the publication has historically had a strong focus on real estate, there is a growing interest in digital innovation, retail technology, and experiential retail concepts. “We’re expanding our content to include thought leadership in these areas and are even exploring the possibility of launching a dedicated e-commerce publication,” Patterson revealed.
Retail Insider’s coverage has also highlighted the changing face of Canadian retail, including the decline of traditional department stores, the rise of outlet malls, and the ongoing transformation of shopping centres. With recent projects like Montreal’s Royalmount and Vancouver’s Oakridge Park leading the way in retail innovation, the publication continues to report on the future of the industry while preserving its history.
For retailers, Retail Insider offers a platform to share their stories, whether they are celebrating milestones, launching new ventures, or expanding operations. Patterson encouraged businesses to reach out: “This is the time to tell the story of Canadian retail, whether it’s a long-standing retailer or a new entrant to the market.”
With a strong foundation and plans for future growth, Retail Insider is poised to remain an essential resource for the retail industry. Patterson summed it up best: “Retail Insider has changed my life, and I’m grateful to play a part in telling the stories that shape Canadian retail.”
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