june 2009

The Source • 1Issue 89 - June 2009

A window into the world of RootsRootsRootsRootsRoots Issue 89 • June 2009

Dr. Jane Goodall helps launch new ‘Roots Cares’employee environmental program at Toronto event

WHY ROOTS CARES

PublishersMICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN

EditorROBERT SARNER

InternsCAROLINE IWANOWSKI

PAVAN SANDHUNICOLE SMITH

The Source is published by Roots CanadaLtd. We welcome letters from readers forpublication. Please address allcorrespondence to The Source, Letters to theEditor, Roots Canada, 1400 Castlefield Ave.,Toronto, Ontario, M6B 4C4 or by email [email protected] Letters may be editedfor length and clarity.

Each issue of The Source is alsoavailable, in an abridged version, on theRoots website at www.roots.com

DepartmentsFINE PRINT

GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

GREEN TIPS

HEALTH TIPS

STAYING POWER

Ilich

Mej

ia

2 • The Source Issue 89 - June 2009

FROM DISTANT SHORESSouth African retailers visitRoots in Toronto

TAKING TO THE ICEEdmonton hockey fansshow their Roots

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE...On the slopes in a weddingdress for charity

THE CALL OF HOCKEYFormer NHLers take onTeam Roots for a goodcause

STYLE IN THE AIRExtreme sports enthusiastwears Roots in BMX race

THE RIGHT INGREDIENTSNaturally produced skincareand hair care line takes off

MAKING TRACKSRoots sponsorsMississauga Marathon forcharity

THE MAKING OF AGOOD SWEATMore than meets the eyewith Roots fleece

• The Source wants to hear from you.Please send your letters to RobertSarner at [email protected]. Lettersmay be edited for length and clarity.

A PLEASURE OUT EASTI’m writing you because I wantto tell you that it’s such apleasure to visit your store atBayers Lake in Halifax.

I’ve always found the staffvery courteous and helpful,especially the manager, LisaMoorhouse. I go to the storeoften and Lisa is always sopleasant and ready to assistcustomers. You are fortunate tohave her working for Roots.Wendy OffmanHalifax, Nova Scotia

ROOTS HOSPITALITYWe would like you to recognizeone of your employees, SharonHolmes, for her patience andunderstanding as we lost track ofthe closing time when we werein your East Point Outlet store inSaint John’s, Newfoundland.

We went to Roots because afriend visiting from Australiawanted to get items with Canadaon them to take home to herfamily. Sharon was excellent inhelping to find the items ourfriend was looking for.

When we realized that thestore was actually already closedfor 20 minutes and apologized toher, she was most accommodat-ing and told us not to worry

SPECIAL DELIVERYA selection of recent letters from the world of Roots

about it. Sharon didn’t rushwhen ringing in the purchaseseven though it was well past thetime she should have beenfinished work. Please pass onour appreciation to her.Lyn and Dorothy MillerSaint John’s, Newfoundland

KUDOS TO ANNEI would like to express howimpressed I am with yourcustomer service representative,Anne Theriault, and herresolution of a product issue Ihad about the Roots MidtownBag.

Her response was prompt,courteous and sympathetic. In anextremely professional manner,Ms. Theriault went even beyondwhat I have to come expect fromRoots, considering their alreadysolid customer service reputa-tion.Lisa SancheToronto, Ontario

CAPITAL GAINSI’d like to give you somepositive feedback about two ofyour retail employees. While inOttawa recently, my husbandand I dropped into the WilliamsStreet store to do someshopping. It was a Saturday

evening and when we entered thestore we were greeted by WendyChain and Sydney McLennan,two sales representatives.

First, they were bothextremely personable andhelpful, which made our visit toRoots quite enjoyable. Second,as we were unfamiliar with thearea, I asked if they had anysuggestions for a goodrestaurant. While both werewilling to offer ideas, Wendywent above and beyond bygiving us several detailedrecommendations, including herfavourite restaurant. We wentthere and enjoyed a fabulousmeal. We couldn’t have askedfor a better end to our day.

I’d just like you to know thatin Wendy and Sydney you havetwo employees who not onlyrepresented your store well, butthey also embodied the spirit ofWinterlude for the city ofOttawa. You can be assured thatwith customer relations such asthis, I will continue to shop atRoots in the future.Michelle HudonHamilton, Ontario

I N S I D EI S S U E 8 9

WHY ROOTS CARES

Continued on next page

(From left to right), Jeff Ingram, Janet Braam, Liz Doggett, JaneGoodall, Don Green and his daughters Deeva and Sophie

3 • The Source Issue 89 - May 2009

With tens of thousands of youth in almost 100 countries, theJane Goodall Institute’s Roots & Shoots network connectsyouth of all ages who share a desire to create a better world.

As “special guests” go,this one was certainlymost deserving of thelabel. It’s not every day

that one of the world’s leadinghumanitarians and environmen-talists (who’s also a UN Messen-ger of Peace) spends a morningin a Roots store, taking part inthe launch of a new initiative forthe company’s employees andthe community. But that’sexactly what happened in mid-April when Dr. Jane Goodallhelped with the official kickoffof the Roots Cares employeeengagement program at theflagship store in Toronto.

The event took place in thestore’s upstairs AlgonquinLounge where journalists,customers, and staff of the JaneGoodall Institute of Canadajoined Roots directors from theHead Office, managers of Rootsstores in Toronto and companyCo-Founders Don Green andMichael Budman for theofficial introduction of RootsCares. The MC was PeggiePelosi, founder of OrendaConnections, an expert on suchinitiatives and who has workedclosely with Roots on develop-ing the new employee engage-ment program.

It was the culmination of aprocess that began last yearwhen Don and Michael ap-proved the concept of develop-ing a company-wide community-related program that Roots

True to the core values of the company, Roots launches an exciting new programfor employees to benefit the community at large. BY ROBERT SARNER

would develop and promote inpartnership with a specific charity.In the fall, a committee comprisedof 11 Roots employees wasformed representing variousdepartments and stores acrossCanada. Its purpose was todevelop a community-givingprogram that all employees couldparticipate in, with the support ofRoots.

After reviewing presenta-tions from several non-profitorganizations, the committeeselected the Jane GoodallInstitute (JGI) of Canada,specifically the JGI’s Roots &Shoots program, as theircharity of choice. Roots &Shoots is an environmental/humanitarian educationprogram and global network ofyouth from more than 100countries.

The new partnership willsee Roots employees raisingfunds and providing volunteertime, with the support of Roots,to help the JGI develop Roots& Shoots projects throughoutCanada. Employees will alsobe directly engaged in initiatingand contributing to projectsthat address issues in their owncommunities.

At the launch, Dr. Goodallgave a moving and engagingspeech, exuding her typicalwarmth, compassion and beliefin the ability of people to make

a positive impact. She explainedthat despite the current state ofthe world, she was full of hope,based on four main reasons: thehuman brain; the determinationof young people; the indomitablehuman spirit; and the resilienceof nature. She also paid tributeto Roots for embarking on thisnew employee-based initiative.

“It is very exciting to see amajor company like Rootsadopting the philosophy of theRoots & Shoots program, andempowering their employees tomake a difference in theircommunities and to act as rolemodels for other young people,”said Dr. Goodall. “Roots and itsemployees across the countryand around the world are to becongratulated. It is initiativeslike this one that give me hopethat we can and will overcomethe huge problems that the worldfaces today.”

Addressing the audience,Don said there was little mysterybehind Roots Cares. “For all thesuccess that Roots has achievedsince it began, the most gratify-ing aspect for Michael and I hascome from what Roots has beenable to do to help others,” Donexplained. “Roots has alwayshad a commitment to givingback to the community, espe-cially in places in which weoperate. To add another dimen-sion to those efforts, we recentlydecided to engage and supportour employees more fully in ourcharitable initiatives through thecreation of Roots Cares. Itrepresents an opportunity forRoots employees to link armsand make an impact in their owncommunities. Appropriately, it’sfocused on one of the fundamen-tal core values at Roots: respectfor nature and concern for theenvironment.”

Longtime Roots employeeLiz Doggett, Director ofWholesale Operations, has beena key player in the Roots Caresemployee committee from theoutset. “As a member of theRoots Cares committee, I can


Continued from previous page

Roots & Shoots bringsrewarding experiences toeveryday lives

(From left to right) Michael Budman, Peggie Pelosi, JaneGoodall, Don Green and his dog Stanley at Roots Cares event

say it was a privilege to beinvolved in helping create thisnew program for the entire Rootsteam,” she told the audience.“We are inspired by the work ofDr. Goodall and excited tosupport her Roots & Shootsinitiative.”

Even ahead of the officiallaunch of Roots Cares, Rootsemployees reacted enthusiasti-cally to it. “When I first heard ofplans for this project, I was notsurprised,” says Debbie Barnes-Scallion, manager of a Rootsstore in Vancouver who hasworked at the company since1997 and is a member of theRoots Cares committee. “Theongoing commitment to commu-nity and the environment are oneof the many reasons I chose toalign myself with Roots. As anemployee, it’s very important tome that the company I representholds the same morals andintegrity that I do. I’m so proudto be helping develop a programthat every member of the Rootsteam can participate in.”

The first major Roots Caresproject for employees to getinvolved in this year is TheGreat Canadian ShorelineCleanup, a hands-on conserva-tion program in late September.It’s part of Project Blue, theRoots & Shoots 2009 nationalwater campaign. Each Rootsemployee will be invited toparticipate for one day in a localshoreline cleanup during theweek of September 19-27. Rootswill pay each employee their

normal salary for the day ofvolunteering.

At the same time, all Rootsstores and employees have theopportunity to create their ownRoots & Shoots group, or toconnect with an existing one intheir community (if applicable).

Roots will also be raisingfunds for Roots & Shootsactivities including through thesale of specially produced Rootsmerchandise and will giveemployees the option to supportthe program through an auto-matic payroll deduction.

In early June, all Roots storesand departments at the headoffice, distribution centre andfactory will receive a RootsCares handbook which willexplain in detail how the RootsCares program will work andhow employees can get involvedin the project. - R.S.

Funds raised through theRoots Cares program will

support several initiatives,which will have both social andenvironmentalbenefits. Thefollowing is a list ofprojectscoordinated by theJane GoodInstitute of Canada(JGI) that RootsCares will assist.• Introduction ofthe Roots & Shootsyouth program in First Nationcommunities across Canadathrough a partnership with theAssembly of First Nations.

WHERE THE MONEY GOESRoots Cares will be helping in different ways

• Creation of workshops andonline resources for youngCanadians to help themresearch issues in their own

communities,build leadershipand project skills,and implementlocal actionprojects.• Involvement inone-day JGI YouthAction Workshopsin Canadian cities.• Ongoing

development of youthleadership component ofRoots & Shoots, including theYouth Leadership Council.

Compared to most countries,when it comes to sourcesof water, Canada is a

paradise. It is blessed with analmost infinite number ofstreams, rivers, lakes, and bays,in addition to a near-endlesswestern, northern and easterncoastline bordering on oceans.Lamentably, the above are toooften treated as garbage dumps.

In September, as part of theRoots Cares program,employees from all regions anddepartments will participate inthe 2009 Great CanadianShoreline Cleanup. They willspend a day removing trash fromareas next to bodies of water,both in urban and rural settings.The Cleanup itself takes placeover an 8-day period.

In 2008, participants in theGreat Canadian ShorelineCleanup removed 135,500 kg oflitter in one week. Such litter has

TIME FOR A CLEANUPRoots Cares supports staff in national effortto remove litter from waterways

only one source: humans. Boththe amount and variety ofgarbage is staggering. Last year,volunteers removed barbecues,styrofoam, buoys, shoppingcarts, paint cans, earplugs,cigarette butts by the bucketloads, loaded rifles, vehicles,plastic cutlery, coffee cup lids,and the odd engagement ring.

Our waterways are notdumping grounds, yetCanadians keep using them forjust that.

Cleanups are more than justcollecting trash. They areexamples of people workingtogether to create solutions thatensure our oceans and otherwaterways are kept clean. TheGreat Canadian ShorelineCleanup is the perfectopportunity for companies,school groups, business groups,community associations,families, and concernedindividuals to get involved in ahands-on conservation program.It provides a chance to be a partof an activity that has a real,measurable effect on theenvironment, both locally andglobally. As such, this has beenselected as the Roots Caresvolunteer initiative for 2009.


In mid-March, Roots hosted agroup of South African retailand wholesale managers as

part of an international leader-ship development project. Runannually, the InternationalLeadership DevelopmentProgram is designed in conjunc-tion with the Retail Council ofCanada (RCC), which representsmore than 40,000 businessesacross the country.

At the request of the RCC,

the Roots flagship store inToronto received a 15-memberdelegation representing differentretail sectors in South Africaranging from apparel to foodchains.

Program participants visitedtop wholesale and retail opera-tions in Canada and the UnitedStates. The visit to Roots beganwith an extensive tour of theBloor St. store during whichRobert Sarner, Director of

Visiting South African retailers and wholesalers spend time at Roots in TorontoFROM DISTANT SHORES

S. African delegates with Robert Sarner, (far left), at the Algonquin Lounge at the Bloor St. store

Communication and PublicAffairs, talked about variousproducts and recent innovationsat the company. On the mainfloor, Andy McCurbin, whoheads the store’s leather section,waxed passionately about Rootsleather goods to the guests.

After the tour, the guestswere led to the AlgonquinLounge on the second floorwhere drinks were served beforeRobert gave a special presenta-

In mid-February, the Canadian delegation to the 2009 Days Inn Worldwide

Conference stood out from therest in Kissimmee, Florida –with good reason.

Several months earlier, theleaders of the Canadiandelegation had contacted Rootsto order custom designedmatching jackets for theircontingent to wear at theconference. The result: Forthree days, the 250 Canadiandelegates walked tall in theirRoots jackets and made sure totake a group photo tocommemorate their time at theevent.

Hosted annually, this year’sconference took place at the

Gaylord Palms Resort andConference Center. More than2,000 delegates attended,representing the 15 countrieswhere Days Inn’s 1,900 hotelsare located. The Canadians werearguably the largest – and best-dressed – group of theinternational teams.

Roots designed lightweighttrack jackets, made in Canada inappropriate colours, red andwhite, featuring an attractivemaple leaf alongside the DaysInn logo.

Anne Marie Hargreaves,Account Manager in theBusiness-to-BusinessDepartment at Roots,coordinated the order of 250track jackets for the group.

tion. The RCC had asked thosecompanies hosting the group toaddress specific retail-relatedtopics such as store design, bestpractices in merchandising,sustainability practices andcustomer loyalty programs.Roots was assigned the theme of“How brand identity plays animportant role in creating acustomer-focused experience.”

“Roots was at the top of ourlist when choosing companiesfor this program,” says DianeBrisebois, President and CEO ofthe Retail Council of Canada.“We wanted a company that isunique and sets trends. Roots hasset a benchmark in the retailindustry. We wanted the partici-pants to be exposed to Rootsbecause we believe it has all thekey elements of what a businessshould have to be successful,such as an enthusiastic team,excellent store design and firstclass merchandise.”

As a souvenir of their visit tothe store, Roots presented eachdelegate with a small leatherpouch made at the company’sfactory in Toronto, a discountcard and an information kit.

FROM CANADA WITH STYLERoots designs custom-made jackets for hotel chain’s international conference in Florida

Canadian delegates show their Roots at Florida conference


TAKING TO THE ICEEdmonton hockey fans come together to show their Roots

True to their country and city’s heritage,Edmontonians are passionate about hockeyand like to show it – often in stylish ways.

That’s why when the Oil Kings, the local juniorhockey team, were seeking custom designedapparel for their season ticket holders they turnedto Roots.

Clearly, based on the recent group photo, it’sbeen well received. In April, Oil Kings playersjoined some 200 members of their team’sFounders Club to proudly show off their Rootsjackets as part of a huge photo session at RexallPlace, home of both the Oil Kings and their NHLcounterparts, the Edmonton Oilers.

Oil King season ticket holders automaticallybecome part of the Founders Club, receiving

special perks with their membership. Newmembers get a custom made Roots Award Jacketin the team colours with the Oil Kings crest, alongwith access to the Founders Lounge before gamesand a commemorative plaque.

The Oil Kings and their supporters dressed in Roots gather at center ice at Rexall Place

WHEN A SCHLEP BAGIS TRULY EXCLUSIVE

Since its first order of 1,375 custom-madejackets from Roots in 2007, the Founders Clubhas continued to grow, adding 100 new membersfor whom it recently ordered 115 more Rootsjackets. This year, the Founders Club also askedRoots to supply exclusive Zip Polos in the OilKings team colours to match the team jackets.

The project was handled at Roots by DavidJackson, Product Coordinator in the Business-to-Business Department. The Oil Kings ended theirseason with their first WHL playoff series.

Online experiment off to apromising start

SPRING FORWARDTwo new stores open in Taiwan and Hong Kong

The onset of spring marked anew step forward in theongoing expansion of Roots

in Asia. In early March, in itslatest development in HongKong, Roots opened its fifthstore there inside the SogoDepartment Store in CausewayBay.

Sogo, also known as“Jumbo Sogo,” is the largestJapanese-style departmentstore and is one of the majorshopping landmarks in HongKong.

Three weeks later, inneighbouring Taiwan, Rootsopened another location in a

Sogo Department Store inChungli II, bringing to 29 thenumber of Roots stores inTaiwan.

In a related development inTaiwan, the Roots store in theHan Shin I Department Store inKaohsiung recently re-openedafter being renovated.

The Roots flagship store inTaiwan, located in the landmarkskyscraper Taipei 101, is alsoscheduled for a renovation forthe end of June.

In its first attempt at selling alimited edition bag online,Roots quickly sold out its

initial stock – and generatedgreat media coverage.

The pilot project, involvingthe Schlep Bag, was initiatedby James Connell, Director ofE-commerce, Digital Marketingand New Media and VictoriaLee, Manager of E-commerceoperations, in closecollaboration with the Rootsleather factory in Toronto.

The offer was only availableto online customers on a first-come-first-serve basis.

“The reason behind thelimited edition bags is to offersomething special to thecustomer, something uniqueand collectible,” says TanjaZelko, Manager of DigitalMarketing and OnlineExperience. “It also helpsdifferentiate us from thecompetition.”

Ten Schlep Bags, markedone through ten, becameavailable online for $178 eachin late February. The bags soldout in less than 16 hours, evenbefore a planned emailpromoting the offer was sentout. As a part of this exclusiveinitiative no more Schlep bagswill be made in pebble gerberaleather. The Schlep bag is aroomy, unlined leather tote. It’smade in a variety of differentleathers and sold in Rootsstores across Canada.

Several newspapersreported on this innovativepromotion, including theNational Post, which devoted ahalf-page article to the subject.

In early May, based on thesuccess of the initial offering,the web team introduced thesecond Roots limited editionbag promotion. This time, itfeatured 40 North South Bagsmade in vegetable tannedleather, which were soldexclusively online.

View of front display at Hong Kong store

Display at Han Shin


THE HILLS ARE ALIVE…With someone skiing down the slopes in a wedding dress for charity

Picture a crisp mid-wintermorning, breathing infresh mountain air atop

one of the most renowned skihills in the Rockies. Completethe scene by imagining you’redescending the slopes with theusual ski paraphernalia but alsowearing a wedding dress.

For Lil Heming, a RootsBusiness-to-Business SalesRepresentative in WesternCanada, this unlikelyjuxtaposition wasn’t some kindof cinematic fantasy. It actuallyhappened recently when Liltook part in the 7th annual Dashfor Cash charity ski race inBanff. Some 75 avid skiers andsnowboarders participated inthe event in support of braininjury awareness andprevention.

As part of this year’s race,participants donned their bestcostumes as they dashed downthe runs at Sunshine Village Skiand Snowboard Resort to helpraise funds for the Dave IrwinBrain Injury Foundation. Teamsof four competed in dual slalomformat races during the day.Since the event began in 2003,it has raised more than

$200,000 for research of braininjury prevention and thedevelopment of programs tosupport brain injury survivorsand their families.

“I believe in supportingthese types of events,” says Lil,49, who is based in Calgary.“They are enjoyable and raiseawareness about an importantcause.”

Two-time Canadian Olympicdownhill skier Dave Irwincreated his charity in 2002, aftersuffering a brain injury while

skiing in 2001. For her part,Lil, a longtime friend of Irwin,has always been a firm believerin getting involved andsupporting communityendeavors.

“I believe that donatingone’s time is part of somethingthat everyone should do,” saysLil, who has worked at Rootssince 2005. “If we each did alittle bit to give back to thecommunity, I think we wouldstart to see more positivechanges.”

Lil braving the slopes during the race at Sunshine Village

THE ROOTSCLASS OF ’09Scholarship helpsstudents pay tuition

For the fourth year in arow, Roots is collaborat-ing with the maker of its

watches, Cosmoda Corpora-tion, to offer scholarships tostudents graduating from highschool.

The Roots Class of 2009program provides financialassistance to students hopingto begin their higher educationthis fall.

Five students will win$1,000 each as part of thisyear’s program. Students canapply themselves or can benominated by their friends orparents. No purchase isnecessary.

Those interested in theprogram must complete anapplication form (available atmost Roots stores througoutCanada) and write an essayabout their educational andcareer objectives. Scholar-ship applications will beaccepted until June 30, withwinners chosen in earlySeptember.

In a related development,Roots stores are now carryingthe Class of 2009 series ofwatches for men and women.A perfect gift for graduatingstudents, the watches come intwo solid stainless steeldesigns: the sporty andstylish Roots Harbour for menand the delicate and fashion-able Roots Cosette for ladies.The silver dial features the‘Class of 2009’ imprint, etchedon the back of the watchcase.

Each watch comes with abonus Roots photo frame,while quantities last.

Roots Harbour: $130;Roots Cosette: $115;

No purchase is necessaryto apply for the scholarship.• For more information, go towww.watchroots.com

THE CALL OF HOCKEYFormer NHL stars compete against Team Roots for a good cause

In March, for the second timein three years, Roots Co-Founders Michael Budman

and Don Green hosted ahockey tournament andfundraising event in support ofRobert Kennedy Jr.’senvironmental organizationWaterkeeper Alliance. One ofthe highlights of the evening

was a 3-on-3-hockey game atBudman Gardens, the outdoorhockey rink at the Torontohome of Michael and his wifeDiane Bald. Taking to the icewas a team of former NHLEdmonton Oilers stars playingagainst Team Roots. A crowd of150 athletes, entertainers,environmentalists and other

guests turned out to supportWaterkeeper, which is devotedto the protection of lakes andrivers around the world

Among those in attendance:Edmonton Oilers Stanley CupWinners Craig Simpson,Charlie Huddy, CraigMacTavish, Steve Tambellini,current GM of the EdmontonOilers, Christine Simpson,hockey commentator for Versus,Karen Percy-Lowe, CBCsports commentator formerCanadian Olympic Medalist,Mark Matson and RobertKennedy Jr. from WaterkeeperAlliance, film director MichaelMcGowan, and GeorgeStroumboulopoulos, host ofCBC’s The Hour.

As part of the funds raised,the Royal Bank of Canada(RBC) donated $10,000 to theLake Ontario Waterkeeperorganization.

CBC’s George Stroumboulopoulos flanked by Michael and Don


Saluting those who gothe distance

Recently, many Roots employees marked major anniversa-

ries of their time at the company.By ‘major,’ we mean benchmarkachievements as in 5, 10, 15,20, 25 and 30 years spent atRoots.

We invite anyone celebratingsuch an anniversary to send therelevant information to TheSource.

Congratulations to thefollowing employees for theirsignificant contributions andenduring loyalty to Roots:

STAYING POWER

• Please send us details of similargood news and we’ll be happy topublish it in The Source([email protected])

• Rosario Cordova, LeatherStitcher, 20 years• Alda Rodrigues, LeatherStitcher, 20 years• Maria Xavier, LeatherStitcher, 20 years• Andrew McCurbin, LeatherSpecialist, Bloor St. Store,Toronto, 15 years• Theresa Quijano, Embroi-dery Operator, 15 years• Sun Yang, Leather Stitcher,15 years• Eulalia Magdziak, LeatherFloor Lady, 10 years• Anh Nguyen, LeatherStitcher, 10 years• Hien Nguyen, LeatherStitcher, 10 years• Joe Silva, Leather Laster, 10years• Karen Joseph, MetroToronto Keyholder, 5 years• Sam Mammoliti, TeamLeader, Inventory, 5 years• Ecaterini Maravelis,Buyer,5 years• Julie O’Neill, MerchandiseManager, 5 years

Jennifer Trajkovski, Manager ofthe Yorkdale store in Toronto, andFilip Trajkovski, Manager of theHillcrest store in Richmond Hill,welcomed a baby boy, FilipManuel Trajkovski on Feb. 19.

Hearty congratulations toJennifer and Filip for this greatmoment in their lives.

Big developments in thelife of Roots staff

MOMENTSTHAT MATTER

In early-March, Roots hosteda premiere party for the newCanadian film One Week at

its flagship store in Toronto.In the presence of the

movie’s leading man, JoshuaJackson, an old friend of Roots,the post-screening eventattracted fans, moviegoers andmedia, eager to meet the star.

Roots Co-Founder MichaelBudman complimented Joshuaon his acclaimed performanceand paid tribute to the film,which takes place in Canada. Hepresented Joshua, who also starsin the popular TV series Fringe,with a Roots leather jacket.

One Week tells the story ofBen Tyler (Joshua Jackson) whodiscovers that he has cancer andonly has one week to live. To

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION Roots hosts Joshua Jackson at Toronto premiere of new movie

make the most of the time hehas left, Ben travels acrossCanada during which he learnssome valuable life lessons.

“It was a fun Canadian filmand a great surprise to also meetJoshua Jackson at the sametime,” says Bethany Peckham,

Customer Service Coordinatorat Roots who won tickets to thepremiere party. “ I reallyenjoyed the after-party at BloorSt. which attracted a nice mix ofpeople.”

As part of the One Weekevent, Roots also had a photoexhibit of behind-the-scenesstills from the film, provided bydirector Michael McGowan.Also on display was the 1973Norton Commando motorcycleJackson rides in the film.

Inspired by the leatherjacket Jackson wears in thefilm, Roots now sells the OneWeek Jacket Bruschetta formen, made from 100% Italianleather. The jacket is availableonline and in select Rootsstores.

Joshua Jackson, (right), withMichael Budman

STYLE ON AND OFF THE GROUNDExtreme sports enthusiast wins biking competition wearing Roots

You never know when you’llnext see Roots in anunusual location or in an

unexpected situation. In March, spectators at the

Toronto International BicycleShow saw racer Jason Rowleyproudly show off his Roots 10feet off the ground as he wonthe Pro BMX competition. TheBMX race is a cycling event inwhich the main goal is extremeracing on tracks littered withobstacles.

A typical BMX race usually

lasts for about a minute or evenless depending on the tracklength. Although relativelybrief, it can be quitechallenging. The track usuallyconsists of a starting gate for upto eight racers, a groomed,winding dirt race course madeof various jumps and rollersand a finish line. It’s usually flatand about 15-feet wide withlarge banked corners that helpthe riders maintain speed.

“I have raced the Torontobike show in the past, and enjoy

Jason shows off his classic Roots sweats and his BMX tricks

ON THE MOVE

• Natalie Barone appointed District Visual Coordinator• Paulomi Patel appointedRetail Operations Coordinator• Josh Tillio appointed RetailOperations Analyst• James Wilford appointedDistrict Visual Coordinator

New appointments andpromotions at Roots

getting out there in the off-season to compete,” says Jason,33. “This time, there were ridersfrom as far away as Arizona andIndiana. Winning was theperfect ending to a greatweekend of racing.”

Nothing if not fearless,Jason has practiced this extremesport since he was a teenager,often wearing Roots sweats fortheir famed comfort. “TheRoots gear always feels great,”he says. “I wore the sweat pantsall weekend on the track, andwore the hoodies and T-shirtsoff the track. They were verycomfortable and stylish.”

During the competition,Jason was seen wearing hisRoots twice – first in the blackRoots Original Sweat pant andlater in the Grey Comox Sweatpant.


GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN

Celebrities have long madea point of shopping atRoots. Here are the latest

sightings of prominent figures inthe world of entertaiment andsports who visited Roots storesrecently:•Aspen Store, Colorado - ActorArnold Schwarzenegger cameright up to the cashier and said“Look, I have on my RootsBoots.” He was wearing theRoots Nordic boots. He thensigned autographs and posed fora picture.• Aspen Store - Actor Goldie

Hawn stopped in, telling theemployees how much she lovescoming to Aspen’s Roots storeand enjoys her great friendshipwith Co-Founders Don Greenand Michael Budman. Sheadmired the Village Bag in thenew Pebble Rustler and pur-chased it along with several ofthe large cosmetic bags.• Beverley Hills Store, LosAngeles - The originalsupermodel Linda Evangelistadropped in to buy a couple ofpairs of sweatpants before flyingto New York.

Goldie HawnLindaEvangelista

ArnoldSchwarzenegger

Taking attendance of special guests at Roots stores

QUALITY TIME PIECESRoots helps launch watch donation drive tobenefit unemployed job seekers

The Roots website is nothingif not forever evolving. Itslatest development is a

special ‘comments andfeedback’ option added to allthe products availableonline.

The new feature,which went live inMarch under thesupervision of TanjaZelko, Manager, DigitalMarketing and OnlineExperience, and JamesConnell, SeniorDirector, Ecommerce, DigitalMarketing and New Media, nowallows customers to expresstheir opinions live on roots.comonce they’ve registered on thesite. The registration is open toeveryone.

As part of this new tool,shoppers can ask questions,answer other viewers’ queriesand review and rate items. Inaddition, they can also uploadtheir personal videos andphotographs of Roots productsthey own. Even while customerswill be allowed to discuss items,the Roots customer supportteam will always be on hand toanswer product-relatedquestions and provide

additional information.“Shoppers tend to trust

feedback like this more as it’sless biased as compared to theofficial information given about

a product,” saysJames. “Uploadingpersonal pictures alsocreates a sense ofcommunity. We wantcustomers to feel asense of ownershipand pride about beingable to contribute onroots.com.”

This innovation allowscustomers, especially onlineshoppers, to make a moreinformed decision aboutproducts they plan to purchase.Recent research suggests thatincreasingly during uncertaineconomic times, consumersseek product-reviews beforeshopping.

Such ratings and reviewsare also considered a foremostway to increase consumer trustand loyalty toward a brand.

All Roots staff members arealso encouraged to visit thewebsite to rate products andgive feedback to contributetoward making this feature asuccess.

Roots website introduces new dialogue featurewith customers about products

YOUR OPINION, PLEASE

YES, SIR!Adding a touch of Roots to new issue of style mag

Roots Co-Founders Michael Budman and Don Green recently took

time out of their busy schedulesto serve as Guest Editors for thejust publishedSpring 2009 issueof Sir magazine.

Jeanne Beker,Editor-in-Chief ofthe magazine,approachedMichael and Donin January, askingthem to take part inthis specialcollaboration. Theyconsulted with theSir editors andprovided many of the ideas forthe feature articles and columnsincluding the cover story onToronto Maple Leaf hockey

player and rookie sensationLuke Schenn.

Reflecting the interests ofMichael and Don, the issue alsofocused on several subjects

relating to health,wellness, theenvironment andsports along with aspotlight onOntario’sAlgonquin Park.

Publishedquarterly, Sir is aCanadian men’sfashion magazinewhich isdistributed atnewsstands and in

the Globe and Mail.A copy of the spring issue

was also recently put on displayin each Roots store in Canada.

With spring-cleaningseason now in high gear,Roots and its watch-

licensee Cosmoda Corporationare asking people to lookthrough their drawers andclosets for unwanted watches(regardless of what brand theyare) and to donate them as partof the “Roots Trade-In YourWatch Promotion.”

During the month of June,all participating Roots stores,major department, jewelry andspecialty gift stores will becollecting used watches as partof an innovative recycling/community support programthroughout Canada. Thewatches will be distributed topeople in need by twocommunity support groups –Dress For Success and DressYour Best – both of which arededicated to the relief ofpoverty by outfitting women,men and youth with clothing asthey seek employment. Thecampaign is in keeping with thelong established tradition ofRoots contributing to thecommunities where theyconduct business.

In donating their watches,

people will not only be helpingothers. They will also receive$25 off the purchase of theirnext Roots watch.

The watches will be shippedto Cosmoda, where they will becleaned, repaired and preparedfor distribution later by DressFor Success and Dress YourBest.

This initiative by these twoorganizations, in partnershipwith Roots and Cosmoda, isintended to help unemployedpeople feel better aboutthemselves and look moreprofessional as they try to find ajob.

To donate used watches,bring them into anyparticipating retail store acrossCanada during the month ofJune.


THE RIGHT INGREDIENTSNew line of natural skin and hair care products well received

FINE PRINTA selection of coverageof Roots in the media

Here are somerecent sightingsof Roots in thepages ofnewspapers andmagazines:

• Fashion, June issue. RootsFold-Over bag featured in‘Fashion Flashback’ photo-spread.• Reader’s Digest, May. Rootsis featured as a leader in eco-friendly clothing with recycledcotton and polyester fabrics.• Canadian Family, May. RootsBoys Cotton Cargo Shortsfeatured in the ‘Strike a Pose’photo-spread.• Fashion, May. Roots whiteleather Fold-Over Bag featuredin ‘The Preppy WardrobeStaples’ and ‘It’s in the Bag’fashion photo-spreads.• Flare, May. Fashion photo-spread entitled ‘Mom-to-Be’spotlights Roots Mid-town Slideleather bag.• Where, May. Spotlight onRoots Lauren Tote in ‘Flights ofFancy’ photo-spread.• Toronto Star, April 18. Rootsall-weather ‘City Coat’ incharcoal featured in the LivingSection• Metro (Toronto, Calgary,Ottawa, Edmonton, Vancouver)April 16. Article entitled ‘Eco-accessorizing’ for Earth Dayfeatures new Roots fragranceSource in Red Tea and Bamboo• Fashion, April. Spotlight onRoots Vivienne Bag (black), UKTote (red), and Zipper Shopper(purple).• Flare, April. Roots VivienneBag in rustler leather featured infashion spread.• Globe and Mail, March 28.Spotlight on Roots men’sleather messenger bag andbriefcases in the Style section.• Globe and Mail, March 20.Article entitled, “A workout for allseasons” profiles MichaelBudman, Co-Founder of Roots,and his fitness regimen.• Vancouver 24 Hours, March11. Spotlight on Roots SaddleBag in ‘Must-haves Style Guide’photo-spread.• National Post, March 7.Article entitled ‘Locally Sewn’spotlights Roots leather goodsfor being designed andmanufactured in Canada.• Canadian Family, March.Roots leather club chairfeatured in girls’ bedroom décor.• Chatelaine, March. Spotlighton Roots stainless steel andgold-toned watch in timepiecephoto-spread.• Vancouver Sun, CalgaryHerald, Edmonton Journal,Ottawa Citizen, National Post,Gazette, (Montreal) March 6.Spotlight on Roots limitededition Schlep Bag in GerberaItalian Leather.• Globe and Mail, March 3.Fashion spread features RootsFlat Bag.

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL

Shortly before this issue ofThe Source went to press,we received the final sales

figures for stores in April.Topping the pack in terms ofcompany stores was the BCEPlace in Toronto that capturedthe latest ‘Store of the Month’honours, beating its sales targetby a wide margin.

As for the Roots 73/Outletcategory, the South EdmontonCommon Outlet in Edmonton

Spotlighting the top performing stores in April

As part of its ongoing commitment to more natural, eco-friendly

products, Roots recentlylaunched a new skincare andhair care line called RootsSkin.It consists of 21 products suchas shampoo, shower gel, soap,cream, and much more.RootsSkin offers items for bothmen and women, and a specialcollection for those with dryskin.

Handmade in AtlanticCanada, RootsSkin products arecomprised of raw, naturalingredients including beeswax,virgin coconut oil and pureolive oil. The line does notcontain any harsh chemicals,synthetic fragrances, sulfates orpetrochemicals and is not testedon animals.

Since the launch ofRootsSkin in November, the

products have beenwell received,especially by thosewith skin ailments.Several were soenthusiastic theywrote unsolicitedtestimonials inpraise ofRootsSkin.

John Healy,who lives in Burlington,Ontario has used steroid creamsince the age of 7 to treat hiseczema.

Last December, whilevisiting a Roots store in nearbyOakville, his wife noticed thenew skincare line andpurchased a bar of soap andface cream for John. Havingpreviously tried many other

products withoutsuccess, he wasinitially skeptical ofRootsSkin. To hisamazement, within48 hours of usingRootsSkin, Johnsaw significantresults.

“My skin wasimmediately cooler,

less red and a lot less itchy,”says John, 31, manager of RBCInsurance in Oakville. “Now,only after a few months of usingRootsSkin, my eczema isvirtually gone.”

In Toronto, Lolimar Garcia,along with her mother anddaughter, had a history ofvarious skin conditions.

An employee at a localRoots store, Lolimar wasintrigued when the new linecame out and decided to try it.

Lolimar’s mother is a cancersurvivor who suffered fromhighly sensitive skin due toradiation treatments and recentlybegan using RootsSkin products.

“This is the first cream mymother has been able to apply toher skin that doesn’t irritate it,”says Lolimar. “It actually makesher feel better.”

Lolimar’s daughter, Andrea,has been diagnosed with severeeczema. She visited manydermatologists and all her lifeused harsh cortisone creams tohelp her condition, yet nothingworked until she triedRootsSkin. Now, her eczema hascompletely disappeared.

For her part, Lolimar alsouses RootsSkin and recommendsit to all her friends and family.

“RootsSkin is reallyamazing,” says Lolimar. “I useit everyday and it will be theonly thing I’ll ever use.”

RootsSkin is specially madefor Roots by Olivier Soaps, afamily-operated skincarecompany in New Brunswick.Olivier makes its productsthrough a unique process thatuses the least amount of heat topreserve the medicinalproperties of the ingredients.

The collaborationwith Olivier is inkeeping with how,whenever possible,Roots supportsCanadianmanufacturers,especially thosesuppliers whomake qualityproducts in aresponsiblemanner.

“We should be cautious ofthe products we use on ourskin,” says Samuel Saintonge,Sales Manager of Olivier.“Many skincare companies usevarious types of carcinogens(cancer-causing agents) in theirproducts as preservatives.Consumers should avoidproducts unless they recognizethe ingredients on the label.”

Samuel cites the recenttrend of people increasinglyusing natural alternatives intheir lifestyle. Naturallyproduced skincare products,such as RootsSkin, are not onlyhealthier for the body, but alsobetter for the environment.

- RootsSkin is available in selectRoots stores in Canada

Employees of BCE Place,Toronto store

took first place with a score thatfar surpassed others in terms ofits sales budget.

Congratulations to EveKielak, Manager of the BCEPlace store, and JohanneChute, Manager of the SouthEdmonton Common Outlet, andto their respective teams fortheir winning performances.

Hats off to all of the otherstores that surpassed their salesgoals in April.


MAKING TRACKSRoots is a sponsor of this year’s Mississauga Marathon for charity

This year marks the sixthanniversary of Canada’sfastest growing race event,

the Mississauga Marathon.Taking place in the Torontosuburb on May 9 and 10, it’sbecome a “can’t miss” amongthose in the country’s runningcommunity. One reason isbecause runners can donatefunds they raise to the charity of

their choice or pledge moneydirectly to any of the charitypartners involved in the event.

As a sponsor of this year’smarathon, Roots was highlyvisible from start to finish.Organizers collaborated withRoots – in particular, AnneMarie Hargreaves, AccountManager in the Business-to-Business Department – to

Runners take their mark for the annual race in Toronto suburb

develop an idea for a T-shirtgiven to the first 7,500 peopleto register. The result was aRoots Dry Fit Tee featuring theMississauga Marathon logo.

“It’s an exciting opportunityto be involved in an event ofthis proportion that does somuch for so many charities andother good causes,” says AnneMarie. “The organizers wereamazing to work with.”

Last year, more than 11,000competitors took part in themarathon’s seven weekendrunning events. This yearincluded the Canon Marathon(42 km), the Half Marathon (21km) and a community favourite,‘The Hazel’ (named afterMississauga Mayor HazelMcCallion) in addition toseveral more. A 2-kilometerFamily Fun run/walk roundedout the weekend ensuring thatthere was an event for people ofall ages and abilities.

WESTERN ROOTSPositive new developments unfold on theretail front in Alberta and BC

While the currenteconomic turbulencehas caused many retail

companies in North America tofalter and constrict theirpresence in the marketplace,Roots is moving full steamahead with its plannedexpansion in 2009.

In recent weeks, followingnew store openings in Quebecand Ontario during the winter,Roots has increased its retail

activities in Western Canadathrough both new store openingsand renovations of existingstores. This includes the majorrenovation of the flagship storein Vancouver on Robson Street,and new locations in Edmontonand Calgary.

The most prominent featureof these new and renovatedstores is their warm, relaxingand casual environment.

“We want our customers to

feel like they are walking into ahome and not a typical store,”says Jay Lopes, Director ofVisual Presentation. “The visualmerchandising is kept verysimple for ease of shopability.At the same time, closeattention has been paid to bigand small details including howwe stack and fold our sweats soas to highlight specific garmentdetails.

Other distinct elementsinclude antique bust-forms tobetter showcase leather goodsand tree trunk ‘slices’ on tabletops to feature accessories. In

true Roots style, all the elementsare kept very natural.”

In a related development, thefirst Roots store ever dedicatedsolely to leather bags openedrecently in Calgary in a 500-sq.ft. location, receiving ravereviews for the way itshowcases the product.

In addition to the flurry ofretail activity out west, Torontoalso welcomed some new Roots.In the city’s Bayview VillageMall, Roots recently moved intoa new location with a fresh look,generating added interest in thebrand from regular shoppers.

Inside look at the visual display at the new Robson St. store

The store provides a warm, relaxing casual environment

THE RIGHT MOVESRoots supports yogamarathon for cancer research

In early May, more than 1,000yoga enthusiasts cametogether as part of a charity

event for breast cancer researchin Toronto. The event, Yoga inMotion, took place at DownsviewPark, and was hosted by theMount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary. Itraised $100,000 for the hospital.

As a sponsor of the event,Roots hosted a booth in theSports Hangar, showcasing thelatest yoga apparel and eco-friendly clothing.

The inaugural event wasdesigned for all skill levels andalso featured inspirationalspeakers, live entertainment, avendor marketplace, a silentauction and prizes gearedtoward the empowerment ofcancer patients, survivors andsupporters alike.


STARTING LINEUPIntroducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores

SPEAK TO MY AGENTThe littlest customers show their Roots

As part of our continuing series of team pictures of all the stores in the Roots retail family, this issue of The Sourceis shining the spotlight on the Polo Park store in Winnipeg, Manitoba. (Clockwise from top left): Steve Hjorleifson,Manager, Rachelle Budge, Lulu Marcelano, Alison Carey, Grace Alfaro and Megan Meyers. Missing in photo:Aeron Shinnimon, Lisa Valiquette, Sane Dube and Cindy Nguyen.

Regular readers of TheSource know that welaunched this special

feature to showcase photos ofchildren wearing Roots. Itgrew out of the fact that weoften receive unsolicitedphotos from customers whowant to share with us picturesof their children, cousins,nieces, nephews, grandchil-dren, or even pets wearingRoots.

They often ask if theycould be used in a futureadvertising campaign for thebrand. We can’t promise that

but we are happy to publishthem in The Source.

Everyone is welcome tosubmit their favourite shotsto The Source to be consid-ered for publication. Pleasesend your pictures [email protected]

Be sure to include thename and age of each child or

pet in the photo, where it wastaken, place of residence anda sentence stating that youagree for the photos to beused in The Source.

Alexandra Ward, 8 months,Kent, UK

Ty Kyfuik, 5 months, Calgary, AB

Aria Daya, 3 months, Toronto

Melodie Jacques, Moncton, NB

Easy ways to stay healthyHEALTH TIP #51

SPICE UPYOUR LIFE:Blackpepper, oneof the mostcommonlyused spicesin food, has

been valued for centuries forits flavour and medicinalproperties. It’s supposed tohelp bodies obtain thevitamins derived from thefood we eat. It containspiperine, a substance thatdramatically increases theabsorption of glucose,amino acids, and Vitamin Bas well as many othernutrients and minerals.

Black pepper hasantioxidant and antibacterialeffects, which promote thehealth of the digestive tractand stimulates thebreakdown of fat cells. Manypeople use the spice to treatailments such as nausea,heartburn, diarrhea andconstipation. Black peppermay also be helpful inimproving digestion andrelieving pain.· Source: The World’s HealthiestFoods, www.whfoods.com

Easy ways to help theenvironment

GREEN TIP #54

FORSAKETHE HARDCOPY:Eliminatingyour papertrail bybanking andpaying bills

online does more than savetrees. It also helps reducefuel consumption by thetrucks and planes thattransport your statementsand billing envelopes.

If every home in Canadaviewed and paid its billsonline, the switch would cutwaste by a billion tons a yearand curb greenhouse gasemissions by several milliontons a year.

Save time, energy andmoney by enrolling in easy,online bill-paying options withyour bank, credit cardcompanies, cable and utilityproviders. · Source:The GlobalWarmingSurvival Guide,www.time.com


NEWNEWNEWNEWNEW & & & & & NOTEWORTHYNOTEWORTHYNOTEWORTHYNOTEWORTHYNOTEWORTHYA guide to just-launched Roots products

ALL DRESSED UP FOR SPRINGALL DRESSED UP FOR SPRINGALL DRESSED UP FOR SPRINGALL DRESSED UP FOR SPRINGALL DRESSED UP FOR SPRINGA great collection for young girls as the weather warms up

With spring now infull bloom, thebees are not the

only ones buzzing. So isnews about the latestRoots dress collectionfor the little lady in yourfamily.

This year’s dressesfor kids are available in a varietyof colours and designs.

Get thelittle miss allset for Alice’sWonderland inthe GardenParty Dress.Available inthe colouraqua foam, it’smade of soft,

cotton linen and includes addedelastic at the neck for easy wear.

Take your princess for a twirlin the Garden Party Skirt, whichincludes an elastic waistbandand attached knickers, it’savailable in aqua foam and dustyrose.

Watch theyoung lady singlike herfavourite popstar in theBroderie Dress.This bracken-coloured dressis made of 100%

cotton and is embroidered inpink. It’s the perfect outfit tomake her feel like a rock star.

Get your lassie picnic-ready in the Jasmine Sundress.This 100% plaid cotton dressin plum jelly is fabric-washedfor extra comfort and includesattached knickers.

See your little girldance in the rain in theOlivia Tiered Dress. It’smade of 100% piquecotton and is availablein dusty rose. This pull-on style dress is tightlywoven for a soft,comfortable fit.

Lastly, take your darling tothe Cinderella’s Ball in the

Belle Floral dress. Thisbeautiful outfit, in dustyrose and white, is made of100% crinkle cotton, andis loosely draped for easywear.

Make these outfitscomplete by adding theGarden Party Hat, made

of 50% linen and 50%cotton, and the JasmineSunhat made of 100%cotton.

This exclusive springcollection is nowavailable at all Rootsstores.

Retail price: From$16.95 for sunhats to $29.95 fordresses.

REACHING UP FOR THE SUNSHINENew spring collection for women off to a great start

Heritage Tee’s are washed down to make them extra soft

Say goodbye to your woollysweaters and winter jacketsand usher in designs from

the latest Roots springcollection for women.

This season, Roots offerslightweight free-flowing fabricsfor the day and comfortableversatile overtops for the night.Made of 60% cotton and 40%

polyester, the Retro HeritageTee is an ideal top for the warmspring days. The cotton blendtee has a vintage look and feeland is washed down for extrasoftness.

Pair the T-shirt with theMantra Pants for a morning jogor with the French Terry Jacketfor a downtown stroll.

Available in bright teal, dustyrose and white grey, in sizes XS-XL. Retail price: $30.

WRAPPED UP FORCOOL SPRINGMORNINGS

Made of 42% organiccotton, 23% cotton and

35% polyester, the RamonaFleece Jacket is ideal for coolevening walks in the spring orsummer.

Made of soft suede fleece,it is comfortable andlightweight.

The jacket is versatile,working equally well dressedup or down. The cute wrap-style and modern details givethis outfit an urban edge,making it a perfect addition tovirtually any outfit. Pair it withsome black pants for the officeor with jeans to go shopping orto run errands.

The jacket is now availablein black, dark clay and whitegrey, in sizes XS-XL. Retailprice: $78.

Spring jackets are allabout versatility

JUMP IN STYLEFun and easy one piecefor the season

Strike a pose in the soft, eco-friendly Kate Bamboo

Jersey Jumpsuit.Made of 60% organic

cotton and 40% bamboo, thispiece is a stunning addition toany outfit.

Available in phantom(faded black) and fatigue (armygreen) in sizes XS-L. Retailprice: $68.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARDThe Source wants to hear from you

In addition to reporting on news atRoots, The Source also serves as a

forum of ideas and commentary fromreaders. Please send your letters to

[email protected] for publication inour Special Delivery section. Lettersmay be edited for length and clarity.


THE MAKING OF A GOOD SWEATMore than meets the eye when it comes to Roots fleece

In late April, for the thirdconsecutive year, Rootsparticipated in the annual

Green Living Show in Toronto.For three days, at a centrally

located booth in the DirectEnergy Centre, Roots

employees showcased the latestgreen products and designs andspoke to visitors about thecompany’s ongoing involvementin environmental andcommunity-related initiatives.To that end, they also handed

Making its presence felt at eco-friendly consumer exhibition in TorontoROOTS AT THE GREEN LIVING SHOW

Employees stand in front of Roots booth at Green Living Show

out informational pamphlets onRoots actions in those areas.Roots sold eco-friendlyclothing, accessories, skincareand hair care products, alongwith other organic items.

This year’s booth, designedby Pauline Landriault,Director of Planning andDevelopment, was built fromreclaimed cedar wood. Theframes and tables were madefrom bamboo and all thefixtures will be now used invarious Roots stores.

Launched in 2006, the GreenLiving Show is Toronto’s largestconsumer exhibition dedicatedto all things “green” – products,tips and food. This year, ithosted approximately 400exhibitors and attracted morethan 20,000 visitors.

Roots sweats make a classicand comfortable choice

THE CHOICEIS YOURS

Basic FleeceFeatures: Light sueding foradded softness; garmentwashed to prevent shrinkage.Products: Roots Basic Sweats(Hoodies and sweatpants)

60/40Cotton/Poly FleeceFeatures: Heavily sueded forsupreme softness; heavyenzyme-silicone wash for abroken in vintage feeling;inside of the fabric has anidentifiable “pilled” look.Products: Women’s corefashion sweats such as theRoots Original Crop and theCapri Hoody.

Salt and Pepper FleeceFeatures: A unique blend andspecial knitting process givesthis fleece it’s identifiable“pebbled” appearance. Newinnovations include BlackPepper Fleece and colouredSalt and Pepper fleece.Products: Men’s and women’sbasic sweats, and core fashionsweats

Bonded FleeceFeatures: Extra warm, surfaceis sueded for added softnessand a velvety feelingProducts: Scuba Hoody

Monterey Light WeightFleeceFeatures: Light and silky withgood drape; Garment enzymewash for a broken in vintagefinish.Products: Monterey Hoody andRoots Original Crop

Summerside FleeceFeatures: Better retention;added comfortProducts: Summerside Kangahoody, Varsity Cut-off

Lightweight StretchFrench TerryFeatures: Ultra soft andlightweightProducts: Denman Short, Riley

A guide to the seven maintypes of Roots sweats

Salt and pepper fleece isunique to Roots

This year, more than aquarter-century after theywere first introduced to

customers in the early 1980s,Roots fleece sweatshirts areproving more popular and morerelevant than ever. While fleecehas long been a quintessentialRoots product, most peopledon’t realize there are sevenvarieties of fleece now availableat Roots (including threeintroduced in 2009) with moreon the way.

“The people at Roots have

always wanted to make sure thattheir sweats are the mostdurable, the longest-lasting, themost comfortable and the bestlooking,” says fleece expert andsupplier to Roots, PeteMathison. “It’s just likecooking – you use only the verybest ingredients to make thehighest end product. But that’sonly one piece of the puzzle.Needlework and stitching arewhat turns those high qualityingredients into somethingsatisfying.”

An interesting aspect ofRoots fleece is that it’s notrelegated to any one season.There are basic cotton/polyesterblends that are some of the mostpopularly used sweat fabrics allyear round. Fleece sweats arepopularly sold throughout theyear at Roots stores, most withseasonal differences. Forexample, winter sweats areheavier and warmer withbonded fleece. Classic fleece isfurther lined with a thin layer ofmicro-fleece for additionalwarmth – a favourite go-tofabric for most Roots winterwear. Spring/summer sweats arethe lightest ones made.

Reflecting a commitment to

the environment, a large propor-tion of Roots sweats includesorganic cotton. And that’s notall. To make a superior product,Roots fabric is a tighter-knitthan run-of-the-mill jerseycotton and an enzyme-siliconewash creates a softer feel. Theintricate stitching offers superiorquality in terms of style anddurability while the cuffs of thesleeves are flat-ribbed with lycraso that it retains shape evenafter numerous wears.


CHEF’S CORNERRoots-friendly recipes for a healthy diet and to bring pleasure to your palate

For this month’s Chef’sCorner, we present therecipe for making 15-

minute halibut with avocadosalsa.INGREDIENTS4 6oz halibut steaks or filets¼ cup minced scallion1-2 tsp finely minced jalapeno6 medium cloves of garlic,pressed¼ cup plus 1 tbsp. fresh lemonjuice3 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro8 cherry tomatoes quartered1 medium ripe but firm avocadodiced in ¼ inch cubessalt and black pepper to taste 15-minute halibut with avocado salsa

1. Press garlic and let sit for 5minutes to bring out health-promoting properties2. Mix all ingredients excepthalibut and 1 tbsp of lemonjuice and set aside3. Heat 2 inches of water in thebottom of a steamer and let itcome to a boil4. Rub halibut with 1 tbsp.lemon juice and season with alittle salt and black pepper.5. Place in steamer and steam10 minutes for every inch ofthickness6. Place on plate and top withsalsa.

DIRECTIONS

THE ROOTS TOP 10A guide to the sounds ofRoots for June1. Father & Friends, AlainClark2. Live High, Jason Mraz3. Duke Of Earl, GeneChandler4. Street Player, Chicago5. Ok, It’s Alright With Me,Eric Hutchinson6. Drive My Soul, Lights7. Peace & Love, Mishka8. Awe Struck, B. Reith9. Dancing in the Moonlight,King Harvest10. For Beginners, M. Ward -Compiled by Davin Bujalski

SEEING THE LIGHTGoing dark to fight globalwarming during Earth Hour

At 8 o’clock on aSaturday eveningin March, thingssuddenly wentdarker than usualin many places

around the world (including atRoots). Millions of lightsdimmed as part of Earth Hour,a collective action againstglobal warming.

As an eco-responsiblecompany, Roots againsupported Earth Hour thisyear. It turned off all non-essential lighting at retailstores, as well as closingecommerce activities andturning off all non-emergencylighting in the warehouses.

MUSICAL ROOTSThis month, we spotlight Dutch soul singer Alain Clark

Davin, you have to find thissong! It’s a great song.You have to find it and get

it on Roots Radio. We have to dosomething with this guy. Findout who he is.”

That was a phone call I gotone early morning a few weeksago from Michael Budman. Hehad just flown back from Italy,where he had seen a music videothat had made a strongimpression on him. It was a duet,sung by a son to his father and inreturn by a father to his son. Thesong, about love andappreciation, had just debuted inEurope that weekend. Michaelwas on to something.

I ended up finding the songon MTV Italy. Entitled “Father& Friend,” it is a spirited andemotional ballad in which Dutchsoul singer Alain Clark duetswith his father Dane, himself a

veteran of many a covers band,having played classics from thelikes of Otis Redding, Sam andDave and James Brown.

“I’m sure my dad didn’t thinkhe’d start a whole new career at61,” Alain said recently. “He’snot looking to as he still has hisjob as an engineer for KLMairlines. I bet he didn’t think he’dbe playing in front of 35,000people.”

The single’s success hasproven to be a particularly proudmoment for Alain’s mother. “It’sher two guys on stage together,doing their thing,” he adds.

The song has found greatsuccess overseas and in Canadaand can be found on Alain’s latestalbum Live It Out. It can also befound on roots.com as part of atribute to fathers everywhere inthe lead-up to Fathers Day onJune 21.

Inspired in part by the song,Roots has introduced a newcollection of leather bagsappropriately called the Fatherand Friend Collection. Visitroots.com to purchase any ofthe special new bags for thatspecial father or friend, andalso to watch, listen to andpurchase the latest from AlainClark.

With a sound firmly steepedin Motown’s best traditions anda hint of classic Sixties soul, it’sunderstandable why Clarkcaught Michael’s attention. Hewas crowned the hottest newartist from the Netherlands in2008. It was also the year inwhich he was a mainstay of theTop 10 in his homeland ofHolland. He progressed frombeing an unknown support act,opening shows for AmyWinehouse to becoming anarena-filling star in his ownright and collected two of theNetherlands’ most prestigiousmusical honours in the process.

“It’s a very autobiographicalrecord,” says Clark. “There’slove and relationships, attemptsat bettering the world and anode to my dad. Fractions of ayoung man’s life put into 12songs.” - Davin Bujalski

• For more on Alain Clark, visit:http://www.alainclarkuk.com. Listento Roots Radio and be sure to visitroots.com to hear the music of AlainClark.

Alain Clark sings his new hit, “Father and Friend” with his father


On May 14, Roots Co-Founders Michael Budman and Don Green sent a letter toevery employee in the company announcing the passing of one of the great Rootspioneers. Given the important role that Jan Kowalewski played in the earlydevelopment of the business, we are reproducing the tribute here.

Dear Roots Staff,With much sadness, we would like to inform youthat one of the greatest contributors to the earlysuccess of Roots passed away yesterday. On the eveof his 89th birthday, Jan Kowalewski diedpeacefully in Newmarket, Ontario in the presenceof four of his sons, Karl, Henry, John and Walter.

Jan was a master cobbler, father of six boys,grandfather of 15 children, great-grandfather oftwo, and the husband of Josefa for 64 years.

We first met Jan in December 1972 as wewere looking to start Roots with an original line ofnatural footwear. That meeting would prove to beone of the most fortuitous moments in the historyof this business. He made the first pair of Rootsshoes and, until his retirement in 1985, played acritical role in the success of Roots during its first

Sincerely,Michael and Don

Jan

Ko

wa

lew

ski,

(sta

nd

ing

fa

r le

ft),

with

fo

ur

of

his

so

ns

at

Ro

ots

in 1

97

4

Jan Kowalewski 1920 - 2009I N L O V I N G M E M O R Y

12 years. But Jan’s contribution to Roots has neverreally ended and continues to this day by way of twoof his – sons Karl and Henry – who are importantplayers in the success of Roots leather goods withwhich they’ve been involved since 1973.

When Jan made the first pair of Roots shoes 36years ago, he was not just making another product.He was upholding a family tradition of generationsof skilled craftsmanship.

We will always remember Jan as one of theoriginal key members of the Roots team and hispositive influence on us and the business.

We send Karl and Henry and the rest of theKowalewski family our heartfelt condolences on theloss of such a fine man – and a true friend of Roots.

june 2009

Documents

roots midtownbag

onteam roots

eyewith roots

roots canadaltd

source issue

welcome letters

product issue ihad

anne theriault