August 2007

A window into the world of Roots

Issue 74 August 2007

THE MAKING OF A TOP BRAND Roots selected as one of Canada’s leading iconic brands in major new study

Issue 74 - August 2007

The Source 1

I N S I D E I S S U E 74 ROOTS GROWS IN ASIA Overseas expansion continues with newest Taiwan store ADDING SOME MUCH-NEEDED CHEER Roots receives Israeli delegation of children traumatized by terrorism THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT The latest collaborations between Roots and Hollywood

WELCOMING THE PRESS AT CENTREVILLE Quebec media gets a preview of the new fall collection FINISHING ON TOP ON FACEBOOK

Roots ranks #1 on networking site in survey of Canadian shoppers STAYING IN FOCUS Roots Rosedale hosts eTalk Daily for special Live Earth-linked segment INNOVATION ACROSS THE NATION

Register revamp premieres in Toronto area ahead of roll-out throughout Canada

BY SPECIAL ORDER Roots provides photo albums for Police fans A PRESENCE ON THE ICE AND OFF Roots employee goes triple gold in figure skating

Departments FRESH INK GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS MOMENTS THAT MATTER GREEN TIPS HEALTH TIPS STAYING POWER

Publishers MICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN Editor ROBERT SARNER Editorial Assistant PAULOMI PATEL Intern CARLY ANDERSON

The Source is published every month by Roots Canada Ltd. We welcome letters from readers for publication. Please address all correspondence to The Source , Letters to the Editor, Roots Canada, 1400 Castlefield Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M6B 4C4 or by email to rsarner@roots.com Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

Each issue of The Source is also available, in an abridged version, on the Roots website at www.roots.com

2

The Source

PHOTO BY DYLAN ANDERSON

HARRY POTTERMANIA Roots helps Indigo celebrate release of much-anticipated book

SPECIAL DELIVERY A selection of recent letters from the world of Roots A GOOD CAUSE Thank you so much for your generous donation of prizes for our kazoo draw. Thanks to the assistance of Roots, we raised more than $13,000 for arts education at Topcliff.

Next year, every student in grades 1 to 3 will learn to play the steel pan. In addition, we will have extra-curricular steel pan clubs for our grade 4 and 5 students. We plan to spend any extra funds on bringing storytellers, dance troupes, theatre companies, artists, and authors into our school.

We know that arts education improves achievement across the curriculum. We also know how vital it is that we engage our students and keep them interested in school. You have made our task so much easier.

Nancy Steinhauer, Principal Topcliff Public School, Toronto SOUTHERN COMFORT UP NORTH After a recent trip to Canada, I discovered your clothing and loved it! I found some shirts on the website that I couldn’t live without but my size was no longer available through the online store. After calling all the Roots stores in the United States, I decided to try my luck in Canada.

A few calls later, I was getting discouraged but then I happened upon Ellie Thiessen at the Rosedale store in Toronto. She was such a big help and even offered to call other stores in Toronto for me so as to not run up my phone bill (very considerate!). Ellie found two of the three shirts I wanted and arranged to have them shipped to me in Georgia. Most impressively, she was completely calm when I called her back in the middle of her search and said, “Oops! Can we make those extra large, not large?”

I received the shirts a few days ago and love them. Thank you for all that you do in your responsible business practices.

We need more companies like Roots. And a big thank you to Ellie at Rosedale. You rock!

My only complaint is that we need more Roots in the US (Atlanta, for example). Take care and keep up the good work.

Thanks again.

J. Kelly Athens, Georgia WORDS OF THANKS On behalf of the CEO, Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and children of The Hincks-Dellcrest Centre, we wish to thank Roots for helping us with the recent ‘Raise a Child’s Smile’ at the

Liberty Grand in Toronto. We greatly appreciated your donation of a large Banff Bag to our silent auction.

The silent auction is always a much-anticipated part of our evening and an integral part of our fundraising event. Thanks in part to your generousity, this was our best event ever, raising over $280,000! We were able to keep our costs low, and are very proud that the expenses of the event were less than 15%.

The money raised will help support programs for children and youth and the development of innovative strategies in prevention, early intervention, training, research and treatment.

Your support enables Hincks-Dellcrest to continue to provide the best mental health practices and therefore to make a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Annabel Bassin Director, Fund Development The Hincks-Dellcrest Centre, Toronto The Source wants to hear from you.

Please send your letters to Robert Sarner at rsarner@roots.com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

EXTRA! EXTRA! In keeping with our new monthly publishing schedule, the next issue of The Source will appear in late August.

Issue 74 - August 2007

BEYOND THE NAME The making of a top brand. Roots selected as one of Canada’s leading iconic brands in major new study. BY ROBERT SARNER

Issue 74 - August 2007

Painting by Heather Cooper

W

e live in a world of brands. Our lives and our reality are inescapably branded. Everywhere you turn, you are surrounded by the presence of brands. If many are created every day, precious few ever reach the exalted status of a national icon. Few become emblematic of their host country. Few attract public awareness, trust and respect on a national level. Few have the relevance, resonance and staying power to become iconic.

In today’s fiercely competitive marketplace, brand identity and brand loyalty are increasingly vital to a company’s success. Little surprise then that the evaluation of brands is a hotly watched subject.

A few weeks ago, Brand Finance Canada published a study of the country’s leading companies. Entitled Canada’s Most Valuable Brands 2007, it was prepared by Brand Finance Canada and Level 5 Strategic Brand Advisors in collaboration with Socratic Technologies.

Such is the interest in the topic that the Globe and Mail, the National Post and Canadian Business magazine devoted prominent coverage to the results. Among the findings, Roots was recognized as one of the country’s leading iconic brands.

Brand Finance ranked Canada’s most recognizable brands by total value and overall strength. In establishing its list, the company incorporated consumer research, surveying the public about top-of-mind brand awareness and brand loyalty, in addition to other relevant factors.

Roots was the top brand in the retail clothing sector and fourth overall after Cirque du

Soleil, Ski-Doo and the CBC. In fifth place was the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team, followed by the Montreal Canadiens in sixth place.

Along with its chart of Canada’s top 10 iconic brands, the report stated: “Our world is filled with day-to-day brands of all stripes that in many ways chronicle the evolution of our society. Brands are all-pervasive and can act as tags or identifiers for things we view as important. In evaluating brands, we did not do it in the traditional sense. The starting point for the list was not market capitalization but rather brands that are part of the history, heritage and culture of Canada. Brands that have shaped Canada’s current landscape.”

A brand is many things but most of all it’s a projection of a personality and a promise. It’s only as strong as the company’s ability to deliver on that promise and to ensure a positive, meaningful customer experience. As such, the brand must start inside the company and project outward. It must emanate from the source. It depends on the entire staff being in synch with the vision, values and passion of the brand.

Although intangible, a

Roots strong brand is often a company’s most valuable asset. It’s directly linked to earning loyalty from customers.

“Companies can maintain an edge by developing strong brands that will resist a corporate takeover and act as a barrier to competition,” says David Haigh, founder and CEO of the UK-based Brand Finance and producer of the survey.

“A strong brand doesn’t guarantee success,” adds Haigh. “But companies that understand the strategic importance of their brands are much more likely to succeed in the end.”

The Roots brand derives its strength from the company’s unshakeable loyalty to its customers and its commitment to quality and integrity in all of its diverse activities. While Roots products have evolved considerably since the compa-

ny’s inception in 1973, the core values, and guiding principles have not. These include a keen sense of style, innovation and aesthetics coupled with a healthy, active lifestyle, respect for the environment and pride in Canada. That consistency helps both staff and customers identify and respect what Roots is all about.

“The results of the latest Brand Finance survey are extremely gratifying for all of us at Roots,” says Co-Founder Michael Budman. “We appreciate the confidence and support that Canadians have for Roots. We never lose sight of the importance of satisfying our customers and meeting their expectations when they enter our stores. We know it’s essential to maintain our standards and values to help ensure that customers don’t just come into our stores today but that they will have such a positive experience that they will want to return again soon.”

To be a strong brand, a company can’t rest on its laurels.

Complacency is the surest way to weaken a customer’s perception of and experience with a company. The strength of Roots is that starting with its cofounders and its senior management, there is a consensus, even a passion, to constantly strive to make a good thing even better.

That augurs well for the future of Roots and the power of the brand.

CANADA’S TOP 10 ICONIC BRANDS

According to the latest study by Brand Finance Canada

The Source 3

ROOTS GROWS IN ASIA

BY SPECIAL ORDER

Overseas expansion continues

Roots provides photo albums for Police fans

T

he expansion of Roots in Asia continues unabated with the opening of the company’s first store in Singapore on July 27 and the recent inauguration of its 23rd store in Taiwan.

Located in the Eslite Department store in Taipei, the national capital, the store opened on July13. Working in partnership with the Hong Kong-based Li & Fung Trading Ltd., the new addition to the Roots family in Taiwan kicked off with strong sales in its first few days. Congratulations are

in order to Matt Meng, Country Manager and the entire Taiwan team for this success.

With 30 stores in Asia so far, Roots plans on introducing its distinctive brand to many more cities in the region in the coming months and years. Currently, in addition to its nearly two dozen stores in Taiwan and the new location in Singapore, it has three in China, two in Hong Kong, and one in Malaysia.

Stay tuned for the next issue of The Source for coverage of the official opening of the Roots flagship store in Shanghai in August.

V

IP ticket holders for the North American leg of the reunion tour of The Police will now have a stylish place to store their memories of the concert. All VIP attendees will receive a leather photo album custom-made in

ADDING SOME MUCH-NEEDED CHEER Roots receives delegation of Israeli children traumatized by terrorism

I

n late July, the Orfus Road store in Toronto played host to a special group of 22 children from the Middle East, embarking on what is sure to be a meaningful visit in Canada.

The teenagers, all of whom have lost a parent or sibling in a terrorist attack, were brought to Canada by the One Family Fund, an organization that helps Israeli families ravaged by tragedy. Through $30,000 of private donations, the children were offered a free month at a summer camp in Ontario, far from the Israeli-Palestinian 4

The Source

conflict. A 25-year old counselor, a victim herself, escorted the children from Israel to serve also as their confidante at camp.

Friend of Roots Corey Mandell (of Mandell Entertainment), who owns Camp Timberlane in Haliburton, two hours north of Toronto, offered his picturesque lodgings to the group for the third consecutive year.

On their second day in Canada, the kids were warmly welcomed at the Roots Orfus location where they were offered various gifts including

sweatshirts and T-shirts. The children were thrilled. Staff at the store were especially moved by their spirit and the strength with which they handled the adversity they’ve experienced.

“They are warm, friendly, and curious, just like most teenagers, but their lives have been turned upside down,” says Pam Albert, Canadian Director of One Family.

“Their suffering is unimaginable, and their sorrow thankfully isn’t common to the kids we are surrounded with daily.

Living with other children their age at Timberlane will provide them with an escape, and allow them to experience a carefree environment.”

By now, the kids are in the midst of an incredible adventure, enjoying a pleasant, peaceful diversion and warm memories of a summer in Canada.

The One Family Fund has helped more than 2,500 terror victims and their families, regardless of religion or race, in Israel.

the Roots leather factory in Toronto and coordinated by David Jackson, Account Manager in the Business-to-Business Department.

In the late 1970s, The Police became one of the world’s most famous groups, earning six Grammy Awards only to break up in 1984. The Police Tour marks the trio’s 30th anniversary. Always politically active, a portion of the proceeds from this tour will be donated to WaterAid, an international NGO founded in 1981 to help reduce poverty by improving access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education.

The group kicked off their current tour in Vancouver in May and performed several concerts in Toronto and Montreal in late July.

ON THE MOVE New appointments and promotions at Roots • Charles Berrigan promoted to parttime keyholder, South Keys Shopping Centre, Ottawa, ON. • Henriett Beski appointed Store Manager at Park Royal Shopping Center, Vancouver.

• Bob Bourque appointed Store Manager, South Keys Shopping Centre, Ottawa, ON. • Melissa Brennan promoted to Assistant Manager, South Keys Shopping Centre, Ottawa.

• Brent Carline appointed Store Manager at Orchard Park Shopping Center, Kelowna, BC. • Lindsay Harris promoted to Store Manager at Kenaston Outlet, Winnipeg, MB. • Jennifer Hume promoted to Acting Store Manager at West 4th, Kitsilano, BC. • Jillian Kuchma promoted to Keyholder, Fairview Park Mall, Kitchener, ON. • MJ Lizardo promoted to Keyholder at Scarborough Town Center, Scarborough, ON. • Julie O’Neill promoted to Senior Merchandise Manager, Men’s and Women’s, Head Office, Toronto.

• Totis Pellew appointed Store Manager, Square One Shopping Centre, Mississauga, ON. • Terri Pridham promoted to Store Manager, East Point, St John’s, NB. • Petrina Tkachuk appointed Store Manager at St. Vital Center, Winnipeg, MB. • Andy Wells appointed Store Manager, Banff, AB. • Jessica White promoted to Assistant Manager at Chinook Center, Calgary, AB. Issue 74 - August 2007

STAYING IN FOCUS

Roots Rosedale hosts eTalk Daily for special Live Earth-linked segment

I

n keeping with the tradition of Roots stores being much more than simply a place to shop, one of its distinctive locations proved an apt backdrop for a recent edition of eTalk Daily, Canada’s television news-entertainment program.

As a lead-up to the historic Live Earth concerts staged around the world to focus on the global warming crisis, Shenae Grimes, star of Degrassi: The Next Genera-

tion, hosted a segment at the eco-friendly Roots Rosedale store in Toronto. She gave green tips on how people could throw their own Live Earth house party along with stylish organic clothing ideas courtesy of Roots for the event.

Live Earth was a series of eight concerts that took place on seven continents in 24 hours featuring some 100 major musical performers. It was the world’s largest high definition concert broadcast of all time.

Sting performing at Live Earth

FINISHING ON TOP Roots ranks #1 on networking site survey

I

n early July, a survey on Facebook’s home page asked the question: Where are you most likely to purchase your Canadian merchandise?In an impressive showing, Roots led the way with 52%, more than doubling its nearest competitor HBC, which came in at 21%, followed by Canadian Tire at14% and Wal-Mart at 2%.

Any member of the highly popular Facebook social networking community can create a poll, allowing fast responses from target audiences based on gender, age, school, location or profile keyword. The feature appears in the News feed on Facebook’s home page, which shows all recent network activity. This is a quick, easy way to gauge public opinion on a variety of issues. On a typical day, Facebook attracts some 30 mil-

Issue 74 - August 2007

lion members who spend an average of 19 minutes on the second most visited website on the internet.

Facebook allows people to create personal profiles featuring photos, lists of interests and join online networks of friends related to school, place of employment or geographical region.

New features recently implemented, including a virtual marketplace, video feeds and the aforementioned polling option allow for even more interaction.

For more Roots-related news on the site, join the Roots Facebook Groups for customers and employees.

Group Info: Name: Roots Canada Employees.

Type: Business - Employment and Group Info: Name: Roots Insider.

Type: Just for Fun - Fan Clubs.

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL Spotlighting the top performing stores in June

A

s this issue of The Source went to press, the final sales figures for July were still not in but there was still a great buzz from the performance of stores in June. As the summer got underway, Roots was shining. A near record number of stores surpassed their sales budgets in June. Topping the pack in terms of company stores was the Whistler, British Columbia location that captured the Store of the Month honours, beating its sales target by 155 percent.

As for the Roots 73/Outlet category, the location at Sunnyside Mall in Bedford, Nova Scotia took first place with a score of 163 percent over its sales budget.

Congratulations to Manager JM Ogden of the Whistler store and Acting Store Manager Lisa Moorhouse of the Sunnyside outlet, along with their respective teams, for their winning performances, and to all the other stores that met or surpassed their sales targets in June.

STAYING POWER Saluting those who go the distance Recently, many Roots employees marked major anniversaries of their time at the company. By ‘major,’ we mean benchmark achievements as in 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years spent at Roots.

We invite anyone celebrating such an anniversary to send the relevant information to The Source.

Congratulations to the following employees for their significant contribution and enduring loyalty to Roots: (listed by seniority) · Darling Dharaj, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 30 years · Merlita Garcia, Senior AP Associate, Head Office, Toronto, 20 years · Elizabeth Anque, Team Leader Sales Audit, Head Office, Toronto, 15 years · Juanita Granados, Payroll Clerk, Head Office, Toronto, 15 years · King Hui, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 15 years · Manuela Nedio, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 15 years · Maria Rodrigues, Table Work, Leather Factory, Toronto, 15 years · Debbie Barnes, Store Manager, Robson Kids, Vancouver, BC, 10 years · Isabel Duarte, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 10 years · Kristine Lee, Store Manager, Pen Centre, St. Catherines, 10 years · Lena Owens, Manager Store Services, Information Technology, Head Office, Toronto, 10 years · Rosario Paredes, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 10 years · Piari Pooran, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 10 years · Maria Tinta, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 10 years · Anh Trieu, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 10 years · Ibette Urbina, Stitcher, Leather Factory, Toronto, 10 years · Mary Atzori, Franchise and Leasing Assistant, Head Office, Toronto, 5 years · Ka Yiu Cheng, Picker Packer, Distribution Center, Toronto, 5 years · Mark Daley, Keyholder, Lambton Mall, Sarnia, ON, 5 years · Elizabeth Harrison, Picker Packer, Distribution Center, Toronto, 5 years · Cecilia Ho, Director, Reporting and Planning, Finance Department, Head Office, Toronto, 5 years · Janette Lane, Sales Associate, Canada One Factory Outlet Mall, Niagara Falls, ON, 5 years · Ignazio Re, Material Handler, Distribution Center, Toronto, 5 years · Nasirali Saiyed, Material Handler, Distribution Center. Toronto, 5 years · Anjali Singh, Product Coordinator, Roots.com, 5 years · Tanya Springchief, Sales Associate, TD Square, Calgary, Alberta, 5 years The Source 5

GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN Taking attendance of special guests at Roots stores

C

elebrities have long made a point of shopping at Roots. Here are the latest sightings of prominent figures from the world of entertainment and sports who visited Roots stores recently: • 100 Bloor St., Toronto – Star of the Harry Pot- Gary Roberts

Elisha Cuthbert, Sean Avery

HARRY POTTERMANIA Rupert Grint, (middle), with Michael Budman and son Matthew

ter film series including the recently released Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Rupert Grint stopped by the flagship store, picking up Flick Off T-shirts (which he wore on MTV Canada) and items for his dad. He also had time to pose for a picture with Roots Co-Founder Michael Budman and son Matthew; A few days later, Gary Roberts, left-winger for the Pittsburgh Penguins, shopped the store with his wife, picking up clothes for their children.

• Burlington Mapleview Centre, Burlington, ON – Actress and star of The Girl Next Door, Elisha Cuthbert, shopped at the store with her New York Rangers boyfriend, Sean Avery. They were interested in the new Canada Collection and Elisha picked up two of the new Ruby Plaid shirtdresses.

A PRESENCE ON THE ICE AND OFF Roots employee captures triple gold in figure skating

W

hen Lei Kayanuma isn’t working as a sales associate at the Roots store in Banff, Alberta, she’s most likely on ice skates. The ice rink has been a second home for her since the age of five. Recently, the 17year old figure skater passed her free skate gold test, the final element needed to achieve a special athletic honour and was featured in the local press.

Lei was awarded triple gold status, the Canadian Figure Skating Association’s highest level of tested skating ability in the three main disciplines: free skate, skills and ice dance. Af6

The Source

Lei skates for triple gold

ter completing a four-minute program incorporating compulsory jumps and spins, the Banff native won rave reviews from the judges.

“I wanted to finish what I started,” says Lei. “I’ve been skating for so long I didn’t want to go out without a big achievement.”

Taking time out from her busy skating schedule, which involves four practices a week, Lei began working at Roots in March. It’s proven a good counterbalance to her time on the ice. “I’m proud to be a Roots woman,” says Lei. “I’m proud to be part of the amazing staff in Banff.”

Roots helps Indigo celebrate release of much-anticipated book

I

t was no ordinary book launch. As part of the countdown to the arrival of the hotly-awaited final installment of J.K Rowling’s celebrated boy wizard series, Roots got into the act with Indigo Books. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows hit the stores on Saturday, July 21, at 12.01 a.m. to be precise, and the staff at the Indigo/Chapters/Coles chains welcomed it in style.

More than 6,000 Roots Tshirts were produced for employees to wear during the leadup to and celebration of the big day. The project was coordinated by David Jackson, Account Manager in the Business-to-Business Department.

This is the 10th anniversary of the launch of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the book that started the Potter craze. All Indigo, Chapters and select Coles stores hosted a wizard-themed party complete with games and prizes that started one minute after midnight on July 21, coinciding with the release.

Issue 74 - August 2007

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT

FRESH INK

The latest collaborations between Roots and Hollywood

T

he Los Angeles-based Wendy Goodman, US Accounts Manager, has never been one to let summer get in the way of doing business. Although many people in the entertainment business are away on vacation, Wendy still finds a way to close a deal.

When it comes to nurturing the warm relationship between Roots and Hollywood, Wendy is a master.

In her latest initiatives, the Paramount Studio producers of the yet-to-be-released action flick Iron Man, ordered custom-made sweatshirts for the cast, crew and studio executives. The Canadian-made fullzip hoodies are an 80/20 cotton-polyester fleece blend featured in steel gray. The Iron

Man logo is embroidered on the sleeve cuff and eye slits embroidered on the hood.

Some 1,400 units were ordered.

The film is directed by Jon Favreau and based on the Marvel comic of the same name. Robert Downey Jr. stars as Tony Stark, who is forced to create a life support suit to keep him alive after a debilitating accident. In the aftermath, he decides to use the technology in his suit to fight crime. Also starring Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard and Samuel L. Jackson, Iron Man will hit theatres next spring.

In other movie news, Universal is celebrating this Issue 74 - August 2007

month’s release of The Bourne Ultimatum with specially made products for all cast, crew and executives. The jackets are comprised of 100% black twill cotton with a red cotton jersey lining. The title of the movie is embroidered on the left chest.

Made in Canada, more than 2,000 items have been ordered and are due to ship in September. Matt Damon plays the title character in this third installment of the espionage thriller.

Shares of New York, a new real estate venture by Sony Pictures, marks its opening this month with Roots custommade kanga hoodies. Made in Canada, more than 170 pieces have been shipped. A blend of cotton and grey polyester fleece; the chest and sleeve feature orange silk screening

details including a large abstract cityscape on the back.

A real estate marketing company, Shares of New York specializes in the sale of unsold shares of condos in the area and guarantees a streamlined transactional process.

Meanwhile, in other entertainment-related news, Roots has been commissioned to produce hoodies for a long-time friend, The Kennedy/Marshall/ Spielberg Company, and the January release of The Spiderwick Chronicles. Cast, crew and studio executives will be treated to custom-made designs for the family adventure film.

Directed by Mark Waters, the film tells the tale of a family pulled into an alternate world of fairies and other mythical creatures upon moving into the run-down Spiderwick Estates. Stars include Martin Short, Mary Louise Parker, Nick Nolte and Seth Rogen.

All the above orders were facilitated through Mary Jane Saliba, Senior Product Coordinator from the Business-toBusiness Department at the Head Office in Toronto.

A selection of coverage of Roots in the media • Canadian Living, August issue: Mentions the Roots kids longsleeved fooler polo featured in the Trend Watch: School’s In story.

• Hello!, July 11. Roots women’s City Trouser Short in navy featured in a fashion shoot.

• National Post, July 7. Recent Rethink Breast Cancer launch event at Roots on Bloor featured in the ‘City Life’ section. Roots Co-Founders Michael and Don, are pictured.

• Toronto Star, July 7. Michael Budman is featured in the “What I’d take to camp” item benefiting the Fresh Air Fund Backpack Challenge. A Roots backpack is pictured and will be donated to the charity.

• National Post, July 7. Article mentions that Eric Mabius, the Ugly Betty actor and Don Diamont from The Young and the Restless, were at Roots flagship store in Toronto for the Rethink Breast Cancer Fashion Target launch party.

• The Montreal Gazette, July 6.

Article mentions Roots plans to have 200 stores in Asian countries like China, Taiwan and South Korea by 2009. Michael Budman is quoted saying that the company is also looking for growth opportunities in India.

• Globe and Mail, June 30. Roots L.A. Man/laptop bag featured in the Style section.

• Winnipeg Free Press, June 30.

Roots Script Canada Stadium Bag featured in the ‘All Things Canadian’ section.

• Seaway News, June 22. Roots Eco Bag featured in ‘The latest musthave fashion accessory’ section.

• Canadian Living, June: Roots Ultimate Carry On Leather Bag featured in the ‘Oh, Daddy’ section.

• Elevate, June: Article entitled ‘We take 20,000 breaths every day’ mentions Oxia available at select Roots stores.

• Loulou, June: Article entitled ‘New Gadget, Breathe Easy’ mentions Oxia available at select Roots stores.

• Homemakers, June: Roots cited as one of many Canadian retailers to buy from the cangive.ca website where you choose from among 60 listed charities. Cangive.ca will donate a fixed percentage of the purchase price of your item to that charity.

• Marketnews, May 31. Mentions the Roots Mio DigiWalker H610 featured in the ‘Electronics for Sports Enthusiasts’ section.

- Compiled by Carmela Ledo The Source 7

WELCOMING THE PRESS AT CENTREVILLE

Photos: Marcel Gingras

Quebec media gets a preview of the new fall collection

I

n early July, Roots previewed its new Fall 2007 line for the Quebec media at Centerville in downtown Mon-

treal. The so-called ‘trunk show’ was hosted by Co-Founder Michael Budman, Creative Director Diane Bald and coor-

dinated by Quebec Regional Director Ginette Fillion.

The event, which is held twice a year to give fashion editors and writers a first look at new collections, featured the upcoming leather bags, apparel and accessories for men and women. The line presented wintery flannels, lined hoodies, classic sweats and printed scarves as well as an assortment of new leather items and updated favourites in fresh colours and sizes.

Those in attendance included journalists from Lou Lou, Elle Quebec, Voir, Chatelaine, Adorable, Clin d’Oeil and En Route and other newspapers and magazines.

The collection was extremely well received and many requests were made for products to be featured in photo-shoots.

The morning after the event, the Montreal Gazette published a lengthy article and photo from the trunk show in its business section.

Michael Budman with MarieSandrine Auger, Editor of Elle Quebec.com, (left) and Isabelle Rheault from Mademoiselle magazine (right).

INNOVATION ACROSS THE NATION Register revamp premieres in Toronto area ahead of roll-out throughout Canada

I

t’s a busy season for the Information Technology Department at the Head Office as its staff work overtime to facilitate a complete hardware and software changeover of all registers in stores across Canada.

The new system, intended to serve customers better and improve the management of retailrelated information, made its debut at Toronto’s Orfus Road store in mid-June. At present, 38 locations in the Toronto region are now operating with the new software. Quebec locations can 8

The Source

anticipate their modifications by the end of August.

New features include flat screen monitors replacing the screens encased in glass. Gift

card integration, allowing cashiers to swipe gift cards alongside credit/debit cards on one machine, makes the checkout process more efficient. Other benefits include fewer hardware failures and less paper consumption due to shorter receipts, in line with Roots eco-friendly goals.

High-speed communication is also being installed between Head Office and the stores, which will aid in the faster exchange of emails, transfer of price adjustments and other

day-to-day information.

In addition, staff will now find it easier to locate inventory in stores all over Canada with the inventory tracker on the Roots retail network.

So far the new system has received nothing but positive reviews. Stores are especially enjoying the new screens and receipts that include a barcode at the bottom, making returns much easier.

The new updated operations manual will be available by the end of the year.

Issue 74 - August 2007

MUSICAL ROOTS Looking back four decades to a seminal year in the history of music

THE GREATEST HITS OF 1967 • Mrs. Robinson, Simon and Garfunkel • Both Sides Now, Joni Mitchell • The Look Of Love, Hal David and Burt Bacharach • Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell • Soul Finger, The Bar-Kays • Try A Little Tenderness, Otis Redding • Tell It Like It Is, Aaron Neville • Gimme Some Lovin’, Spencer Davis Group • I’m A Man, Spencer Davis Group • For What It’s Worth, The Buffalo Springfield • Respect, Aretha Franklin • Sweet Soul Music, Arthur Conley • Light My Fire, The Doors • Higher and Higher, Jackie Wilson • I Second That Emotion, Smokey Robinson and The Miracles • I Heard It Through The Grapevine, Gladys Knight and The Pips • I Say A Little Prayer, Dionne Warwick • Soul Man, Sam and Dave • Your Precious Love, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell • Brown Eyed Girl, Van Morrison • I Was Made To Love Her, Stevie Wonder

W

hen it comes to the evolution of modern music, 1967 was a water shed year. Exactly 40 years ago, some of the greatest songs of all time were recorded. Major names of the 1960s were breaking new ground, record ing seminal albums that even today sound relevant.

To mark the 40th anniversary of the Summer of Love which was intrinsically tied to the music of the day, we’re devoting this month’s column to some of the most influential events and songs of that period.

Events • Rolling Stone magazine publishes its first issue.

• The Beatles release their groundbreaking album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts THE ROOTS TOP 10 Club Band.

A guide to the sounds of • Jimi Hendrix , Cream, The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd all release acRoots for the month of August claimed albums.

• What’s considered the first reggae song “54-46 Was My Number” by Toots 1. 1,2,3,4, Feist and The Maytals is released.

2. Your Joy, Chrisette Michele • Creedence Clearwater Revival, Genesis and Chicago are formed.

3. Mr. Magic, Amy Winehouse • Created for a TV show of the same name, The Monkees are the best-selling 4. Tell Me What We’re Gonna group of 1967, outselling The Beatles and The Rolling Stones combined.

Do, Joss Stone Feat. Common • Tammi Terrell faints and collapses into duet partner Marvin Gaye’s arms 5. Roots Is The Future, Davin onstage during a performance at the Hampton University homecoming in Virand The Voyce ginia. She was later diagnosed with a brain tumor, and died from brain cancer 6. Get Ready, Fergie feat. The in 1970 at the age of 24.

Temptations • The so-called of Summer of Love took place, with its headquarters in San Francisco.

7. Way I Are, Timbaland feat.

• The Beatles perform “All You Need Is Love” for the Our World television special, the first worldwide TV broadcast. Singing backup for the Beatles were Keri Hilson and D.O.E a number of artists including Eric Clapton, and members of the Rolling Stones 8. Sun Is Shining (House Remix), Bob Marley and The Who. 9. Valerie, Mark Ronson feat.

• The Supremes perform for the first time as Diana Ross and the Supremes at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. Florence Ballard is fired from the group after Amy Winehouse 10. My Moon, My Man, Feist the first night, and on-hand stand-in Cindy Birdsong permanently takes - Compiled by Davin Bujalski Ballard’s place in the group.

• Aretha Franklin Day is declared in Detroit, Michigan on Feb 16.

SIX STRING NATION Friend of Roots performs on unique piece of Canadian diversity

W

hat do a Wayne Gretzky hockey stick and the oldest rock in the world (3.9 billion years old) have in common? Both, along with more than 60 other significant items of Canadian history are immortalized together in an unusual custommade guitar.

In late June, celebrated Canadian canoeist and long-time friend of Roots, Ian Mortimer, played the handcrafted instrument at the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival. His performance coupled with his Roots attire proved a great photo opportunity. Portraits have been taken of more than 4,000 people holding this instrument along its travels.

The Six String Nation is a movement to connect people from all regions of Canada through music and the sharing of collective icons, images and stories. The concept is the brainchild of broadcaster Jowi Taylor, host of the CBC’s Global Village and master luthier George Rizsanyi who created

Issue 74 - August 2007

Ian Mortimer gets his chance to play the six string guitar.

the one-of-a-kind guitar in his workshop in Nova Scotia.

“People in diverse communities right across the country

have richly fascinating stories to share and too often we don’t hear them,” says Jowi. “The Six String nation guitar is a

way to put all stories at the fingertips of muscians and in the ears of listeners.”

Other notable donations to the construction of the instrument include wood from the Golden Spruce of BC; part of a doorway from Canada’s first Chinatown; red ochre representing the extinct Beothuk people; whale baleen; mammoth ivory; a seat number from Toronto’s famous Massey Hall; and gold from Maurice “Rocket” Richard’s Stanley Cup ring.

The guitar and its historical components were researched, collected, shipped and assembled without any government funding. The product of 11 years of work, the guitar also took part recently in Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

The Six String Nation Guitar will next be featured August 3-5 at the St. John’s Folk Festival at Bannerman Park, St. John’s Newfoundland. For more information visit www.sixstringnation.com.

The Source 9

GREEN TIP #39 Easy ways to help the environment

STARTING LINEUP Introducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores

A

s part of our continuing series of team pictures of all the stores in the Roots retail family, this issue of The Source is shining the spotlight on the Robson St. store in Vancouver. From left to right: Reza Houshmand, Joe Ouano, Farnaz Houshmand, Einaz Farahmand, Sandy Young, Lindsey Scott, Mirjana Vujovic, Melissa Acheson, Tiana Tian

SPEAK TO MY AGENT The littlest customers show their Roots

Y

ou’re never too young to look good in Roots. Many people obviously agree, based on the mail we receive at the Head Office. Both customers and staff often send in photos of their children, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, friends, neighbours or even pets wearing Roots, asking if they could appear in a future ad campaign for Roots.

We can’t promise that but earlier this year The Source started publishing a selection of such pictures on a regular basis. Everyone is welcome to submit their favourite shots.

Please send your photos to photogallery@roots.com Be sure to include the name and age of each child or pet in the photo, and a sentence stating that you agree for the photos to be used in The Source.

Cassia Dritsas, 4.5 years, Mayan Riviera, Mexico 10 The Source

Aiden Maceachern, 18 months, South Keys, Ottawa

Make your kitchen friendlier: Depending on your approach, the kitchen can be an environmental minefield. Here are a number of ways to minimize your ecological footprint while also be kinder to your health: · Use cloth dishtowels and napkins instead of paper ones. · Pick up a cheap set of lightweight, washable dishes.

They’re great for picnics instead of disposable plates. · Plug-in kettles use less energy than stovetop ones. · Never microwave food in a plastic container. Even plastics that are labeled microwavable should be avoided. Plastics leach chemicals like phthalates, especially when they are heated. · Make sure your plastic wrap does not come into direct contact with your food, and check that it is not made of polyvinyl chloride.

Source: Green Tips - How to Save Money and the Planet, published by Green Living Enterprises

HEALTH TIP #36 Easy ways to stay healthy An antiinflammatory on your salad: Native to North America and Asia, evening primrose has been used by American Indians and Asians alike for centuries to ease the ills of arthritis, stomach disorders, sore throat, hemorrhoids and bruises.

Evening primrose oil contains a rich supply of gammalinolenic acid (GLA), an omega6 fatty acid that aids in reducing inflammation. As a result, it helps combat rheumatoid arthritis, nerve damage, and Alzheimer’s-induced memory loss. Because GLA aids the transmission of nerve impulses, it may also be helpful in multiple sclerosis.

Evening primrose comes in capsule form or as an oil. Go ahead and use it in salad dressing!

Source: Secrets of Longevity

by Dr. Maoshing Ni Issue 74 - August 2007

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products

UPDATING A CLASSIC

New sueded hoodies provide perfect answer to cool summer nights

D

espite the mercury rising throughout the day, air conditioners are blasting and the summer evenings are cool, making a heavier layer of clothing essential. With this in mind, Designers Jules Power and Joanne Joseph have updated some of the most successful sweater collections for

The Full Zip Hoody has an embroidered crest on the left chest, a beaver patch on the sleeve and lightweight ribbed side seam insert. Embroidered detailing on the hood reveals the Roots logo. It comes in nautical navy, retro red, greymix and English mustard.

Now available in all stores across Canada and the United States. women. The Heritage Sueded Kanga and the Heritage Sueded Full Zip are new versions of two classic styles.

The lightweight fleece is comprised of a cotton/polyester blend. The surface of the garments has been sueded and vintage garment washed resulting in a luxurious hand.

In addition, the Sueded Kanga has a full front graphic of felt letters that spells out “Roots Canada Athletics,” with an embroidered crest. Detailing is found on the hood and a beaver crest on the sleeve. It is available in heathered shades of jade, coral sunset, white greymix and retro red.

Sizes: XS-XL; Retail Price: Sueded Kanga: $72, Sueded Full Zip: $74

THE PERFECT COMPANION FOR YOUR LAPTOP New backpack for mobile computer goes top-of-the-line waist strap is available for added support, as well as deluxe padded back and shoulder straps for comfort.

All compartments on the inside of the bag are self-contained and can be moved around the interior and exterior of the pack. The detachable waist pack and wallet can be worn around the

T

he new Modular Backpack is the most expensive, detailed bag of this kind that the Roots team has ever made. Created by Senior Accessories Designer Lynne Morris, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a clean, modern-looking allin-one computer pack.

The large carrying capacity and padded side access compartments allow for the storage of a 17-inch laptop. An adjustable

Issue 74 - August 2007

waist or moved to the inside of the bag.

The modular cell case can be moved from the sides of the bag to the convenient shoulder strap. The removable media pocket for music players found on the shoulder can be moved to either side.

Large lined organizer pockets are also available for sunglasses, PDAs, camera, credit cards etc.

For added nighttime safety, reflective material is featured on the front and back of the pack, while the shoulder strap bears the Canadian flag to show your national colours.

The modular backpack offered in black, walnut and silver hits the stores this month and is available in 40 locations across Canada. Retail price: $79.95 The Source 11

12

The Source

Issue 74 - August 2007