Craig Patterson and Tony Flanz, founder and CEO of Montreal-based brokerage Think Retail, discuss the 20-year journey of Think Retail, the Montreal-based brokerage firm founded by Flanz in 2005. Flanz shares the inspiration behind launching his business—a desire to provide a more personalized, white-glove service to clients—and reflects on his first client, Bizou, a relationship that blossomed into a deeply personal, multi-generational collaboration. His unwavering passion and client-first approach remain at the heart of Think Retail’s success, which continues to grow through long-term partnerships and strategic leasing across Canada.

They explore milestone moments, including the pivotal Fossil mandate, early deals like American Apparel at Yorkdale, and the emotional story of Flanz’s philanthropic work with Autism Speaks. While building his firm, Flanz faced immense personal challenges—supporting a son diagnosed with autism and caring for a terminally ill wife—yet he continued to grow the business with resilience and optimism. He credits the brokerage as both a professional outlet and emotional anchor during these years.

They also discuss how Think Retail is shaping the future of Canadian retail, from introducing international brands like Adopt, Kmart 24, and Morgan de Toi, to helping Crocs expand across Canada. Flanz emphasizes the enduring value of integrity, relationships, and local market insight in an industry increasingly shaped by online retail, entertainment-focused malls, and digital tools. Looking ahead, he sees vast opportunity for global brands in Canada, thanks to low market saturation, high-performing malls, and a strong national identity.

Interviewed this episode:

• Tony Flanz, President at Think Retail
• Think Retail

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Craig Patterson and Ben Hertzman, President of Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging, discuss the remarkable evolution of the Canadian packaging company since its founding in 1917. Hertzman shares how Luv2Pak began as a hat box factory supplying icons like Holt Renfrew and Hudson’s Bay, before his family acquired it in 1981 and expanded into gift boxes, bags, ribbons, and coordinated packaging programs for North America’s top retailers. By shifting from solely domestic manufacturing to global sourcing, the company adapted to retailers’ changing needs, establishing itself as a leader in premium retail packaging.

The conversation explores how pandemic-driven supply chain disruptions and skyrocketing freight costs inspired Luv2Pak’s bold decision to reinvest in local production. Hertzman details the launch of Gather Packaging’s state-of-the-art paper bag factory in Toronto, built to ensure exceptional quality and a reliable North American supply. The new facility reflects a commitment to making goods closer to where they’re consumed, while using sustainable materials and processes that meet the needs of modern retailers and eco-conscious consumers.

Patterson and Hertzman also examine how packaging serves as a vital extension of brand experience, both in-store and in e-commerce, acting as a “walking billboard” that reinforces identity and customer loyalty. Highlighting Luv2Pak’s longstanding partnership with Harry Rosen as an example of coordinated, high-quality packaging, Ben shares insights on balancing a 100-year legacy with constant innovation, and offers advice for retailers to stay nimble and invest in packaging that reflects their brand values in an ever-changing market.

Interviewed this episode:

• Ben Hertzman, President of Love2pak and Gather Packaging
• Progress Luv2Pak and Gather Packaging

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/CraigPattersonToronto
Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

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Craig Patterson and Ravi Rangan, Chief Technology Officer at Centric Software, discuss how the company’s end-to-end product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions are revolutionizing fast-moving consumer goods, fashion, and adjacent industries. Rangan details how Centric evolved from its roots in apparel PLM to now supporting footwear, consumer electronics, and even formulated products like food and cosmetics. By unifying planning, development, sourcing, and in-season optimization, Centric enables brands to streamline processes, improve cohesion, and close feedback loops that have traditionally been siloed.

The conversation explores Centric Software’s innovative use of artificial intelligence, from early expert systems managing complex material compatibilities to predictive analytics forecasting assortment demands and the latest generative AI applications. Rangan shares how Centric’s generative AI tools assist designers with rapid ideation and virtual sampling, dramatically reducing time-to-market by integrating creative inspiration with companies’ own qualified materials and business rules. Grounding AI outputs in enterprise data ensures that suggestions are practical, compliant, and tailored to each customer’s established processes.

Patterson and Rangan highlight shifting industry attitudes toward AI, especially among Canadian retailers, and discuss the critical role of keeping humans in the loop for validation as adoption grows. Looking ahead, Ravi reveals Centric’s excitement about expanding into new categories like consumer electronics and harnessing AI-driven insights to empower retailers with comprehensive, real-time product intelligence. Together, they emphasize the transformative potential of connected PLM solutions to improve agility, design accuracy, and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.

Interviewed this episode:

• Ravi Rangan, Chief Technology Officer at Centric Software
• Centric Software.

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

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Luxury brands may be misreading their most important customers, according to a new research report by Toronto-based consultancy Faculty of Change. The report, titled “The Secret Language of Wealth Your Company Isn’t Speaking,” dives into the shifting mindset of high-net-worth individuals and uncovers a surprising insight: luxury retail is increasingly failing to deliver the one thing its customers value most—status.

“Everything is about status,” said Jared Gordon, Managing Partner at Faculty of Change. “People don’t talk about it openly, but that’s ultimately what drives behaviour, especially among affluent consumers.”

Interviewed this episode:

• Jared Gordon, Managing Partner at Faculty of Change
• Faculty of Change

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/CraigPattersonToronto
Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RetailInsider/
Twitter: @RetailInsider_
Instagram: @Retail_Insider_Canada

Share your thoughts!

Drop us a line at Craig@Retail-Insider.com. You can also rate us in Apple Podcasts or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show!

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Craig and Myriam Belzile-Maguire, Founder and Designer at Maguire Shoes, discuss the remarkable growth the Montreal-based footwear brand she founded. Known for its direct-to-consumer model, the brand offers high-quality shoes at affordable prices by cutting out traditional wholesale markups. Myriam shares how her experience as a designer inspired the creation of a mid-range price point in leather footwear that bridges the gap between budget and luxury. Maguire’s unique business approach has been instrumental in its success, allowing the brand to maintain fair pricing while delivering exceptional quality.

Maguire Shoes has expanded significantly since its inception, starting with a small Montreal shop and growing to include locations in Toronto, New York, and soon, Brooklyn. Myriam explains the strategic importance of being in trend-driven neighborhoods with vibrant local life, such as Nolita in Manhattan, to enhance visibility and attract fashion-savvy customers. Physical stores have also positively impacted online sales, with half of the brand's revenue now generated through e-commerce.

Beyond footwear, Maguire has diversified its product line to include accessories such as gloves and jewelry, inspired by collaborations with trusted manufacturers. As the brand continues to explore new markets and refine its offerings, Myriam hints at potential future ventures, including a possible expansion into men's footwear. Despite rapid growth, Maguire Shoes remains committed to its Canadian roots, ensuring competitive pricing for local customers while capturing global attention through innovative designs and strategic retail placement.

Interviewed this episode:

• Myriam Belzile-Maguire, Founder and Designer at Maguire Shoes
• Maguire Shoes

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

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Follow Craig:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/CraigPattersonToronto
Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

Follow Retail Insider:

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RetailInsider/
Twitter: @RetailInsider_
Instagram: @Retail_Insider_Canada

Share your thoughts!

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Craig and Keren Halpern, Product Marketing Director, Retail & Hospitality at Priority Software, discuss how Priority Software’s ERP solutions help small to mid-sized retailers streamline operations and enhance customer experience. Halpern highlights Priority’s tailored platform, which enables retailers to manage retail, POS, and ecommerce functions in one place. By consolidating essential retail processes, Priority Software offers flexibility and growth without the need for additional integrations, a crucial advantage for resource-conscious businesses.

Halpern addresses the challenges facing small and mid-sized retailers in North America, particularly in a highly competitive market where they must deliver the same level of service as larger counterparts. Priority Software supports these businesses with a seamless omnichannel experience, merging physical and digital retail channels to meet customer expectations. Priority Software’s centralized system allows retailers to maintain up-to-date inventory, personalize customer engagement, and manage operations across multiple locations with ease.

The discussion also explores trends and future needs in retail, with Halpern emphasizing the importance of cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) systems for centralized management and operational ease. Through cloud POS, retailers benefit from simplified operations, better data visibility, and automated processes that improve both customer and employee experience.

Interviewed this episode:

• Keren Halpern, Product Marketing Director, Retail & Hospitality at Priority Software
• Priority Software

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

Subscribe, Rate, and Review our Retail Insider Podcast!

Follow Craig:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/CraigPattersonToronto
Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

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LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/Retail-Insider
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RetailInsider/
Twitter: @RetailInsider_
Instagram: @Retail_Insider_Canada

Share your thoughts!

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Craig and Mark Ang, CEO at GoBolt, discuss the company’s impressive journey from a consumer storage startup to a leading logistics company, offering fulfillment and last-mile delivery solutions for retailers. Ang highlights the company’s pivot in 2019, transitioning into logistics and scaling rapidly across Canada and the U.S., with over 1.5 million square feet of operations in 10 markets.

GoBolt’s unique approach combines technology and operations to offer seamless visibility into package tracking, enhancing both retailer and customer experiences. The company’s proprietary technology enables real-time tracking and operational efficiency, while its flexible service model allows retailers to choose fulfillment or last-mile delivery à la carte. Ang also emphasizes GoBolt’s commitment to sustainability with its EV fleet, reducing carbon emissions and improving delivery safety and cost-effectiveness.

Looking ahead, GoBolt is poised for continued growth, with plans to expand into new markets by 2025. As Ang explains, GoBolt’s innovative solutions, including real-time tracking and customer-focused delivery options, are driving success for major brands like Frank and Oak. With a focus on technology and sustainability, GoBolt is positioning itself as a leader in the evolving logistics landscape.

Interviewed this episode:

• Mark Ang, CEO at GoBolt
• GoBolt

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

Subscribe, Rate, and Review our Retail Insider Podcast!

Follow Craig:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/CraigPattersonToronto
Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

Follow Retail Insider:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/Retail-Insider
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RetailInsider/
Twitter: @RetailInsider_
Instagram: @Retail_Insider_Canada

Share your thoughts!

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Craig and Leucepe (Leo) Martinez, Program Director at eTail Toronto, discuss the upcoming eTail Toronto conference, set to take place on September 25-26 at the Hyatt Regency Toronto (Register here). The event, known for its practical and actionable insights, will gather over 300 attendees and 75 speakers, offering a comprehensive exploration of the latest trends and challenges in eCommerce. Martinez emphasizes that eTail Toronto is not just a conference but a community, having supported the retail industry through major changes since 1999.

The conference will cover key themes such as the connected customer journey, digital transformation, and the critical role of AI in retail. Martinez highlights the importance of real-world use cases, focusing on how retailers are leveraging human-centric AI to optimize the customer experience. Day two will explore the needs of the modern consumer, emphasizing storytelling, purpose-led brands, social commerce, and sustainability in retail.

Networking opportunities are a major focus at eTail Toronto, with over 10 hours dedicated to structured activities, including meetups, roundtable discussions, and private events. Martinez encourages attendees, especially first-timers, to make the most of these opportunities to build valuable connections. The conference promises to be a dynamic event, offering both education and networking to advance the retail industry in Canada.

Retailers & Brands – Get 20% off your tickets to eTail Toronto with code RETINSIDER – [Register Here]

Interviewed this episode:

• Leucepe (Leo) Martinez, Program Director at eTail Toronto
• eTail Toronto

This podcast is the audio version of the The Interview Series video podcasts by Retail Insider Canada are available through our Retail Insider YouTube Channel where you can subscribe and be notified when new video episodes are available.

Subscribe, Rate, and Review our Retail Insider Podcast!

Follow Craig:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/CraigPattersonToronto
Instagram: @craig_patterson_toronto
Twitter: @RI_EIC

Follow Retail Insider:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/Retail-Insider
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RetailInsider/
Twitter: @RetailInsider_
Instagram: @Retail_Insider_Canada

Share your thoughts!

Drop us a line at Craig@Retail-Insider.com. You can also rate us in Apple Podcasts or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show!

Background Music Credit: Hard Boiled Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/