As the news on tariffs continues to amplify, there is a growing movement to spotlight and support local Canadian businesses. And Monos, a Canadian travel and lifestyle brand known for premium suitcases, bags and accessories that combine style, durability and practicality, intends to continue to grow its presence across the country.
“Growing our retail footprint is definitely on the horizon, both here at home and internationally. Like our existing stores, any new locations will be in globally minded cities that resonate with our brand. For now, though, our focus is on putting down deeper roots in the communities we already have retail presence in,” said Victor Tam, CEO and Co-Founder of Monos.
Tam said the brand currently has two Monos storefronts in Canada: its Vancouver flagship on West 4th, and its Toronto store on Ossington.
“Shoppers are feeling the financial squeeze and being more selective than ever, and they’re gravitating toward brands that reflect their values. That’s why we make room for real connection with Monos through community programming and events, giving people ways to engage with the brand without having to make a purchase. When their next trip comes around, Monos is already top of mind,” he said.
“The tariff situation pushed us to reevaluate our positioning and refocus on serving our Canadian market. US customers are still an important part of our business, and we’re making changes to serve them better in this new landscape, but moving forward we expect to take a more balanced approach between the two markets.”
Retail looks different now than it did even 10 years ago, added Tam.
“As a brand that started as DTC, our retail strategy has always been about showing up in new, exciting, and authentic ways. For us, it isn’t about getting everyone who walks through the door to make a purchase, it’s about creating another high-quality touchpoint with the brand. That consistency builds loyalty over time. We think that’s the future of retail, and we’re starting to see other brands catch up,” he said.
Monos has also unveiled a one-of-one Milspec Heritage G-Class for their second vehicle giveaway, following its 2025 partnership with Brooklyn Coachworks. Built in collaboration with Vancouver-based automotive restoration studio Pre-Merger, the 1998 Mercedes-Benz G320 was imported from Tokyo and carefully restored to preserve the unmistakable character and utility of the original G-Class while refining it for modern comfort, reliability and everyday use. As part of the campaign, Monos is giving its community the opportunity to make the one-of-one vehicle their own as part of a no-purchase-necessary sweepstakes, open from October 7 through November 26.
“To travel is to move and be moved. With Pre-Merger—a studio known for preserving automotive heritage without sacrificing contemporary comfort—we’ve built something undeniable: a restoration that stays true to the history of an automotive icon, reimagined through the Monos lens for the modern traveller,” said Tam.
Along with the vehicle giveaway, Monos is introducing the limited-edition Rodeo Check collection reimagining the Heritage G-Class’s Rodeo Plaid interior across Monos’ signature lightweight and durable anodized aluminum shells. The debossed pattern and tonal black detailing bring the character of the G-Class into a collection that balances rugged utility with Monos’ refined, minimalist aesthetic, and is made to travel for years to come.
“The Rodeo Check collection pays tribute to the pattern that defined the original G-Wagon. Inspired by our restoration with Pre-Merger, the capsule shares its character: elegant, timeless, and built to last,” said Hubert Chan, Co-Founder and CCO.
For details on how to enter, visit monos.com/giveaway
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