Giant Tiger debuts new store look

Julia Knox, vice president strategic planning & market research at Giant Tiger Stores Limited spoke with Canadian Grocer about its four newly renovated Ontario stores that opened in Orillia, St. Catharines (two), and Niagara Falls on March 23.

The privately-held company was established in 1961 in Ottawa's Byward Market, and has grown to more than 200 locations, employing over 7,000 people. In 2001, the North West Co. entered into a franchise agreement with operated stores in Western Canada.


Canadian Grocer: What are some key features in the renovated stores?

Julia Knox: The main objective of the remodeling is to improve our presentation of apparel and general merchandise, while at the same time refreshing the Giant Tiger look and bringing our unique brand and personality to life in the store.  We have updated store flow and the graphic look and feel, and updated fixturing and merchandising standards in the apparel and general merchandise areas.

What about grocery, any changes in that department?

In grocery, older stores with older equipment have been updated as required, but the project is about getting a clearer focus on the rest of the store.

What was the reason for the new look?

We made the changes based on customer feedback.  Customers were asking for a more organized shop with more space to shop and a better ability to see our product offering.

Are there any other stores set to be opened in 2013?



For calendar year 2013, it is anticipated that approximately 35 existing stores across the country will undergo renovations.

Has the layout changed with the new look stores?

Since these are remodels, the store square footage is remaining the same.  Any square footage additions are taking place in the non-food areas of the store, while layouts have been adjusted to better feature our non-food offerings.

Pictures from the fashion and home decor departments of the newly renovated Giant Tiger store in Orleans