The latest proprietors of Zellers are gearing up to broaden the reestablished brand to Ontario with some modifications in store. A fresh discount retail outlet is scheduled to debut near Toronto’s Yorkdale Mall on June 18th, followed by another opening at Windsor’s Tecumseh Mall in July. These stores, akin to the Edmonton branch that kickstarted the brand’s comeback last year, will carry a range of products including clothing, home essentials, luggage, and seasonal items.
In addition to the existing offerings, the Ontario locations will introduce snack foods and toys, a category initially contemplated to be omitted due to potential competition with Walmart and Amazon. However, Zellers’ chief operating officer Joey Benitah reconsidered this decision after a trial run at the Edmonton store revealed that a limited selection of toys became top-selling items.
The Benitah family, now the owners of the brand, acquired the rights to the nearly century-old Zellers name following its former owner, Hudson’s Bay, closing down. The family is also affiliated with apparel stores Fairweather and International Clothiers, as well as home goods retailer Wyrth.
Over the years, Zellers, a discount department store established almost a century ago, has experienced multiple closures and revivals. The current owners, in their inaugural year of the relaunch, have ambitious plans for nationwide expansion.
In the Windsor region, Zellers will make a comeback at Tecumseh Mall, which previously housed a Zellers until its closure in 2013. Residents anticipating its return express excitement, reminiscing about the store’s nostalgic presence. Zellers will join other retail outlets in the vicinity, such as Giant Tiger, Walmart, and an upcoming Costco location.
Ryan Donally, president and CEO of the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce, views Zellers’ return to Windsor as a positive development for the local community, potentially enhancing foot traffic and service offerings for customers. The spokesperson for Tecumseh Mall echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for the retailer’s return and acknowledging Zellers’ significant place in the memories of Windsor residents.
The decision to bring Zellers back to Windsor is seen as a move that will benefit the area by boosting competition and providing residents with a wider array of choices. This return is eagerly awaited by customers, with the anticipation of seeing Zellers once again grace the retail landscape this summer.