The Zellers brand, under new ownership, is set to expand its presence in Ontario with some adjustments in store offerings. A discount store will open near Toronto’s Yorkdale Mall on June 18th, followed by another location at Windsor’s Tecumseh Mall in July. These stores, similar to the Edmonton branch that relaunched the brand last year, will carry a range of products such as apparel, home goods, luggage, and seasonal items.

In addition to the existing product line, the Ontario stores will introduce snack foods and toys. Initially hesitant to compete with retail giants like Walmart and Amazon in the toy category, Zellers’ chief operating officer, Joey Benitah, changed course after the successful sales of a limited toy selection at the Edmonton store.

Owned by the Benitah family, who acquired the rights to the nearly century-old Zellers name following Hudson’s Bay’s closure, the brand also operates Fairweather and International Clothiers apparel stores and Wyrth home goods retailer.

Despite multiple revivals and setbacks over the years, Zellers’ current owners are gearing up for a national expansion less than a year into their relaunch. The forthcoming Windsor store at Tecumseh Mall marks a notable return, with locals eagerly anticipating its reopening. The decision to bring Zellers 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 benefit the local retail landscape by increasing foot traffic and enhancing service offerings. Tecumseh Mall’s spokesperson expressed excitement about Zellers’ return, stating that the brand holds a special place in the hearts of many customers in the Windsor area.

With Zellers’ resurgence in Ontario markets, the retail environment in Windsor is anticipated to receive a boost in customer choice and competition, ultimately benefiting residents with enhanced shopping options and services.