Zellers Canada
Last updated: July 2026
Zellers is one of Canada's most recognizable retail brands and a long-time symbol of discount shopping. Originally founded in 1931, the chain became famous for offering affordable merchandise, family-friendly stores, and its well-known slogan, "The Lowest Price is the Law." After disappearing from most Canadian communities following the closure of the original chain in the 2010s, the Zellers brand has returned under new independent ownership with standalone stores in several Canadian markets.
History of Zellers
Zellers was founded in 1931 by Walter P. Zeller in Southern Ontario. The company quickly built a reputation for offering affordable products to Canadian families and expanded into communities across the country.
During its peak years, Zellers became one of Canada's largest discount department store chains. Its stores sold clothing, toys, electronics, housewares, furniture, seasonal merchandise, and everyday essentials. The retailer became a familiar part of Canadian shopping culture and was especially popular among families looking for value.
Many Canadians also remember the famous Zellers Family Restaurant, which operated inside numerous stores. The restaurant became known for affordable comfort food, including club sandwiches, hot turkey dinners, burgers, and crinkle-cut fries.
Hudson's Bay Ownership
In 1978, Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) acquired Zellers and operated the chain as its discount retail division. For several decades, Zellers and Hudson's Bay stores coexisted across Canada, targeting different customer segments.
However, growing competition from discount retailers, particularly Walmart Canada, created significant challenges. In 2011, HBC sold the lease acquisition rights for many Zellers locations to Target Corporation. Most Zellers stores closed by 2013 as Target entered the Canadian market.
Although Target's Canadian expansion ultimately failed, the majority of Zellers locations never reopened. A small number of liquidation outlets continued operating for several years before the final remaining stores closed.
The Return of Zellers Brand
Following the closure of the original chain, Hudson's Bay briefly experimented with smaller Zellers-branded shop-in-shop locations. Later, the Zellers trademark and brand rights were acquired by Quebec-based Les Ailes de la Mode Inc., owned by the Benitah family.
Under the its "Zellers 3.0" strategy, the retailer is returning as an independent discount store chain with standalone locations. The new concept focuses on affordable pricing, Canadian nostalgia, and a curated selection of merchandise designed for modern shoppers.
Shopping at Zellers Today
Today's Zellers stores combine affordable pricing with a curated selection of apparel, home goods, toys, snacks, seasonal merchandise, and Zeddy-branded products. While the stores are smaller than the original department stores, the company aims to recreate much of the nostalgic shopping experience that many Canadians remember.
What Does Zellers Sell?
The new Zellers stores feature several major product categories, including:
- Apparel & Fashion: Affordable clothing, activewear, streetwear, and branded merchandise.
- Home Goods: Kitchenware, bedding, bath products, storage solutions, and seasonal décor.
- Toys & Games: Board games, puzzles, outdoor toys, and family-oriented products.
- Specialty Grocery: Imported snacks, pantry items, and specialty food products.
- Zeddy Merchandise: Plush toys, collectibles, and branded products featuring the iconic Zeddy mascot.
Zeddy the Bear
Zeddy the Bear remains one of the most recognizable retail mascots in Canada. Originally introduced during the chain's early years, Zeddy became a beloved symbol for generations of Canadian shoppers.
The mascot continues to play an important role in the new Zellers brand, with plush toys and collectibles available in stores. Some Zeddy merchandise also supports charitable initiatives, including programs benefiting children and families.
Store Format and Shopping Experience
Unlike the large department stores of the past, the new Zellers locations are designed as mid-sized retail stores that are easier to navigate while still offering a broad selection of products.
- Store Size: Approximately 20,000 to 50,000 square feet.
- Value Pricing: Focus on affordable everyday pricing.
- Curated Selection: A smaller but carefully selected product assortment.
- Modern Layout: Simplified shopping experience compared to traditional department stores.
While the classic Zellers Family Restaurant has not returned, the company has indicated that alternative food concepts may be introduced in the future.
Major Competitors
The new Zellers competes with a variety of Canadian discount retailers and department stores.
- Walmart Canada - low-priced general merchandise and groceries.
- Giant Tiger - discount clothing, food, and household goods.
- Dollarama - value-priced everyday essentials.
- Canadian Tire - seasonal, automotive, and home products.
- Costco Canada - warehouse shopping and bulk merchandise.
- Amazon Canada - online marketplace with extensive product selection.
Zellers Store Locations
Zellers is actively expanding its retail footprint across Canada through new standalone locations.
- Toronto, Ontario: Store opening scheduled for June 18, 2026, at 80 Orfus Road near Yorkdale.
- Windsor, Ontario: Store opening planned for July 2026 at the Tecumseh Mall property.
The company has also indicated that additional locations are being explored in Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, Brampton, and Scarborough.
Why Canadians Still Remember Zellers
Few retail brands have the nostalgic connection that Zellers enjoys in Canada. For many Canadians, shopping at Zellers was part of everyday life. Families visited the stores for school supplies, household items, toys, clothing, and meals at the in-store restaurant.
The brand's return combines that nostalgia with a modern retail strategy focused on affordability and convenience. As new locations open, Zellers hopes to reconnect with former customers while introducing the brand to a new generation of Canadian shoppers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zellers Canada
Is Zellers back in Canada?
Yes. Zellers is returning through a new expansion strategy that includes standalone retail stores in multiple Canadian markets.
Who owns Zellers today?
Zellers is owned by Les Ailes de la Mode Inc., a Quebec-based retail company owned by the Benitah family.
Does Zellers still have restaurants?
No. The classic Zellers Family Restaurant has not returned, although the company has discussed alternative food concepts for future locations.
What products does Zellers sell?
Zellers sells apparel, home goods, toys, games, specialty food items, and branded merchandise including Zeddy collectibles.
Does Zellers sell online?
Product availability online may change as the company expands. Customers should visit the official Zellers website for the latest information about online shopping, store locations, and merchandise.
When did the original Zellers stores close?
Most original Zellers locations closed in 2013 following the Target lease acquisition deal, with remaining liquidation stores closing later.
Conclusion
Zellers continues to hold a special place in Canadian retail history. While today's independently operated stores differ from the original department store chain, they aim to combine affordable pricing, nostalgic appeal, and a modern shopping experience. As the brand expands into additional Canadian communities, it will be interesting to see how this new chapter develops.
Contact Information
Customers can obtain information about store locations, upcoming openings, and general enquiries through the official Zellers website and its customer support resources.
Disclaimer: This page is provided for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Zellers, Les Ailes de la Mode Inc., or any related company. All trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners.