First 100% Indigenous-owned department store returns to Toronto mall next month

aaniin Retail Inc., the first 100 per cent Indigenous owned department store, is bringing its celebrated pop-up back to CF Toronto Eaton Centre this fall, transforming over 6,000 square feet of space into a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Running from Nov. 1 through Jan. 2026, the store will feature an array of Indigenous-owned brands; customers can shop everything from holiday-ready stocking stuffers for the upcoming festive season to luxury labels.

This year's lineup of vendors includes aaniin, Moccasin Joe Artisan Coffee Roasters, Assinewe Jewelry, Odemini Giizis Café, Bastien, Outlier Leather, Cheekbone Beauty, Pre&Peri, FutureKokum, Rashelle, Kokom Scrunchies, Lesley Hampton, SECTION 35 + JJL, MINI TIPI, and Urban Native Era.

aaniin first opened its pop-up department store to the public last year, in the Eaton Centre, and the activation was a resounding success. The store surpassed its sales goals within days and drew national attention.

A look inside the 2024 aaniin pop-up at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre. Photo by Sara Cornthwaite. 

This year, Chelsee Pettit, Anishinaabe entrepreneur and founder of aaniin Retail Inc., is building on that success, with an expanded two-month run that promises to spotlight more Indigenous talent.

"Last year, we saw people light up when they discovered Indigenous fashion, food, and culture right in the heart of the city. This year we're making it even bigger, even bolder, and even more fun. It's going to feel like a holiday celebration you don't want to miss," Chelsee tells blogTO. 

You'll find the pop-up on the second floor of the Eaton Centre, in the space formerly occupied by Free People, and it will be open throughout the holiday season.

The Eaton Centre is located at 220 Yonge St.