End of an Era: Hudson's Bay Company Closes After 355 Years

Hudson's Bay Company Shuttered: A Canadian Retail Icon's Demise and Uncertain Future Canada's oldest retailer, the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), closed its doors for the final time on Sunday, June 1st, 2025, marking the end of a 355-year legacy. The closure, following a bankruptcy filing in March, left over 9,000 employees without severance pay. The event unfolded across 96 locations nationwide, leaving a void in Canadian retail history. "It's been my go-to for weddings, funerals, and any other time I needed some nice attire," said one longtime customer, expressing his sadness at the closure. Hazel Harris, an employee at an HBC distribution center for seven years, shared her feelings: "Without us, there would be no HBC. This is a company that's 355-plus years old. How could you let this happen?" The company's financial struggles culminated in a billion-dollar debt and the inability to secure a buyer for six locations. However, there's a glimmer of hope. HBC will petition a court on Tuesday to approve the sale of its intellectual property, including its iconic point blanket design, to Canadian Tire. While this may salvage a part of the legacy, it's still a significant loss for the thousands of employees and loyal customers.