Canadian Tire is boldly shaping retail in Canada

Kim Melanson, Owner Proudly offers products and services to help Canadians with the jobs and joys of life in Canada. OUR CUSTOMER COMES FIRST

When Kim Melanson decided she wanted to purchase a franchise, it was a no-brainer to invest in Canadian Tire. She’s among a handful of women who have chosen this route – less than one per cent of Canadian Tire franchise owners are female. This, however, did not faze Kim.

She began her career as an industrial engineer in 1999, and after a stint in the energy sector, joined Canadian Tire Corporation in supply chain and logistics. It was through her years working in various roles at the company that Kim began to envision herself a store owner one day.

“There is no other role in the company that has a bigger impact on the customer, the team and the community than that of store owner,” explains Kim. It was in 2016 when the vision came to fruition and she became a franchise owner operator alongside her husband. The family moved from Brampton to settle in Hamilton, near the store location at 304 Main St. E., Hamilton. Although the industry tends to attract male owners, Kim recognizes that good leadership is gender-neutral. She believes it comes down to leveraging one’s own strengths to have a positive impact on the consumer.

“It’s been a wonderful experience,” admits Kim. “The community is shared with other Canadian Tires in the area, however we have a unique market in the downtown core and a great store.”

The career change has provided Kim new challenges that she welcomes. As a business owner, fresh problems arise frequently that require a tremendous amount of thinking on one’s feet. Becoming a jack-of-all-trades is a necessity that Kim has relished.

“Overcoming each challenge continues to be very rewarding,” she admits. As for what provides the greatest fulfillment in her new role, Kim is quick to reply that it’s the customers. Helping people and being available for the shoppers that walk into her store every day is second to none.

Although this was Kim’s first foray into retail ownership, she feels she was well-prepared for the role through her years at Canadian Tire Corporation. While there, she accumulated valuable leadership experiences and worked with great people. She also attributes her life experiences for readying her, and the family, to thrive in their new circumstances.

While many people consider franchise ownership, Kim is emphatic that Canadian Tire is among the best options out there.

“It’s a growing company and an iconic brand undergoing a dramatic pace of change in the retail landscape,” she explains, adding that the company faces exciting new challenges that open up the opportunity for growth like never before.

“It’s a hidden gem in terms of opportunities in the retail landscape,” says Kim. She encourages women who are considering buying a franchise – in any industry – to leverage their own strengths and be confident in the decision to move forward.

“I’d say if you’re thinking about something that challenges you and is incredibly rewarding, then do it. You’ll strengthen the team and the brand.”