End of an Era: Hudson's Bay Company Closes Its Doors After 355 Years

After centuries in business, the Hudson's Bay Company, North America's oldest company, has closed its downtown Ottawa store. The abrupt closure, occurring ahead of schedule, left remaining shoppers disappointed as most merchandise had already been liquidated. The store's doors locked early as staff recognized the futility of waiting for a final rush that never came. Those lingering inside were mainly there to grab discounted jewelry, as other items had dwindled to just a few mannequins and fixtures, priced for a quick sale.

Reflecting on the poignant moment, former retail staff expressed nostalgia for the shopping experience tied to the company’s history. Symbolizing a bygone era of department stores, the closing drew attention to both sentimental and current retail struggles. The scene inside highlighted a mix of humor and melancholy as one frequent shoplifter was humorously noted by security, underlining the store’s long, storied, and turbulent history. As the legacy of the Hudson's Bay Company fades, questions loom about the fate of its iconic charter signed by King Charles II in 1670, with potential auction considerations sparking debates about its ownership and place in Canadian heritage.