Sales of Canadian-made products at Loblaw stores are still higher than they were before U.S. President Donald Trump instigated a trade war against Canada and other countries in March, imposing sweeping new tariffs on imports to the United States. But the spike in sales seen earlier this year has levelled out, he said. (The Globe and Mail)
In 2024, household spending on cannabis products also, for the first time, surpassed the highest recorded annual spending from non-licensed sources, which was $5.844 billion in 2014. (StratCann)
"We knew there was going to be a lot of work ahead of us ... and we knew we wanted to do it in a way that was really respectful to the brand, so it was all hands on deck but a passion project for most." (The Canadian Press)
“Michael’s obsession with culture and commitment to long-term value creation make him the ideal candidate to build upon the success of Woodbridge.” (The Globe and Mail)
Retail’s digital future is here. Google Canada’s Eric Morris, Managing Director of Retail, joins Michael in his annual visit to the podcast to unpack Canada’s first AI-powered holiday season, emerging search behaviours, Gen Z insights, and the essential strategies retailers need heading into 2026.
Fresh Data: What Do 1,000 Canadian Shoppers Really Want in 2026?
The Canadian retail landscape is at a turning point. Our new 2026 Barometer, based on a survey of 1,000 shoppers, shows 70% now demand a seamless omnichannel experience. Discover the 4 key trends, from 'phygital' to hyperlocal, that are critical for a successful advertising strategy in the year ahead.
“Store shelves are well-stocked and the effect on prices has been minimized, largely thanks to retailers taking steps like frontloading imports during times of low or delayed tariff increases or absorbing the costs themselves." (Freight Waves)
“We’re proud to support initiatives that bring together government, industry and innovators to show how Canada can lead in building a cleaner, more competitive economy." (Grocery Business)
“Store shelves are well-stocked and the effect on prices has been minimized, largely thanks to retailers taking steps like frontloading imports during times of low or delayed tariff increases or absorbing the costs themselves." (Freight Waves)
“The comprehensive plan we have submitted responds to our challenges and modernizes the postal service to support today’s economy while serving all Canadians.” (Toronto Star)
“I've seen too many [franchisors] chase growth targets and lose what made them special.” (BIV)
Meet the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix Jurors
Great products deserve great judges. That’s why RCC's Canadian Grand Prix New Product Awards bring together a panel of accomplished industry experts and influential voices representing leading private retail, consumer packaged goods, media, packaging, product development, and hospitality firms to evaluate the very best new products in Canada.
Leading this year’s judging panel is Chef Poyan Danesh, award-winning chef, international competitor, and champion of culinary innovation.
Skims plans to use the new capital to accelerate brick-and-mortar and international expansion, as well as product innovation and category diversification. The company has 18 stores across the U.S. in cities including New York, Los Angeles, Austin and Atlanta and one in Mexico, with plans to open additional stores overseas in 2026. (CNBC)
"Okay, how can we still be relevant in the time of year, but with some new categories that we had not done before due to space limitations?” (Retail Brew)
“What we’re doing here in The Local is put together a group of vendors [so] customers can come in and support local businesses around their area.” (CBC)
Stay ahead of the upcoming holiday season with all the insights you need. Bookmark this page to access the latest resources as they become available. Learn More
Gift card scams are becoming increasingly common. In 2024, $5.7 million dollars in losses were reported due to gift card fraud. This page provides everything you need to know to understand how these scams work—and how to recognize the warning signs—to help protect you from becoming a target. Learn More
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