Due to conferences and travel schedules, Developers & Chain’s will not be published on January 26th, 2026. The next issue will be on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026…………
Bear’s Den Cannabis, an Indigenous-women owned and operated business located in Kanesatake Mohawk Territory, celebrates seven years of continuous operation in 2025. The Kanesatake Dispensary is located at 1510C Rang Ste-Philomène approximately six kilometers west of Oka. The dispensary milestone reflects broader conversations about Indigenous economic self-determination that have been unfolding since Canada’s federal cannabis legalization in October 2018. Bear’s Den operates under Indigenous sovereignty principles on Mohawk lands, representing one approach among several that First Nations communities have taken in response to the Cannabis Act. Looking ahead, the ownership is exploring a potential new building project that may begin in 2027. No firm commitments or detailed timelines have been established yet, but the consideration of facility improvements signals ongoing investment in the Kanesatake community. Bear’s Den Cannabis is situated within Kanesatake Mohawk Territory, one of three Mohawk communities in Quebec alongside Kahnawake and Akwesasne. The Mohawk are one of six nations in the Haudenosaunee Confederacy—recognized as the oldest living democratic system in North America. (Bear’s Den Cannabis – www.bearsdencannabis.com)…………
After more than 30 years in the hospitality category, and having opened 14 restaurants, a catering company and several food related companies, Yannick Bigourdan has officially launched KLTY. Restaurant Consulting, offering strategic advisory services for hospitality professionals and operators. With experience, not only as an operator and advisor to independent restaurants and hospitality groups, but also as a strategic advisor to companies beyond the dining room — including food-delivery platforms and AI-driven hospitality solutions shaping how the industry operates today, KLTY is built on one simple idea: great hospitality businesses aren’t built on trends — they’re built on clarity, leadership, and disciplined execution. Alongside consulting and advisory work, KLTY also offers practical classes and master-classes designed for teams that live hospitality every day. (KLTY. Restaurant Consulting – www.klty.ca)……….
BMTC Group Inc. has announced the appointment of Louis-Philippe Auger as President of the Tanguay division, effective immediately. Auger has served as Vice-President of the Tanguay division since 2022 and has been with the Tanguay division for over 26 years. Recognized for his inspiring leadership and unwavering commitment to BMTC Group, he has significantly contributed to the division’s growth over the years and has been a key player in its expansion throughout Quebec. BMTC Group also announced that its current president of the Tanguay division, Charles Tanguay, who, after several years at the helm, has chosen to pursue new professional challenges. (BMTC Group Inc. – www.bmtc.ca)……….
The Yonge North York Business Improvement Area has unveiled DestinationYNY.com, a new digital platform designed to showcase the local culture, diverse businesses, events, and rich culinary scene within Toronto’s uptown Yonge St. corridor. This launch coincides with the introduction of the YNYBIA’s inaugural Self-Guided Foodie Tours, a six-week exploration of local restaurants that commenced on January 12 and will run until February 15, 2026. DestinationYNY.com serves as a comprehensive guide, highlighting local businesses, showcasing public art installations, and promoting various events such as the Yonge North York Canada Day Celebration, Dance on Yonge, and the Toronto Korean Festival, many of which occur at Mel Lastman Square. This platform aims to connect residents and visitors with the dynamic offerings of the district. (YNYBIA – www.destinationYNY.com)…………….
With next week’s ICSC Whistler kicking off 2026, we hope you all have a great conference and a very successful 2026……….