Xponential Fitness, a curator of globally and nationally recognized boutique health and wellness brands, announced the signing of the largest multi-unit agreement in the company’s history. Covina, California-based Riser Fitness has obtained the remaining territories in six states and has agreed to open 127 Club Pilates studios over the next five years in California, Idaho, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. “Riser Fitness has been an exceptional franchisee group and operator for Club Pilates and Xponential Fitness, bringing Pilates to so many communities that can benefit from the practice, and contributing to the brand’s place as a leader in the booming Pilates industry,” said Mike Nuzzo, CEO of Xponential Fitness. Established in 2013 and funded by over $140-million(US) in growth capital from funds managed by affiliates of Fortress Investment Group, Riser Fitness operates more than 110 open studios across eight states with a growing international presence. Most recently, the company debuted its first Club Pilates studio as the Master Franchisee in Mexico City and will begin a 40-unit development plan alongside planned acquisitions in the Australian market. (Xponential Fitness – www.xponential.com) & (Riser Fitness – www.riserfitness.com)…………..
Lululemon reports that it has launched its e-commerce channel in Mexico as it scales its integrated retail and digital presence and omnichannel capabilities in the market. The new e-commerce site enhances its guest experience and is complemented by lululemon’s plans to increase its store footprint in Mexico in fiscal year 2026, underscoring the company’s continued growth opportunity in the region. In fiscal year 2026, lululemon plans to open approximately 15 stores across North America, including eight in Mexico. These new locations represent the continued runway for growth the company sees in the market and support the brand’s disciplined approach to regional expansion. By the end of lululemon’s fiscal year, the company expects to operate more than 30 stores in Mexico. (Lululemon – www.lululemon.com)…………
Earlier this week, Lasan Nguyen joined PenEquity Inc. as Senior Manager, Leasing, responsible for the leasing of the company’s over twelve retail properties in Ontario. A licensed broker, Ms Nguyen brings several years of retail leasing experience, having held senior leasing positions with firms such as SmartCentres, First Capital REIT and Service Inspired Restaurants/SIR Corp. (PenEquity Inc – Lasan Nguyen – 437/233-5614 lnguyen@penequity.com)………….
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business reports that some small Canadian exporters may now qualify for refunds on U.S. tariffs under a new system introduced after a recent Supreme Court decision. Eligible businesses are those that acted as Importer of Record and paid tariffs on non-CUSMA-compliant goods under the IEEPA between February 2025 and February 2026. About one-third of exporters were affected, with roughly 26 percent likely qualifying for rebates. However, companies that absorbed costs or reduced prices to maintain U.S. business are not eligible. The process is complex, requiring a U.S. customs account, banking setup, and coordination with brokers. The CFIB is offering guidance, but sector-specific tariffs—such as those on steel, aluminum, autos, lumber, and furniture—remain in place and continue to significantly impact many small firms. (Canadian Federation of Independent Business – www.cfib-fcei.ca)………….
The Independent Convenience Store Alliance, Ontario Convenience Stores Association, and United Korean Commerce & Industry Association have launched a national collaboration to unify advocacy for independent convenience store operators. The partnership follows meetings in Ottawa addressing key issues, particularly the federal restriction on nicotine pouch sales to pharmacies. Industry leaders argue the policy unfairly targets responsible retailers, despite their strong record in age verification, and has contributed to a rise in unregulated black-market products. Through this alliance, the groups will coordinate advocacy, raise awareness, and support the ‘Bring Pouches Back’ campaign, urging provinces to push for policy reversal. They also plan to address broader regulatory challenges, share best practices, and reinforce high retail standards. Overall, the initiative aims to strengthen communication, improve industry credibility, and ensure a unified voice in public policy discussions. (Independent Convenience Store Alliance – www.icsa-addi.ca) & (Ontario Convenience Stores Association – www.ontariocstores.ca)…………….
Have a great week and don’t forget, Buy Canadian…………