Retail Media

Major cultural events are redirecting Canadian retail marketing toward physical spaces. The Q2 2026 report examines how motion-based DOOH, local sports activations, loyalty platforms and measurable sustainability practices are shaping competition for consumer attention across Canada.

Bay Street Video thrives after 33 years as people rediscover DVDs, HEAL Wellness opening first Victoria location, Vancouver bakery proposes 30 storey hotel project, Vancouver 'Villages' plan scrapped, Union claims Alberta flags in Sobeys stores promote separatism as grievance is filed, and other news.

Retail Insider's latest Retail Technology & Payments Report examines how artificial intelligence, payments, loyalty, commerce platforms, and digital infrastructure are becoming increasingly integrated, reshaping retail operations, customer experiences, and competitive advantage across the Canadian retail industry.

Canadian retail technology and payments in Q2 2026 were increasingly defined by the convergence of AI, payments, loyalty, delivery, and automation into integrated commerce ecosystems.

Q1 2026 repriced attention: AI reshaped discovery, DOOH and CTV moved toward performance, loyalty partnerships deepened ecosystems, and promo automation protected margins.

Q1 2026 saw AI move from retail tool to shopping interface. Winners are building data, loyalty, and execution foundations; laggards risk losing customers.