Hudson's Bay Closes: 8,000 Job Losses Spark Outrage and Protests

Hudson's Bay's Closure Leaves Thousands Jobless Amidst Worker Protests Toronto, ON - The iconic Canadian retailer, Hudson's Bay, announced the closure of all its stores, effective June 1st, 2025, leaving over 8,000 employees without jobs. The news sparked immediate outrage, particularly among workers who face the prospect of unemployment without severance pay. A rally organized by Unifor, the union representing some Hudson's Bay employees, took place outside a fulfillment center in Scarborough, Ontario, to highlight their plight. "It's a difficult time to be out of work, and many feel they don't have much of a cushion to help them," reported Heather Wright of CTV News, summarizing the sentiments of many attendees. The video shows workers holding signs and expressing their frustration. One worker interviewed, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "The uncertainty of being older and not being able to get a job as quickly as a younger person is terrifying." The lack of severance pay for most employees adds to the hardship. The situation underscores the challenges faced by workers in the face of large-scale corporate restructuring. The rally served as a powerful demonstration of the need for greater worker protections and support during such transitions. While the future remains uncertain for many former Hudson's Bay employees, their collective action highlights their determination to advocate for fair treatment.