AI retail solutions company LEAFIO expands into Canada amid global growth

Interest in LEAFIO’s AI-powered retail automation solutions has grown steadily

Food inflation continues to outpace Consumer Price Index: Loblaw

Manufacturers are looking for ways to keep prices down for customers, including by shifting supply chains to by-pass the U.S., says Loblaw

Kim Furlong Appointed CEO of Retail Council of Canada

Kim Furlong has been named the next President and CEO of the Retail Council of Canada, returning to the organization she helped shape, effective September 2, 2025.

AI revolutionizing retail: Cognizant’s Scott TumSuden on tackling labour challenges with technology

Retail is on the brink of a transformation — one that’s being accelerated by the rise of generative AI and automation.

Creed to Open First Canadian Boutique at Yorkdale

Luxury fragrance house Creed will open its first Canadian store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto in fall 2025, reinforcing the mall’s status as Canada’s top luxury retail destination.

1.4 Million consumers missed a credit payment while spending dips to 3-year low: Equifax

Total consumer debt was $2.55T at the end of Q1, up four per cent year-over-year, according to Equifax

Primaris Takes Control of 5 Disclaimed Hudson’s Bay Stores

Primaris REIT gains control of five disclaimed Hudson’s Bay stores, unlocking redevelopment potential and transforming over 500,000 sq. ft. of retail space.

PayMore Expands in Canada with Walmart and Franchises

PayMore is accelerating its Canadian expansion with new storefronts, Walmart partnerships, and a franchise model led by Founder Brands.

Canadian business leaders call on government to ‘act with urgency’ to avoid a recession: KPMG

Given ongoing trade uncertainty, 76 per cent of business leaders are bracing for the worst and taking steps to prepare for a Canadian recession, says KPMG.

Surge in Calgary organized retail crime prompts coordinated response

After seeing a concerning rise in organized retail crime, CPS worked alongside the Retail Council of Canada, retail businesses and security teams to develop a coordinated response to protect stores, staff and shoppers

Revive Wellness Club Opens 1st Canadian Location in Toronto

Revive Wellness Club opens in Toronto at 2100 Bloor St. W., with plans for 20 Canadian locations blending contrast therapy, coffee, and community.

Ruby Liu to Launch New Department Store Chain in Canada

Ruby Liu has acquired 28 former Hudson’s Bay leases in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario to launch a new multicultural, experiential department store chain in Canada.

Canada’s Tea Tariff Hurts Global South and Consumers [Op-Ed]

Canada’s tea tariff is raising prices for consumers while unfairly penalizing producers in the Global South. It's time for a policy rethink.

Flight Centre Canada Opens New Flagship Store in Toronto

Flight Centre Canada has opened a new flagship store in Royal Bank Plaza, Toronto, marking 30 years of operations with a renewed focus on in-person travel retail.

Canada’s Food Policy Council Risks Stalling Without Government Support

Experts warn that without renewed commitment and resources, Canada’s Food Policy Advisory Council may lose its potential to strengthen democratic food governance.

Canadian retail sales near $70 billion in March: Statistics Canada

Retail sales were up 1.2% in the first quarter of 2025, marking a fourth consecutive quarterly increase, says Statistics Canada.

Laser Clinics Canada Opens in Vaughan Amid National Expansion

Laser Clinics Canada opens its newest location at Vaughan Mills as part of an aggressive national expansion. Managing Director Toby Milton shares plans for 30 more clinics across the country.

ICSC Honours John Crombie with Distinguished Service Award

ICSC has awarded John Crombie of Cushman & Wakefield its Trustees’ Distinguished Service Award for his decades of leadership, mentorship, and contributions to retail real estate in Canada.

DAVIDsTEA Rebuilds with Canadian Roots and Fresh Energy

DAVIDsTEA CEO Sarah Segal shares insights on the brand’s rebirth, Canadian identity, product innovation, retail strategy, and community impact in a post-pandemic landscape.

CFIB May Business Barometer: Small business confidence goes up, price plans go down 

“The optimism glass is not even half-full, it’s still fairly empty," says the CFIB.

Canada’s 2025 dining trends: Restaurants Canada/Circana report

Canadians are expecting more value for their dollars as they grapple with affordability and that’s reflected in many of the trends highlighted in this report, says Restaurants Canada.

Lightspeed Commerce reports Q4 and Fiscal 2025 results

Lightspeed says Fiscal 2026 will be dedicated to growing locations, expanding software revenue and enhancing Adjusted EBITDA profitability.

Mine & Yours Calgary Holt Renfrew Pop-Up Exceeds Projections

Luxury resale retailer Mine & Yours has exceeded sales projections at its Calgary Holt Renfrew pop-up. Founder Courtney Watkins says the strong response may lead to a long-term presence.

MEC returns to Canadian ownership with renewed focus on legacy, local manufacturing, and community

Founded in 1971, MEC has built a legacy of expert staff, community connection, and a passion for the outdoors.

Odd Burger launching retail products in over 500 7-Eleven Canada stores

Odd Burger operates as a vertically integrated food technology company and vegan fast-food chain, with smart kitchens and a proprietary line of plant-based protein and dairy alternatives.

Retail Sector at Risk Amid Canada Post Strike Threat

Retail Council of Canada warns that a Canada Post strike could disrupt e-commerce, rural deliveries, and key sales periods, putting the retail sector at serious risk.

TELUS Health report reveals pharmacy sector at centre of Canada’s healthcare transformation

Canada’s pharmacy sector is undergoing a fundamental transformation, driven by technology, shifting patient expectations, and the growing demand for accessible healthcare.

Ali Haider Couture Opens New Studio in Toronto

Fashion designer Ali Haider launches a couture studio in Toronto, blending Eastern craftsmanship with modern luxury in a personalized setting.

Canada Goose reports strong Q4 and Fiscal 2025 results

Throughout the year, Canada Goose continued executing against its key priorities: enhancing luxury retail execution, evolving the brand and product offering, and simplifying internal operations.

What Canadian Tire Might Do with Hudson’s Bay Brands

Canadian Tire’s $30M purchase of Hudson’s Bay’s trademarks opens the door to new product lines, revived brands, and national retail expansion, says an expert. 

GoBolt releases 2025 State of Logistics Report, offering key insights for retail and DTC brands

Founded in 2017, GoBolt is building the largest sustainable supply chain network in North America.

Annual inflation 1.7% in April: Statistics Canada

Prices for food purchased from stores have been increasing at a faster rate than the all-items CPI for three consecutive months, says Statistics Canada.

Kit and Ace Opens Store at The Well, Expands Nationally

Canadian apparel brand Kit and Ace opens a new store at The Well in Toronto as part of a growing national expansion. CEO David Lui shares what’s next for the brand.

44% of shoppers still prefer in-store retail—but expect seamless digital integration [Report]

Adyen said 51% of those that prefer stores do so because they like to touch and feel products and 29% want retailers to make the experience more interesting

MEC announces new Canadian ownership

With 24 stores and over 6 million members nationwide, MEC is more than a retailer—it’s a community for outdoor enthusiasts.

CORE Shopping Centre partners with Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids

The CORE shopping centre boasts four levels and 600,000 square feet of retailers, restaurants, services, and events space.

Tahini’s Expands in Ontario with Grand Openings in Toronto region

Founded in 2012, Tahini’s is a category-leading quick service restaurant group specializing in Mediterranean fusion.

Canadian pride drives growth for Apollo Health and Beauty Care amid trade tensions

Toronto-based Apollo Health and Beauty Care, the country’s largest private label manufacturer in the health and beauty space, is seeing a significant uptick in demand for its Canadian-made products

Sephora Opens Second Downtown Montreal Store

Sephora has opened a second store in downtown Montreal at 1241 Ste-Catherine Street West, a prime retail location near major global brands, marking its 18th in Quebec and 132nd in Canada.

Canada Post Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chain and E-Commerce

As Canada Post braces for a nationwide strike on May 22, retail supply chain expert Gary Newbury warns of lasting damage to e-commerce and remote retail operations.

Canadian Tire Buys Hudson’s Bay IP in $30M Deal

Canadian Tire is acquiring Hudson’s Bay’s historic stripes, coat of arms, and brand trademarks for $30 million, as the department store chain winds down operations.

Canadians Shift Spending Amid Price Hikes and Tariffs

A new Leger report finds 75% of Canadians see rising prices, with many cutting U.S. purchases and boosting local spending amid Trump-era tariffs.

Tariffs, uncertainty impacting motorcycle sales in Canada: Moto Canada CEO

Moto Canada, based in Markham, Ontario, represents manufacturers and retailers of motorcycles, scooters, and off-road vehicles.

Auction of HBC Artifacts Threatens Canada’s Heritage

The proposed auction of Hudson’s Bay Company artifacts raises alarm among Indigenous leaders and museums over the loss of Canada’s cultural memory and legacy.

L’Oréal Canada’s social and economic impact

L'Oréal has operated in Canada since 1958 and plays a crucial role in shaping the beauty industry's trajectory.

RONA Converts 15 More Stores to RONA+ Banner in Québec

RONA inc. continues its national rebranding with 15 additional stores converted to RONA+ in Québec, enhancing the home improvement experience for Canadians.

Loblaw CEO warns of “large wave” of tariff-related increases

Loblaw expects a surge is coming in the number of products impacted by tariffs.

Anne Mulaire Marks 20 Years of Sustainable Canadian Fashion

Canadian brand Anne Mulaire celebrates 20 years of sustainable fashion rooted in Métis heritage and local manufacturing.

Canadian health food industry thrives despite economic challenges: Aaron Skelton, CHFA

Aaron Skelton, CEO of the Canadian Health Food Association, highlights the sector’s continued growth and resilience amid economic pressures, while advocating for innovation, regulatory reform, and increased support for small businesses across Canada’s natural health product landscape.

Canadian Brands Must ‘Walk the Talk’ in Era of Rising National Loyalty

TBWA Canada's CEO shares how brands must go beyond slogans to earn Canadian loyalty amid global tensions.