Flight Centre Canada bets on in-person expertise with two new stores

At a time when almost every part of a trip can be researched and booked from a smartphone, Flight Centre Canada (FCC) is investing in something decidedly more personal — a conversation with a travel expert.

The company is opening two new retail locations this month—Flight Centre Crosstown in Toronto and Flight Centre North Shore in North Vancouver—following its 30th-anniversary commitment to invest in the future of travel expertise.

Anita Emilio, executive vice president and general manager of Flight Centre Canada, said that: “Opening new travel stores in 2026 might sound old school, but that’s part of the point. People can research a trip for hours and still not know what they’re missing. A good travel expert cuts through the noise, flags the trade-offs and helps travellers make confident decisions.”

And Emilio added: “Technology gives us speed and choice. Our people bring judgement, context and accountability. The real value comes from combining the two.”

The new stores open on the back of a third consecutive record year for Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) Canada, the parent company of Flight Centre Canada. Canada was also the most improved Flight Centre market globally in the financial year ended June 2026.

Flight Centre Travel Group Canada’s managing director, Chris Lynes points out that: “Brick-and-mortar retail works when it gives access to expertise people can’t get elsewhere. These openings reflect a deliberate investment in a part of the business we know customers value and trust.”

Lynes also made it clear that: “We’re confident in our offering, but we’re also realistic about the current environment. We’ll continue to be selective about where we invest and focus on opportunities that make sense for both customers and the economics of the business.”

At Toronto’s newest location, Flight Centre Crosstown, the next great trip starts with a conversation. Located at 2507 Yonge Street, north of Eglinton, it’s open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday, as of September 10.

In North Vancouver, travellers can pop into Flight Centre North Shore at 120 W. 16th Street, Unit 104, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. The grand opening will take place on September 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. with refreshments, prizes and supplier showcases.

Go to www.flightcentre.ca for more.

Photo: Flight Centre North Shore