‘An end to Hudson’s Bay as we know it:’ Canadian Tire purchase marks end of iconic department store, experts say

Hudson’s Bay, Canada’s iconic department store chain founded in 1670, has officially closed all its remaining stores as of June 1, 2025. After a long history and deeply rooted place in Canadian culture, the chain shut its doors following court approval to liquidate all 80 Hudson’s Bay locations, along with three Saks Fifth Avenue and 13 Saks Off 5th stores in Canada. This marks the end of nearly 355 years of continuous retail presence in the country and a turning point for Canadian brick-and-mortar commerce.

The backdrop to this closure was financial pressure. In March 2025, Hudson’s Bay filed for creditor protection under Canada’s equivalent of Chapter 11. The company cited mounting debts, declining sales, pandemic aftershocks, and trade hurdles with the U.S. Among these, high tariffs and changing shopping habits weighed heavily. By mid‑March, liquidation began, and by early April, the decision was made to close all stores rather than salvage a few.

Meanwhile, Canadian Tire stepped into the spotlight. In mid‑May, the company agreed to buy Hudson’s Bay’s name, the famous multi‑coloured stripes, its coat of arms, logos, slogans, and private‑label brands for $30 million CAD—pending court approval. Ontario’s Superior Court green‑lit the deal in early June, ensuring the intellectual property remains in Canadian hands.

Experts are saying that although this marks the end of Hudson’s Bay stores, the brand will survive in a new shape. Canadian Tire plans to use the stripes and other heritage symbols in its True North strategy, combining them with existing loyalty programs and storytelling across its diverse retail banners—from auto parts to sports gear. Analysts see this as a patriotic move that protects a piece of Canadian heritage.

Retail specialists believe the stripes and heritage icons could breathe new life into Canadian Tire's offerings—from blankets and home items to camping gear—bringing back some of the spirit once found in department stores. They warn, though, that Canadian Tire is unlikely to reopen full‑line Hudson’s Bay stores. Instead, they expect curated collections, limited‑edition products, and special sections in existing outlets.

For many Canadians, it’s a bittersweet moment—the end of a beloved retail era but also the hope that the Hudson’s Bay legacy won’t vanish completely. While the familiar shopping hubs on Queen Street and in downtown malls will remain memories, the stripes and the coat of arms may reappear in new ways—on camping blankets or home goods—now under the Canadian Tire banner. Whether this feels like renewal or simply the closing of an era depends on how well Canadian Tire preserves and shares the history behind the stripes.