Zellers, a once-iconic Canadian discount department store, is set to relaunch in Ontario with exciting new toy and food offerings. The upcoming store openings are part of a national expansion following a successful reintroduction in Edmonton.
Zellers Returns to Ontario
The first Ontario location will open on June 18 near Toronto’s Yorkdale Mall. Following this, another store will debut in Tecumseh Mall, Windsor, in July. The relaunch comes after Zellers closed most of its locations over ten years ago.
Store Offerings and Features
The new Ontario stores will offer a diverse range of products. Customers can expect to find:
- Apparel
- Home goods
- Luggage
- Seasonal items
- Snack foods
- Toys
Initially, the introduction of toys was reconsidered due to competition from bigger retailers like Walmart and Amazon. However, Zellers’ Chief Operating Officer, Joey Benitah, noted that a small selection of toys tested in Edmonton quickly became top sellers, influencing their decision to include toys in the Ontario stores.
A Legacy of Resilience
Zellers has a storied history, having undergone various transformations since its inception nearly 100 years ago. The brand was recently revived by the Benitah family, who acquired the rights from its previous owner, Hudson’s Bay, last year. They also operate Fairweather, International Clothiers, and Wyrth.
National Expansion Plans
As the relaunch gains momentum, the Benitah family has ambitious plans for Zellers’ national presence. With the Edmonton location serving as a successful prototype, they aim to bring the nostalgic retailer back to Canadians across the country.
Overall, Zellers’ return to the Canadian retail landscape is a significant development, promising a fresh mix of products that cater to today’s shoppers. The introduction of both food items and toys may attract a wide range of customers in the Ontario locations.
