Craig and Lee discuss the recent opening of a Loblaws City Market in downtown Vancouver’s historic The Post building, an important addition to the city’s grocery shopping availability. The store occupies a substantial 45,000 square feet on the second floor of the renovated Canada Post building, introducing a vast retail and grocery space to the area. They highlight the store’s layout, including a wide array of departments such as bakery, dairy, deli, and seafood, and its strategic location near prominent city landmarks and office buildings.

They delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by the store’s location. Despite its impressive size and variety, the Loblaws City Market faces competition from numerous nearby grocery stores serving the densely populated downtown area. Craig and Lee discuss whether the store’s location—lacking immediate residential towers—might impact its foot traffic, contrasting it with other areas of downtown Vancouver that boast higher residential densities. They speculate on the store’s potential role as a destination for specific products and its appeal to office workers in the vicinity.

Further, they discuss the broader implications of the store’s opening for downtown Vancouver’s retail landscape and urban living. They touch on the convenience of living in a downtown area with high grocery store penetration and how the new Loblaws City Market fits into this ecosystem. The conversation covers payment experiences, with a particular focus on the store’s acceptance of payment methods and how this reflects on Loblaws’ customer service. Overall, Craig and Lee provide insights into how the new store contributes to downtown Vancouver’s convenience, retail diversity, and the ongoing evolution of urban grocery shopping.

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Craig and Lee discuss Oakridge Park's transformation into a luxury retail hub, as revealed in their latest podcast. The announcement includes a mix of luxury and upper contemporary brands, such as Christian Louboutin, Miu Miu, Alexander Wang, Maison Margiela, and Versace, marking a significant upscale shift for the shopping center. With about 20% of its retail space dedicated to luxury brands, Oakridge is set to become an exclusive mall attracting wealthy clientele. Craig shares insights from Crystal Burns of Quad Real, emphasizing the strategic positioning of Oakridge Park in Vancouver's retail scene.

The podcast delves into the unusual strategy of announcing retailers in batches, a rare occurrence in Canada according to Craig's experience. He compares Oakridge's approach to Royal Mount in Montreal, noting the significance of such announcements in today's retail market. The discussion extends to the introduction of new-to-market brands and the implications for Vancouver's luxury retail landscape, highlighting the city's capacity to support this influx of high-end retailers.

Craig and Lee further explore the presence of existing brands in downtown Vancouver and their expansion to Oakridge, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, and others. They ponder the future of luxury retail in Vancouver, considering the potential for market share shifts between downtown and Oakridge. With excitement, Craig anticipates future announcements and the development's impact, drawing parallels with Royal Mount in Montreal. The conversation concludes with optimism for Oakridge Park's contribution to Vancouver's status as a luxury retail destination, eagerly awaiting the project's completion and the arrival of new retailers.

Discussed this episode:

• Oakridge Park in Vancouver Announces First Confirmed Luxury Retail Tenants Ahead of 2025 Grand Opening [Feature]

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Craig, Leo, and David delve into the realm of small and medium-sized businesses in Canada. Leo highlights Interac's focus on authentic support, emphasizing the importance of the small business community in Canada's economic landscape. The discussion unfolds around Interac's initiatives, including the Dollar One Hub, offering tools for goal setting, tax planning, and invoicing, along with a mindfulness and money module to alleviate the stress entrepreneurs often face.

David Nagy shares his admiration for Interac's work, acknowledging its broader impact beyond traditional debit transactions. The conversation takes a reflective turn as David emphasizes the challenges entrepreneurs encounter, both personally and professionally. The speakers delve into the mindset of small business owners, the interconnectedness of business and personal life, and the need for simplified tools. Interac's commitment to making the entrepreneurial journey smoother extends beyond payments, with Leo hinting at upcoming ventures in the verification space, supporting diverse communities, and building networks to bridge gaps for entrepreneurs across Canada. The trio concludes with a celebration of the unique spirit of Canadian entrepreneurship and the vital role small businesses play in the nation's economic fabric.

Interviewed this episode:

• Leo Bailey, Client Partnership, SMB Director at Interac Corp.
• Interac Corp
• David Nagy, Founder at eCommerce Canada
• eCommerce Canada

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Craig Patterson and Martin Moriarty, Senior Vice President at Marcus & Millichap, discuss the dynamic nature of Vancouver’s retail market and growth. Moriarty sheds light on the transformation of key areas like the luxury zone along Alberni Street, the vibrancy of Robson Street, and the promising developments around Granville Street. He notes the arrival of high-profile brands like Balenciaga, signalling a robust and diverse retail environment.

In their conversation, they touch upon the significant transformations in areas like Oakridge Park and West 4th Avenue in Kitsilano. Moriarty speaks about the comprehensive redevelopment of Oakridge Centre into a mixed-use space, highlighting the expected influx of luxury retailers and the positive impact on the city’s retail landscape. The discussion also covers the evolution of West 4th into a hub for direct-to-consumer and outdoor brands, reflecting the street’s unique identity and its appeal to a millennial demographic.

Patterson and Moriarty then discuss the challenges and successes in revitalizing areas like Gastown, noting the recent upturn in retail activity and the potential pedestrianization of Water Street. Martin expresses optimism about the future of Vancouver’s retail sectors, underlining the city’s growing appeal on a global scale and its ability to attract diverse international retailers. The conversation concludes with a positive outlook on Vancouver’s continued growth and its evolving role in the global retail marketplace.

Interviewed this episode:

• Martin Moriarty, Senior Vice President at Marcus & Millichap
• Marcus & Millichap

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Craig and Lisa (Phillips) Hutcheson, Managing Partner at J.C. Williams Group, discuss insights gathered in the Ebeltoft Group's newly released Retail Innovations 19 book. They highlight the role of sustainability in modern retail, both as an environmental concern and as a foundational element in business models. From Canadian initiatives like Good Foot Delivery, promoting employment for neuro-diverse communities, to France's Fresh focusing on local, organic produce, they illustrate how sustainability is being integrated in diverse retail formats globally. 

The conversation then shifts to enhanced consumer experiences, demonstrating the resurgence of physical stores but with a twist. They discuss examples like Suso Skate Co's roller rink pop-ups in shopping centres and Shanghai's Ultraviolet restaurant, which offers a multi-sensory dining experience. These examples underscore the retail sector's innovative approaches to creating memorable, immersive customer experiences. Hutcheson also touches upon the importance of combining online and offline aspects to enhance customer engagement and convenience. Patterson and Hutcheson then delve into the theme of operational efficiency in retail. 

They discuss examples like Sweet Green's automated salad preparation in Chicago and Just Cuts' streamlined haircutting services in Australia, showing how technological integration is optimizing retail operations. These examples highlight the industry's response to modern challenges, including labor shortages and the demand for quick, efficient service. The discussion concludes with a forward-looking perspective on how these innovations might shape the next 50 years of retail.

Interviewed this episode:

• Lisa (Phillips) Hutcheson, Managing Partner at J.C. Williams Group
• J.C. Williams Group

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Retail Insider’s Craig Patterson and Ani Nersessian, Founder at VM ID Inc., discuss the role of visual merchandising in the retail sector. Nersessian emphasizes the importance of visual merchandising in creating inviting retail environments and enhancing customer engagement. She highlights the challenges small businesses face in visual merchandising, noting that it often gets neglected due to various operational demands. She advocates for the strategic use of visual elements to optimize retail presentation and elevate customer experiences.

Nersessian points out how larger companies set trends, and she discusses the importance of adapting these trends to fit the needs of smaller businesses. She shares her approach to consulting and package design, offering tailored visual merchandising solutions. Nersessian also touches on the psychological aspects of merchandising, such as customer navigation, product grouping, and creating an inviting space layout, which all contribute to the overall shopping experience and potentially increase sales.

Nersessian then goes on to talk about the practical aspects of visual merchandising, including the use of planograms, software tools, and the importance of experience over formal education in this field. She addresses the challenges of meeting tight client deadlines, especially during peak retail seasons, and the importance of adaptability in visual merchandising. The conversation concludes with a discussion on measuring the success of visual merchandising efforts, focusing on metrics like unit per transaction, average sales, and customer conversion rates. Ani emphasizes that visual merchandising is not just about aesthetics but is a critical component of the retail engine, driving sales and enhancing brand value.

Interviewed this episode:

• Ani Nersessian, Founder at VM ID Inc.
• VM ID Inc.

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Craig and Lee delve into the most read articles of 2023, providing insights into the retail industry’s notable stories and trends. They begin by discussing Hudson’s Bay Company’s relaunch of Zellers, a major retail development that generated buzz and curiosity. The hosts evaluate the initial success of the relaunch and potential challenges in the future, such as low foot traffic and the popularity of Zellers’ food trucks.

The conversation shifts to Nordstrom’s surprising exit from Canada in early 2023, leaving a void in the Canadian retail landscape. Craig and Lee explore the impact on Canadian workers, vendors, and shoppers while reflecting on Nordstrom’s brief yet impactful presence. They also touch on the luxury wing expansion at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre, which is the most productive shopping center in Canada, and highlight other exciting retail developments to watch for in 2024, including Royalmount in Montreal and Oakridge Centre’s transformation into Oakridge Park.

The hosts wrap up the episode by discussing Unity Brands’ strategic acquisitions, Furla’s sudden departure from Canada, and the ever-evolving retail landscape.

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Craig and Casdin Parr, Vice President of Retail Advisory Services at JLL Toronto, discuss Casdin's insights on the state of Canadian retail. The duo delves into the evolving trends and positive momentum the industry is witnessing, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between retailers and landlords. Casdin Parr sheds light on the exciting trajectory over the past 18 to 24 months, noting the shrinking inventory in high streets and shopping centers, showcasing the growth of top-quality brands. Looking ahead to 2024, expectations are set for a wave of exciting store openings, reflecting the collaborative spirit and the flourishing Canadian retail landscape.

The interview unfolds with a focus on international brands entering the Canadian market, with Craig inquiring about the factors driving this trend. Casdin Parr attributes it to the stability of the Canadian consumer and the concentrated performance of key markets like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. He anticipates a continuation of this trend, highlighting ongoing partnerships with brands entering the Canadian marketplace in 2023 and promising prospects for 2024 and 2025. The conversation pivots to the preference of retailers for high streets versus shopping centers, with insights into how brands aim to showcase their best brand experience regardless of the location, fostering an opportunity-driven approach in the retail landscape.

As the interview progresses, the focus shifts to specific markets like Bloor Yorkville, where Casdin Parr shares the remarkable transformation of the node over the past 18 to 24 months. The excitement surrounding new entrants and upcoming openings reflects the resilience and appeal of this dynamic retail hub. The dialogue extends to Toronto's luxury market, discussing the potential for a third luxury node and the impact of major projects like Royal Mountain Montreal and Oak Ridge Park in Vancouver. The interview concludes with a glimpse into the thriving luxury retail scene in Alberta, emphasizing the unexpected success of luxury stores in West Edmonton Mall and the shifting definition of luxury in the modern retail landscape.

Interviewed this episode:

• Casdin Parr, Vice President Retail Advisory Services, JLL
• JLL Canada

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Craig and Scott Mulligan, Managing Partner and Broker of Record at CDN Global, discuss an overview of CDN Global's recent expansion into the Toronto market through a successful merger with Ellington Partners Corporate Real Estate Advisors. The discussion unveils the unique position of CDN Global as a boutique brokerage, emphasizing its ownership structure and empathetic approach to client services.

The conversation delves into the challenges of the industrial space, shedding light on the increasing demand driven by the surge in e-commerce. Scott analyzes the tight industrial market conditions, with a mere 1 percent vacancy rate, and speculates on potential corrections in rental rates. The dialogue explores CDN Global's plans to actively grow its existing industrial business while expressing a keen interest in acquiring a team to lead the CDN Global retail group, recognizing the interconnectedness of retail and industrial sectors.

Scott also shares insights into recent notable deals, highlighting CDN Global's involvement in the sale of a building and land in Sheridan Park, emphasizing their active role in the life sciences sector. The conversation concludes with Scott expressing excitement about the merger and CDN Global's national representation, reinforcing their commitment to providing premium service to clients across Canada.

Interviewed this episode:

• Scott Mulligan, Broker of Record and Managing Partner, CDNGLOBAL Toronto, Brokerage
• CDNGLOBAL Toronto

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Craig and Tony Flanz, the founder and CEO of Montreal-based brokerage Think Retail, shed light on the ever-evolving Canadian retail landscape. The interview spans topics from the success story of Think Retail to Tony's valuable insights on international brands making their mark in Canada. With a keen focus on experiential shopping, Tony emphasizes the significance of providing unique in-store experiences to attract and retain consumers in the competitive retail market.

The discussion unfolds into an exploration of Tony's impressive journey in the industry, from his roots in leasing a small convenience center to founding Think Retail in 2005. The conversation navigates through Tony's experiences working with national landlords, such as Moorgaard and Presud, offering a comprehensive understanding of both sides of the retail table. As the interview progresses, Tony shares intriguing details about Think Retail's current projects, including the Royal Mail project in Montreal and The Well in Toronto, bringing a mix of global brands and unique concepts to the Canadian market.

The interview concludes with a glimpse into the exciting future of Canadian retail, with Tony revealing upcoming brand expansions. From the introduction of innovative concepts like Kailomar 24 to the entry of well-established European brands, Tony provides valuable insights into the trends shaping the retail landscape in the next few years. Overall, the conversation paints a vivid picture of the thriving and dynamic world of Canadian retail through the lens of Tony Flanz and Think Retail.

Interviewed this episode:

• Tony Flanz, President at Think Retail
• Think Retail

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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