Megan Szanik says business at her Calgary fashion boutique Espy Experience is better than last year.Todd Korol/The Globe and Mail
Calgary's recession-battered businesses feeling cautiously optimistic
Megan Szanik, proprietor of the fashion boutiques Espy Experience in Calgary and Canadian Fashion Xperience in Banff, is noticing a marked shift this holiday season.
Last year, amid the prolonged slowdown in the energy sector, companies went without Christmas parties, and recession-weary Calgary consumers barely touched Espy's party dresses. This year, people are back buying those dresses. It's a small but sure sign the economy is picking up, Ms. Szanik says.
"There seems to be a loosening up of purse strings. There's just a general air of 'we're doing better.'" Full story
Morneau clarifies small-business tax changes as senators blast plan
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Hydroponics companies expecting a flood of customers after marijuana is legalized
In October, marijuana industry heavy hitter Aurora Cannabis Inc. spent $3.85-million to acquire BC Northern Lights Enterprises Ltd., a Vancouver-based company that manufactures refrigerator-sized "grow boxes." The miniature nurseries, loaded up with high-powered lights, ventilation systems and hydroponics equipment, are designed to hold four to 18 marijuana plants and made specifically for the home-growing market. Full story
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