Roots CEO Meghan Roach swings for the growth fences, while catching World Series fame. Roach, who has been leading the iconic Canadian brand since 2020, has been instrumental in steering the company through challenging times and setting it on a path of global expansion.
Roots – A Reflection of Canadian Values
Roots, the 52-year-old clothing retailer, has always been inextricably linked with the core values of the Canadian ethos. According to company president and CEO Meghan Roach, the country and the brand share common values such as community, integrity, freedom, and authenticity. Furthermore, both are closely associated with the great outdoors. “How you describe a Canadian,” says Roach, “is probably very similar to how you describe Roots.”
CEO Meghan Roach’s Journey
Meghan Roach, a native of Pembroke, was first exposed to capital markets by her grandfather, a Bell employee who gifted shares to his grandchildren. Having attended a boarding school with classmates from around the world, she developed an international perspective at a young age. After earning a commerce degree from Queen’s University, she moved to the U.K. to earn an MBA at Oxford. Roach was appointed CEO of Roots in 2020, following her tenure at Searchlight Capital Partners, the private investment firm that acquired a majority stake in Roots in 2015.
Roots’ Future Growth Strategy
After managing through the pandemic and stabilizing the company, Roach says Roots is now focused on growth, both domestically and internationally. The company aims to expand from its cosy winter-wear to all-season clothing. Founded in Toronto in 1973, Roots now has 221 retail outlets, including two in the U.S., 109 in Taiwan, and 110 in Canada, and ships to 75 countries.
Roots’ Global Ambition
Roach’s international perspective aligns well with the legacy brand’s global aspirations. She believes that there is more opportunity for Roots to think globally. The company is investing in branding, marketing, and improving its business operations to reach a wider international customer base. Furthermore, Roots is expanding its product lines and investing in sustainable materials, reflecting a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Roots’ Connection with Canada
The Roots brand has a deep connection with Canada. Its founders conceived the brand idea at summer camp in Algonquin Park, inspiring the ‘Algonquin Test’ where they would decide whether a piece of clothing would be suitable to wear in Algonquin Park. This test brings authenticity to the brand and reinforces its association with the great outdoors, a significant aspect of the Canadian identity.
Roots CEO and the Game 7 Home Run Baseball
In an amusing twist, Roach recently caught the spotlight when she caught the Game 7 World Series home run baseball hit by Blue Jays’ Bo Bichette. While she is still deciding what to do with the baseball, Roach’s focus remains steadfast on leading Roots towards a promising future, leveraging her experience, expertise, and long-term investment approach.
