Last week was the official groundbreaking ceremony for the Myral Condominiums project in Longueuil in Montreal’s South Shore. Developed by Devimco Immobilier and partner, the Fonds Immobilier de solidarite FTQ, the mixed-use residential project, includes a 33-storey tower with 555 rental units, condominiums, and a ground-level retail space. The first units in the project, located directly above the Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke metro station, adjacent to Place Charles-Le Moyne, with the Jacques Cartier Bridge and the city as a backdrop, are scheduled to be delivered by 2027. (Devimco Immobilier – 450/645-2525)………….
Raymond James Ltd., the Canadian arm of North American investment dealer Raymond James Financial, Inc., reports that Robert Sutherland has been appointed as Managing Director, Head of Real Estate to the Equity Capital Markets team. He will oversee and lead the real estate sector for the firm’s Investment Banking team in Canada. “With his extensive experience, strategic insight, and dedication to his client’s success, he will be a great addition to Raymond James,” said Craig McDougall, Senior Managing Director, Head of Investment Banking and Mergers and Acquisitions. (Raymond James Ltd – www.raymondjames.ca)……..
Leyad, a Montreal-based real estate development company, has acquired the CDI College Campus in the heart of Winnipeg’s downtown district. Located at 280 Main St., the project is about 24,000 square feet and, allowing future high rise development potential of up to 180,000 square feet and 40 stories, is situated in the heart of the city, offering easy access to shopping, green spaces, and the Forks. It sits adjacent to the recently developed 300 Main Street, Manitoba’s tallest building. “We are excited about this city’s potential and are committed to playing a pivotal role in its continued growth and prosperity,” said Henry Zavriyev, CEO of Leyad. “We look forward to leveraging our expertise to unlock the full potential of this exceptional property.” (Leyad – 514/634-4343)………
Focus Brands, the Atlanta, Georgia-based parent company of the Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Schlotzsky’s brands, signals new era of growth and opportunity with official name change to GoTo Foods. The rebranding, announced at the company’s biennial brand franchisee conference by CEO Jim Holthouser, signals the company’s continued transformation into a platform company as it embraces its brands’ reputations as go-to choices in the restaurant industry – for franchisees and customers. “To unlock future opportunities with brand franchisees, and ultimately consumers, it has become more important than ever to have a name that conveys and powers the strength, affection, and craveability of the seven iconic brands in our portfolio today,” said Holthouser. “GoTo Foods represents a no-limits vision that is firmly rooted in reality as we embrace the power of our platform company and look to a future with endless possibilities.” (GoTo Foods – www.gotofoods.com)…………….
Hypercharge, a provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, last week announced that its innovative charging service is now available at the Seaway Mall in Welland in Ontario’s Niagara Region. This new offering is compatible with all major electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, providing drivers with a convenient and reliable way to charge their vehicles while shopping or running errands. “We are excited to bring Hypercharge’s convenient charging solution to Seaway Mall,” said Michael Belcastro, President of Seaway Mall. “Our goal is to make it easy for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle owners to charge their vehicles while on the go. With the Hypercharge app, drivers can quickly and easily top up their battery levels and continue with their day.” (Seaway Mall – www.seawaymall.com) & (Hypercharge – www.hypercharge.com)……….
Stats Canada report that retail sales in Canada grew by 0.9 percent in December from November. Motor vehicles and parts dealers and general merchandise led the way. In December, sales were up in five of the nine retail categories. Most are expecting a drop in January and a slow first half due to the higher interest rates. So, it looks like we are heading for a ‘belt-tightening period’ again. Like we haven’t been warned by all the recent closures. Have a great week and treat your customers right. It’s loyal customers that will carry you through the difficult periods……..