Due to the ICSC@Canada and a travel schedule, Developers & Chains will not be published on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026. The next Developers & Chains issue will be on Monday, October 12th, 2026……….
Primaris REIT has agreed to acquire 100 percent of Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket in Ontario, for $411 million(Cdn). The 990,114 square foot enclosed mall is on 76 acres in the GTA and generates same-store sales of $888 per square foot, with annual CRU sales of $271 million. Its tenant roster includes Apple, Aritzia, Browns, Lululemon, Sport Chek, Uniqlo and Winners. The REIT sees significant growth opportunities through leasing vacant space, active asset management, operational efficiencies and excess-land monetization. The transaction is expected to close by October 31, 2026, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals. (Primaris REIT – www.primarisreit.com)………..
Quebec-based outdoor retailer La Cordée is preparing to permanently close after more than 70 years in business. Founded in 1953 as a Boy Scouts cooperative, the company grew into a specialist in outdoor recreation, camping, cycling and cross-country skiing. Following bankruptcy protection proceedings earlier this summer, La Cordée closed stores in Laval and downtown Montreal. Three locations remain open in Montreal, Quebec City and Saint-Hubert, but the company stated on its website that all operations will cease in the coming weeks. (La Cordee – www.lacordee.com)…….
IKEA Canada is celebrating 50 years in Canada, marking the milestone since opening its first store in Richmond, B.C., in 1976. The retailer has grown to 16 stores, 13 Plan and order points and more than 6,500 employees nationwide. The anniversary includes October weekend promotions, with one iconic IKEA product offered at 50 percent off each weekend. The celebration also highlights IKEA’s expanding retail formats, including its first Canadian compact store in London. The broader anniversary campaign, “You Give it Meaning,” runs through November 8. (IKEA Canada – www.ikea.ca)……..
A&W Canada’s annual Burgers to Beat MS fundraiser raised $1.56 million(Cdn) this year, thanks to the generosity of Canadians, franchisees, team members and guests. Celebrating its 18th year of partnership with MS Canada, the campaign has now generated nearly $25 million to support Canadians living with multiple sclerosis. Funds help finance vital support programs and MS research focused on understanding the disease, slowing its progression, developing treatments and improving early detection. With approximately 12 Canadians diagnosed with MS each day, A&W and MS Canada say the campaign demonstrates the significant impact of Canadians working together toward a world free of MS. (A&W Canada – www.aw.ca)……….
The Canadian branch of the Weston family is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire UK pharmacy chain Boots from private equity firm Sycamore Partners, according to The Guardian, the British newspaper. A deal could be completed as soon as next week, marking the Westons’ return to the UK retail sector after selling Selfridges in 2022. In Canada, Westons owns Loblaws and Shoppers Drug Mart. Sycamore acquired Walgreens Boots Alliance in 2025 and has since been preparing Boots for a standalone sale. Boots operates about 1,800 UK stores. (Loblaws – www.loblaws.ca)……..
ICSC@Canada kicks off today. Landlords, brokers, consultants and tenants too, front across the country are converging on the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in downtown Toronto. Over 200 industry professionals are there to meet, greet and deal. Don’t miss out….Have a great week……..