Canadian retailer Zellers is accelerating its national comeback with the opening of two new stores in Ontario, following a successful debut in Alberta last year. The expansion marks a significant step in the brand's return to the Canadian retail landscape.
New Store Locations and Opening Dates
The first Ontario location will open on June 18 at 80 Orfus Rd. in North York, Toronto. This 25,000-square-foot standalone store is currently under construction. A second store inside Tecumseh Mall in Windsor, Ontario, is scheduled to open in July, marking a homecoming for the brand, which previously occupied space in that mall.
Building on Alberta Success
Zellers' first store at Londonderry Mall in Edmonton, which opened in October, exceeded expectations, drawing strong foot traffic and enthusiastic customer response. The retailer noted that insights from that launch have directly informed the merchandising strategy and in-store experience for the new locations, expanding assortments to reflect current Canadian preferences.
“Following the incredible response we saw in Edmonton, we’re excited to bring Zellers back to Ontario in a meaningful way,” said Joey Benitah, chief operating officer of Zellers, in a press release.
Zellers 3.0: A New Chapter
Zellers, founded in 1928 as a discount store chain, is one of Canada's most iconic retail brands. Its return in 2025, branded as Zellers 3.0, reimagines the concept as a small-format department store. Quebec-based retailer Les Ailes de la Mode Inc. acquired the Zellers trademarks from Hudson's Bay Company Inc. in August 2025, following HBC's dissolution.
The new Ontario stores will build on core categories including apparel, accessories, home goods, and seasonal items, while introducing new offerings in response to customer demand. Each store opening will feature nostalgic in-store moments and surprises to celebrate the brand's legacy.
Community and Mall Reactions
Katarina Taylor, general manager of Europro's Windsor Properties, which owns Tecumseh Mall, expressed enthusiasm: “We are excited and nostalgic to welcome the Zellers brand back to Tecumseh Mall, marking a great new chapter for both our property and the greater Windsor community. Our shoppers have always remembered the brand fondly, so this reopening is a genuinely meaningful moment for everyone involved.”
The retailer emphasized that the new openings signal continued momentum in Zellers' national expansion strategy, with a focus on providing Canadians with a homegrown, value-driven shopping experience.
