Simons finally reveals opening date for huge location in major Toronto mall

Toronto's retail landscape may be feeling a little incomplete now that the Bay and Nordstrom have made their dramatic exits (may they RIP), but shoppers will be happy to know that the city is about to get a new location of a similar retail chain just as these giants are on their way out.

Simons, the Canadian department chain that some would say has been somewhat overshadowed by some of its larger competitors over the years, is embarking on a major expansion at a time when said competition is swiftly dying off.

On Thursday, the company announced that it is gearing up to debut its first urban Toronto store, set to open in Yorkdale Shopping Centre in just a few weeks.

The store will take over the 118,000+-square-foot anchor space formerly held by Nordstrom, reviving its multiple floors with fashion, home goods and more.

The location will carry not just the international designers and Simons-exclusive labels that the chain is known for, but also a curated selection of wares from local brands and artists, adding a new layer to supporting Canadian in these trying political and economic times.

In a further homage to its homegrown heritage, Simons is also basing the design of the space on our nation's stunning natural scenery, with the help of Canadian interior designers and architects.

It's a big, bold move for the 185-year-old, Quebec City-founded brand, which has 17 existing outposts and plans to open even more.

Along with the Yorkdale store, which is debuting on August 14, Simons will be setting up shop soonafter in the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, also in the mall's old Nordstrom.

Here's hoping the company continues on its path to success despite the present trend of malls shuttering for redevelopment, and the fact that the Bay and Nordstrom (not to mention Saks Fifth Avenue, Eaton's and Sears) failed to last.