Toronto, Canada – The iconic Hudson’s Bay Company stripes have become a hot commodity among Canadians amidst the liquidation of the department store chain. Shauna Daniels, a Toronto resident, describes embarking on a quest to find these coveted stripes, reminiscent of childhood memories spent ice skating by the HBC store windows. The unique striped merchandise, ranging from wool blankets to patio umbrellas, has seen a surge in sales following the announcement of the store closures, with prices on platforms like eBay skyrocketing. The HBC stripes, symbolizing a significant chapter in Canada’s history, have sparked a sense of nostalgia and national pride among consumers in response to escalating tariffs from the United States.
Founded in 1670, the Hudson’s Bay Company has a storied history, initially trading woolen blankets with local indigenous communities and evolving into a retail giant by the late 19th century. Despite criticisms of the company’s colonial past, the enduring popularity of the iconic stripes reflects Canada’s rugged heritage and the pivotal role HBC played in the nation’s development. Toronto-based designer Kate Thornley-Hall has repurposed these historic blankets into contemporary home decor pieces, emphasizing the lasting influence of HBC on Canadian culture.
As brick-and-mortar department stores face challenges from online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and boutique shops, legacy brands like HBC have struggled to adapt to changing consumer habits. The impact of the pandemic has further accelerated this shift, leaving HBC and other traditional retailers facing financial strain. While the future of department stores remains uncertain, there is hope among consumers and analysts that the resurgence of demand for HBC’s iconic stripes could pave the way for a potential revival or reimagining of the brand.
Despite facing mounting debts and store closures, some believe that HBC’s heritage and legacy could still hold value in the market. Retail analyst Bruce Winder suggests possibilities like licensing the iconic stripes to other companies or opening HBC-branded boutiques to capitalize on the brand’s affinity with Canadian consumers. While the era of department stores may be waning, the enduring appeal of the HBC stripes serves as a reminder of the company’s lasting impact on Canadian culture and commerce.