Sanibel Island

Chico's is looking to establish a Canadian footprint, and plans in late August to open three boutiques in Ontario. The Chico's brand was founded in 1983 as a boutique selling Mexican folk art and cotton sweaters from a store on Florida's Sanibel Island. Today, Chico's sells exclusively designed, private-branded clothing for women. "We couldn't be more thrilled for the opening of the first Chico's boutique in Canada," said Cinny Murray, Chico's brand president. "I'm so excited to bring the women of Canada fabulous Chico's fashion; this is an incredible growth opportunity for our brand."