The recent announcement of Hudson’s Bay Company’s (HBC) bankruptcy and the impending closure of all its 80 stores across Canada marks a significant moment in the nation’s retail history. As liquidation sales commence, it’s essential to reflect on the complex relationship between HBC and Black women in Canada, considering both historical contexts and contemporary experiences.
Historical Context and Legacy
Established in 1670, HBC has been integral to Canada’s colonial past. Its expansion often coincided with the displacement of Indigenous communities and the promotion of settler dominance. Department stores like HBC have been critiqued for contributing to colonialism and upholding white supremacist ideologies. CTV News
Representation and Diversity in Retail
In recent years, concerns about representation and diversity within major retailers have come to the forefront. In 2021, a prominent Black lawyer and diversity consultant from Toronto discovered her image was used in an HBC diversity campaign without her consent, sparking discussions about the company’s approach to genuine representation. CTV News
Additionally, the history of the Black beauty industry in Canada reveals challenges Black women faced in accessing appropriate beauty products. Author Cheryl Thompson’s work delves into how Black beauty culture, once marginalized, entered mainstream retail, shedding light on the complexities of Black women’s experiences with big-box retailers.
Contemporary Perspectives and Boycotts
Current sentiments also reflect broader concerns about employment practices and representation. Discussions have emerged about boycotting stores that replace diverse Canadian employees with international students, highlighting tensions regarding fair employment and the impact on local communities.
Furthermore, Black-owned brand founders have voiced apprehensions about major retailers scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, leading to debates about boycotting such stores. These concerns underscore the ongoing challenges Black entrepreneurs face in the retail sector.
Hudson’s Bay Bankruptcy and Liquidation
As of March 18, 2025, Hudson’s Bay has filed for bankruptcy and is set to liquidate all its stores over the next 12 weeks. This development has elicited reactions from various quarters, including Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, who expressed sadness over the potential job losses and the end of a retail era.
Retail experts anticipate that the liquidation sales will begin with modest discounts, ranging from 10 to 20 percent in the initial weeks, as the company aims to maximize returns to pay its creditors. CTV News
Conclusion
The closure of Hudson’s Bay signifies the end of a significant chapter in Canadian retail. For Black women in Canada, this moment is layered with reflections on historical injustices, strides toward representation, and the ongoing challenges within the retail landscape. As the industry evolves, it remains crucial to address these complexities, ensuring that future retail environments are inclusive, equitable, and reflective of Canada’s diverse populace.
