‘It’s absolutely nostalgic’: Shoppers embrace Zellers’ return to Toronto

Zellers officially reopened in Toronto on Thursday, drawing crowds of shoppers eager to revisit a piece of their childhood.

The new standalone store at 80 Orfus Rd. marks the retailer’s latest expansion in Canada following its major nationwide shut down in the mid 2010s.

The opening featured several throwbacks to the brand’s heyday, including kiddie rides, diner-inspired food and the return of mascot Zeddy Bear.

For many in attendance, however, the biggest draw was nostalgia.

“I worked for Zellers as a teenager as a part-time job while I was in school,” said Sabrina, who came to the opening with her daughter. “It’s absolutely nostalgic.”

Others recalled visiting the retailer with their families growing up.

“I just remember going to the mall with my parents and seeing the deals,” added her daughter, Nina. “It’s just a good time and I love (being able to) do it again.”

The opening featured a number of nostalgic attractions aimed at longtime fans, including a 25-foot inflatable “Zeddy Bear” outside the store, free Zellers ice pops and water bottles and a diner-themed food truck serving menu items inspired by the retailer’s former restaurant.

A bright red kiddie ride, inspired by those found in Zellers stores during the 1980s, has also been installed at the Toronto location.

“Zellers has always been about fun, family memories and a sense of discovery,” chief operating officer Joey Benitah said in a news release. “As we continue expanding across Canada, we wanted to bring back some of the moments customers remember most fondly while also creating entirely new experiences.”

The Toronto location is the latest step in the retailer’s revival after Quebec-based Les Ailes de la Mode acquired the Zellers trademarks from Hudson’s Bay in 2025.

A second Ontario location is expected to open in Windsor later this summer as the company continues its national expansion.

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