Mixed Retailers in Canada

TRENDS

The last few years saw the launch of several new brands in department stores in Canada. This investment began with the introduction of Nordstrom in 2014. Nordstrom plans to open one additional Nordstrom outlet in 2017, at Toronto CF Sherway Gardens, and will introduce its off-price banner, Nordstrom Rack, with six outlets scheduled to open in Canada in 2018. Hudson’s Bay Co focused on strengthening its brand Hudson’s Bay, rather than expanding, but took advantage of its acquisition of Saks to introduce both Saks and Saks Off Fifth outlets in 2016. Hudson’s Bay Co reports that it plans to open a maximum of seven Saks outlets in Canada, and aims to open a maximum of 25 Saks Off Fifth stores by the end of 2018.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Costco Wholesale Canada led mixed retailers in 2016, with a 30% share of value sales, followed by Loblaw Cos (operator of Wholesale Club), Wal-Mart Canada (operator of Walmart), and Hudson’s Bay Co (operator of Hudson’s Bay, Saks, Saks Off Fifth and thebay.com). These four companies accounted for a combined share of 57% in mixed retailers in 2016.

PROSPECTS

The most important factor for mixed retailers over the next few years will be the extent to which the bipolarisation trend remains prevalent in Canadian retail. Economic indicators and consumer preferences suggest that consumers will continue to closely scrutinise value for money, benefiting luxury brands as well as economy brands, but leaving mid-tier brands without a clear strategy. This will benefit luxury department stores, and is a reason for the continued investment by Nordstrom and Hudson’s Bay Co to continue opening new stores over the forecast period, as well as fixed price variety stores. It puts in doubt, however, the outlook for mid-tier brands such as Sears, as well as mid-tier speciality retailers.

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