A new report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business highlights growing disconnects between small businesses and young job seekers across Canada. Based on surveys of business owners and youth, the report found that 62 percent of small businesses hire through personal referrals, while 73 percent of youth rely mainly on online job boards, creating a major gap in how employers and workers connect. The report also found that businesses prioritize soft skills such as attitude, motivation, and professionalism over education or experience. However, many young people are unwilling to take physically demanding, outdoor, overnight, or rural jobs where labour shortages are most severe. Economic pressures are also making businesses more cautious about hiring inexperienced workers. While most small firms pay above minimum wage, over one-third of youth say they would reject minimum-wage positions. Employers also cite the high costs of training and managing entry-level staff. CFIB is urging governments to reduce payroll taxes, expand tax credits for co-op and internship hires, and simplify hiring support programs to help bridge the growing employment gap. (Canadian Federation of Independent Business – www.cfib.ca)…………..
At Northland Properties, Christina Kuypers has been appointed President and COO of CHOP Steakhouse & Bar as the group enters a new chapter that will see the brand grow beyond traditional boundaries. Over the past six months, Ms Kuypers has led the team to deliver strong performance, strengthen brand alignment, and build momentum from coast to coast. (CHOP Steakhouse & Bar – www.chop.ca)…….
Last week, Mercedes-Benz Newmarket unveiled its fully redesigned 32,100 square-foot showroom and service facility in York Region. The upgraded dealership, expanded by more than 50 percent, features a customer lounge with a barista bar, nearly doubled parking capacity, 18 service bays, and new delivery salons. It has also been named an AMG Performance Centre, offering enhanced expertise and access to Mercedes-AMG models. Designed around Mercedes-Benz’s MAR20X retail concept, the facility emphasizes luxury and customer experience. The investment reflects the dealership’s long-term commitment to the region and its parent company, Zanchin Automotive Group, which operates 36 dealerships across Ontario. (Zanchin Automotive Group – www.zanchinauto.com)…………
Samuelsohn has been named the official fine clothing outfitter for Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team, uniting the elite Canadian athletes with a historic Canadian menswear manufacturer. The partnership will see players outfitted in custom-made suits for international appearances, with the official suiting collection debuting in June 2026. Harry Rosen will retail the made-to-measure program, allowing customers to purchase suits featuring the same fabrics and design elements worn by the team. Beginning in 2027, Samuelsohn will also outfit Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team. (Samuelsohn – www.samuelsohn.com) & (Harry Rosen – www.harryrosen.com)……………
Greg Smith has joined Nova Scotia-based Mezza Lebanese Kitchen as its first Chief Operating Officer. He brings over 30 years of experience in the food service sector, including senior operational and franchise relations positions with major brands including Tim Hortons, Paramount Fine Foods, Grinners Food Systems, and most recently, Terraine Capital Ltd. As the chain continues to expand, Smith will oversee day-to-day corporate and franchise operations and execution across all locations. His appointment allows co-founders Peter and Tony Nahas to shift their focus to the brand’s long-term strategic direction. Mezza Lebanese Kitchen – www.mezzalebanesekitchen.com)……….
I hope everyone is back, safe and sound from Vegas because it’s time to start preparing for ICSC Retail Forward Montreal. On Thursday, June 11th at the Windsor Ballrooms in downtown Montreal there’s a fast-paced dealmaking event that’s not to be missed. Sign up now and we’ll see you there……Oh yeah, and what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas………..Have a great week………..