Winnipeg success story: Asian Canadian business owner expands again

What started out as a small 600-square-foot store on Corydon Avenue has become an “extraordinary” Winnipeg success story.

Asian Canadian entrepreneur Fiona Zhao of Unique Bunny is celebrating a milestone with the opening of her third store.

The brand celebrates Asian beauty and its uniqueness.

“Through Asian beauty, I want everyone to discover your uniqueness,” Zhao told CityNews.

The new location at the Outlet Collection Mall on Sterling Lyon Parkway will join stores on Pembina Highway and McPhillips Street.

Thanks to Winnipeggers, the expansion was possible, Zhao said.

“Winnipeggers are the most supportive customers we've ever had,” he said. “I'm not kidding, it's different. The culture in Winnipeg is so supportive. I love it. That's why we're expanding so quickly.”

That said, Zhao says other Asian Canadians looking to start a business should consider the Winnipeg market.

“People here are willing to try new things and they are very nice. Friendly Manitoba is real.”

Zhao says the business started when he realized there was a gap between Asian beauty products and North American beauty products.

“When new immigrants from East Asia or international students come to Winnipeg, we don't find the source of Asian beauty,” Zhao said. “And this is strange to me. Canadian culture is diverse. So I wanted to bring this opportunity to Winnipeg. And that starts with serving our Asian customer.”

Today, Zhao says her customer base has grown and caters to anyone looking to try Asian beauty and skin care products.

“Our products give them confidence,” he said. “It's the happiest thing I've ever seen.”

Zhao describes his stores as customer-centric. Over the years, customers have requested different brands and locations, and Zhao does his best to accommodate everyone and be accessible to the community. It also has a mandate to support the 2SLGBTQ+ community working together in all positions.

With the grand opening of the third store, Zhao also offers a makeup line in Japan called Canmake Tokyo, which is the only retailer in Canada so far.

Zhao says she wants people to know that women can do anything. He says everyone is welcome to celebrate with him at the grand opening Saturday – to support the business and at the same time get a chance to meet “store manager” Toto.