Expanding Operating Hours?
The Quebec government has launched a pilot project that allows non-food retailers in Laval, Saint-Georges, and Gatineau to operate until 8 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. This move, aimed at renewing shopping centres and nearby restaurants, has sparked a debate among industry leaders.
In support of the pilot project, shopping centres across Quebec, including Carrefour Laval, Galeries de la Capitale, and Les Promenades Gatineau, have expressed their backing. However, not all centres are jumping on the bandwagon. Galeries Aylmer, for instance, has no intention of changing its opening hours, which shift from 9 AM to 10 AM on Saturdays and cater to a majority of service businesses.
François Roberge, head of La Vie en Rose stores, shares the sentiment that shopping centre hours no longer meet the needs of the clientele. He believes that extending hours could provide a much-needed boost to shopping centres and local restaurants. Royalmount luxury shopping centre is also hopeful, awaiting Quebec's green light to welcome clients after 5 PM on weekends.
Jean-François Transon, head of Club Chaussures and Chaussures Panda stores, echoes these sentiments. His store, serving a clientele of children's shoes, is based in Laval. Transon believes that extending hours makes sense in some locations, such as Gatineau, but finds it less relevant after 7 PM due to early bedtimes for young children.
Inconsistency in closing times across small centres in Quebec has been causing a poor customer experience. Sylvain Lafrance, president of the Marie Claire Group, notes a decrease in evening foot traffic since the pandemic, further emphasising the need for change.
It's worth noting that Quebec controls opening hours differently compared to other places in America, with hours based on supply, demand, and competition. This approach is a point of contention for many brands present in Royalmount, whose managers struggle to understand why Quebec is going against the global trend on this issue.
As the pilot project unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts shopping centres, local businesses, and consumers in the designated cities. The potential for extended hours to renew shopping centres and nearby restaurants, as well as improve the overall customer experience, remains a hot topic in the retail industry.
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