Pop Up Shop Toronto
Pop up stores are a great way for businesses to test new products, embark on a flagship retail venture or validate the potential of a neighborhood. The Toronto area is full of special popup-ready spaces that are available for rent for a few days, weeks or months.
Entrepreneurs looking to open a pop-up store should contact local municipal staff about required permits and licences. Many municipalities have clear online information about the process and timelines.
Pret A Manger
Whether you’re craving a baguette sandwich, wrap or freshly baked cookie, Pret has something for everyone. This UK-based grab-and-go chain is now available in Toronto, thanks to a pop-up that opened inside the downtown A&W at 60 John Street.
The chain specializes in high-quality sandwiches, salads and coffee, and it’s become a favorite for commuters around the world. Originally founded by two college friends, Pret has a loyal fanbase and is known for its organic food.
The new location also offers digital experiences, including a Pret Pick Up in-app ordering service and a Pret Coffee Subscription that gives customers access to premium, freshly made, organic drinks for one monthly price. Dallas Holdings, which owns the brand, plans to open locations across Southern California and in Hudson Yards. Pret’s pricing is a little more expensive than the average fast-food shop, but the quality is worth it. The sandwich shop is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
KOMBI Canada
Located in the heart of Yorkville Village, KOMBI Canada has everything you need to stay warm this winter. The brand’s selection of cozy mitts, functional gloves with touch technology, and more will have you covered.
Founded in 1961, the Quebec-based family company is best known for its warm and functional winter accessories. Their crowd-favourite mittens and gloves are made in Canada using state-of-the-art waterproof technology. The brand also makes other cold-weather staples like tuques and socks.
With tight retail vacancy rates in major markets across Canada, pop-up shops are becoming more popular than ever. Consumers are drawn to these short-term stores for their unique offerings, and for the instant gratification that comes with seeing products firsthand. Many retailers are also discovering that pop-ups offer an opportunity to test out new locations and strategies before making a long-term commitment. They can even serve as a way to promote new merchandise during slow seasons. They’re also a great way to entice shoppers to malls and main streets.
Amazon
Even as e-commerce continues to dominate retail sales, pop-ups are providing digital brands an entry point into brick and mortar. Whether the goal is to test out a new business model, get feedback on customer service or simply create a sense of community, a pop-up shop offers an accessible path for online retailers to build brand awareness and connect with consumers in person.
For example, Amazon is currently running its first-ever physical pop-up shop in Canada. Located at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre with a Yonge Street-facing entrance, this store allows visitors to experience Alexa’s smart home capabilities in an immersive environment.
The pop-up also features a men’s Rum Lounge, complete with premium rum cocktails and products from a variety of men’s grooming companies and shops. Additionally, the shop will feature a social media component where followers can nominate the exceptional fathers in their lives for a chance to be featured in the lounge. The finalists will receive a private VIP experience at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre location.
Blackpink
Blackpink is one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world, and their concerts have become known for their high-energy performances and explosive choreography. The vivacious four-member girl group has sold millions of records, won major awards, and racked up 6.3 billion Spotify streams. They have also collaborated with superstar artists, starred in their own documentary, and performed on The Tonight Show.
The pop-up shop, presented by American Express, was designed by Japanese artist VERDY and features a wall-to-wall photo booth where fans can take selfies with their favorite band members. It is open from Nov. 4 to 5 at The Academy at Universal Music Canada, 80 Atlantic Ave.
Blinks lined up outside the pop-up shop at 6 a.m. to snag exclusive merch. The store opens Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. or until supplies run out. The pop-up shop is perfect timing for Blinks, who are gearing up to attend Blackpink’s only Canadian stop of their world tour, the Born Pink concert in Hamilton on Nov. 6 and 7.