Summer 2010 by Roots Canada

A window into the world of Roots

Issue 96 • Summer 2010

ROOTS AND CANADA GO

ELECTRIC With his creative take on Canada, visual artist Douglas Coupland joins forces with Roots to create a bold new collection arriving in stores in early July

Roots is generally thought of as acoustic, and this collection is

electric

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

The Source • 1

I N S I D E ISSUE96 GREAT STYLE AND A GOOD CONSCIENCE New collection of jewelry proves that natural, sustainable products aren’t only smart but also stylish SPRING FORWARD Season of sunshine and longer days ushers in new and renovated stores across the country IN THE SPOTLIGHT Roots wins Rookie of the Year Award for social commerce initiatives THE ARTFUL TOUCH Flagship store hosts exhibition by Charles Pachter A SIGN OF GRATITUDE Canadian Red Cross delegation comes to Head Office to say “thanks” CHATTING UP THE ARTS For a second year in a row, Roots hosts Luminato Lunchtime Conversations STYLISH IN HIGH PLACES Roots makes its presence felt at G8 and G20 Summits

Departments FINE PRINT GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL NEW & NOTEWORTHY STAYING POWER GREEN TIPS HEALTH TIPS

Publishers MICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN Editor ROBERT SARNER Editorial Assistant CAROLINE IWANOWSKI Interns NADIA MALIK ASHLEY TRAVASSOS ALIX KEMPF

The Source is published 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 thesource@roots.com Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Each issue of The Source is also available, both in blog and PDF formats, on the Roots website at www.roots.com

2 • The Source

Olympic Gold Medalists Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue link arms for Canada

SPECIAL DELIVERY

A selection of recent letters from the world of Roots HUNTING THE PERECT COAT

This is to let you know that one of your sales staff deserves a positive pat on the back. Her name is Susan van Dalen and she works at your store in Kanata, in the west part of Ottawa. I’d been searching for a new “car” coat for the last couple of years and when I saw the Women’s City Coat at the Oshawa Mall, I loved it at first sight. I wanted the Purple Seed in XL but the store did not carry it. I told them I’d look once I got back home to Kingston. When I called the Kingston store, they did not have the coat but gave me the number to the Kanata store. I called there and explained my dilemma to Susan who promptly located the coat in the system and had it sent to your Kingston store. I tried it on, it fit well and I decided to purchase it. I love my new coat but most importantly, I loved the great customer care I received. Laura Clark Kingston, Ontario THAT EXTRA TOUCH

Earlier today, we made a number of purchases for our family at your store in the Bayview Shopping Centre in Toronto. We

were particularly appreciative of the time and advice we received from Linda Kirshenblat. She was very caring, friendly and related well to us. I also appreciated that it was not complicated to arrange separate bills for each purchase in case any of the items were to be returned. It was a great experience shopping in this store and we will definitely return in the near future. Eleanor and Frank Addison Toronto OLYMPIC HELP

For many years, I’ve been going to the Roots store in Kelowna, BC and have always been happy with the service I receive there as the staff are friendly and attentive. Before the Olympics, I went there to pick up as much Canadian apparel as possible. As the Canada Collection By Roots was selling much faster than anticipated, the store didn’t have the sizes or colours we wanted. Fortunately, Marie Dakin assisted us and was able to ship items to Kelowna by calling a store in Vancouver. A big group of us was heading to the Olympics together and we wanted to match entirely, and without Marie’s help, we wouldn’t have accomplished

this. She went above and beyond the call of duty numerous times. Marie is always upbeat and really cared that we left her store happy. She is outstanding at her job and amazing with customers. Please send her a warm thank you on our behalf. Ned and Barb Hildebrand Kelowna, BC STRONG ROOTS

I was nearly run over by a car yesterday while walking in a parking lot of a local shopping centre. A parked car backed out and the driver failed to notice that I was walking nearby. To avoid being hit, I threw myself out of the way, but my leather Roots bag didn’t make it as far as I did, and was run over by the car. To my surprise, the bag was virtually unscathed and doesn’t even have a mark on it. Remarkably, it survived totally intact. Amazing! Sharon S. (Asked that her surname be omitted)

Toronto

EXPRESS YOURSELF We invite you to send us your letters and/or your most creative photos or illustrations for publication in The Source. Please send your submissions to photogallery@roots.com Issue 96 - Summer 2010

ROOTS AND CANADA GO ELECTRIC Collaboration with Douglas Coupland marks a bold new dimension to the work of Roots and the internationally acclaimed visual artist and writer. By NADIA MALIK

amed 19th century French fashion designer Paul Poiret once said, “I have always liked painters. It seems to me that we are in the same trade and that they are my colleagues.” Art has long provided inspiration for fashion and it was certainly the driving force behind the latest collection from Roots. The company partnered with renowned Canadian artist and writer Douglas Coupland to create “Roots x Douglas Coupland.” “For more than 10 years, I’ve been intimately exploring what it means to be Canadian,” says Douglas, 48. “This partnership with Roots is an amazing opportunity to keep that dialogue going with an even wider, more diverse audience.” The theme for the collection, which Douglas named “Canada goes Electric,” was inspired by how he sees the Canadian natural landscape as being defined electronically through broadcast signals, transmissions, test patterns and radio waves. “The idea [behind the theme] was a way of looking at Canada as a nation with a convivial sense of itself and the need to communicate across wide expanses of land,” says Douglas. “The wonderful way of that pure communication and its emblems seem like a natural fit in terms of defining the country.” The ‘x’ in Roots x Douglas Coupland is a nod to ‘Generation X’, the term Douglas famously coined in his first novel, Generation X: Tales of an Accelerated Culture, published in 1991. Since then, he has published 12 novels including Microserfs and All Families are Psychotic along with several non-fiction works such as Souvenir of Canada and Terry: The Life of Terry Fox. While the new collection, which hits stores on July 8, is a departure from the natureIssue 96 - Summer 2010

Highlights of the Pop inspired collection include tank tops and T-shirts bearing the Douglas Coupland’s signature

“For me, the clothing is an

art project that takes the form of clothes. I’ve never really seen too much difference between writing or making visual art or designing furniture or clothing. It’s still my brain — I’m just using different parts of it for different things.” - Douglas Coupland

inspired offerings Roots is most known for, it’s a logical extension for the artist. “Roots does the outdoorsy version of Canada, and I work more on the indoorsy version,” says Douglas. “It’s simply a way of changing the focus and the direction.” Douglas describes the line as “young and Pop” and hopes it will appeal to “young Pop people who look forward to a good future.” Roots co-founder Don Green is enthusiastic about the line and thinks it will appeal to a different demographic than the traditional Roots customer. “For the first time in our history, we stepped back and left the design to an outside designer,” Don explains. “Visually the collection is strong but beyond that, Douglas Coupland has once again shown his trademark humour and brilliance in exploring a new medium, in this case fashion. He has put forth a hopeful and positive message about this great country of ours and the results are impressive.” Roots x Douglas Coupland represents the first time Douglas has designed a clothing collection. His experience as a visual artist prepared him well. “For me, the clothing is an art project that takes the form of clothes,” says Douglas, who is based in Vancouver. “I’ve never really seen too much difference between writing or making visual art or designing furniture or clothing. It’s still my brain – I’m just using different parts of it for different things.” The collection – for men, women and children – includes mainstays such as T-shirts, hoodies, dresses and leather goods, all designed with the “Canada goes electric” theme in mind (see page 5 for photos of items from the line). Continued on next page The Source • 3

Continued from previous page

One of the highlights of the line is a silver leather “Centennial” jacket with patches inspired by pop culture and large chrome studs. Customers can even have the jacket signed by Douglas himself. In an homage to the year Roots was founded, the jacket is priced at $1,973. Describing his own personal sense of style as “no nonsense,” his favourite piece in the collection is the long-sleeve black Tshirt with a motherboard square on the front. “It’s my favourite shirt of all time,” he says. “I’m buying 12 and never thinking about dressing myself ever again.” Women’s clothing proved to be a learning experience for Douglas, given that they have many more ways to dress as compared to men. “It’s been a revelation to watch women approach the layering Tees and the way their intrinsic looseness, combined with the organic line quality of my signature [which appears prominently on several pieces], make them see their bodies as more fluid in ways that guys simply have no equivalent for.” Douglas’ creative freedom when designing the collection was balanced with the realities of clothing production. “At first, I was allowed to allow ideas to percolate without censure, and that’s important, and I’m thankful for that,” he says. “But I quickly learned the sorts of ‘rules of the game’ (factories; shipping; corporate history), which made things oddly more fun.” There were plenty of surprises for Douglas during the design and technical process, particularly the number of people involved and the amount of planning that goes into even the smallest change in a garment. “This isn’t a complaint but a form of rejoicing,” says Douglas. “I spend so much of my life in my head. Being able to have a crew of people to work with has been a remarkable plus in my 4 • The Source

The collection combines Douglas Coupland’s vision of Canada with classic Roots Awards Jacket and T-shirt designs

life.” Co-founder Michael Budman appreciates the complementary nature of the line to the overall world of Roots. “Roots is generally thought of as acoustic, and this project is electric,” says Michael. He describes the line as, “Pop art. Contemporary, colourful, futuristic and very energetic.” In late June, Douglas premiered the collection at ideaCity, a three-day conference held in Toronto that attracts leading thinkers from around the world. Chris Nanos, of the Radke Film Group, worked closely with Douglas and Roots on the line. “This project was an exciting collaboration,” says Chris. “Douglas brought his unique perspective of creativity and Roots brought its well-known tradition for quality and craftsmanship. I’m most pleased the end results are balanced, making the experience equally new for both Douglas and Roots.” Roots x Douglas Coupland will be available in select stores and online. In late June, Roots

launched the microsite www.roots.com/ douglascoupland to showcase the partnership. The site includes a captivating video of Douglas discussing his inspiration, created by filmmaker Anthony Green. Customers can also shop the collection at pop-up stores in Vancouver (36 Powell Street) and in Toronto (680 Queen Street W.). When asked if he sees himself designing more clothing in the future, Douglas responds, “If clothing will have me. I’ve loved every moment of this.” - N.M.

gave its Facebook fans first access to the collection online, allowing them to browse and pre-purchase select items. Shortly after, the company

A MAN OF MANY TALENTS

Douglas Coupland’s creativity crosses different media a designer in tangent with his writing. His artwork has travelled to exhibitions in North America, Europe and Asia. In his solo exhibition, “Mom and Dad,” he uses his personal family experience and his decades working within the pop culture arena to compile a set of works that renegotiate his ongoing fascination with Andy Warhol. He is perhaps best known for coining the term ‘Generation X’ in his book, Generation X: Tales of an Accelerated Culture. He has orn December 20, 1961 on also written screenplays for film a Canadian military base in and television. Through his creative work, Germany, Douglas Coupland moved to Vancouver at the age Douglas has redefined the Canadian identity, images and of four, where he currently iconography in a contemporary resides. context, making him a cultural He graduated from the authority and a pop culture leader Emily Carr College of Art & who crosses several forms of Design and successfully kept his career as a visual artist and media.

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

DC Full Zip Hoody, Salt and Pepper, $98

RootsxCoupland Award Jacket, Royal, $598

DC Collector T-Shirt, Black, $40 Travel Kit Electric Printed Lancaster, $38

DC Signature T-Shirt, King Blue, $40

DC Grassroots Hoody, Miami Pink, $98

Signature Tank, Aqua, $30

DC Kanga Hoody, Black, $108

Motherboard Legging, Black, $42

DC Signature Sweatpant, Salt and Pepper, $72

DC Test Pattern Che Cap, Black, $30

DC Polo, Red Alert, $68

DC Crest Messenger Bag, Black, $58

DC Test Pattern Scarf, $38

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

The Source â&#x20AC;˘ 5

ACCESSORIZING WITH GREAT STYLE AND A GOOD CONSCIENCE New collection of jewelry proves that natural, sustainable products aren’t only smart but also stylish

hile most customers know Roots for its trademark sweats and leather goods, it’s fast becoming a destination for a wide range of stylish apparel and accessories including jewelry with an international flair. Launched in May, select stores are carrying a new collection of natural seed jewelry made by artisans in Colombia. The line includes beautiful necklaces, bracelets and earrings created using colourful, polished seeds sourced from the region’s rainforests. While the collection may be new to most Canadians, artisans in South America have been crafting jewelry from tropical seeds for generations. In keeping with the core values of Roots, the jewelry is both environmentally and socially sustainable. The tropical seeds are a renewable resource harvested from native trees and shrubs. The use of seeds in jewelry is respectful of nature and fosters financial independence for artisans while helping preserve a traditional craft.

The jewelry’s producers, a group of women in Campohermoso, Colombia, work out of a small facility in the Andes. The jewelry provides them with much-needed income and a sense of empowerment that comes from running their own business. “Wearing seed jewelry crafted by South American women Jewelry made of polished seeds from the Colombian rainforest. (Below) Pearl and leather jewelry designed for Roots by Toronto-based Cathy B Jewelry working for themselves is a symbol of responsiand ble living,” says Russell we knew the handcrafted in Trenholme, co-founder of the customer Toronto, Campohermoso Handicraft could wear inspired by her Project. “It sends a message of whether in the travels to simplicity, responsibility and city cottage.” Israel, Mooneness with the living world.” Other new rocco, Europe Closer to home, the latest additions to jewelry collection from Toronto- and St. Barts. the selection After seeing what the world has based designer Cathy Belzberg of accessories at Roots include a to offer, she liked the idea of is now in select Roots stores. A delicate burnished silver colleclong-time friend and collaborator launching a style of jewelry new tion, perfect for dressing up a to Canada. of Roots, Cathy made the line simple white T-shirt. Made for “We designed a line that is exclusively for the company with summer by Roots licensee the both natural and fashionable,” its design aesthetic in mind. The Garbo Group, it includes flower necklaces, bracelets and earrings says Rebecca Winton of Cathy and key motifs which are mustB Jewelry. “We choose materials are made of leather and pearl have items this season.

SPRING FORWARD Season of sunshine and longer days ushers in new and renovated stores across the country

New Roots store in the Shops at Don Mills (Toronto)

ith the warm weather upon us, flowers are not the only things blooming this spring. Recently, Roots has been busy expanding its retail operations by opening new stores and refreshing older ones. In mid-April, Roots inaugurated its latest Toronto store with the opening of a new retail location in the Shops at Don 6 • The Source

Mills. The mall is Ontario’s first outdoor lifestyle centre, making it the perfect fit for Roots. Based on a new design concept, and built with old barn wood reclaimed from Ontario farms, the store features upper visuals of Roots products in the making, such as photographs taken at the leather factory, to give customers a sense of where the merchan-

dise comes from. Many decorative accessories such as lanterns, suitcases and even an old bicycle suspended on the back wall, complete the rustic look. In other related retail developments, the Polo Park store in Winnipeg and the Masonville store in London, Ontario re-opened in late April, each featuring an open concept. Both stores carry men’s, women’s, leather, yoga and baby. In southern Ontario, the Newmarket store opened in late March after relocating in the city’s main mall. Designed to have a boutique quality feel,

where each department has the feel of a shop within a shop, this location carries leather, women’s, men’s, yoga, baby and shoes, and has a designated fitting room for the men’s department. The store also features the Family Table, made of large reclaimed wood, placed near the entrance. It’s available for sale for $3,500 and will be featured in many upcoming locations. Out east in Nova Scotia, a new store opened in the Halifax Shopping Centre in late March. Previously an outlet store, it’s now in a different area of the mall, carrying men’s, women’s and leather. In early March in Montreal, the Rockland store re-opened after renovations. Modeled like a small boutique, the store carries leather goods and women’s apparel. Issue 96 - Summer 2010

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Roots wins Rookie of the Year Award for social commerce initiatives

James Connell and Tanja Zelko of Roots accept award from Brett Hurt, Founder/ CEO of Bazaarvoice

f you’ve visited www.roots.com recently or have Roots as a friend on Facebook or follow it on Twitter, then you already know the company has been doing a lot of work with social commerce. It’s clearly not going unnoticed, as

Roots recently received an award for its work in the field. The industry award, called Rookie of the Year for Retail, highlighted Roots attaining a measurable increase in sales, conversion rates, time on site, and improved ranking in search

engine results. Given out in April, the recognition was part of the Social Commerce Awards hosted by Bazaarvoice, a Texas-based technology company specializing in hosted social commerce applications that are designed to drive sales. Roots efforts in social commerce with Bazaarvoice began a year ago, when it launched a social commerce platform on its website that enables customers to easily connect and communicate with each other about Roots products and the brand directly on the site. This allows shoppers to share their experiences, post photos, review their favourite products, and ask questions to other members of the Roots community. Roots is also using customer feedback and experiences to evaluate product design, improve merchandising, and create relevant marketing communications. “Our customers have a very

strong emotional tie to Roots,” says James Connell, Sr. Director, eCommerce, Digital Marketing and New Media at Roots. “We receive hundreds of letters, emails and photos from our customers every day. Social commerce allows us to tap into that passion in a way that can be shared with the broader Roots community, as well as our staff. By creating a place for consumers to chronicle their experiences, we are building a robust community that is strongly engaged with our brand. We are also able to use very specific feedback to improve core business functions like marketing, merchandising, and customer service.” Other categories and winners of Social Commerce Awards included: Customer Oxygen Award: Dell; Social Commerce Play of the Year: Samsung; Social Commerce Rockstar: Nike; Social Commerce MVP: Best Buy Co., Inc.; and Rookie of the Year: Blue Shield of California.

BRAIN STORM

Sharp minds give way to great ideas at annual conference in Toronto of which Roots is a sponsor

I WAY TO GO KOBO

Stylish leather cover for innovative new eReader latest collaboration between Roots and Indigo

ver the years, Roots has designed customized leather products for a wide range of products, including electronic devices. New technologies call for new accessories, and eReaders are no exception. Users of the recently launched Kobo can now cover their eReaders in style. Roots has designed a sleek leather cover for the device, available in Chapters and Indigo stores across the country. Customers can choose from various colours, including black, turquoise, orange, purple and red. All covers have the Kobo logo embroidered in ecru on the

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

front and the Roots logo hotstamped on the back. Made with Prince leather at the Roots factory in Toronto, the cover has an easy access opening and includes a cushioned lining for added protection. The Kobo holds up to 1,000 titles, all available at the touch of a button. Unlike traditional computer screens, the devices use an E Ink screen that simulates the appearance of print on paper, minimizing eye strain. Launched by Indigo in May, the Kobo eReader is sold at Indigo, Chapters, select Coles Bookstores, Walmart and online at chapters.indigo.ca.

nspired discourse and bright expert Faith ideas filled the air in Toronto Popcorn. All in June when 51 of the the presenters planet’s brightest minds came this year were together to women except converse for Canadian and provide artist/writer food for Douglas Faith Popcorn thought. The Coupland, eclectic who shed light on his new gathering Canada Goes Electric collection Judy Collins was part of for Roots. the 10th annual Idea City conferAmong the other 47 presentence, sometimes referred to as ers were artists, adventurers, ‘Canada’s premiere authors, cosmologists, meeting of the minds,’ doctors, designers, where only 700 indientertainers, filmmakviduals were privileged ers, inventors, magito attend. cians, musicians, A longtime sponsor scientists and technoloof the three-day event, gists. Roots provided custom In keeping with Margaret Atwood designed leather bags for what is now an annual all of the speakers which tradition, longtime friend of included Canadian literary icon Roots and media visionary, Margaret Atwood; Grammy Moses Znaimer, who launched Award-winning singer Judy Idea City in 2000, produced and Collins; and acclaimed trend hosted this year’s conference. The Source • 7

A GOOD CALL

Yubz Retro Handset makes its debut in Canada

R Artist Charles Pachter and his design for limited edition poster for 2010 Luminato Festival

THE ARTFUL TOUCH Flagship store hosts exhibition by Charles Pachter

useums and art galleries are no longer the sole venue for art lovers. They can now enjoy browsing through fine art while shopping for leather goods and lifestyle apparel at the Roots flagship

GREEN TIP #60

Easy ways to help the environment SOMETHING TO CHEW ON: It’s been stuck on the sole of your shoe, under your desk or caught in your hair. Everyone has seen it and, unfortunately, some have stepped in it, or even worse, touched it. Chewing gum, or more specifically discarded chewing gum, is not only a problem for the average person, but is increasingly becoming a problem for the environment. The main trouble is that it’s non-biodegradable and will stick to a surface for years until treated. Many of the chemicals used to rid a surface of gum travel down the drains and run into our water system. In addition, chewing gum is not digestible by humans or animals. Birds, especially young ones, sometimes die by eating chewing gum. Such is the scourge of gum that, second to cigarette butts, it’s the most commonly littered item the in the world. So, think twice before reaching for a stick of gum next time you need to freshen your breath. Try an organic mint, or eat some parsley or fennel seeds. Or, if you just like to chomp down on something, try chewing on licorice root. • Source: www.gumraps.com/

8 • The Source

location in Toronto. In June, the Bloor Street store brought the worlds of art and fashion together when it exhibited the work of prominent Canadian artist Charles Pachter. Hosted in the Algonquin Lounge on the upper level, the exhibit featured ten paintings, 20 graphics and three metal sculptures that covered Pachter’s 45year career. Like Roots, Pachter is big on Canada. He’s famous for using Canadian icons as subjects for his art, including moose, the national flag and the country’s head of state Queen Elizabeth. Applying a humorous, whimsical approach to his art, he has paired Canada’s ballet star Karen Kain, and even a saluting Queen, with a moose. His comical paintings have also lent themselves well to children’s books, such as M is for Moose and Canada Counts, both of which were on sale at the show. Pachter took part in the official inauguration of the month-long exhibition at an evening reception at the store. The event attracted 150 guests including members of Toronto’s cultural scene. This year, Pachter designed T-shirts for Toronto’s annual Luminato arts festival, which were also sold at the Bloor Street store. Based in Toronto, Pachter is also a printmaker, sculptor, designer, historian and lecturer. His paintings hang in the Toronto Stock Exchange and in the Canadian Parliament Buildings in Ottawa. The College subway station in Toronto displays his murals entitled Hockey Knights in Canada.

oots is giving cell phones a whole new twist, and even a whole new look. Beginning in late April, Roots introduced a chic new way to use your mobile phone at home, office and on the street – the Yubz Talk Mobile Retro Handset. An innovative device for use with mobile phones and USB ports for laptops for internet-based communication, it has a one-touch button to make answering incoming calls easy. Available in eight colours (including Florida Orange, Sky Blue and Chalk Pink), it reduces radiation emitted from mobile phones by 95%. It also has digital enhancement to decrease background

noise and upgrade sound quality. With the mobile phone craze, this gadget is ideal for people who don’t have landlines but want to have the feel of a standard size phone at home or office.

As the exclusive distributor in Canada of the Yubz Talk Mobile Retro Handset, Roots is now selling the gadget in select retail stores and online for $59.95.

WELCOMING BACK A FRIEND

Roots celebrates with Conan O’Brien during his recent visit to Toronto as part of his current tour

n keeping with its predilection Many celebrities and friends to entertain and hold special of Roots attended the after party, events, it’s little surprise that including Conan’s cast and crew, Roots welcomed comedian and Andy Richter, actor/writer; Jian TV talk show host Conan Ghomeshi, National Post O’Brien to Toronto during his columnist; George recent visit. As an old friend of Stroumboulopoulos, host of Roots, there was CBC’s The all the more Hour; and many reason to help others. Aion Conan celebrate Clarke and the the successes of Soul Providers his new stage also performed show currently for the whole touring in North group. America. The friendHeld at ship between Sassafraz, in the Roots and Yorkville district Conan dates of Toronto, Roots back many organized an after years. In the party for Conan past, Roots has O’Brien, Aion Clarke and following his live Conan created customMichael Budman at Sassafraz show at Massy ized merchanHall in late May. The performdise for his shows. In February ance was part of his 30-city tour 2004, Conan did a weeklong called Conan O’Brien: Legally series of broadcasts from Prohibited from Being Funny on Toronto for which Roots helped Television. It was prompted in organize and host several special part by the recent NBC “lateevents and after parties for night” war between Conan and Conan and his cast. He also Jay Leno that ended the former’s attended a dinner at Roots Coshort-lived Late Night with Founder Michael Budman’s Conan O’Brien TV show. home. Issue 96 - Summer 2010

A SIGN OF GRATITUDE

Canadian Red Cross delegation comes to Head Office to say “thanks” “Not what we give, but what we share, for the gift without the giver is bare.” uch is the way James Russell Lowell, an American poet of the 1800s, expressed the importance of giving. More recently, Roots and the Canadian Red Cross (CRC) came together to bring these words to life. Following the major earthquake that ravaged Haiti this past winter, Roots sent an appeal to its staff to contribute to a ‘Roots Cares’ fundraising initiative for relief efforts in the devastated Caribbean nation in conjunction with the CRC. The number of employees who participated and the total amount raised far surpassed the company’s expectation. The final total, including a match by Roots and the Canadian government, was close to $80,000, all of which went to the CRC in support of much-needed humanitarian work in Haiti. In May, a CRC delegation visited the Roots head office in Toronto to express their gratitude. Diana Borowski, Director of Fund Development, and Dr.

(l to r): Don Green, Christine Wong, Diana Borowski and Michael Budman with framed plaque of appreciation from the Red Cross

Christine Wong, a Torontobased physician, also updated staff on the situation in Haiti. Dr. Wong, who was deployed there by the CRC as part of its emergency response to the disaster, spoke specifically about her experience working at the largest field hospital in Port-au-Prince. In appreciation of the company’s support, Diana and Christine presented a framed plaque to Roots Co-Founders

Don Green and Michael Budman, asking that it be placed where all staff could be reminded of their contribution. Roots has long enjoyed a positive relationship with the CRC. On several occasions in the past, the company has raised funds for their humanitarian work following previous disasters, including a number of hurricanes in the Caribbean and the 2004 tsunami in Asia.

LEATHER FACTORY SHOWS ITS STUFF Members of the fashion media get sneak peak at Fall 2010 collection

(l to r): Director of Manufacturing Suresh Dureja; Co-Founder Michael Budman; Plant Manager Henry Kowalewski; Leather Expert Karl Kowalewski; Co-Founder Don Green; Leather Coordinator Ed Cox.

n early June, Roots hosted its bi-annual trunk show to introduce the fashion media to its new collection of leather goods. Held in the newly renovated showroom at the Roots leather factory in Toronto, style journalists got a preview of the Fall 2010 collection. It includes leather bags, shoes/boots, jackets and accessories that will start arriving in stores in August.

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

A selection of coverage of Roots in the media Here are some recent sightings of Roots in the pages of newspapers and magazines:

FINE PRINT

• Ottawa Citizen, June 26. Spotlight on Roots and Canada Day. • Marketing Magazine, June 14. Story on new RootsxDouglas Coupland Collection. • Globe and Mail, June 14. Spotlight on hoodie from Canada Day Collection. • Toronto Life, June. Column entitled “Fake Rivalries” discusses Roots collaborations with Douglas Coupland and Charles Pachter respectively. • Gaitpost, June. Spotlight on Roots Equestrian Jersey Polos. • Chatelaine, June. The Luisa Bag in awarded magazine’s first ever “Bag of the Month” while the Lola Bag in blue suede was included in a contest. The zipper coin wallet. • Globe and Mail, June 11. Interview with Douglas Coupland announcing the launch of RootsxDouglas Coupland. • Loulou, June. Feature on Roots “Teeny-Tiny” bags including Bracelet Clutch in blush, Mini Cargo in aqua and Ali Pouch in rustler. Nylon tote, Ladies Jazzed yellow watch and Isla silk dress in grape also spotlighted. • Flare, June. Toronto hip-hop MC/ producer JDiggz featured wearing a Gretzky Canada Jacket. • Elle Canada, June. Spotlight on Megan Bag. • Toronto Star, May 29. World Collection is mentioned in “World Cup frenzy kicks off.” • National Post, May 29. Mini Soft Saddle in sand rustler appeared in “Style Quarterly – Speaking of Summer.” • Toronto Star, May 8. The Megan Bag in blush appeared in a Mother’s Day feature. • Fashion, May 5. The Kiltie Bag in red is highlighted as part of “The daily steal” featuring cross-body bags. • Flare, May. Disco Pouch in lavender featured in the latest issue. • Beauty Geeks, May 4. Spotlight on Disco Pouch in blush. • Men’s Fashion, May. Canvas Messenger Bag featured. • Real Life Runway, May. Yubz handset featured in post entitled “Fashion for your Phone.” • Globe and Mail, Apr 29. Article mentions Roots partnership with Canadian Olympic Gold Medalists Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. • Toronto Star, Apr 29. Story highlighted Tessa and Scott’s partnership with Roots. • National Post, Apr 29. Article on skating duo’s announcement at press conference at Roots flagship store. • Toronto Sun, Apr 28. Story mentioned the partnership with Scott and Tessa. • Globe and Mail, Apr 14. Review of Conan O’Brien’s show in Vancouver includes his joke that his new job is as assistant manager at Roots store on Robson. • Flare.com, Apr 5. Kiltie Bag featured in “Mini Bags” article. Ali Pouch included in “Steal her Style” feature on actor Amanda Seyfried. • Chatelaine, May. Spotlight on Beach Tote in suede and leather.

The Source • 9

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products

French Tote in Prince Leather, Mykonos, $133

Catherine Tote in Lux Leather, Brown, $288

Mini Soft Saddle in Rustler Leather, Sand, $118

Large Lola in Prince Leather, Truffle, $228

Pocket Tunic T-Shirt, Grey Mix, $40

Women’s Cassidy in Bruschetta Leather, Black, $448

Eve Plaid Shirt, Firebrick, $58 Calamity Jane Bag in Vintage Tribe Leather with Lanyard, Africa, $288

Zip Coin, Purse, Yellow, $48

10 • The Source

Felix Jacket, Soapstone Mix, $88 Large Hobo in Prince Leather with Gold Hardware, White, $248

5" Triple Coin Purse, Grey, $48

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products

Raiders Satchel in Prince Leather, Black, $298

Modern Satchel, Tan, $338

Milano Bag in Tribe Leather, $398

Student Pack in Prince Leather, Chocolate, $218

Bain Stripe Pique Polo, After Dark, $46

One Week Jacket in Bruschetta Leather, Black, $498

Isleeve, Mykonos, $48

Cooper Plaid Poorboy Hat, Deep Mahogany, $26

Gretzky Duffle in Tribe Leather, Africa, $338

New Shaving Kit in Tribe Leather, $98

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

Men’s Desert Lined Boot in Raging Bull, Black, $158

The Source • 11

STAYING POWER Saluting those who go the distance Filomena De Jesus, Leather Shoes, 35 years Lok Cheung, Leather Cutter, 35 years Judite Freitas, Leather Stitcher, 25 years Lisa Pilon, Keyholder, 20 years Sherry Bishop, Keyholder, 15 years Duncan Carey, DC Team Leader, 15 years Jian Li Huang, Leather Jacket Cutter, 15 years Dionilde Lourenco, Leather Jacket Cutter, 15 years David Mollison, Account Manager, 15 years Colleen Weber, Store Manager, 15 years Dori Yesovitch, Store Manager, 15 years Christine Crowe-Campeau, Store Manager, 10 years Josann Creighton-Robinson, Sales Assistant, Wholesale/B2B, 10 years Rosa Faria, Leather Stitcher, 10 years Maria Sousa, Leather Stitcher, 10 years Brenda Westbrook, Store Manager, 10 years Shehza Behrainwala, Manager, Merchandise Planning, 5 years Caroline Brentnall, Technician, 5 years Adelina Ferrante, Sr. Mdse Manager Planning, 5 years Christine Kemp, Store Manager, 5 years Pauline Landriault, Director, Store Development, 5 years Fabrizio Lazzaro, Senior Developer, 5 years Li Hua Li, Leather Sewing Machine, 5 years Gui Hao Lui, Leather Sewing Machine, 5 years Elizabeth Masih, Leather Table Work, 5 years Nathalie Massicotte, Store Manager, 5 years Elizabeth Mayne, Keyholder, 5 years Rhonda McLean, Assistant Manager, 5 years Hanh Nguyen, Leather Sewing Machine, 5 years Daksha Patel, Keyholder, 5 years Alessandra Romeo, Keyholder, 5 years Marlo Saganski, Keyholder, 5 years Mauricio Santos, District Manager, 5 years Allison Voth, Sales Associate, 5 years

SCORING BIG

Roots celebrates World Cup with line of outerwear

DOING RIGHT BY MAMA Contest pays tribute to maternal words of wisdom he is always there to tell us what to do, and more often, what not to do. But no matter what she does, Roots wanted to know what your mama always says. During the month of May, Roots.com held a contest online for customers called “Mama Always Said…” In celebration of Mothers Day, the contest challenged people to submit a story with pictures or upload a video that completed the statement, “Mama always said…” Approximately 800 people, mostly from Canada responded to the call for entries and sent in tales from the world of motherhood. The winner, Katrina Brady of Calgary, Alberta submitted the following story about her mom: “Everything was ‘wait until.’ Wait until your father gets home. Wait until you grow up. Wait until you have kids. If you could put ‘wait until’ in front of it, my mom did. It drove me nuts! When I began raising my kids, I did everything possible to avoid that phrase. I love my mom but she drove me crazy!” Katrina won two custom Roots Genuine Leather Bags, valued at approximately $300 each. She chose the Megan Bag in Black Prince Leather and a Michelle Bag in Denim Rustler Leather.

undreds of millions of passionate fans, 32 competing countries (from the 204 who entered qualification) and for one much-sought after trophy. It all adds up to World Cup fever, which dominates life on Earth for one month every four years. In early June, Roots launched the World Collection just before the tournament kicked off in South Africa. Based on past sales and popularity trends, the collection features 11 countries – Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Portugal, South Africa and Spain – all of whom enjoy great support, especially among their respective immigrant communities, in North America. Designed by Daniel Allen, Senior Designer and Oliver Capistrano, Designer, the line

consists of tees, fleece jackets, baseball hats for women, men, baby and kids, and a polo shirt for men. Products featurting eight of the 11 countries (Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Italy, Netherlands, England, Argentina, South Africa) are sold in all Roots stores, while the others are in select locations. All 11 countries are available at roots.com Starting in 2002, this is the third time Roots has created a special line to coincide with this mammoth competition, the mostly widely viewed sporting event in the world. Thus far, Italy, England, Holland and South Africa lines have proven the most popular among Roots customers. However, given Canada’s largely multicultural population, all countries in the collection are selling well.

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL Spotlighting the top performing Roots stores in recent months in terms of their sales results efore this issue of The Source went to press, we received the final sales figures for stores in recent months. For May, the top company store was the Square One location in Mississauga, Ontario. Topping the pack in terms of company stores for April was the Market Mall location in Calgary, Alberta. As for the Roots 73/Outlet category, the CrossIron Mills outlet in Rockyview, Alberta took the top spot for both May and April, making it the winning outlet for three months in a row. CrossIron Mills far surpassed other stores in terms of its percentage over its monthly sales budgets. Congratulations to Brenda Preston, Manager of the Square One store, Alla Kolotey, Manager of the Market Mall store, Trevor Chambers, Manager of the CrossIron Mills outlet and to their respective teams for their exemplary performances. Hats off to all of the other stores that surpassed their sales goals in May and April.

Market Mall store team in Calgary. (l to r): Alla Kolotey, Arashdeep Sra, Ellie Zygmunt, Victoria Dillabough and Katlin James. 12 • The Source

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

CHATTING UP THE ARTS For second year in a row, Roots hosts Luminato Lunchtime Conversations artistic directors discussed their contributions to the annual arts event. Now in its fourth year, Luminato features a wide range of theatre, dance, music, film, literature, visual arts and design. Many local and international artists participated in the sessions at Roots, held over a nineday period in June. One of the highlights was Africadian Literature, a discussion with Canadian poet and playwright George Clarke. Moderated by

(l to r): Trevor Davies, Anthony Black and Christian Barry discuss Homage, a play based on life of Haydn Davies

oots has often played host to a variety of artistic endeavours. As part of the company’s ongoing involvement with Toronto’s Luminato Arts Festival, it recently held a Lunchtime Conversations series at the flagship store on Bloor St., where various artists, poets and

Rinaldo Walcott, the session explored African-Canadian literature in connection with those communities in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Later in the week, Christian Barry and Anthony Black, Artistic Directors of 2b Theatre Company, shared their insights on Homage, a play about Haydn Davies, advertising executive turned sculptor. The final event in the series, entitled Wish Come True Festival, featured Arturo Sandoval II and Samuel Borkson, members of the Miami-based design collective FriendsWithYou. They spoke about their characterbased installations focusing on friendship and creativity.

STYLE IN HIGH PLACES Roots makes its presence felt among world leaders at G8 and G20 summits special G8 Summit 24 Hour Bag. Based on the Douglas Duffel, the customized bag was made of Vintage Tribe Leather with Canadian flag detail and an embroidered G8 Muskoka logo. Roots Awards Jacket presented to Japanese Recipients of the Prime Minster at G8 Summit in Huntsville, Ontario jackets and bags edicated followers of included US President Barak Roots were anything but Obama, UK Prime Minister surprised to learn in late David Cameron, French June that the iconic Canadian President Nicolas Sarkozy, brand was present at the recent Italy’s Silvio Berlusconi, G8 summit held in Huntsville, German Chancellor Angela Ontario and the G20 summit in Toronto. Each of the world leaders attending the two-day event in Huntsville received a Roots leather jacket, customized with their respective country’s name and national colours. Each jacket also had personalized embroidery; one sleeve had the respective leader’s national flag with the Canadian flag and hockey sticks while the other sleeve had the G8 summit logo. Inspired by the Gretzky Jacket from this year’s Canada Collection’s, the G8 jackets were made of black Melton with Canadian deer skin leather sleeves. For good measure, Roots Michael Budman addresses international media in Washington also included with each jacket a

Issue 96 - Summer 2010

Merkel, Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev and the European Union’s José Manuel Barroso and Herman Van Rompuy and the host of the summit, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Two hours south in Toronto, Roots also provided special messenger bags for journalists covering the G20 weekend summit. In the lead-up to the much-anticipated gathering, Roots had helped promote the host city, at the request of the municipal government. In late May, Toronto’s city leadership held a press conference in Washington to spotlight Toronto as the G20 host city to foreign media. As a highly successful, internationally recognized Toronto-based business, Roots was asked to be part of the delegation speaking at the press conference. At the National Press Club in Washington, Roots Co-Founder Michael Budman joined Toronto Mayor David Miller and world acclaimed, Torontobased filmmaker Deepa Mehta to address the media about the city. “Roots has long derived much of its inspiration from Toronto,” said Michael in his remarks. “From the creativity, rich cultural activity, the incred-

Drake in custom made jacket

RAPPING WITH ROOTS

Drake knows what he likes

tars collided when Canadian musical sensations Drake and Justin Bieber linked arms on the red carpet at the MuchMusic Video Awards in Toronto, with Roots very much in evidence. It was the second time in under a week that Drake appeared publicly in his new customized Roots jacket. Days before, the rapper/singer showed off his new threads during an interview on BET (Black Entertainment Television). Photos of Drake in his Roots jacket were widely circulated on the internet and appeared in major media publications. Drake had the jacket custom made at the Roots leather factory after admiring a Gretzky Jacket worn by the son of co-founder Michael Budman during a recent meeting at Trattoria Sotto Sotto in Toronto. Roots designers personalized the front of the all black jacket for Drake by embroidering the words ‘October’s Very Own,’ a reference to the month of his birth, ‘Thank Me Later,’ the name of his charttopping debut studio album, and “So Far Gone,’ the mixtape that launched his singing career. Drake loves the jacket so much that he made it his official tour gear.

ible ethnic diversity of local residents, the progressive climate of tolerance and forward thinking, the passion for amateur and professional sports, the appreciation of style, Roots is proud to be based in and stimulated by such a great city.” Also in attendance were; David Whitaker, President and CEO, Tourism Toronto; Renato Discenza, CEO, Invest Toronto. The Source • 13

HEALTH TIP #57

Easy ways to stay healthy

STARTING LINEUP

Introducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores As 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 Lakeshore store in Oakville, Ontario. From left to right: Ivona Mcgill, Kashish Patel (Manager), Morgan Tryon and Michelle Lane.

SPEAK TO MY AGENT

The littlest customers show their Roots Isabelle Thornton, 7 weeks, Dublin, Ireland

Nicolo Giorno, 8 months, Genoa, Italy

A window to the organs: You don’t always need to go to a nutritionist to find out what’s wrong with your diet. Start by looking at your tongue, an important indicator of one’s health. The tongue’s extreme tip correlates to the heart; the bit slightly behind indicates the lungs. The right side shows what the gallbladder is up to and the left side illustrates the liver. The middle is a sign of the condition of your stomach and spleen, and the back of the tongue is for the kidneys, intestines, bladder and womb. A healthy tongue should be smooth, supple and slightly moist. It should be pale red in colour with a very thin, white film. One of the most common indicators is a crack down the middle, which means you have a weak stomach and your digestion is not what it should be. You are most likely nutrient-depleted. What should you do? Take a digestive enzyme with meals – this is a supplement that helps to break down food during digestion, which can be found at your local health food store. Eat soups, stews and blends – foods that are easy to digest. Millet porridge would be good for you. Also, stay away from fizzy drinks and don’t drink liquids at mealtimes. For information on other common indicators of the tongue and solutions, read You Are What You Eat by Dr. Gillian McKeith which is the source of this health tip.

SPEAK UP! Please send your photos or story ideas to thesource@roots.com.

e often receive unsolicited photos from people eager to show us pictures of their children, cousins, grandchildren, or even pets, wearing Roots. Sometimes the senders ask if we could use the photos in a future advertising campaign for Roots. We can’t promise that but we are happy to publish them in The Source. Everyone is welcome to submit their favourite shots to be considered for publication. Please send your pictures to photogallery@roots.com. Be sure to include the name and age of each child or pet in the photo, where it was taken, place of residence and a sentence stating that you agree for the photos to be used in The Source. 14 • The Source

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

Big developments in the life of Roots staff

Ava Zacharosky

Cheryl Somek, Manager of the New Sudbury Centre store in Sudbury, Ontario, (who is currently on maternity leave), and her husband Andrew Zacharosky welcomed a new baby girl, Ava Zacharosky, on February 8, 2010. Hearty congratulations to Cheryl and Andrew on this great moment in their lives. Issue 96 - Summer 2010

MUSICAL ROOTS

This month, we spotlight Canadian rapper Drake

he Canadian rapper, singer and actor known popularly by his middle name Drake is currently one of the hottest figures on the music scene. His recently released album, Thank Me Later, has already earned the 23-year old performer both critical and commercial success. Born in Toronto in 1986 to a Jewish mother and AfricanAmerican father, Aubrey Drake Graham was brought up by his mother in the city’s affluent Forest Hill neighbourhood. He spent several summers with his father in Memphis where he soaked up its rich music scene, eventually writing songs, hanging around studios and meeting famous musicians. Interestingly, Drake first made a name for himself in the entertainment world through his acting.

He got his first role as a wheelchair-bound, junior high schooler on the Canadian teen drama TV series Degrassi: The Next Generation. Later, he won roles in such TV series as Soul Food; Conviction and Best Friend’s Date. Gaining popularity as a small screen actor, Drake couldn’t resist trying his hand at music and revisiting those early Memphis memories. In February 2006, he released his first indie mixtape entitled Room for Improvement. The next year, he returned with another independent mixtape Comeback Season. One of its singles peaked at number 21 on Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart and caught the ear of rap superstar Lil Wayne. Drake developed a close relationship with Lil Wayne and

became his protégé after collaborating with the rap mogul on a remix of the song “Man of the Year.” With the assistance of the Young Money founder, he released his third indie mixtape So Far Gone in February 2009. The record featured collaborations with mentors, Trey Songz, Peter, Bjorn and John, Lloyd and Omarion. Drake made his debut on Billboard’s Hot 100 with “Best I Ever Had.” Having no featured guest on the track, it climbed to number 18 on the U.S. singles chart, peaked at number 1 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Tracks and number 2 on Billboard’s R&B/ Hip-Hop Songs chart. What made him different from other artists was that he reached all his popularity and achievement as an indie singer, with no record label. As one of music’s rising stars, Drake received several offers from major labels, including Universal Motown and Atlantic Records. The labels ended up in a major bidding war to sign Drake with Universal Motown eventually emerging victorious and in mid-June Drake released his debut studio album, Thank Me Later, to considerable acclaim. It’s clear Drake is destined for serious stardom. - Davin Bujalski

ROOTS RADIO RECOMMENDS A list of the top 3 CDs worth noting this month 1. 2010: Listen Up! Official Fifa World Cup, Various Artists 2. Troubadour (Champion Ed), K’naan 3. Nikki, Nikki Yanofsky

• To hear the music of Drake, visit: octobersveryown.blogspot.com

CHEF’S CORNER

Roots-friendly recipes for a healthy diet and to bring pleasure to your palate

o, they are not what they may look like. Yes, they are cookies, but with a difference. Despite their appearance as calorie-laden, arteryclogging treats, these chocolate chip cookies are a much healthier alternative to their conventional counterparts. For this issue’s Chef’s Corner, we present a recipe for making the ultimate wholewheat chocolate chip cookies. Made with whole-wheat flour and brown sugar, this delicious snack is a healthier alternative to conventional cookies. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup natural brown sugar, packed Issue 96 - Summer 2010

oats 3/4 to 1 cup dark chocolate chips, 60% cocoa 3/4 cup nuts, chopped 1 (1.5 to 2 oz) dark chocolate (60% cocoa or better) bar, grated

1/2 cup organic sugar 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup white whole wheat flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 375° 2. Place oats in a food processor and process until it turns into a powder. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered oats, flour, salt, baking powder and baking soda. 4. In a large bowl, cream together

butter and both sugars for 3 minutes on medium speed. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Gradually beat in dry ingredients. Stir in grated chocolate, then add chocolate chips and chopped nuts. 5. Roll or scoop dough into 2inch sized balls and place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 12 minutes. 6. Cool 2 minutes on baking sheet before transferring to a cooling rack. Makes 25 cookies. The scooped dough freezes well and bakes up as delicious as fresh. Add 1-2 minutes to bake time for frozen dough. • Source: wholegraingourmet.com The Source • 15

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Issue 96 - Summer 2010