Transformation of Canadian Retail Post-COVID: A Comparative Study

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered one of the most disruptive transformations in the history of retail worldwide, and Canada was no exception. Lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, digital acceleration, and changing consumer behavior permanently reshaped the Canadian retail landscape. This study provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of the transformation of Canadian retail in the post-COVID era by examining structural, technological, operational, and consumer-level changes across key retail formats. Using a qualitative–conceptual comparative framework supported by secondary data and industry reports, this paper compares pre-COVID (2018–2019) and post-COVID (2021–2024) retail environments across five critical dimensions: consumer behavior, digital transformation, supply chain management, retail formats, and workforce transformation. The findings reveal a decisive shift toward omnichannel retailing, contactless commerce, data-driven personalization, and flexible supply networks. The study contributes to retail transformation literature and offers strategic insights for retailers navigating a permanently altered marketplace.