AI Shopping

Butterly's 2026 consumer survey finds Canadians increasingly use AI for product research while continuing to value authentic reviews. Founder Ali de Bold discusses brand reputation, review credibility and checkout transparency.

Walmart has launched its Sparky AI shopping assistant in Canada, bringing conversational product discovery and shopping-list tools to Walmart.ca and its mobile app. The rollout follows U.S. findings of higher average order values among Sparky users as Canadian retailers expand their AI commerce strategies.

American Express is expanding its AI commerce strategy through OpenAI integrations, restaurant discovery and agentic payments. Its third-quarter earnings call reveals ambitions that could reshape how Canadian retailers attract customers, manage payment relationships and measure the value of emerging shopping channels.

Williams-Sonoma says Canada is leading international growth as Pottery Barn, West Elm and Williams Sonoma gain market share and expand digital and trade channels.

Canadian Tire is using AI to reshape merchandising, back-to-school assortments and digital content as shoppers increasingly turn to AI for product discovery.

Fake fashion stores mislead Canadian consumers online, how malls have sifted with society, Steve's Music auctioning remaining gear, Healthy Planet opening store, Frenchy's thrift store gets own musical, and other news.

Dollarama launches loyalty program with BMO, Leon's acquires remaining interest in Edmonton DC, INS Market expands to 5 TTC stations, Sherwood Park's JACEK Chocolates named best candy store, and other news