32nd edition

HOP! The Retail Summit 2026

Retail: When Circularity Becomes a Competitive Advantage

Discover how the circular economy helps retailers reduce costs, create new revenue streams, and strengthen their competitive advantage.

Date(s) and time(s)

27 octobre 2026 - 15 h 15 à 15 h 50

Location

Terminal 1 côté ville

Price

N/A

Retail: When circularity becomes a competitive advantage

What if the circular economy became a true growth driver for your business?

As consumer expectations evolve, resources become increasingly constrained, and competition intensifies, retailers are being challenged to rethink how they do business. The circular economy offers practical solutions to reduce costs, create new revenue streams, strengthen customer loyalty, and enhance brand positioning.

Through inspiring examples and real-world experiences, discover how Québec organizations are transforming their business models and retail spaces to generate economic, environmental, and social value.

– Insertech redesigned its public-facing store according to circular economy principles, in collaboration with design firm Rümker. This initiative made it possible to measure tangible impacts and demonstrate how a commercial space can become a true showcase for circularity.

Panelist: Marie-France Bellemare, Executive Director, Insertech

 

– Renaissance has developed an ambitious strategy to maximize local reuse through partnerships with retailers such as SAIL and the deployment of value-added second-hand stores. This innovative approach enables the organization to reach new customer segments while increasing its impact.

Panelist: Éric St-Arnaud, Executive Director, Renaissance

 

The discussion will be moderated by Natacha Beauchesne, Economic Development Commissioner – Circular Economy, Ville de Montréal, who will also present the Subsidy for a circular economy diagnosis, a financial support initiative that helps businesses identify opportunities aligned with their operational realities and growth objectives.

Why attend this panel?

Because circularity is no longer an emerging trend it is becoming a practical business strategy that can be applied by both small retailers and large chains.

Leave with real-world examples, actionable insights, and practical ideas to help your organization begin or accelerate its transition toward a more circular, resilient, and competitive retail model.

 

What you’ll learn

  • How to transition from a linear business model to a circular approach;
  • Emerging business models, including reuse, repair, rental, take-back programs, refurbishment, and product durability;
  • The benefits of circularity for profitability, resilience, customer engagement, and brand value;
  • The challenges and key success factors involved in implementing circular practices.

Speakers

Natacha Beauchesne

Ville de Montréal
Economic development commissioner – circular economy

Marie-France Bellemare

Insertech
Executive director

Éric St-Arnaud

Renaissance Québec
Executive director