SmartCentres, a real estate goliath in Canada, is a name familiar to most Canadians. Synonymous with retail shopping centres sporting their emblematic penguin statues at entrances, they have ingrained themselves into the everyday lives of Canadian citizens. However, they’re not only limited to retail centres. Their ventures span across asset management planning, acquisitions, leasing, development, operations, construction, and property management. With over a dozen services under their belt, it’s no surprise that this massive enterprise operates in all ten provinces of Canada.
In 2015, SmartCentres navigated through a significant milestone. They merged with Calloway REIT, a longstanding partner, creating an unprecedented force in the Canadian real estate scenario. This unification amalgamated the expertise of two of the most successful companies in the country, setting a launchpad for newer, exciting opportunities in some of the hottest real estate markets.
This merger helped cement SmartCentres’ status as a comprehensive developer. The company wasted no time and, to everyone’s awe, pocketed the ‘Developer of the Year’ award at the 16th Annual Rex Awards for their stellar KPMG Tower project in Vaughan.
SmartUrban: A New Dawn in Metropolitan Living
Capitalizing on the post-merger resources, SmartCentres forayed into the arena of mixed-use developments with the introduction of SmartUrban, a new division. The aim of SmartUrban is to bring modern condos and infuse density into bustling communities across the country.
Revitalizing Urban Spaces with SmartUrban
SmartUrban has its sight set on metropolitan locations like Vaughan, Montreal, and downtown Toronto. Its unique approach involves creating open, safe spaces where people feel at ease living, working, and interacting. For instance, StudioCentre, located east of Toronto’s financial district, is set to become a landmark waterfront project, offering stunning views of Lake Ontario.
SmartCentres’ new endeavours aim to create a harmonious blend of residential and retail spaces, transforming urban centres across Canada. These projects are certain to diversify the surrounding neighbourhoods, keeping the market buzz alive. Undeniably, with their proven track record and reputation, SmartCentres will continue to earmark the most promising locations across the country for future developments.
Penguin Pick-Up: The Future of Shopping
Continuing its trend of innovation, SmartCentres is also tapping into online shopping with its low-contact Penguin Pick-Up service. Customers can send their online purchases to a safe location and pick them up via a drive-thru service without the need to leave their vehicle.
Well-Known SmartCentres’ Developments
Of the many thriving developments under the SmartCentres banner, the Toronto Premium Outlets is one extraordinary example, located strategically within the Greater Toronto Area. It boasts tenants like Calvin Klein, Saks Fifth Avenue, Banana Republic, Eddie Bauer, and Nike and serves as a go-to shopping destination for the people in and around the city.
Another prime example is SmartCentres Mirabel, right next to the Club de Golf Les Quatre Domains. It’s a colossal setup situated conveniently on the Transcanada Highway, close to Montreal, attracting visitors from across Eastern Quebec.Lastly, the eagerly anticipated SmartVMC is set to become the new “downtown north,” adjacent to the new Spadina-York subway extension, piquing the interest of many Torontonians.
SmartCentres, with its all-round services, from retail shopping centres to condominium developments, has truly revolutionized the Canadian real estate landscape and continues to do so. Be it their successful footprint in retail or the accolades for their real estate projects, or even their innovative foray into online shopping, SmartCentres has consistently proven its mettle in all endeavours. As this real estate behemoth continues to strive towards new heights, there’s no denying that SmartCentres is setting new standards in Canada’s real estate industry.
