2 Store Openings, 1 Closure and a Cinema Saved

Simons has opened two department stores in Toronto shopping malls, the Eaton Centre and Yorkdale, as part of its continued national expansion. The Quebec-based brand and Canada’s oldest private, family-owned business, founded in 1840, invested more than $75 million into the two retail spaces, both previously occupied by Nordstrom prior to its Canadian departure in 2023. Simons is known for its accessible and inspired fashion, and products for the home, including furniture, rugs, lighting and decor.

Also new to Toronto is L.L. Bean. The outdoor lifestyle brand opened its first downtown location at the redeveloped Manulife Centre. At nearly 10,000 square feet, the location allows the retailer to showcase its complete product range. It also offers on-site monogramming services. L.L. Bean has traditionally operated in suburban shopping centres so this marks a significant shift in its expansion strategy.

The Sobeys at Kipling Avenue and The Queensway is expected to close this fall. The grocery retailer has not yet made a public announcement, but according to BlogTO, store staff have confirmed the rumours. The news is not necessarily surprising given the aging strip mall within which it resides is slated to become a new multi-building condominium community, according to documents filed with the City of Toronto this past June.

Just to the west, the Cineplex movie theatre at Islington Avenue and The Queensway that was expected to be demolished as part of another huge condo development has renewed its lease. Cineplex made the announcement via LinkedIn, after local residents signed a petition earlier this year to save the cinema. The theatre has called the site home since 2001.