Canada’s leading business voice on commercial rent.
Advancing commercial rent policies & tools that support local business & thriving communities across Canada.
The Better Way Alliance builds coalitions between business owners, policymakers, landlords and community advocates to advance fair, evidence-based commercial rent policies that strengthen local economies.
I’m a business owner that needs help
Access advocacy tools, articles, and connect with other business owners facing commercial rent challenges. Visit our FAQ and Resource page. Need help right now? Download our Lease Survival Toolkit (PDF).
I’m a landlord exploring collaborative solutions
Learn how fair rent policies create stable tenant relationships and discover ways to support sustainable reform. Visit our Property Owner FAQ.
I’m an elected official or policymaker researching rent policy and solutions
Get evidence-based research, policy frameworks, and business owner insights to inform commercial rent policy concepts. Visit our Policymaker FAQ and resource page.
I’m curious – let me read the FAQ
Understand Canada’s commercial rent situation, our policy concepts, market-based solutions, and how smart reforms benefit entire communities. Read the Business Owner, Elected Official, or Property Owner FAQ. Or our quick-start “Why Commercial Rent Reform” guide.
By the Numbers: Canada’s Commercial Rent Challenge
Our 2022 research with small business owners across Ontario revealed the scope of Canada’s commercial rent crisis and the urgent need for policy and market-based solutions.
In Toronto, since 2019, retail rents have jumped by 142% while some neighbourhoods continue to experience high vacancies. Over 50% of businesses expect to move or shut down during their next lease negotiation because of large increases. Business owners need stability, policymakers need evidence-based solutions, and communities need thriving main streets. Let’s work together to create change.
Key Statistics:
- 92% list rent as top three expenses (Better Way Alliance Commercial Rent Report)
- 142% Toronto retail rent increase since 2019 (TRREB Historical Commercial Market Reports)
- 50%+ expect to move/close at next lease renewal (Better Way Alliance Commercial Rent Report 2022)
News & Articles
Welcome to the World of Triple Net Leases
Breaking down one of commercial real estate’s most common lease structures and what it means for your business costs and obligations.
Welcome to the World of Triple Net Leases
Breaking down one of commercial real estate’s most common lease structures and what it means for your business costs and obligations.
Shared storefronts are smart. But they’re not the solution.
“With just making doughnuts in that space, I was pretty much spinning my wheels to pay rent,” A recent Globe and Mail article showcased business owners finding creative ways to adapt - like co-locating or sharing lease space to stay afloat. It’s a compelling read. But...
Revue Cinema | Highlighting the Urgent Need for Commercial Rent Reform
Revue Cinema, a historic fixture in Toronto’s Roncesvalles neighborhood, has been serving the community since 1911. This iconic venue has transitioned through various phases of the film industry, from silent movies to the latest cinematic releases - and usually a...
About Better Way Alliance
Better Way Alliance is a network of Canadian business owners advancing evidence-based policies that strengthen local economies. We’re Canada’s leading voice on retail rent reform, bringing together business owners, policymakers, landlords, and communities working toward fair, sustainable solutions for landlords and tenants.