TIPS FOR SHOPPING AT IMPROVE CANADA

How can you make the most of shopping at Canada’s first and largest home improvement centre?

DO SOME RESEARCH

“You can do a little research online but there’s nothing like seeing things up close and touching them,” says Oleg Chekhter, founder and developer of Improve Canada. “You don’t want to be rushed, so put aside a day to browse the mall and see what’s available.

While Improve differs from other malls in its focus on home retailers, Chekhter recommends treating the experience as if you were shopping at any other centres. “Get the feeling in each store with a quick visit and judge to see if it’s your st yle, then compare the options before making decisions.”

Frank Piacentini, co-founder of wholesale bathroom retailer Canaroma Bath Tile and Lighting, suggests you do your homework first. “If you’re working on a project, start by preparing a shopping list of what you need for your project. You may need 15 or 20 items or more, so you’ll want to be organized.” Know what you’re looking for and what your budget is so you can find what you need more easily.

TAKE YOUR TIME

Give yourself a good half-day or more when visiting the mall. “You need to walk around a bit, see what’s available, visit a few companies that focus on what you’re looking for, and talk in more detail to at least three, without being rushed,” explains Pedini Kitchen’s Oscar Visentin.

When visiting vendors, stick to between three and five. “More than that may be too many — customers can start to get frustrated and confused by the options. Fewer is too little — you don’t do your due diligence. You need to see what each brings to the table, find out about what they offer, the cost and timing,” says Visentin.

TRUST YOUR GUT

Rely on your first impression. “If you don’t like what you see, it may just not be a good fit for you,” says Visentin. Don’t waste time — move on. “Look for those people with whom you make a good connection,” adds Piacentini.

TAKE A CLASS

“Take advantage of the activities going on at the mall, like special events, seminars, classes, product presentations,” says Chekhter. “Improve will be hosting a wide variety of these activities to help educate consumers and guide them through the process of improving their homes.” Improve Canada’s Grand Opening event takes place on April 29 and 30. Until then, stop by and shop on any weekend. While businesses continue to move in and extras like the food court get ready to open, there are many businesses that have already opened their doors. Until the Grand Opening, Improve Canada is open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Find out more about Improve Canada at improvecanada.com or call (905) 766-2577.