Retail
Ontario government scraps retail lottery system
New rules that are meant to “open” the market will include roughly 20 new licenses being awarded each month.
Digital payments explode as cash volumes implode
A Payments Canada report also finds security concerns still hold back the uptake of payments with mobile devices.
Bridgehead Coffee acquired by Second Cup’s new parent company
The acquisition is the first by Aegis Brands as part of a plan to expand its portfolio of brands.
Sobeys rolls out sensory-friendly shopping nationally
The grocer expands a pilot project to make all of its stores more inclusive of people with autism or other health considerations.
Home Hardware tries to out-do Santa
The retailer positions itself as a holiday shopping destination for things other than tools.
View from the C-Suite: Leon’s aims to be trendier
The retailer continues to roll out smaller stores, in-store tech and a more fashionable image in an attempt to attract new customers.
Hudson’s Bay launches first private label beauty products
The retailer extends its coloured stripes into a line emphasizing natural ingredients and beauty essentials.
Canadians among the most active loyalty program users
Consumers view rewards as more important to loyalty than other factors, but are less likely to give their points to charity.
IGA shares another food-centric holiday story
The Quebec grocery chain once again puts the focus on emotional connections and standing out during a hectic season.
Tech in Action: JC Penney creates a virtual try-on ad for engagement rings
The U.S. retailer launched the AR ad ahead of the busiest time of the year for proposals.
Cadillac Fairview to develop retail solutions with Scale AI
From the Tech newsletter: The Ravel by CF innovation division is pursuing ways to offer more personalization within physical retail.
Retail sales slump (again) heading into the holidays
Analyst Ed Strapagiel predicts 2019 could be one of the worst years since the recession.
Keurig pops up, touts K-Cup recycling
The coffee brewer is educating consumers about its recycling program during its holiday mall activation.
View from the C-Suite: M&M Food Market eyes expansion, alt-proteins
From distribution deals with convenience and pharmacy to ventures outside of Canada, nothing is off the menu, says CEO Andy O’Brien.
Do closures at Lowe’s spell the end of the DIY era?
From the C-Suite newsletter: Experts weigh in on the home improvement retailer’s decision to shutter 34 stores.
