Full Breakdown
Zellers Makes a Comeback in Edmonton's Londonderry Mall
8/30/2025, 11:03:49 AM
Zellers Returns to Canadian Retail Landscape
Zellers, a once-prominent Canadian discount retailer, is set to reopen with a new store in Edmonton's Londonderry Mall, occupying a 60,000-square-foot space previously held by Hudson’s Bay Company. This marks the first full-line Zellers location in Canada since the brand's decline over a decade ago. The store's opening, initially scheduled for August 29, 2025, has been postponed to September 1, 2025. Henry Zavriyev, CEO of Leyad, the mall's owner, expressed enthusiasm about the brand's revival, stating, “We are thrilled to bring back a beloved Canadian brand that stirs up nostalgic memories for many of our shoppers.”
Background on Zellers and Hudson's Bay Company
Zellers was acquired by Hudson’s Bay in 1978, but the brand diminished in prominence as Walmart expanded in Canada. Hudson’s Bay began selling off Zellers leases to Target in 2011 and eventually closed its remaining stores by 2020. In March 2025, Hudson’s Bay filed for creditor protection, leading to the liquidation of its assets, including the Zellers brand. The trademarks for Zellers were transferred to Les Ailes de la Mode, owned by Isaac Benitah, in August 2025, allowing for the brand's revival.
The New Zellers Store
The new Zellers store will offer a range of products, including clothing for men, women, and children, as well as home goods. Zavriyev noted that the transformation of the former Hudson’s Bay location into a Zellers was completed in under two months, a rapid turnaround for the retail sector. The store aims to cater to the local community, which includes families and schools, and will also see the return of Zeddy, the Zellers mascot.
Official Statements & Responses
Henry Zavriyev emphasized the significance of this opening for both the Edmonton community and Canadian retail, stating, “This announcement represents a bold step forward in reimagining retail space and responding to community demand with purpose and vision.” The decision to open a Zellers in Londonderry Mall was influenced by the community's needs and the brand's nostalgic appeal.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding Zellers' return, some industry experts have expressed skepticism about the viability of the brand in the current retail landscape. Concerns have been raised regarding whether Zellers can compete effectively against established discount retailers like Walmart and newer entrants in the market.
What's Next for Zellers?
The reopening of Zellers in Edmonton is seen as a potential precursor to further expansions across Canada. While this location is currently the only Zellers store planned, the success of the Edmonton store may influence future openings in other regions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are thrilled to bring back a beloved Canadian brand that stirs up nostalgic memories for many of our shoppers, while providing an opportunity to introduce Zellers to a new generation,” — Henry Zavriyev, CEO of Leyad
- “This announcement represents a bold step forward in reimagining retail space and responding to community demand with purpose and vision.” — Henry Zavriyev, CEO of Leyad
- “We think that Canadian shoppers want to buy Canadian brands.” — Henry Zavriyev, CEO of Leyad
The return of Zellers at Londonderry Mall signifies a notable moment in Canadian retail history, as the brand attempts to reclaim its place in the market amidst evolving consumer preferences.
