The Retail Insider Podcast Network
434 episodes - English - Latest episode: 9 days ago - ★★★★★ - 2 ratingsA collection of podcast episodes from both "The Weekly" and "The Interview Series" podcasts created by Retail Insider Canada.
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Episodes
Adam X Atelier: Fashion's Artistic Journey
April 09, 2024 21:37 - 15 minutes - 14.4 MBCraig and Adam X., Founder and Creative Director at Adam X Atelier, discuss the foundation and philosophy behind his designs, highlighting his multicultural background and his passion for art and fashion. Adam’s journey began with foundational courses at George Brown College and styling at Ryerson University, leading him to discover the communicative power of fashion. Adam discusses his approach to designing garments that enhance the wearer’s beauty through meticulous draping, tailoring, and...
Opinion: Yorkville Harry Rosen Moves About In Yorkville
April 03, 2024 22:59 - 20 minutes - 18.3 MBCraig and Lee discuss the relocation of Harry Rosen’s flagship store from 82 Bloor Street West to 153 Cumberland Street in Toronto’s upscale Yorkville neighborhood. This move from its long-standing Bloor Street location represents a major development in the city’s retail scene. The store’s design features will include a three-floor layout and expanded back-of-house operations, which are part of Harry Rosen’s evolving retail strategy. The relocation is seen as a transformative moment for York...
Katz (RioCan): Commercial Real Estate Insights
April 02, 2024 21:05 - 18 minutes - 17.1 MBCraig and Josh Katz, Assistant Vice President of Leasing at RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust, discuss Katz’s extensive career in commercial real estate, starting with his entry into the industry right before the 2008 financial crisis. Katz highlights the resilience of certain retail categories and the innovative approaches taken by RioCan to navigate these challenging times, including the development of The Well in Toronto. This mixed-use project is a transformation of urban retail, o...
Morrow (Wicked Rose): Women's Martial Gear
March 28, 2024 16:02 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MBCraig interviews Christina Morrow, Founder at Vancouver-based Wicked Rose, about Morrow’s journey of creating a groundbreaking women’s martial arts activewear brand. Morrow shares her personal motivation, driven by the lack of suitable clothing options for women in martial arts, which led her to develop a brand that combines high quality, performance-oriented apparel with size inclusivity up to 5XL. Morrow’s six-year experience in Muay Thai, and her dissatisfaction with existing offerings, ...
Leblanc (Simons): Halifax store and ongoing expansion
March 26, 2024 16:10 - 21 minutes - 19.4 MBCraig Patterson and Bernard Leblanc, President and Chief Executive Officer at La Maison Simons, discuss the opening of Simons’ new store in Halifax, marking the Quebec City-based retailer’s first venture into the Atlantic provinces. Leblanc shares insights into the $20 million investment and the store’s design, which pays homage to Halifax’s maritime heritage and the Simon family’s roots, with architectural elements inspired by the Bluenose and sails referencing Simons family history. The st...
Opinion: Yorkville's Pusateri's and Flo's Diner
March 20, 2024 21:54 - 10 minutes - 9.2 MBCraig and Lee discuss the recent announcement of closures of two long-standing establishments in Yorkville, Toronto – Pusatiri’s grocery and Flo’s Diner. Pusatiri’s, known for its upscale grocery offerings, is closing due to a strategic decision by the owners, with plans for the space potentially converting into a restaurant. The closure of Flo’s Diner, a beloved local eatery, follows a landlord dispute, leaving its future uncertain. These closures signal significant shifts in the neighborho...
Ali Baker (Avison Young): Retail Trends Shift To Suburban Markets
March 17, 2024 21:03 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MBCraig and Ali Baker, Vice President at Avison Young in Toronto, discuss the dynamic landscape of Canadian retail, focusing on the transformative effects of the pandemic and the shift towards suburban markets. In the conversation, Baker highlights the resurgence of suburban strip plazas and the competitive nature of these markets, driven by the pandemic’s influence on consumer mobility and retail preferences. Quick service restaurants, service retail, and boutique fitness studios are iden...
Opinion: Retail Changes on Robson
March 11, 2024 21:00 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MBCraig and Lee discuss the latest retail developments on Robson Street, a key shopping area in downtown Vancouver. They highlight significant changes, such as the transformation of the former Victoria’s Secret location into an adidas Concept store and the relocation of Roots due to Arc’teryx taking over its prime spot. This episode delves into the dynamics of retail real estate, showcasing how major brands are reshaping the street’s retail mix. Further, they touch on additional developmen...
Eric Sherman (First Capital REIT): Retail Insights
March 07, 2024 01:03 - 22 minutes - 21 MBCraig and Eric Sherman, Head of National Operations at First Capital REIT discuss Eric’s extensive experience in the retail real estate industry, highlighting his journey from a summer student to the head of national operations at First Capital REIT. Eric reflects on his start in the industry, emphasizing the lack of awareness about retail real estate opportunities during his university days. He recounts his career progression, mentioning key projects and roles leading to his current positio...
Opinion: CF Sherway Gardens: Strong Sales as Retailers Open
March 03, 2024 23:52 - 21 minutes - 19.6 MBCraig and Lee discuss CF Sherway Gardens, a Toronto shopping centre that boasts high sales per square foot productivity as new retailers open. The mall is anchored by Hudson’s Bay, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Harry Rosen, and will be welcoming new retailers such as Arcteryx, Ray Ban, and Alo Yoga. The future of Saks Fifth Avenue at the mall is uncertain, with the store having significantly downsized its offerings. Additionally, the mall lacks a direct subway connection and faces competition from ...
Opinion: Loblaws Opens at Vancouver's Post
February 21, 2024 22:20 - 12 minutes - 11.6 MBCraig 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 n...
Opinion: Oakridge Welcomes New Vancouver Luxury Retailers
February 15, 2024 11:00 - 14 minutes - 13.6 MBCraig 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 fro...
Bailey (Interac) and Nagy (eCommerce Canada): Interac Insights and Small Business Success in Canada
January 24, 2024 16:00 - 18 minutes - 16.6 MBCraig, 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 hi...
Martin Moriarty (Marcus & Millichap): Vancouver Retail Insights
January 18, 2024 22:37 - 18 minutes - 16.7 MBCraig 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 ...
Lisa Hutcheson (JCWG): Ebeltoft Group's Retail Innovations Book
January 17, 2024 23:32 - 28 minutes - 26.1 MBCraig 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 susta...
Ani Nersessian (VM-ID): Visual Merchandising Significance
January 15, 2024 16:11 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBRetail 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 reta...
Opinion: 2023’s Most Read Articles and Upcoming
January 09, 2024 22:29 - 16 minutes - 15.3 MBCraig 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...
Casdin Parr (JLL): Canadian Retail Landscape: Insights and Trends
December 18, 2023 07:30 - 17 minutes - 15.8 MBCraig 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...
Scott Mulligan (CDNGlobal): Expansion Strategies Revealed
December 14, 2023 05:05 - 7 minutes - 6.94 MBCraig 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...
Tony Flanz (Think Retail): Retail Trends and Insights
December 10, 2023 22:27 - 21 minutes - 20.1 MBCraig 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 unf...
Mark Ainley (Sense of Space): Optimizing Retail Spaces with Feng Shui
December 04, 2023 23:12 - 16 minutes - 15 MBCraig and Mark Ainley, a contemporary Feng Shui consultant and the founder of Sense of Space based in Vancouver. Ainley sheds light on the intricate interplay between design, colour, and functionality in retail spaces. He emphasizes the need to move beyond conventional perceptions of Feng Shui, showcasing its relevance in optimizing the layout and ambiance of homes, businesses, and, notably, retail establishments. Mark Ainley Ainley discusses his expertise in aligning the design of s...
Suzanne Sears (Best Retail Careers): New Canadians in Retail Industry
November 26, 2023 19:26 - 9 minutes - 9.07 MBCraig and Suzanne Sears, the CEO and founder of Luxury Careers Canada discuss the challenges faced by new Canadians in securing employment, emphasizing the vast pool of highly educated, underemployed individuals in the Canadian workforce. She stresses the importance of retailers adapting to the reality that 35% of the workforce comprises new Canadians, urging a shift in mindset towards embracing diversity and providing equal opportunities. The conversation delves into discriminatory hiri...
Suzanne Sears (Best Retail Careers): Ontario's Salary Disclosure Legislation
November 23, 2023 23:13 - 13 minutes - 12.3 MBCraig and Suzanne Sears, CEO and founder of Luxury Careers Canada, discuss Ontario’s salary disclosure legislation. Suzanne provides valuable insights into the origins of this legislation, its initial cancellation by the Ford government, and its recent revival. The conversation delves into the legislation’s primary intent – addressing the gender pay gap and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the retail sector. The discussion further explores the potential repercussions for...
Opinion: Vancouver and San Francisco Retail
November 21, 2023 23:08 - 9 minutes - 8.38 MBCraig and Lee delve into a detailed comparison of the retail landscapes in Vancouver and San Francisco. The discussion starts with the alarming number of store closures in San Francisco, where Market Street and Union Square. Vancouver seems to be more resilient in this regard, especially in popular areas like Robson Street and Granville Street. The conversation takes a somber turn as they address the issue of poverty and homelessness which is more concentrated in Vancouver, notably in the Do...
Opinion: The Decline Of Downtown Retail
November 12, 2023 22:13 - 12 minutes - 11 MBCraig and Lee delve into the intricate dynamics of downtown retail, honing in on the specific case of Edmonton in this episode of The Weekly by Retail Insider. Craig, having traversed the diverse retail landscapes from Vancouver to San Francisco, shares insights on the stark contrast between the vibrancy of suburban shopping centers and the decline of downtown cores. The conversation unfolds with a critical examination of factors such as the historical shift from downtown to suburbs post-Wor...
Opinion: Canadian Jewelry Trends and Insights
November 06, 2023 07:43 - 7 minutes - 7.28 MBCraig and Lee discuss Craig’s recent talk at the Canadian Jewellers Association Summit in Vancouver. They delve into emerging trends in the Canadian jewellery industry, including the growing presence of luxury brands and the shift towards direct-to-consumer retail. They also consider the impact of a potential recession on consumer sentiment, particularly among the wealthy. The discussion emphasizes the significance of creating a captivating in-store environment for jewellery retailers, a...
Insights on Overcoming Retail Technology Challenges in an Interview with La Vie en Rose and GoCo [Interview]
October 31, 2023 21:52 - 16 minutes - 15.4 MBCraig has a discussion with Eric Champagne, CIO of La Vie en Rose, and Benoit Simard, President of GoCo. They discuss the key challenges facing the retail industry, with a strong focus on La Vie en Rose's digital transformation with the support of GoCo by TELUS. Champagne highlights three critical challenges: the need for robust cybersecurity, the rapid evolution of technology, and the competitive workforce landscape. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused on maximizing the value of...
Passen (Garofalo/Campbell/Lewis): Revolutionary Digital Sizing Solution
October 23, 2023 03:55 - 19 minutes - 17.5 MBCraig and the Passen leadership discuss their innovative digital measurement platform that is poised to revolutionize the fashion industry. Passen's digital solution is designed to help consumers find clothing that fits both online and in-store, addressing a long-standing challenge in the retail world. Their commitment to improving shopper satisfaction, boosting online sales, and reducing the environmental impact of fashion consumption sets Passen apart as a trailblazer in this field. Th...
Johanne Marcotte (JLL): Navigating Property Management Trends
October 11, 2023 17:31 - 18 minutes - 17.4 MBCraig and Johanne Marcotte, Executive Vice President, Portfolio Management, Retail at JLL Canada, discuss property management trends, emphasizing the importance of a global network, sustainability, and adapting to changing tenant expectations and technology. They delve into JLL’s approach to navigating these trends, offering insights for property owners and investors. Property management has evolved from merely overseeing spaces to curating experiences, with a focus on health and well-be...
Opinion: San Francisco Retail vs Canadian Retail
October 03, 2023 15:43 - 16 minutes - 14.7 MBCraig and Lee embark on a discussion centered around the contrasting retail landscapes of San Francisco's Union Square and Toronto's Yorkville. Their recent trip to San Francisco prompted them to explore the Union Square area, known for its diverse retail offerings, particularly in the luxury segment. They highlight the architectural grandeur of Union Square, wide sidewalks, and a concentration of high-end brands like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. The discussion delves into the presen...
Kyle Tomlin (ICSC): ICSC@CANADA Conference 2023 Preview
September 27, 2023 18:34 - 10 minutes - 9.62 MBCraig and Kyle Tomlin, Director of Events in Canada for ICSC, discuss the highly anticipated ICSC@CANADA 2023 Conference, set to take place from October 2nd to 4th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre North Hall in downtown Toronto. This event serves as a pivotal moment for the Canadian retail and commercial leasing industry, attracting attendees from both Canada and the United States. One of the standout features of the conference is its vibrant show floor, which has evolved over the ...
Opinion: Bloor Toronto Update with Luxury Brand Renovations/Openings
September 21, 2023 21:58 - 15 minutes - 14.1 MBCraig and Lee dive into the dynamic changes taking place on Bloor Street West in downtown Toronto. The episode explores the city’s evolving luxury run, focusing on the influx of luxury brands, extensive renovations, and exciting store openings that are reshaping the retail landscape. Craig highlights the grand arrival of Ferragamo, a renowned Italian luxury brand, on Bloor Street. He shares insights from his interview with Ferragamo’s CEO, shedding light on the brand’s strategic choice to e...
Chau Lui (Paris Jewellery): A Family Story of Success
September 10, 2023 22:25 - 19 minutes - 17.7 MBCraig and Chau Lui, Co-Owner of Paris Jewellers, discuss the remarkable journey of the Edmonton-based jewelry brand that originated from humble beginnings to a thriving jewelry brand with 23 locations across Canada. Chau recounts how her mother’s perseverance as an immigrant led to the establishment of the first store, even in the face of language barriers. The family’s dedication and the warm embrace of the St. Albert community propelled the brand’s growth, marked by a unique combination of...
Opinion: Yorkville vs. Yorkdale - Toronto's Luxury Competition
September 05, 2023 22:21 - 15 minutes - 13.7 MBCraig and Lee discuss the fierce rivalry unfolding between Toronto’s Bloor-Yorkville and Yorkdale Shopping Centre in the realm of luxury retail. Delving into the nuances of this competition, they highlight the contrasting strategies and advantages each entitiy brings to the table. While Yorkdale’s dominance owes much to the streamlined approach offered by its single landlord, Oxford Properties, and its climate-controlled environment that appeals to shoppers during harsh Canadian winters, Blo...
Opinion: Are Comprehensive ‘World Of’ Concessions Best For Department Stores?
August 28, 2023 20:46 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MBCraig and Lee discuss the intriguing juxtaposition between traditional department stores and the contemporary trend of brand-specific "World Of" concessions within the realm of retail. Delving into the heart of this topic, they examine the implications for consumer experience and shopping convenience. While department stores historically aimed to provide a comprehensive assortment of brands and products under one roof, the emergence of brand-specific concessions challenges this notion by con...
Marco Revah (Consumer Distributing): Revival of An Innovative Retail Concept
August 23, 2023 23:45 - 19 minutes - 18 MBEntrepreneur Marco Revah has plans to revive the once-iconic Consumers Distributing brand. Closed for over a quarter-century, Consumers Distributing was known for its pioneering retail model. Revah, a seasoned retail veteran, aims to breathe new life into the brand with an updated concept, Consumers Distributing 2.0, designed to cater to modern consumers and their changing shopping preferences. Founded in 1957, the original Consumers Distributing quickly became a staple in Canadian shopp...
Opinion: Luxury Retail Expansion at Yorkdale
August 21, 2023 21:41 - 9 minutes - 8.24 MBCraig and Lee discuss the groundbreaking transformation underway at Toronto’s Yorkdale shopping center, a conversation centered on the future of luxury retail within this retail hub. The focal point of their conversation is the extensive luxury retail expansion that’s poised to redefine the mall’s allure. Craig provides listeners with intricate insights into how approximately 100,000 square feet of prime retail space will be thoroughly revamped to accommodate a meticulously curated collectio...
David Nagy (eCommerce Canada): Canadian Digital Adoption Program Explained
August 17, 2023 07:15 - 16 minutes - 14.9 MBCraig and David Nagy, Founder at eCommerce Canada, discuss the Canadian Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), a $4 billion government-funded initiative to promote digital innovation and transformation for small businesses in Canada. They delve into the application process, grant amounts, interest-free loans, and youth employment subsidies, highlighting the program’s potential impact on businesses and entrepreneurs. Interviewed this episode: David Nagy, Founder at eCommerce Canada eCommerce ...
Opinion: Yorkville Transformation With Kith & Other Upscale
August 15, 2023 07:15 - 17 minutes - 15.6 MBCraig and Lee discuss the exciting arrival of Kith, an international fashion brand known for its trendy streetwear, in the upscale Yorkville area of Toronto. The 10,000 square feet store will feature a unique ice cream bar concept called Kith Treats. This move is expected to attract a younger, affluent demographic and enhance Yorkville’s reputation as a high-end shopping destination. Other retail developments in Bloor-Yorkville are also covered in this episode. Interviewed this episode: ...
Dean Davidson (Dean Davidson): Jewelry Brand Success from the Beginning
August 11, 2023 06:37 - 6 minutes - 6.25 MBCraig and Dean discuss the inspiring journey of Dean Davidson‘s jewelry brand, from its humble beginnings as a hobby to becoming a successful line carried by prestigious retailers like Holt Renfrew. They delve into the design process, materials used, and future plans, including the possibility of expanding into homeware. Dean shares insights into his demographic, awards, and the opening of his first physical store in Toronto. The interview reveals the brand’s global distribution, carried b...
Opinion: Londonderry Mall Evolution and HBC Retention
August 09, 2023 07:15 - 15 minutes - 14.4 MBCraig and Lee discuss the transformation and new additions at Londonderry Mall in Edmonton, including a passport office, Shoppers Drug Mart BeautyBOUTIQUE, and a downsized Hudson’s Bay store with a potential outlet concept. They explore how the mall caters to the diverse local community with relevant amenities and retailers. Interviewed this episode: Londonderry Shopping Centre In Edmonton Adding Tenants, Hudson’s Bay Store Downsizing And Remaining Open Subscribe, Rate, and Review our...
Aaron Spivak (Hush Blankets): Inception to Full Sleep Company
August 04, 2023 07:15 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MBCCraig and Aaron Spivak discuss the journey of Hush Blankets, from the brand’s inception as an innovative solution to a successful sleep company offering a wide range of functional and comfortable bedding products. They discuss Hush’s experiences with pop-up stores, distribution strategies, and plans for the future. Interviewed this episode: Aaron Spivak, Co-Founder of Hush. Hush. Subscribe, Rate, and Review our Retail Insider Podcast! Follow Craig: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/...
David Nerada (Ricki's/Cleo): The Brand's Transformation
July 27, 2023 07:15 - 13 minutes - 12.8 MBCraig speaks with Dave Nerada, President of Ricki's and Cleo Fashion, to discuss the changes happening the women's fashion brand Ricki's. They talk about the focus on bringing relevancy back to the brand through a new web platform, improved product quality, and the launch of a new store design. They also mention plans for renovations in current stores and the accessibility of the brand's price point. The conversation touches on the customer base, the updated website, shipping options, store ...
David MacMullen (Drop Spot): Vintage Fashion and Sustainable Retail
July 21, 2023 18:19 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MBCraig and David MacMullen, Co-Partner at Drop Spot Vintage discuss the journey of building Drop Spot Vintage, a vintage clothing store in Hamilton, Ontario. They delve into the expansion of the business, including the opening of a second location and a dedicated warehouse for online sales and wholesale. They explore the challenges of sourcing inventory, the types of merchandise available, and the growing demand for sustainable fashion. The conversation highlights the impact of the sustainabi...
Opinion: Frustrations with Loblaws Self Checkout
July 18, 2023 07:15 - 10 minutes - 9.67 MBCraig and Lee discuss the frustrations and negative impacts of the push to self checkouts, specifically focusing on their experiences at Loblaws and Shoppers Drug Mart. They highlight the lack of staff and respect, absence of bags, and the inconvenience faced by customers including vulnerable groups. Craig expresses his disappointment and calls for improved customer service in these stores. Interviewed this episode: Single Use Plastic Bag Ban Creates Unintended Problems In Canada [Featu...
Opinion: Exploring the State of Canadian Retail
July 12, 2023 21:00 - 14 minutes - 12.8 MBCraig and Lee dive into the current state of the Canadian retail industry, discussing recent consumer trends and challenges. They explore topics such as the impact of inflation, consumer spending habits, strengths in lower-cost regions, the struggle of small businesses, the shift between online and in-store retail, and the inventory and supply chain issues faced by retailers. Interviewed this episode: Canadian Consumer Spending at Retailers Remains Consistent for July Amid High Inflatio...
Daniel Ritchie: Past Retail Chat and Brand Launch
June 27, 2023 19:02 - 56 minutes - 51.8 MBRetail Insider's Craig Patterson interviews retail exec Daniel Ritchie about his past with several notable retailers. The interesting conversation is a walk down memory lane that many will enjoy. Daniel Ritchie is still at it after an attempted retirement, and is working with brand Dr. Vranjes to get it into Canadian stores. Interviewed this episode: Daniel Ritchie, Retail Resource Partners Inc. Dr. Vranjes Retail Resource Partners Inc. Bretton’s Image: Martin Vendryes Woodworking S...
Opinion: Nordstrom Canada Farewell
June 20, 2023 07:15 - 14 minutes - 12.8 MBCraig and Lee discuss the final exit of Nordstrom from Canada after almost 8 years, including the smashing of fixtures by staff in Vancouver during liquidation, challenges Nordstrom had in Canada, speculation on future of old Nordstrom locations and an American Nordstrom discussion. Retail Insider content discussed this episode: Nordstrom Rack Stores In Canada Shuttered EOD Sunday As Nordstorm Stores Prepare To Close In June Nordstrom Rack Closes Canadian Stores: A Discussion [Podcast]...
Mark Cohen (Sears Canada: early 2000s): Department Stores
June 14, 2023 07:15 - 57 minutes - 52.7 MB~This is the audio from a video podcast series, The Interview Series by Retail Insider Canada and is also available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel . ~ Craig sits down with Mark Cohen, Director of Retail Studies at Columbia Business School and CEO of Sears Canada between 2001 and 2004. They discuss how the department store got started, how they once flourished, what went wrong, and the future of department stores — if any. Interviewed this episode: Mark Cohen, Director of Re...
Opinion: Toronto Yorkville Retail Updates
June 13, 2023 07:15 - 15 minutes - 13.8 MB~If you would like to subscribe to only Canadian retail discussions between Craig and Lee by Retail Insider, a separate "The Weekly" podcast show is now available (link to Apple Podcast show). If you would like to subscribe to only interviews by Retail Insider, a separate "The Interview Series" podcast show is now available (link to Apple Podcast show)~ Craig and Lee have a conversation about what's happening on Yorkville Avenue in Toronto, which has seen several high-end brands lease sp...