Score one for Canada. Not only is upscale Swiss menswear brand Strellson opening more Canadian locations, it's doing so before opening any American stores. A second Toronto location is on the way - it will be the only city in the world to boast two free-standing Strellson stores...
An interesting phenomenon is happening in the world of retail: some of the fastest growing and most exciting internet-only brands are opening brick-and-mortar stores...
Giorgio Armani's first Canadian outlet opens late next month at the Toronto Premium Outlets. Armani is currently recruiting management and staff for the new store, and will be holding a job fair towards the end of this month. Armani's Toronto outlet could be the first of multiple Canadian locations, as it rolls-out the concept throughout North America.
We interviewed Town Shoes President and CEO Bruce Dinan about DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse's Canadian store expansion. In April, DSW bought a 49.2% stake in Town Shoes, paving the way for DSW's entry into Canada. Mr. Dinan says that DSW stores will eventually roll-out across the country, and that its Canadian stores will essentially be the same as those in the United States. Its first two Canadian locations open early next month and at the same time, DSW will launch its Canadian e-commerce website...
Upscale New York City-based menswear designer John Varvatos could open more Canadian stores. Varvatos' first Canadian location opened last year and according to sources, the brand seeks to further expand its Canadian presence...
In an effort to become even more exclusive, Holt Renfrew will create luxury shopping 'apartments' in its Canadian stores. Referred to simply as The Apartment, the spaces will be accessible only to a handful of Holt's top customers, pending management approval. According to Holt Renfrew president Mark Derbyshire, the concept will provide "unparalleled luxury" that will eventually roll-out in all markets that Holt Renfrew serves...
Canada will become home to the only mall in North America anchored both by Walmart and a luxury department store. Could pairing downscale and luxury anchors in malls become a trend? Here's our analysis...
