The Zellers brand’s new owners are preparing to expand its presence in Ontario, with plans for new discount stores near Toronto’s Yorkdale Mall and Windsor’s Tecumseh Mall. These stores, similar to the Edmonton location that initiated the brand’s revival last year, will offer a range of products including apparel, home goods, luggage, and seasonal items.
In addition to the existing offerings, the Ontario stores will introduce snack foods and toys, a category initially considered challenging due to competition from retail giants like Walmart and Amazon. Zellers’ chief operating officer, Joey Benitah, changed his stance on this category after successful toy sales at the Edmonton store.
The Benitah family, now the owners of the Zellers brand, acquired the rights to the nearly century-old name after its previous owner, Hudson’s Bay, faced closure. The family is also associated with Fairweather and International Clothiers apparel stores and Wyrth home goods retailer.
Despite Zellers’ tumultuous history of closures and revivals, the current owners are optimistic about their relaunch, with plans for nationwide expansion. In the Windsor area, the upcoming Zellers store at Tecumseh Mall holds significance as it marks the return of the brand to a location that previously had a Zellers store until 2013.
Anticipation for Zellers’ return is high among locals, with many expressing nostalgia and excitement. The move back to Windsor is seen as a positive development by Ryan Donally, president and CEO of the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce, who believes it will boost foot traffic and enhance service offerings in the area.
Tecumseh Mall’s spokesperson expressed enthusiasm for Zellers’ comeback, citing the brand’s special place in the memories of Windsor residents. The return of Zellers to the property is seen as a natural fit and a welcomed event for the community.