Quebec-based fashion retailer La Maison Simons is set to take over the former Nordstrom space at CF Pacific Centre in downtown Vancouver, signaling a significant boost for the city's retail landscape. The announcement was made on Tuesday by Cadillac Fairview, the mall's owner, and Simons executives.
New Flagship Store Details
The new Simons store will occupy approximately 150,000 square feet across three floors, previously home to Nordstrom before its Canadian exit in 2023. The retailer plans to invest heavily in the location, creating a modern shopping experience with curated fashion, home goods, and a dedicated section for local designers. Construction is expected to begin later this year, with an opening slated for late 2027.
Strategic Expansion
This move is part of Simons' broader expansion strategy in Western Canada. The company already operates stores in Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver's Park Royal. The downtown Vancouver location will be its largest in the region, offering a full range of men's, women's, and children's apparel, as well as accessories and lifestyle products.
Simons CEO Bernard Leblanc expressed enthusiasm about the new location, stating that Vancouver's vibrant downtown core and strong retail demand made it an ideal choice. Cadillac Fairview's executive vice president, Peter Sharpe, noted that the deal underscores the mall's commitment to providing premier shopping destinations.
Impact on Vancouver Retail
The arrival of Simons is expected to revitalize the downtown retail scene, which has faced challenges from online shopping and pandemic-related closures. Local business leaders welcomed the news, citing job creation and increased foot traffic. The store is projected to create over 300 jobs during construction and 500 permanent positions once operational.
Simons, founded in 1840, is known for its blend of affordable fashion and high-end design. The company operates 16 stores across Canada and has a robust e-commerce platform. The Vancouver flagship will feature exclusive collections and collaborations with Canadian artists.
Community Response
Mayor Ken Sim praised the development, calling it a vote of confidence in Vancouver's economic recovery. Retail analysts predict that Simons' entry could prompt other major brands to reconsider Vancouver for flagship locations. The store will also include a cafe and event space, enhancing the shopping experience.
The former Nordstrom space has been vacant since early 2023, when the U.S. retailer closed all 13 of its Canadian stores. Cadillac Fairview had been searching for a suitable replacement, and Simons emerged as the ideal tenant due to its strong brand recognition and customer loyalty.
Conclusion
With the Simons flagship, downtown Vancouver's retail corridor gains a major anchor tenant, promising to attract shoppers from across the region. The project is part of a broader trend of experiential retail, where stores offer more than just products but also immersive environments. As construction progresses, further details on the store's design and exclusive offerings will be released.
