The historic Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC), a retail giant with deep roots in Canada’s history, is shutting down after 355 years. Known affectionately as "The Bay," the famed department store announced that it would close all of its 80 locations across Canada. Shoppers like Beye Escobar expressed mixed feelings about the store’s end, excited by deep discounts but saddened by the closure.
Founded in 1670, HBC originally operated as a fur trading company, managing vast territories in Canada—a third of the country, to be exact. Over its lengthy journey, the company faced various challenges and recently declared bankruptcy, unable to sustain its mounting debt. The iconic store's final sales are drawing crowds, with clearance signs plastered across the once glamorous displays, marking the passing of a beloved Canadian institution.
Ms. Escobar remarked, “I don’t know where I’ll go now,” encapsulating the sentiment of many loyal customers who will miss the unique offerings of Hudson’s Bay. As the last full-line department store chain in Canada closes its doors, shoppers are left searching for alternatives.
Founded in 1670, HBC originally operated as a fur trading company, managing vast territories in Canada—a third of the country, to be exact. Over its lengthy journey, the company faced various challenges and recently declared bankruptcy, unable to sustain its mounting debt. The iconic store's final sales are drawing crowds, with clearance signs plastered across the once glamorous displays, marking the passing of a beloved Canadian institution.
Ms. Escobar remarked, “I don’t know where I’ll go now,” encapsulating the sentiment of many loyal customers who will miss the unique offerings of Hudson’s Bay. As the last full-line department store chain in Canada closes its doors, shoppers are left searching for alternatives.
