The Retail Insider Podcast Network

Craig 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 em...

Craig 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, an...

Craig 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 pr...

Entrepreneur 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.  ...

Craig 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 o...

Craig 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 an...

Craig 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...

Craig 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 fi...

Craig 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 Addin...

CCraig 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,...

Craig 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 po...

Craig 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...

Craig 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.   Inte...

Craig 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 ep...

Retail 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...

Craig 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 S...

~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 th...

~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 abou...

~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 . If you would like to subscribe to only audio interviews by Retail Insider, a separate "The Interview Series" podcast show is now available ( link to Apple Podcast show ). If you would like to subscribe to only Canadian retail discussions...

~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 )~   Retail Insider’s Craig Patterson talks...

~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 . If you would like to subscribe to only audio interviews by Retail Insider, a separate "The Interview Series" podcast show is now available ( link to Apple Podcast show ). If you would like to subscribe to only Canadian retail discussions...

~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 . If you would like to subscribe to only audio interviews by Retail Insider, a separate "The Interview Series" podcast show is now available ( link to Apple Podcast show ). If you would like to subscribe to only Canadian retail discussions...

~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 chat about Nordstrom Rac...

~ If you would like to subscribe to only audio interviews by Retail Insider, a separate "The Interview Series" podcast show is now available ( link to Apple Podcast show ). If you would like to subscribe to only Canadian retail discussions between Craig and Lee by Retail Insider, a separate audio "The Weekly" podcast show is now available ( link to Apple Podcast show ). ~   Craig and Randy Harris...

~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 . If you would like to subscribe to only audio interviews by Retail Insider, a separate "The Interview Series" podcast show is now available ( link to Apple Podcast show ). If you would like to subscribe to only Canadian retail discussions...