End of an Era: Ottawa's Hudson's Bay Store Closes After Liquidation Sale

The Hudson's Bay department store on Rideau Street in Ottawa closed its doors for the final time on June 2nd, 2025, marking the end of an era for the Canadian retail icon. The closure, announced in court documents, is attributed to a confluence of factors including reduced downtown foot traffic, the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing effects of trade wars. The store held a liquidation sale over the weekend, attracting a steady stream of bargain-hunting shoppers. "I can't believe it," said Linda Bridge, a former employee who visited the store one last time. "I bought a sweater that was $350 for $12!" Another shopper, Natalie Lentz, purchased dog collars and leashes for 39 cents each, intending to donate them to a shelter in the Dominican Republic. The closure of the Rideau Street location signifies the end of a long history in Canada's capital city, leaving behind memories for many who shopped there with their families over the years. The event serves as a poignant reminder of the evolving retail landscape and the challenges faced by businesses in the modern era.