Sears Canada

Last updated: May 2026

Sears Canada was one of the country's most recognizable department store chains for more than six decades. The retailer sold clothing, appliances, furniture, electronics, tools, home goods, and many other products through department stores, catalogue sales, and later its online shopping platform.

Founded in 1952 as a partnership between Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Simpson's, Sears Canada grew into one of the nation's largest retailers. At its peak, the company operated hundreds of stores, catalogue pickup locations, and distribution centres across Canada.

However, increasing competition from discount retailers, changing consumer shopping habits, and the growth of e-commerce contributed to declining sales. After years of financial difficulties, Sears Canada filed for creditor protection in 2017 and ceased operations in early 2018.

Sears Canada

After operating for 65 years, Sears Canada shut down its final store on January 14, 2018. Its website (sears.ca) is also no longer available.

History of Sears Canada

Sears Canada was established in 1952 and became a familiar part of Canadian retail life through its department stores and famous mail-order catalogue business. For many Canadians, the Sears catalogue was a household staple, allowing customers to order products from across the country long before online shopping existed.

The retailer expanded rapidly during the second half of the twentieth century and became known for appliances, tools, furniture, clothing, and home products. Sears stores were often anchor tenants in major shopping malls throughout Canada.

At its peak, Sears Canada was one of the country's largest department store retailers and employed tens of thousands of Canadians across its stores, distribution centres, and corporate operations.

Sears Canada Online Shopping

Before its closure, Sears Canada operated the sears.ca website, allowing customers to shop online for appliances, clothing, furniture, electronics, and home goods. The company also integrated online ordering with its extensive store and catalogue network.

Following the retailer's liquidation in 2018, the Sears Canada website was permanently shut down and is no longer available. Customers looking for similar products now shop at retailers such as Walmart Canada, Canadian Tire, Costco Canada, The Home Depot Canada, and Amazon Canada.

The Sears Catalogue

One of the company's most iconic offerings was the Sears catalogue. Before widespread internet access, Canadians used the catalogue to shop for clothing, furniture, appliances, toys, and seasonal products from home. The catalogue helped Sears reach customers in both large cities and remote communities across the country.

For generations of Canadians, the annual Christmas catalogue became a popular holiday tradition and remains one of the most remembered aspects of the Sears brand.

What Happened to Sears Canada?

After filing for creditor protection in 2017, Sears Canada gradually liquidated its stores, distribution centres, and remaining assets. The company's final stores closed in January 2018, ending more than 65 years of operations in Canada.

The closure affected thousands of employees and marked one of the largest retail bankruptcies in Canadian history.

Former Competitors and Alternatives

• The Bay (Hudson's Bay) - Traditional department store retailer.
• Walmart Canada - Large discount retailer with nationwide locations.
• Canadian Tire - Home, automotive, and seasonal products.
• Costco Canada - Warehouse club retailer known for bulk purchases.
• Amazon Canada - One of Canada's largest online marketplaces.
• Best Buy Canada - Electronics and appliance retailer.

Legacy of Sears Canada

Although Sears Canada is no longer operating, its impact on Canadian retail remains significant. The company helped popularize catalogue shopping, expanded access to consumer goods across the country, and played an important role in the development of modern department store retailing.

Many former Sears locations have since been redeveloped or occupied by other retailers, but the Sears name remains familiar to generations of Canadians.

Disclaimer: Sears and related trademarks are the property of their respective owners. This website is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Sears Canada or its successors. All trademarks and brand names are used for informational purposes only.