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Canadian Tire
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Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited[b] (doing business as Canadian Tire) is a Canadian retail corporation, headquartered at Canada Square in Toronto, Ontario. It operates department stores, gas stations (Canadian Tire Petroleum), and financial services (Canadian Tire Bank). The company also owns and operates Mark's, PartSource, Sherwood Hockey, Sport Chek, Sports Experts, and the Canadian operations of Party City. It owns the intellectual property of the former Hudson's Bay Company as of 2025[update].[5]
Key Information
Canadian Tire acquired the Norwegian clothing and textile company Helly Hansen from the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan in 2018 and sold it in 2025.[6] It participates in the voluntary Scanner Price Accuracy Code managed by the Retail Council of Canada.[7]
History
[edit]On October 24, 1922, John William Billes and Alfred Jackson Billes invested their combined savings of $1,800 in the Hamilton Tire and Garage Ltd. (established in 1909 as the Hamilton Garage and Rubber Company) in Toronto.[8] Hamilton Tire and Garage specialized in buying tires at a discount from manufacturers in the winter then reselling the tires during the busy summer season. The brothers opened a retail store at Yonge and Gould Streets in Toronto, Ontario.[9]
A product focus on tires was emphasized in 1927 with the incorporation of the name Canadian Tire Corporation Limited because, as A.J. Billes said, "...it sounded big".[10] During 1928, the first Canadian Tire catalogues were distributed, consisting of price lists along with road maps.
In 1934, the first official Associate Store was opened in Hamilton, Ontario by Walker Anderson on King Street.[11] In 1944, to fund its growth, Canadian Tire Corporation became a public company and sold 100,000 shares. By 1945, there were 110 Canadian Tire stores. In 1946, an employee stock purchasing plan was implemented to encourage employee loyalty while discouraging unionization.[10]
The first gas bar opened in 1958 at the corner of Yonge and Church Streets in Toronto. Canadian Tire money that gave gas bar customers an in-store discount began the same year. By June 1961, there were 31 locations. The small financial services company Midland Shoppers Credit Limited was purchased in 1968 and renamed Canadian Tire Acceptance, Limited.

Canadian Tire entered the clothing market by acquiring Mark's Work Wearhouse in 2001.[12]
In 2003, CTC established the Canadian Tire Bank, under Canada's Bank Act, from its then-named Canadian Tire Financial Services, Limited, subsidiary along with its Mastercard portfolio,[13] which was later renamed as Canadian Tire Services, Limited, effective January 1, 2015.[14][15] CTC sold 20% of its Canadian Tire Bank to Scotiabank in 2014; it later repurchased this stake in 2023.[16][17]
In April 2018, Triangle Rewards was launched as a replacement to the digital My Canadian Tire Money program and Options Mastercard.[18][19][20] Traditional paper Canadian Tire money continued to be offered at some Canadian Tire stores until 2020 for customers without a rewards card, though at a reduced rate.[21][22]
In May 2018, the company extended further into the clothing market by acquiring Helly Hansen.[23] As of December 2021, the company operates 667 Canadian Tire stores, 397 SportChek stores, and 381 Mark's stores.[2] The current President and CEO is Greg Hicks.[24]
On May 15, 2025, Canadian Tire announced the acquisition of the Hudson's Bay Company brands and its intellectual property for $30 million CAD.[25] The transaction was approved by a court on June 3. Under the agreement, Canadian Tire will assume ownership of the Hudson's Bay name, trade marks, logos, slogans, coat of arms and the stripes pattern. It also acquired a number of former brands including Home Outfitters.[26] The Zellers name is not part of the deal, but the retailer's former slogan, "Lowest price is the law", is.[27][28]
U.S. expansion attempts
[edit]Canadian Tire tried twice to expand into the United States. In 1982, it purchased the Wichita Falls, Texas-based White Stores, Inc. automotive retail chain with 81 stores in Texas from its then-owner Household Merchandising Inc., a subsidiary of Household Finance, for US$40.2 million.[29][30][31] In 1986, after losing nearly US$100 million they closed some stores and sold the remaining 40 stores, three warehouses and other White assets to Kansas City, Missouri-based Western Auto Supply.[32]
The second time, during the early 1990s, Canadian Tire tried to open a specialized auto parts chain called Auto Source that attempted to have 25,000 different parts or more on the shelf in each store, more than its competitors. The first Auto Source was opened in Indianapolis in 1991.[33] Unlike the previous attempt, the Auto Source concept was built from scratch.[34] During the next three years, Canadian Tire opened two Auto Source stores each in Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus and Louisville for a total of ten stores before abruptly closing the money-losing chain in 1995.[35][36][37] Some of the stores were sold to Pep Boys.[38]
Although Auto Source lost nearly CA$60 million during its four years of existence, a scaled-down version was used in Canada under the PartSource brand.
Brands
[edit]
Canadian Tire owns a number of house brands, with some of its most prominent including Mastercraft (tools), MotoMaster (automotive), as well as NOMA (household goods, particularly lights and Christmas lights) and Simoniz (car care products)—two brands for which Canadian Tire acquired the Canadian trademark rights.[39]
In the 2010s, Canadian Tire began to expand its array of private labels in order to better compete with online retailers such as Amazon.[40] In 2013, Canadian Tire launched Frank, a budget brand oriented towards household goods and grocery; the brand is known for packaging containing product-specific taglines involving its eponymous mascot—such as "Frank talks trash" (garbage bags), "Frank knows all aboot maple" (maple-flavoured coffee) and "Frank doesn't scrub you the wrong way" (dish sponges)—which became a viral trend in 2020.[40][41][42]
Canadian Tire owns the rights to three ice hockey equipment brands. In 2011, the company's purchase of the Forzani Group gave it the rights to the Hespeler and Victoriaville brands. In 2018, it acquired the trademarks of Sherwood Hockey.
On May 10, 2017, Canadian Tire announced it would buy Padinox, the manufacturer of the Paderno kitchen equipment.[43]
Operations
[edit]At the end of 2018, Canadian Tire employed 12,735 full-time and 17,951 part-time employees in the corporate structure.[44] These figures do not include temporary employees or employees working for Associate Stores, petroleum stores or franchise stores. There is an in-house Triangle Learning Academy, an allusion to the triangular CTC logo for employee and Associate Store management training.
Financial services
[edit]Canadian Tire Bank (CTB) is the company's retail deposit-taking and credit card issuing arm. They are held indirectly under the Canadian Tire Services, Limited, holding company, Canadian Tire Bank (CTB), a bank under Canada's Bank Act since 2003. Before 2003, all financing occurred under the Canadian Tire Financial Services. In 2014, The Bank of Nova Scotia acquired a 20% economic and voting interest in Canadian Tire Bank, with an option to acquire up to an additional 30% of the company within ten years (or require Canadian Tire buy back its existing 20% interest) at the then fair market value of the business for $500 million CAD in cash.[45]
Ostensibly in tandem with Scotiabank's acquisition of a minority position in Canadian Tire Bank, Canadian Tire renamed its intermediary holding company Canadian Tire Financial Services Limited as Canadian Tire Services, Limited, effective January 1, 2015, dropping the moniker Canadian Tire Financial Services from use.[14][15] Additionally, in approximately 2018, Canadian Tire rebranded its credit card-issuing online banking website as Canadian Tire Bank, removing the last vestige of Canadian Tire Financial Services from active use.
Petroleum
[edit]
Canadian Tire Petroleum (CTP), operating as Canadian Tire Gas+, is the division of Canadian Tire which operates gas stations and car washes.[2] CTP was founded in 1958 as a means of increasing customer traffic to Canadian Tire stores.[46] In Ontario, CTP also operates Pit Stop, which provides services like oil changes and rust checks. The Canadian Tire money loyalty program was originally launched through the gas bars as "Gas Bonus Coupons." CTP has opened three Q Stop stores featuring a mini-grocery store and other items. [citation needed]
CTP also holds the concession to operate the 24-hour gas stations at ONroute service centres in Ontario along Highway 401 and parts of Highway 400.[47]
In May 2023, Canadian Tire announced an agreement with Suncor Energy, under which all Canadian Tire Gas+ locations will be converted to Petro-Canada franchises, and the company's Petro-Points rewards program will be integrated with Canadian Tire's Triangle program.[48] The first converted location opened in July 2024 in Kitchener, Ontario.[49]
Retail
[edit]Moody's observed Canadian Tire's unique position in Canadian retail as being "often both misunderstood and underestimated" and "completely foreign" in comparison to U.S. retail, citing its variety of products (ranging from auto parts to sporting goods to outdoors products and grocery at some locations) and that "its proprietary 'currency,' Canadian Tire money, which is a by-product of its loyalty program, has been accepted across Canada by multiple retailers and could almost be described as a 'sub-fiat' currency."[50]
In November 2000, Canadian Tire introduced an online retail operation. On January 1, 2009, citing lack of consumer interest in online shopping compared to its physical stores, the Company discontinued online sales.[51] On November 1, 2013, Canadian Tire returned to online shopping with delivery to stores.[52]
In 2009, Canadian Tire introduced a new "Smart store" concept featuring "boutiques" that prominently showcased products within the chain's core product categories. Popular product categories such as auto parts and home goods were moved towards the front of the store to improve their prominence, and some locations began to sell common groceries as a pilot project.[53]
With the demise of Target's businesses in Canada in 2015, Canadian Tire acquired the leases of 12 former Target store locations.[54]
In June 2015, Canadian Tire opened its largest location to-date at South Edmonton Common, which features 130,000 sq ft (12,000 m2) of retail space on two floors, widened and expanded departments, various interactive experiences (including a driving simulator and virtual reality), as well as a rotating exhibit of Hockey Canada memorabilia.[55]
In September 2022, Canadian Tire opened a 135,000 sq ft (12,500 m2) flagship location at Carlingwood Mall in Ottawa to mark the company's centennial; it introduces a large-scale concept called "Remarkable Retail," which carries a modernized design and focuses on enhancing its auto centres, seasonal departments, and its omnichannel retail strategy (including integration of its e-commerce, delivery, and pickup services). The concept was also used for a new location in Welland, Ontario and will be used for a future Calgary location.[56][57] That year, the company also committed $1.2 billion to renovate 225 stores with its "Concept Connect" format, which features similar enhancements.[58][59][60] The following month, Canadian Tire also opened its largest location to-date in Chilliwack, British Columbia at the Cottonwood Centre; occupying a former Sears, it has 170,000 sq ft (16,000 m2) of retail space.[61]
Automotive parts
[edit]
In addition to the Canadian Tire stores' Parts department, CTC owns PartSource, an automotive parts and accessories specialty chain which has 91 stores across Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. It serves commercial automotive installers and do-it-yourself mechanics. Before November 2013, some stores were owned and operated by franchisees; all currently belong to Canadian Tire.[62]
Clothing
[edit]In 2001, Canadian Tire acquired Mark's Work Wearhouse (now branded as Mark's), a retailer of business casual and work wear, for $116 million.[12] Along with standalone stores, some Canadian Tire locations feature integrated Mark's locations. Due to space constraints, some smaller Canadian Tire locations removed their Mark's department when remodelled into the "Smart store" format .[53]
In May 2018, the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan sold the Norwegian sportswear retailer Helly Hansen to Canadian Tire for $985 million.[23]
Sporting goods
[edit]In May 2011, Canadian Tire announced the purchase of Forzani Group, a Canadian sporting goods retailer that operates various brands, including SportChek, Atmosphere, Intersport, Hockey Experts, National Sports, Nevada Bob's Golf, S3, Sport Mart, Sports Experts, Tech Shop, Pro Hockey Life, and The Fitness Source.[63] In February 2021, Canadian Tire announced the closure of all National Sports stores, citing a focus on efficiencies and core assets.[64]
Party City
[edit]In October 2019, Canadian Tire finalized its acquisition of Party City's Canadian business. As part of the deal, CTC signed a 10-year supply agreement with Party City's parent company Amscan.[65]
Marketing
[edit]Advertisements
[edit]Historically, Canadian Tire's Christmas ads featured Santa Claus and Ebenezer Scrooge arguing about whether Canadian Tire's selection or their sales prices were the reason to do Christmas shopping there, involving the marketing slogan "Give like Santa, save like Scrooge".
A stamp was issued by Canada Post commemorating Canadian Tire's 75th anniversary. It is based on the Canadian Tire advertisement showing a boy (Bike Story) receiving his first bicycle, which his father purchased at a Canadian Tire retail store.
Starting in 2007, the company ran month-long advent calendar promotions, offering free CDs and discounts throughout the holiday season.
From 1997 to 2005, the company's ads featured the "Canadian Tire couple". The male role, also known as the Canadian Tire guy, was played by Canadian actor Ted Simonett, and Gloria Slade played the female role. They usually showcase a new product to one of their neighbours who needs a specific tool. The "Canadian Tire Couple" was featured on Royal Canadian Air Farce as one of their targets of the year, as "Canada's most annoying couple." They also made a feature guest appearance on Royal Canadian Air Farce as actors in a skit.
In early 2006, ads featuring the couple were phased out and replaced by a new campaign featuring overhead signs found in Canadian Tire's store aisles.
In 2013, Canadian Tire produced a commercial promoting its MasterCraft Eliminator Ultra car battery, and its ability to function in extreme cold, which featured a stripped GMC Sierra pickup truck with its body re-created as an ice sculpture. The ad premiered during the 2014 NHL Winter Classic.[66][67]
In March 2015, Canadian Tire launched a new ongoing marketing campaign, "Tested for Life in Canada." The campaign, which includes television advertising and in-store labels, showcases products that have been vetted based on input by a consumer focus group recruited by the chain and their reviews of the products. The program also collects feedback that is used to help improve products marketed by Canadian Tire.[68][69]
Sports sponsorships
[edit]Motorsport
[edit]
During the 1980s, the company sponsored an IndyCar racing team. Alfred J. Billes's son David Billes was a Canadian Corvette racer before opening Performance Engineering Ltd. He was later Jacques Villeneuve Sr.'s car owner in CART IndyCar competition in the early 1980s and entered two cars in the 1985 Indianapolis 500.[70] In 1985, Jacques Villeneuve Sr. won the race at Road America.
David Billes was inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame in 1994.[71]
| # | Season | Date | Sanction | Track/Race | No. | Winning Driver | Chassis | Engine | Tire | Grid | Laps Led |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1985 | August 4 | CART | Road America (R) | 76 | March 85C | Cosworth DFX V8 t | Goodyear | 4 | 14 |
The company has had naming rights at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, formerly known as Mosport International Raceway, since 2012.[72]
Other sports
[edit]The home arena of the Ottawa Senators of the National Hockey League (NHL) has been known as the Canadian Tire Centre since 2013.[73]
The company sponsors the Northern Super League, which is planned to be Canada's top division of women's soccer.
Leadership
[edit]President
[edit]- John William Billes, 1927–1956
- Alfred Jackson Billes, 1956–1966
- Joseph Dean Muncaster, 1966–1985
- Dean G. Groussman, 1986–1992
- Stephen Eugene Bachand, 1993–2000
- Wayne Carlyle Sales, 2000–2006
- Thomas Kenneth Gauld, 2006–2008
- Stephen Gerald Wetmore, 2009–2014
- Michael Bennett Medline, 2014–2016
- Stephen Gerald Wetmore, 2016–2020
- Gregory Hubert Hicks, 2020–present
Chairman of the Board
[edit]- Alex Ethelred Barron, 1966–1984
- Hugh Leopold Macaulay, 1984–1994
- Herbert Earl Joudrie, 1994–1996
- Gilbert Stuart Bennett, 1996–2007
- Maureen Joanne Sabia, 2007–2022
- J. Michael Owens, 2022–present
See also
[edit]Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Management's Discussion and Analysis" (PDF). Canadian Tire. Archived (PDF) from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved February 8, 2017.
- ^ a b c "Number of stores operated by Canadian Tire Corporation in Canada in 2018, by brand". Archived from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved August 16, 2019.
- ^ "Greg Hicks appointed CEO of Canadian Tire Corporation". March 12, 2020. Archived from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved March 25, 2020.
- ^ "Management's Discussion and Analysis: Selected Annual Consolidated Financial Trends 2019" (PDF). Canadian Tire Corporation. p. 4. Archived (PDF) from the original on April 25, 2021. Retrieved March 16, 2020.
- ^ Warren, May (May 26, 2025). "'An end to Hudson's Bay as we know it:' Canadian Tire purchase marks end of iconic department store, experts say". Toronto Star.
- ^ "Kontoor Brands Completes Acquisition of Helly Hansen®" (Press release).
- ^ Harris, Sophia (November 28, 2021). "Attention shoppers: Overcharged for an item at checkout? You might be able to get it for free". CBC News. Archived from the original on December 8, 2021. Retrieved November 28, 2021.
- ^ "History". Canadian Tire. Archived from the original on March 12, 2017. Retrieved September 23, 2017.
- ^ McBride, Hugh (1997). Our Store 75 Years of Canadians and Canadian Tire. Toronto: Madison Press Books. p. 19. ISBN 1-895892-10-4.
- ^ a b "Canadian Tire". Archived from the original on November 16, 2020. Retrieved August 16, 2019.
- ^ "The Hamilton Memory Project" (Press release). The Hamilton Spectator- Souvenir Edition. June 10, 2006. p. MP38.
- ^ a b "Canadian Tire buys Mark's Work Wearhouse for $116 million". CBC News. December 19, 2001. Archived from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved June 26, 2011.
- ^ "About Us". ctfs.com. Archived from the original on August 18, 2019. Retrieved August 18, 2019.
- ^ a b "2015 Annual Information Form from Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited" (PDF). Canadian Tire Corporation. Canadian Tire Corporation. February 17, 2016. Archived (PDF) from the original on August 25, 2019. Retrieved August 24, 2019.
- ^ a b "2014 Annual Information Form from Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited" (PDF). Canadian Tire Corporation. Canadian Tire Corporation. February 26, 2015. Archived (PDF) from the original on August 25, 2019. Retrieved August 24, 2019.
- ^ "Scotiabank, Canadian Tire strike $500M financial services deal". CBC News. The Canadian Press. May 8, 2014. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved October 13, 2015.
- ^ "Canadian Tire grows Triangle Rewards with repurchase of Financial Services business stake from Scotiabank".
- ^ Shaw, Hollie (April 9, 2018). "Canadian Tire ups the stakes in its loyalty program, but do customers have loyalty fatigue?". Financial Post. Archived from the original on January 12, 2020. Retrieved April 15, 2018.
- ^ "Canadian Tire expands loyalty program". The Canadian Press. April 9, 2018. Archived from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved April 15, 2018 – via Cambridge Times.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Expands Its Triangle Rewards to Include Husky Locations". Franchising.com. October 3, 2018. Archived from the original on October 14, 2018. Retrieved October 13, 2018.
- ^ Cazzin, Julie (April 9, 2018). "What Canadian Tire's loyalty changes mean to you". Maclean's. Archived from the original on April 15, 2018. Retrieved April 15, 2018.
- ^ "Canadian Tire collectors treated to special notes". May 13, 2023.
- ^ a b "Canadian Tire to buy sportswear brand Helly Hansen in $985-million deal". The Globe and Mail. The Canadian Press. May 10, 2018. Archived from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved May 10, 2018.
- ^ "Our Leadership Team". Archived from the original on August 18, 2019. Retrieved August 18, 2019.
- ^ "Hudson's Bay to sell name, stripes, brands to Canadian Tire for $30 million". CP24. May 15, 2025. Retrieved May 15, 2025.
- ^ "Canadian Tire will acquire trove of Hudson's Bay brands, but not Zellers". The Globe and Mail. May 27, 2025 – via www.theglobeandmail.com.
- ^ "Court approves Canadian Tire's $30-million acquisition of Hudson's Bay assets". June 3, 2025. Retrieved June 4, 2025.
- ^ "Hudson's Bay heads back to court to seek approval for Canadian Tire deal".
- ^ "Household Finance To Sell Store Assets To Canadian Tire Unit". The Wall Street Journal. November 18, 1981. p. 40. ProQuest 134589449. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017.
Canadian Tire Corp. said it agreed to acquire most merchandising assets of White Stores Inc., a Texas-based home and auto supplies concern.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Completes Purchase of Some Assets". The Wall Street Journal. February 25, 1982. p. 3. ProQuest 134755546. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017.
Canadian Tire Corp. said it completed the previously announced purchase of most merchandising assets of White Stores Inc. of Wichita Falls, Texas, from Household Merchandising Inc. for $40.2 million (U.S.)
- ^ "Canadian Tire's mistaken leap into the U.S.". Venture. December 8, 1985. CBC. Archived from the original on June 11, 2017. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
- ^ "Canadian Tire sells U.S. subsidiary". United Press International. February 28, 1986. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
- ^ "A new kind of auto store: Canadian retailer will open its first U.S. location here this summer. (Canadian Tire Corp. Ltd.'s US Division, Car Car USA Inc.)". Indianapolis Business Journal. April 15, 1991. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
- ^ Bohman, Jim (January 12, 1992). "Customers Park in Or Out – Parts, Service in Supermart". Dayton Daily News. p. 1F. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
- ^ McCarron, Kathy (January 9, 1995). "Canadian Tire Closes Auto Source". Tire Business.
- ^ Peale, Cliff (December 7, 1994). "Auto Source chain shuts down – 91 jobs are lost here at 2 stores". Cincinnati Post. p. 6D. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017.
- ^ Gebolys, Debbie (December 3, 1994). "Auto Source Stores Crash in Columbus, Other Cities". Columbus Dispatch. p. 01F. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
- ^ "Pep Boys To Acquire Three Auto Source Stores" (Press release). PR Newswire. March 5, 1995. Archived from the original on February 24, 2014 – via The Free Library.
- ^ "Reinventing the Tire: Inside the lab where Canadian Tire is developing thousands of new gadgets". The Globe and Mail. February 21, 2024. Retrieved September 19, 2024.
- ^ a b "Private labels a tool in battle with Amazon". The Globe and Mail. September 25, 2016. Retrieved September 19, 2024.
- ^ Wort, Amber Van. "Canadian Tire's Frank Brand Has Big Plans For The Future After TikTok Popularity - Narcity". Narcity. Retrieved September 19, 2024.
- ^ Wort, Amber Van. "Canadian Tire's 'Frank' Brand Is Giving Loblaws' 'No Name' A Run For Its Money - Narcity". Narcity. Retrieved September 19, 2024.
- ^ LIMITED, CANADIAN TIRE CORPORATION. "Canadian Tire Acquiring Padinox, Owner of the Paderno Brand in Canada". www.newswire.ca. Archived from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved October 28, 2019.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Corporation 2018 Annual Information" (PDF). p. 19. Archived (PDF) from the original on November 9, 2023. Retrieved August 18, 2019.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Corporation and Scotiabank enter a strategic business partnership that includes Scotiabank acquiring 20% of Canadian Tire's Financial Services Business". Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited. Archived from the original on August 25, 2019. Retrieved August 25, 2019.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Petroleum Celebrates 45 Years". Convenience Store News. October 5, 2003. Archived from the original on August 6, 2017. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
- ^ "Fuel". ONroute. August 18, 2019. Archived from the original on September 5, 2016.
- ^ Lindenberg, Greg on. "Canadian Tire to Convert More Than 200 Stations to the Petro-Canada Brand". CSP Daily News. Retrieved February 1, 2024.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Gas+ unveils first Petro-Canada site rebrand". CCentral. August 14, 2024. Retrieved September 19, 2024.
- ^ Babad, Michael (May 12, 2014). "Triple-eh: Moody's lauds Canadian Tire money as almost 'sub-fiat'". The Globe and Mail. Toronto. Archived from the original on May 12, 2014. Retrieved May 12, 2014.
- ^ "Canadian Tire to cease online sales". United Press International. January 20, 2009. Archived from the original on October 22, 2012. Retrieved December 15, 2012.
- ^ Nguyen, Linda (November 7, 2013). "Canadian Tire makes move into e-commerce". Toronto Star. Archived from the original on December 14, 2013. Retrieved April 3, 2014.
- ^ a b Strauss, Marina. "Its superstores stalling, Canadian Tire gets 'smart'". The Globe and Mail. Archived from the original on May 18, 2021. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Canadian Tire to acquire 12 former Target locations". CBC News. May 6, 2015. Archived from the original on May 8, 2015. Retrieved May 7, 2015.
- ^ "Country's largest Canadian Tire opens in South Edmonton Common". Edmonton Journal. June 4, 2015. Archived from the original on November 15, 2018. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Canada's largest Canadian Tire store opens in Ottawa". CTV News Ottawa. September 22, 2022. Archived from the original on October 24, 2022. Retrieved November 5, 2022.
- ^ Toneguzzi, Mario (October 30, 2022). "Canadian Tire Expanding Large Format 'Remarkable Retail' Store Concept as it Marks 100 Years [Interview]". Retail Insider. Retrieved February 17, 2024.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Corporation's CEO is looking forward to the next hundred years". The Globe and Mail. December 12, 2022. Retrieved February 17, 2024.
- ^ "$3 million reno to local Canadian Tire store complete. 'So very, very cool'". BayToday.ca. November 2, 2023. Retrieved June 26, 2025.
- ^ Kolm, Josh (March 11, 2022). "Canadian Tire unveils multi-billion omnichannel investment plan". Strategy. Retrieved February 17, 2024.
- ^ "VIDEO: Largest Canadian Tire store in B.C. attracts crowd of curious in Chilliwack". The Chilliwack Progress. October 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2024.
- ^ "Canadian Tire Corporation Annual Report 2013" (PDF). p. 25. Archived (PDF) from the original on August 18, 2019. Retrieved August 18, 2019.
In addition, during 2013, Management converted all of its Partsource franchise locations to corporately operated stores.
- ^ "Canadian Tire to buy Forzani Group". CBC News. May 9, 2011. Archived from the original on May 12, 2011. Retrieved May 9, 2011.
- ^ "National Sports stores all closing despite parent-company Canadian Tire posting 'phenomenal' Q4 earnings". CTV News. February 18, 2021. Archived from the original on February 25, 2021. Retrieved February 26, 2021.
- ^ "Party City Completes Sale of Canadian Retail Business to Canadian Tire". October 1, 2019. Archived from the original on October 21, 2020. Retrieved January 27, 2021.
- ^ "Iceculture builds ice truck for Canadian Tire commercial". SouthWesternOntario.ca. December 27, 2013. Archived from the original on February 6, 2018. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Ice truck attempts Guinness record on highway 84". Exeter Lakeshore Times-Advance. December 30, 2013. Archived from the original on November 14, 2018. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "'Tested for life': Canadian Tire Corp taps customer testers for a hands-on marketing tool". Financial Post. March 10, 2015. Archived from the original on June 17, 2018. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Canadian Tire program lets consumers do the talking". marketingmag.ca. Archived from the original on November 14, 2018. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Two Indy entries a first for Canada". The Gazette. Montreal. May 21, 1985. p. D6. Archived from the original on May 16, 2023. Retrieved April 23, 2013.
- ^ BILLES, DAVE. "Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame". cmhf.ca. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. Retrieved December 15, 2018.
- ^ "History - Canadian Tire Motorsport - Official Site". Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. Archived from the original on August 11, 2022. Retrieved September 1, 2022.
- ^ "Name Change For Scotiabank Place". Ottawa Sun. June 18, 2013. Archived from the original on December 5, 2020. Retrieved September 1, 2022.
External links
[edit]- Official website
- "Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited History". FundingUniverse.
Canadian Tire
View on GrokipediaHistory
Founding and early years
Canadian Tire was founded on October 24, 1922, by brothers John W. Billes and Alfred J. Billes in Toronto, Ontario, where they pooled their combined savings of $1,800 to acquire Hamilton Tire and Garage Ltd. at the corner of Gerrard and Hamilton streets.[9] This purchase marked the beginning of an auto parts retail business centered on a unique tire purchasing model that leveraged bulk buying to offer competitive prices on automotive goods and services, at a time when automobile ownership was rapidly increasing in Canada.[2] The brothers' venture initially operated as a small garage and parts depot, focusing on tires, batteries, and repair services to meet the growing demand from early car owners.[9] Early growth accelerated in 1923 when the Billes brothers closed the original garage and relocated to a new retail site at the corner of Yonge and Gould streets in downtown Toronto, rebranding as Canadian Tire Rubber Company.[10] There, they introduced a cash-and-carry system that emphasized direct sales without credit, enabling lower prices and faster transactions for customers seeking auto accessories and parts.[2] By 1926, they expanded into a mail-order catalog business, complete with free road maps and price lists, which laid the groundwork for an associate dealer network that distributed products to independent retailers across Ontario.[9] The company was formally incorporated as Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited, in 1927, with John W. Billes assuming the role of first president, a position he held until his death in 1956; his brother Alfred J. Billes then led as president until 1966, ensuring continued family oversight of operations.[2] Key innovations during the mid-20th century included the establishment of the first associate store in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1934, which formalized the dealer network and supported regional expansion through a controlled wholesale model.[9] In the 1930s, Canadian Tire enhanced efficiency by adopting innovative practices, such as equipping store clerks with roller skates at its Yonge and Davenport location in 1937 to expedite order fulfillment amid rising demand.[9] A significant loyalty initiative emerged in 1958 with the launch of Canadian Tire money, a coupon system conceived by Muriel Billes, wife of co-founder A.J. Billes, initially offered at the company's first gas bar to encourage repeat purchases of merchandise.[11] This program, pioneering customer incentives in Canadian retail, was distributed as a percentage of purchases and redeemable like currency, fostering long-term customer engagement.[9]Expansion in Canada
Following the end of World War II, Canadian Tire experienced significant growth driven by postwar economic prosperity and increasing consumer demand for automotive and household goods. In the 1950s, the company shifted toward suburban expansion, opening its first large-format stores outside urban cores to capitalize on growing car ownership and residential development. By 1956, the network had grown to over 160 associate stores, supported by the established franchise model where independent dealers operated under the Canadian Tire banner, sharing profits and receiving centralized supply chain support.[2] This proliferation continued into the 1970s, with the company surpassing 200 stores nationwide through strategic openings in emerging markets.[2] During the 1960s and 1970s, Canadian Tire diversified its product offerings beyond automotive parts to include hardware, sporting goods, lawn and garden supplies, and household items, reflecting broader consumer trends toward home improvement and leisure activities. This expansion was facilitated by new distribution centers, such as the 1973 facility in Brampton, Ontario, which improved logistics efficiency. In the 1970s, the company launched Canadian Tire Auto Service centers, initially tied to its gas bar network, providing maintenance services like oil changes to enhance customer loyalty. Western Canada expansion accelerated during this period, with stores opening in Manitoba in 1966, Saskatchewan in 1972, Alberta in 1974, and British Columbia in 1980, completing coast-to-coast coverage.[2][10] The 1970s economic recession posed challenges, including slowed sales growth and inflationary pressures on inventory costs, prompting Canadian Tire to implement recovery strategies such as targeted product line expansions into high-demand categories like leisure and home essentials. These efforts, combined with cost controls and marketing innovations like enhanced Canadian Tire Money promotions, helped stabilize operations and resume expansion.[2] Key infrastructural advancements marked the 1980s and 1990s, including the computerization of inventory and accounting systems to streamline supply chain operations across nearly 400 stores by the mid-1980s. In the 1990s, Canadian Tire piloted early e-commerce initiatives, leading to a full online retail launch in 2000, while introducing standardized store formats for improved customer experience. By 2000, the company had reached approximately 440 associate stores, solidifying its position as a dominant national retailer.[2][9]U.S. expansion attempts
Canadian Tire's first major attempt to enter the U.S. market occurred in 1982, when the company acquired White Stores, Inc., a Texas-based chain of 81 automotive retail stores in Texas, for approximately $144 million.[2] The strategy involved converting these stores to a format similar to Canadian Tire's Canadian operations, aiming to leverage the established footprint for rapid expansion in automotive parts and services. However, the venture faced significant challenges, including operational mismatches and regional market differences, leading to poor performance. By 1986, Canadian Tire sold most of White Stores' assets to Western Auto Supply Co. for $24.5 million, incurring substantial losses on the initial investment.[12][13] Undeterred initially, Canadian Tire launched a second U.S. expansion in the early 1990s through its subsidiary Auto Source Inc., starting with two stores under the Car Care USA banner in 1990 before rebranding and focusing on the Indianapolis area.[2] The approach emphasized larger superstore formats—each around 30,000 square feet with 24 service bays—to offer comprehensive automotive solutions, with expansion reaching ten stores across Indiana and nearby states by 1995. Despite generating about CA$60 million in annual revenue, the operation struggled with disappointing sales amid intense competition from entrenched U.S. players like AutoZone and an economic downturn. Auto Source reported losses of CA$15.3 million in 1992, approximately CA$20 million in 1993, and CA$13.1 million in 1994, totaling nearly CA$60 million over four years.[14][2] Canadian Tire closed all Auto Source locations by the end of 1995, fully withdrawing from the U.S. retail market.[13] These efforts highlighted key barriers to success, including cultural differences in consumer shopping habits, such as a preference for specialized retailers over general merchandise formats, and fierce competition from dominant U.S. chains like AutoZone that offered deeper market penetration and supply chain efficiencies.[2] The combined financial toll, estimated at over CA$30 million in losses for the Auto Source phase alone after accounting for partial recoveries, underscored the risks of cross-border retail without adequate localization. In response, Canadian Tire shifted its focus post-1995 to domestic consolidation, investing in store renovations and supply chain improvements within Canada to strengthen its core market position rather than pursuing further international retail ventures.[14][13]Recent developments and acquisitions
In 2018, Canadian Tire Corporation acquired the Helly Hansen brand and related businesses from the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan for CA$985 million, expanding its portfolio in outdoor and workwear apparel.[15][16] The acquisition was completed in July of that year, integrating Helly Hansen into Canadian Tire's family of companies to leverage synergies in sporting goods and apparel.[17] During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Canadian Tire adapted its operations by implementing curbside pickup and e-commerce fulfillment at its stores, particularly in Ontario where physical access was restricted to these methods to ensure customer safety and continuity of essential retail services.[18] This shift supported demand for home improvement and automotive products while maintaining reduced store hours across banners like Canadian Tire Retail and Mark's.[19] In October 2023, Canadian Tire repurchased the 20% stake in its financial services arm, Canadian Tire Financial Services, from Scotiabank for CA$895 million in an all-cash transaction, restoring full ownership and enabling greater control over its Triangle Rewards loyalty program.[20][21] That same year, in May 2023, Canadian Tire announced a partnership with Suncor Energy to rebrand more than 200 of its Gas+ retail fuel sites to Petro-Canada stations, with Suncor becoming the primary fuel supplier to the network.[22] The first rebranded site opened in July 2024 at 1080 Victoria Street in Kitchener, Ontario, featuring updated facilities and integration with Canadian Tire's loyalty programs.[23] In May 2025, Canadian Tire acquired the intellectual property portfolio of Hudson's Bay Company, including iconic brands, labels, and designs such as the HBC Stripes, for CA$30 million, as part of efforts to preserve Canadian retail heritage.[24][25] This deal encompassed trademarks, slogans, and private labels but excluded physical stores or Zellers branding. The acquisition enabled the launch of a limited-edition Hudson's Bay Stripes holiday capsule, debuting in Canadian Tire stores on December 5, 2025, with 26 products like blankets and apparel.[26][27] Also in 2025, Canadian Tire sold Helly Hansen to Kontoor Brands, announcing the deal in February for CA$1.28 billion and completing it in June, as part of a strategy to streamline its portfolio and refocus on core Canadian retail operations.[28][7][29] In its third-quarter 2025 earnings reported on November 6, Canadian Tire achieved consolidated comparable sales growth of 1.8%, with retail sales excluding petroleum up 1.7%, reflecting resilience across banners like SportChek and Canadian Tire Retail amid economic pressures.[30][31] Retail revenue excluding petroleum rose 5.9% year-over-year, supported by strong performance in Ontario and Quebec.[32]Brands and Subsidiaries
Core owned brands
Canadian Tire's core owned brands form the foundation of its private-label offerings, providing affordable, Canada-specific products that enhance customer loyalty and drive retail growth. These owned brands emphasize quality, reliability, and value, catering to everyday needs in automotive, tools, home decor, and car care sectors.[8] The strategy focuses on home-grown innovation to deliver competitive advantages, with products designed for Canadian climates, budgets, and lifestyles.[8][33] Mastercraft, a flagship tool brand, offers premium hand tools, power tools, and accessories tailored for DIY home improvement and professional applications. Known for durability and performance, it has become Canada's leading tool brand, supporting a wide array of projects from basic repairs to complex builds.[8] MotoMaster, introduced in 1933, specializes in automotive parts and accessories, including batteries, oils, filters, and fluids optimized for Canadian roads and weather conditions. With over 600 products, it prioritizes affordability and reliability to keep vehicles running efficiently for everyday drivers.[8] NOMA focuses on holiday and seasonal home decor, particularly lighting solutions that provide practical, energy-efficient options for indoor and outdoor use throughout the year. Its products emphasize style and functionality to enhance home comfort during festive periods.[8][34] Simoniz, integrated as a core car care brand, delivers detailing products such as waxes, cleaners, and protectants that are easy to use and budget-friendly. Evolving alongside automotive needs, it supports vehicle maintenance with effective, accessible formulas.[8][34] Frank, launched in 2013, is a core owned private label brand offering budget household goods, snacks, drinks, cleaning supplies, and party items. Known for its quirky and humorous packaging, it provides affordable everyday essentials with a lighthearted approach.[8][35] Canadian Tire Money, launched in 1958 as a pioneering loyalty program, functions as a redeemable currency with paper coupons valued at one cent each, encouraging repeat purchases across stores. Conceived by co-founder J.W. Billes' wife, Muriel, it remains an iconic symbol of customer engagement, now supplemented by digital versions.[36][37]Acquired and divested brands
In 2002, Canadian Tire acquired Mark's Work Wearhouse Ltd., a chain specializing in workwear, apparel, and footwear, for $116 million, expanding its offerings in industrial and casual clothing sectors.[38] This acquisition integrated approximately 130 stores into Canadian Tire's portfolio, complementing its core automotive and hardware lines with targeted apparel segments.[39] Through the 2011 acquisition of Forzani Group Ltd. for $771 million, Canadian Tire gained ownership of Sport Chek, a leading sporting goods retailer focused on apparel, footwear, and equipment for various sports.[40] The deal encompassed over 500 stores under brands including Sport Chek and Sports Experts, enhancing Canadian Tire's position in the activewear and athletics market.[41] In 2019, Canadian Tire completed the purchase of Party City Canada's operations for $174.4 million, acquiring 65 party supplies stores, inventory, and intellectual property to bolster its seasonal and event-based retail categories.[42] This move allowed Canadian Tire to operate dedicated party merchandise outlets while integrating select products into its broader network.[43] Canadian Tire entered the premium outdoor apparel space in 2018 by acquiring Helly Hansen, a Norwegian brand known for performance workwear and technical gear, for $985 million from the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan.[15] The acquisition included global operations and aimed to leverage Helly Hansen's expertise in weather-resistant clothing across Canadian Tire's retail channels.[16] In May 2025, Canadian Tire acquired key intellectual property assets from Hudson's Bay Company, including the iconic stripes pattern, coat of arms, and related trademarks, for $30 million amid HBC's financial restructuring.[24] The deal enables Canadian Tire to relaunch heritage-inspired products, with an initial limited-edition holiday collection featuring stripes-themed apparel and home goods set for in-store availability starting December 5, 2025.[26] Regarding divestitures, Canadian Tire announced the sale of Helly Hansen to Kontoor Brands in February 2025 for approximately $1.28 billion, with the transaction closing in June 2025 to streamline its portfolio and refocus on domestic retail priorities.[44] The undisclosed net proceeds from this divestiture are being reinvested into core Canadian operations, including enhancements to existing retail banners like Canadian Tire and Mark's.[28] This strategic exit allows acquired brands such as Sport Chek to better complement organic lines in sporting and outdoor categories without overlapping global commitments.Operations
Retail operations
Canadian Tire operates a vast network of approximately 1,700 retail locations across Canada as of 2025, forming the backbone of its retail model and serving diverse communities from urban centers to rural areas. This includes over 500 core Canadian Tire stores, the majority of which are independently owned and operated by franchisees under corporate oversight, with the remainder consisting of company-owned outlets. Store formats vary to meet regional needs, featuring large superstores typically exceeding 50,000 square feet that offer expansive selections in automotive, home, and sporting goods, alongside smaller urban and rural formats—such as the 18,000-square-foot small market concept introduced in 2008—tailored for higher-density or space-constrained locations to enhance accessibility and efficiency. These formats emphasize an omnichannel approach, integrating in-store experiences with digital tools to drive customer convenience.[45][46][47][48] Complementing its physical footprint, Canadian Tire's e-commerce platform, CanadianTire.ca, launched in 2001, has grown into a key component of its retail operations, enabling online browsing and purchases of a wide array of products with seamless integration to in-store inventory. By 2025, enhancements include same-day delivery services available for $9.99 per order in eligible areas, supporting orders placed before cutoff times for rapid fulfillment and bolstering the company's omnichannel strategy amid rising digital demand. However, this platform faced a significant challenge in October 2025, when a data breach compromised an e-commerce database, exposing personal details such as names, addresses, email addresses, and birth years for fewer than 150,000 customer accounts; the company promptly secured the vulnerability and notified affected individuals without impacting financial or loyalty program data.[49][50][51][52] The retail model's efficiency relies on a robust supply chain, anchored by at least seven distribution centers strategically located across provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec to handle nationwide logistics. These facilities support the management of over 80,000 stock keeping units (SKUs), drawing from thousands of suppliers to ensure timely replenishment for seasonal and everyday merchandise. Since the early 2020s, Canadian Tire has integrated artificial intelligence into inventory management processes, leveraging tools for demand forecasting, stock optimization, and personalized product recommendations to minimize overstock and improve operational agility. This AI adoption has been pivotal in handling the diverse SKU portfolio while adapting to fluctuating consumer patterns.[53][54][55] Supporting these operations is a workforce of approximately 32,000 associates as of late 2024, encompassing full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles focused on store staffing, logistics, and customer service to maintain high service standards across the network. This employee base, adjusted for post-2022 growth driven by e-commerce expansion and store renovations, underscores Canadian Tire's commitment to community-embedded retail while navigating labor demands in a competitive landscape.[5]Financial services
Canadian Tire Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Canadian Tire Corporation, was established in 2003 as a federally regulated financial institution under the Bank Act to provide banking services primarily to retail customers.[56] Originally operating as Canadian Tire Financial Services since 1961, the entity transitioned to a full banking charter in 2003 to expand its offerings in credit cards, loans, and deposits. In 2014, Scotiabank acquired a 20% stake in the financial services business for CA$500 million to support joint growth in credit products.[57] Canadian Tire repurchased this stake in October 2023 for CA$895 million, restoring 100% ownership and enhancing strategic control over its financial operations.[20] The bank's core products include the Triangle Mastercard, a no-annual-fee rewards credit card that allows users to earn Canadian Tire Money (CT Money) on purchases, with approximately 2.3 million active cards as of late 2024.[58] This card integrates seamlessly with the Triangle Rewards loyalty program, offering up to 4% back in CT Money on eligible purchases at Canadian Tire and partner stores, redeemable across nearly 12 million program members as of 2025.[59] Additional offerings encompass personal loans, savings deposits, and high-interest chequing accounts, all targeted at everyday retail consumers to support spending within the Canadian Tire ecosystem.[60] These products emphasize simplicity and rewards, with the Triangle Mastercard accepted at over 24 million global locations via the Mastercard network.[60] In 2022, the financial services segment generated CA$1,389.7 million in revenue, a 14.5% increase from the prior year, driven by higher credit card spending and loan receivables.[56] By 2025, revenue growth has continued through digital enhancements, including the Triangle app and online banking platform, which saw a 40% increase in successful credit card applications year-over-year, bolstering customer engagement and transaction volumes.[61] The bank maintains compliance with regulations from the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), adhering to Basel III capital requirements and focusing exclusively on retail banking to minimize risk exposure.[62]Petroleum and energy
Canadian Tire's petroleum and energy operations are primarily conducted through its Gas+ retail fuel network, which consists of over 270 standalone gas stations across Canada. These sites offer a range of services including gasoline and diesel fuel, convenience store items such as snacks and beverages, and automated car washes. Customers can earn and redeem rewards through the integrated Triangle loyalty program, providing discounts on fuel purchases of up to 3 cents per liter. The network pumps more than 1 billion liters annually.[22][63] In May 2023, Canadian Tire Corporation announced a strategic partnership with Suncor Energy, the parent company of Petro-Canada, to rebrand more than 200 Gas+ locations as Petro-Canada franchises while retaining ownership and operational control. Under the agreement, Suncor became the primary fuel supplier to the network, aiming to enhance site productivity and expand access to Petro-Canada's commercial fleet programs. The rebranding process began in July 2024 with the first converted site in Kitchener, Ontario, featuring refreshed forecourts and signage, and is being implemented in phases over several years.[22][64][65] This shift supports Canadian Tire's broader energy initiatives, including the integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at many Gas+ locations as part of a network exceeding 500 chargers nationwide. These EV amenities complement traditional fuel offerings and align with growing demand for sustainable energy options at the sites. Additionally, convenience stores at Gas+ stations carry select automotive products to support on-site vehicle maintenance needs.[66][67]Marketing and Sponsorships
Advertising campaigns
Canadian Tire's advertising campaigns have historically emphasized the retailer's role in supporting everyday Canadian activities, from home maintenance to seasonal celebrations, often through a mix of print, television, and digital media. A key iconic element is the annual Christmas catalog, commonly referred to as the Santa's Dream Book, which has been a holiday tradition since the 1950s, featuring toys, decorations, and gift ideas that capture the spirit of the season.[68] This catalog evolved from early fall and winter editions in the 1960s, becoming a staple for family wish lists and underscoring Canadian Tire's position as a one-stop holiday shopping destination.[69] In the television and digital era, Canadian Tire has invested heavily in multimedia campaigns to engage broader audiences. For instance, in 2025, the company launched a promotional campaign for its first Hudson's Bay Stripes holiday capsule collection, reviving the iconic multicolored stripes on items like blankets, mittens, and tableware, with TV spots, social media teasers, and online exclusives debuting ahead of the December 5 release.[26] This initiative highlighted the integration of acquired brands into Canadian Tire's portfolio, using nostalgic branding to drive holiday sales across physical and digital channels. The retailer's social media presence supports these efforts, with over 1.4 million followers on Facebook and 232,000 on Instagram as of late 2025, enabling targeted digital advertising and user-generated content amplification.[70][71] Advertising challenges have occasionally prompted strategic shifts, such as in 2025 when Canada Post's rotating strikes disrupted traditional flyer distribution, delaying print promotions and forcing a pivot to enhanced digital and in-store alternatives to maintain customer reach.[72] Canadian Tire's overall commitment to marketing is reflected in its substantial annual spending, with advertising and marketing expenses exceeding CA$429 million in 2022, representing a key portion of its selling, general, and administrative costs.[56] These investments have consistently positioned the brand as a cultural touchstone, blending practical utility with seasonal storytelling to foster long-term customer loyalty.Sports sponsorships
Canadian Tire has a long history of involvement in motorsport, particularly in open-wheel racing during the 1980s and 1990s through sponsorships in the CART/Champ Car series. The company served as the primary sponsor for the Canadian Tire Racing Team from 1984 to 1985, entering a March 85C chassis powered by Cosworth DFX in 24 races. This partnership yielded notable success, including a victory by driver Jacques Villeneuve Sr. at the 1985 Provimi Veal 200 at Road America, marking the team's only win in the series.[73][74] In the 2000s, Canadian Tire shifted focus to stock car racing, becoming the title sponsor of the NASCAR Canada Series (now NASCAR Pinty's Series) starting in 2007. This multi-year agreement encompassed 13 races annually across Canada, from Antigonish, Nova Scotia, to Vernon, British Columbia, enhancing the company's visibility in domestic motorsport. The company served as title sponsor from 2007 to 2015 and returned in 2021 as the Official Retailer of NASCAR in Canada, including entitlement sponsorship for select races.[75][76] Beyond motorsport, Canadian Tire maintained significant partnerships in professional hockey. In 2010, the company entered a five-year agreement with the National Hockey League (NHL) as the official sporting goods retailer in Canada, featuring prominent rink board and in-ice logo advertising during games throughout the 2010s. This visibility extended to community initiatives like Operation Puck Drop, which supported over 200 backyard rinks in 2021 amid pandemic restrictions. In 2023, Canadian Tire expanded into women's professional hockey as the first founding partner of the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), providing multi-year funding to promote gender equity in the sport. Sport Chek, a Canadian Tire subsidiary, continues to serve as a major retailer of NHL merchandise.[77][78][79] Canadian Tire's Olympic commitments have further solidified its role in elite athletics. In 2013, the company became a Premier National Partner of the Canadian Olympic Committee and Paralympic Committee for an eight-year term, supporting athletes through Sport Chek and other brands with equipment, apparel, and funding exceeding $500,000 annually. This partnership was renewed in 2021 for another eight years through 2028, encompassing events from the 2014 Sochi Winter Games to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and beyond. Activations included the "Impressions of Play" campaign, where athletes created red-paint impressions of their sports, generating over 125 million social media impressions during the 2018 PyeongChang Games.[80][81][82] As of 2025, Canadian Tire continues affiliations with teams in the Canadian Football League (CFL), such as preferred supplier status with the BC Lions, and collaborates with NBA Canada on youth basketball programs, including clinics in Montreal and Vancouver. The company allocates a multi-million-dollar sponsorship budget annually, with a commitment to direct at least 50% toward women's professional sports by 2026, including founding partnerships with the Northern Super League women's soccer league launching in 2025 and title sponsorship of the Nordiq Canada 2026 Olympic cross-country ski trials. These investments have driven substantial brand impact, with Olympic-related efforts alone achieving over 117 million Facebook impressions in 2018.[83][84][85][86][87][82]Community and loyalty programs
Canadian Tire's flagship loyalty initiative, Triangle Rewards, evolved from the longstanding Canadian Tire Money program and was formally introduced in 2018 to streamline rewards across its retail banners.[88] The program enables members to earn electronic Canadian Tire Money on qualifying purchases, redeemable like cash at participating stores, with base earning rates of 0.4% that can increase through bonuses and linked partnerships.[89] As of March 2025, Triangle Rewards boasts nearly 12 million members, who can link accounts with partners like Petro-Canada for additional earning opportunities, such as up to 7 cents per litre in rewards on fuel.[90] Integration with Canadian Tire's financial services, including the Triangle Mastercard, allows cardholders to earn accelerated rates of 4% back in Canadian Tire Money on purchases at Canadian Tire and affiliated retailers.[91] The program's impact on customer engagement is evident in its contribution to sales, with loyalty penetration reaching 55.2% of retail sales on a direct scan basis in the third quarter of 2025, up 117 basis points from the prior rolling 12-month period.[31] This growth reflects strategic expansions, including forthcoming 2026 partnerships with RBC, WestJet, and Tim Hortons to enable cross-reward earning and redemption.[92] Beyond rewards, Canadian Tire demonstrates community commitment through Jumpstart Charities, founded in 2005 to remove barriers to youth sports and recreation; since inception, it has disbursed over $200 million to support more than 2.5 million children across Canada.[93] In environmental stewardship, Canadian Tire advanced its sustainability goals in 2025 with the Pledge for the Planet Challenge during Earth Month, encouraging employee-led initiatives to reduce waste and emissions, aligned with broader ESG priorities outlined in its annual reports.[94] The company also plans to open its first net-zero-ready store in Kelowna, British Columbia, later in 2025, designed to minimize operational waste and energy use as part of commitments to divert corporate waste from landfills.[95] Addressing data privacy, following an October 2025 e-commerce database incident affecting customer details like names and addresses—but sparing loyalty and banking data—Canadian Tire promptly resolved the vulnerability, notified regulators under PIPEDA, and collaborated with external experts to enhance cybersecurity infrastructure and protections.[51] These efforts are detailed in Canadian Tire's 2024 ESG Report, published in April 2025, which emphasizes responsible governance and community resilience.[96]Leadership and Governance
Executive leadership
Canadian Tire Corporation's executive leadership has evolved alongside its growth from a small automotive parts retailer to a diversified retail powerhouse. The company's first president, John W. Billes, co-founded the business in 1922 with his brother Alfred J. Billes and served until his death in 1956, overseeing the initial expansion to over 160 stores during the postwar economic boom.[2] His successor, Alfred J. Billes, held the role from 1956 to 1966, during which the company grew to 225 stores and introduced the iconic Canadian Tire money coupon system in the 1950s, enhancing customer loyalty and sales.[2] Subsequent leaders focused on operational scaling and diversification. J. Dean Muncaster, president from 1966 to 1986, expanded logistics infrastructure, including major distribution centers and a fleet exceeding 700 transport units by the late 1980s.[2] Dean G. Groussman (1986–1992) grew the network of gas stations and stores while initiating international ventures, though facing competitive challenges.[2] Stephen E. Bachand (1992–2000) revitalized retail formats through a comprehensive store improvement program, launched the PartSource auto parts chain in 1999, and exited unprofitable U.S. operations in 1995, boosting revenues to CAD 4.73 billion by 1999.[2] In the early 2000s, Wayne Sales (2000–2006) drove modernization with the "Next Generation" store redesign, acquired Mark's Work Wearhouse in 2002, and achieved sales of CAD 8.39 billion by 2004.[97] Tom Gauld briefly served as president and CEO from 2006 to 2008, stabilizing operations post-Sales amid leadership transitions.[98][99] Stephen G. Wetmore assumed the role of president and CEO in 2009, leading until 2014 and implementing a new business model that significantly grew the company's portfolio.[100] He returned as president and CEO from 2016 to 2020.[101] Michael B. Medline held the position from 2014 to 2016, emphasizing digital transformation and retail efficiency.[102] Greg Hicks has served as president and CEO since March 2020, bringing over 20 years of retail experience, including his prior role as president of Canadian Tire Retail where he managed all aspects of the core retail business.[103][104] Under his leadership, the company pursued strategic acquisitions, including the intellectual property of Hudson's Bay Company brands announced on May 15, 2025, for CAD 30 million to bolster private label offerings, with the deal closing later that summer.[105][24] In 2025, the board re-elected Hicks as part of its director slate at the annual meeting, supporting his ongoing tenure amid positive financial momentum, including third-quarter retail sales growth for the third consecutive quarter.[106][59] The following table chronicles key presidents and CEOs, their tenures, and major contributions:| Leader | Tenure | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| John W. Billes | 1922–1956 | Founded the company; expanded to 160+ stores during postwar growth.[2] |
| Alfred J. Billes | 1956–1966 | Grew to 225 stores; launched Canadian Tire money coupons.[2] |
| J. Dean Muncaster | 1966–1986 | Developed distribution centers and large-scale transport fleet.[2] |
| Dean G. Groussman | 1986–1992 | Expanded gas stations and stores; initiated U.S. expansion efforts.[2] |
| Stephen E. Bachand | 1992–2000 | Store revitalization program; launched PartSource; exited U.S. market; revenues reached CAD 4.73 billion.[2] |
| Wayne Sales | 2000–2006 | "Next Generation" store redesign; acquired Mark's Work Wearhouse; sales hit CAD 8.39 billion.[97][2] |
| Tom Gauld | 2006–2008 | Stabilized operations during leadership changes.[98][99] |
| Stephen G. Wetmore | 2009–2014, 2016–2020 | Developed new business model for portfolio growth.[100][101] |
| Michael B. Medline | 2014–2016 | Advanced digital and operational efficiencies.[102] |
| Greg Hicks | 2020–present | Oversaw retail recovery; acquired Hudson's Bay IP; drove Q3 2025 sales growth.[103][105][59] |
Board of directors
The board of directors of Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited consists of 16 members as of the 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, including family descendants of the founders such as Martha Billes and Owen Billes, who represent the ongoing involvement of the Billes family in governance.[107] The board maintains a majority of independent directors in accordance with Toronto Stock Exchange listing requirements for public companies.[108] J. Michael Owens has served as chair of the board since May 2022, succeeding Maureen Sabia, who held the position from 2007 to 2022 and was instrumental in guiding the company's expansion into digital retail and sustainability initiatives during her tenure.[109] Earlier notable chairs include Gilbert Stuart Bennett (1996–2007), who oversaw the acquisition of key subsidiaries like the Mark's Work Wearhouse chain, and Herbert Earl Joudrie (1994–1996), who focused on operational efficiencies in the mid-1990s. Alfred J. Billes, co-founder of the company, served in leadership roles including president from 1956 to 1966 before transitioning to board oversight until the 1970s.[110] The board's primary responsibilities include approving strategic initiatives, such as the $30 million acquisition of Hudson's Bay Company's intellectual property—including its iconic stripes brand—announced on May 15, 2025, which expanded Canadian Tire's portfolio in consumer goods and closed later that summer.[111][24] The board also oversees corporate governance, risk management, and executive compensation, with a focus on long-term shareholder value. Regarding diversity, the board adheres to a policy targeting at least 30% women members, with current representation aligning closely to this threshold through intentional recruitment practices.[112]| Chair | Tenure | Key Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Alex Ethelred Barron | 1966–1984 | Stabilized operations during economic shifts in the 1970s. |
| Hugh Leopold Macaulay | 1984–1994 | Advanced retail diversification into automotive and sports goods. |
| Herbert Earl Joudrie | 1994–1996 | Enhanced financial controls amid market competition. |
| Gilbert Stuart Bennett | 1996–2007 | Led acquisitions strengthening market position. |
| Maureen Sabia | 2007–2022 | Drove digital transformation and ESG integration. |
| J. Michael Owens | 2022–present | Oversees brand expansions like the 2025 Hudson's Bay deal. |
