THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS HISTORY

Canada's new $2 coin, dubbed the "toonie," is introduced.

Feb. 17, 2003

Great-West Lifeco struck a deal to acquire Canada Life in a $7.3-billion transaction that created the country’s largest insurance company.

Feb. 18, 2002

Sears said its Eaton’s stores would be closed or converted to Sears outlets, spelling the end of the 133-year-old Eaton’s brand.

Feb. 19, 1996 Feb. 20, 1959

Prime Minister John Diefenbaker cancelled the Avro Arrow jet program. The decision resulted in the layoff of nearly 14,000 people at the Avro plant in Malton, Ont. Developed by Canadian AV Roe, the Arrow (also known as the CF-105) was an advanced, all-weather supersonic interceptor jet.

Feb. 21, 2007

Torstar and Metro International announced the launch of free Metro daily newspapers in Calgary and Edmonton.

Feb. 22, 1897

Frank Winfield Woolworth opened a five-cent store in Utica, N.Y. The store failed. A few months later, he opened a five-and-dime store in Lancaster, Pa. — the first in an international chain.