Hardware stores under renovation

Article Abstract:

Home improvement stores are planning geographical expansion and effecting new retail formats in a bid to be competitive in the do-it-yourself market in the late nineties. Home improvement outlets from Truro, N.S., to Tofino, B.C., are effecting makeovers and many large retailers, from Revelstoke Home Centres Ltd. and Home Depot Inc., are introducing new services and merchandise that include cafes and fast-food stores to promote an enriching shopping activity. According to Martin Wiener, who owns Wiener's Home Hardware in Toronto, Canada's downtown Annex district, stresses that providing the personal touch to customers is the secret of being competitive in the retail hardware market.

Comment:

Canada: Home improvement stores are planning geographical expansion and effecting new retail formats in a bid to be competitive

Hardware Stores

Retailers plan expansion: survey

Article Abstract:

Retailers intend to construct 900 to 1,800 stores in Canada within a three-year period due to a stronger economy and improved consumer confidence. Almost 1/4 of the retail operators in Canada are considering this. This prediction came from data submitted by IBM Canada Ltd. and the Retail Council of Canada. However, the retail industry is also expected to become more competitive due to the influx of new players. IBM Canada spokesman Daniel Sweeney stressed that the retailers would like to see their revenues increase.

Comment:

Canada: Retailers intend to construct 900 to 1,800 stores in three years due to stronger economy and robust consumer activity

Retail Trade

Royal Oak request for additional cash injection adjourned by court

Article Abstract:

Judge Robert Blair of the Ontario Court's General Division has decided to defer Royal Oak Mines Ltd's request that it be given the remainder of the $34.7 million credit facility provided by Trilon Financial Corp. Judge Blair had already agreed to postpone payment of a $8.4 million interest payment owed to Trilon. Royal Oak has been ordered by the Court not to withdraw more than $8.4 million from its credit facility with Trilon.

Legal issues & crime, Gold Ore Mining, Gold Mines, Royal Oak Mines Ltd.