Cadillac Fairview has officially welcomed Tesla to Hamilton with the launch of Canada’s largest Tesla showroom and service centre at CF Lime Ridge. The expansive 60,000-square-foot facility marks a significant milestone for both Tesla and the shopping centre, occupying the former Hudson’s Bay Home/ Home Outfitters space on the east side of the mall.
Michael Peiser, VP of Development at Cadillac Fairview, describes the Tesla addition as a game-changer: “This is huge. Tesla hasn’t done something like this in a Canadian shopping centre before. It’s a bold move and really speaks to the evolving role of retail spaces.”

Located near Entrance 4, the showroom highlights Tesla’s latest vehicle lineup, complemented by an extensive service offering. The site includes a 5,000-square-foot state-of-the-art showroom, a 4,500-square-foot customer service lounge, and the region’s only full-scale service centre featuring 22 vehicle service lifts.
Addressing a Service Gap in Southern Ontario
Tesla’s expansion into Hamilton was strategic, addressing a key gap in its service network between Toronto and Buffalo. While Tesla already operates service centres in Mississauga, Oakville, and Kitchener, the Hamilton location was necessary to serve the growing demand in Southern Ontario.
“At the time this project began in 2022, there was a massive hole in Tesla’s service coverage,” Peiser explains. “From London to Buffalo, there was very little infrastructure to support Tesla owners. Hamilton—with its prime location on the Lincoln Alexander Parkway—made a lot of sense for filling that need.”
Peiser further noted Tesla’s challenges in scaling service centres to match its vehicle sales. “Tesla is unique. They’re more of a technology company in many ways. Initially, the focus was on getting vehicles to market quickly. But as adoption grew, the need for service infrastructure became critical. This location allows them to return to the fundamentals of automotive ownership—servicing cars effectively and efficiently.”

Innovation Through Adaptive Reuse
The CF Lime Ridge location also reflects the broader trend of adaptive reuse in retail real estate. Originally built as a theatre, then repurposed into a Hudson’s Bay Home/ Home Outfitters, the space has been transformed into Tesla’s largest Canadian facility.
“It’s really a story of evolution,” says Peiser. “We’re taking existing infrastructure and reimagining it to meet modern needs. This building’s layout was ideal—most of the unit sits at grade, which is essential for a service centre. We did have to do some major remedial work, like cutting ramps through the slab, but the end result is seamless.”
The facility’s design also incorporates seven new Tesla Superchargers directly on-site, enhancing convenience for Tesla drivers. An additional 20 Superchargers are available in the southwest overflow lot, offering further access to Hamilton’s growing Tesla community.

A Strategic Win for CF Lime Ridge
For Cadillac Fairview, Tesla’s arrival aligns with its broader strategy of attracting innovative, high-profile tenants that drive traffic and enhance the mall’s appeal.
“Tesla is a brand that uplifts the entire property,” says Peiser. “It’s not just about servicing cars—it’s about creating a destination that attracts other retailers and builds momentum. Tesla’s presence signals to other brands that CF Lime Ridge is a dynamic, forward-thinking property.”
Peiser acknowledges that the traditional role of shopping centres is evolving. “Retail today is omni-channel. For automotive, there’s still a need to touch, feel, and test drive vehicles. Tesla understands this better than most. Their customers may research online, but the physical experience remains irreplaceable.”
The Tesla addition also coincides with CF’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. As part of its ESG strategy, Cadillac Fairview has been an early adopter of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. CF Lime Ridge’s partnership with Tesla dates back to 2018, when the first 20 Superchargers were installed on the property. The new Superchargers are a natural extension of this relationship.

Hamilton: A Natural Fit for Tesla’s Largest Canadian Store
Beyond its practical benefits, Tesla’s decision to set up in Hamilton carries a certain symbolic weight. Known as “The Electric City,” Hamilton has deep roots in electricity and innovation, dating back to Nikola Tesla’s contributions to the city’s hydroelectric infrastructure in the late 19th century.
“It’s almost a homecoming,” Peiser reflects. “Hamilton has this rich history tied to electricity, and now Tesla—one of the most recognizable innovators in electric vehicles—has planted its largest Canadian flag here. It’s a great fit.”

The arrival of Tesla at CF Lime Ridge is also part of a broader trend of automotive retail entering traditional shopping centres. This shift—seen with brands like Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and others—is reshaping consumer expectations around retail spaces.
“There’s been a real change in mindset,” Peiser notes. “Automotive brands no longer need sprawling lots with inflatable tube men waving in the wind. Instead, they want premium, centralized locations where customers already shop. Shopping centres offer exactly that.”
He adds, “Tesla’s approach is unique because it combines the showroom experience with a fully operational service centre. It’s not just about selling vehicles—it’s about supporting ownership long-term. That’s a huge differentiator for them.”
Future Outlook
While Tesla’s CF Lime Ridge showroom and service centre is now open, Peiser hints at more growth for the brand across Canada. “There’s more to come. I can’t confirm specific locations, but we know Tesla is looking at additional markets. The need for service infrastructure is only going to grow as electric vehicle adoption increases.”
For Hamilton, Tesla’s presence is more than just a retail addition. It’s a sign of the city’s increasing importance as a regional hub for innovation and economic growth.
“Hamilton is thriving. This Tesla location is going to serve a huge population, from the Golden Horseshoe to Buffalo,” Peiser concludes. “It’s a win for CF Lime Ridge, a win for Tesla, and a win for the community.”
New Tenants Enhance CF Lime Ridge’s Retail Mix
In addition to Tesla’s groundbreaking showroom and service centre, CF Lime Ridge is welcoming several new tenants that further diversify its retail offering. Recently opened businesses include Burger King and Carter’s, catering to both dining and family-oriented shoppers.
By Christmas, Lovisa, the popular Australian jewelry retailer, and Oscar Wylee, the eyewear brand known for its stylish and affordable frames, will debut at the mall. Looking ahead to the New Year, Mado Cafe, a beloved Turkish restaurant and dessert chain, is set to open, bringing a unique dining experience to Hamilton.
About Cadillac Fairview
Cadillac Fairview (CF) is one of North America’s largest owners, operators, and developers of best-in-class office, retail, and mixed-use properties. With over 36 million square feet of leasable space across 64 properties, CF continues to play a key role in shaping vibrant communities across Canada.