It is Wednesday, May 6. Here are the top stories we are following today.
Automated Greenhouse Aims to Reduce Dependence on U.S. Lettuce
Most of the lettuce Canadians eat travels thousands of kilometres from California fields to their plates. Jay Willmot has built a $50-million fully automated greenhouse to change that. The facility, known as Haven Greens, is designed to grow lettuce locally, reducing the carbon footprint and ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce year-round. This innovation could reshape Canada's agricultural landscape.
Honda Halts Plans for $15-Billion EV Plant in Ontario
Honda Motor Co. is halting plans to build a $15-billion electric vehicle plant in Canada due to lagging interest in the products, according to a report from the Asian business news outlet Nikkei. The decision marks a significant setback for Canada's ambitions to become a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing. The plant was initially expected to create thousands of jobs and boost the local economy.
Tim Hortons Parent Company Plans Major Expansion in Canada
Restaurant Brands International Inc., the parent company of Tim Hortons, plans to invest heavily in Canada this year as it accelerates the pace of new location openings. Chief executive Josh Kobza attributed the chain's 'broad-based' growth to strength in both morning and late-night sales, largely driven by cold beverages and breakfast foods. The expansion is expected to create jobs and increase brand presence across the country.
The Multimillionaire's Dilemma: Balancing Security and Freedom
At 84, Louise is looking to simplify her investment portfolio, minimize tax, and maintain her current lifestyle. This includes continuing to travel five to six times a year, albeit more locally than her past global adventures, and aging in place in her Vancouver home. The choice of where to invest comes down to whether her focus is on money as security or money as freedom, a common dilemma for wealthy retirees.
Loblaw Hikes Dividend as Discount Banners Outperform
Loblaw Cos. Ltd. released its earnings results for the quarter ended March 28, reporting overall revenues of $14.72 billion, a 4.2 per cent increase from the previous year. This included retail revenue of $14.48 billion. The grocery giant also announced a dividend hike and plans to open new stores, as discount banners like No Frills continue to perform well amid tightening consumer budgets.
