Instagram account-turned-retailer closes after short stint in Toronto mall
Scarborough Spots, an Instagram account-turned-flagship store, is officially closing its doors at Eglinton Square Mall, just three years after welcoming its first customers to a unique retail space that felt just as much like an ode to Scarborough as a place to do some shopping.
"Eglinton Square was in the same neighbourhood where my grandparents lived, and we were always there growing up. My cousin actually worked at Foot Locker, and during the pandemic, I applied there too, but never got a call back," Jesse Asido, owner of the space, tells blogTO.
"Then, when I saw that the Foot Locker shut down, I knew I had to have it," he says, recalling the soft launch of the inaugural Scarborough Spots brick-and-mortar in November 2023, with the official grand opening causing quite the uproar in March 2024.
Asido calls the decision to close the store for good "tough," with several undisclosed factors ending its nearly three-year run at Eglinton Square Mall.
The brand, known for its Scarborough-themed merch, accessories, and gifts, has served as more than just a retail space. It's also a free art gallery where local artists have displayed some of their work, as well as an Instagram-worthy photo-op hotspot, popular for fixtures that mimic a subway station.
"It seems that everyone is going to make one last visit to take pictures at our 'fictional subway' and make one last call on a payphone before we paint over everything and close the doors," Asido laughs, confirming that although it's farewell to Eglinton Square Mall, he feels this is the right time to move on and start somewhere fresh.
"We are currently in talks and negotiations with other malls, businesses, and plazas, and while nothing is confirmed, we will be back somewhere by December 2026, just in time for the holidays," Asido guarantees.
Hundreds of shoppers have since taken to Instagram, offering well wishes and expressing excitement for what's next for Scarborough Spots.
"Forever???? Say it isn't so!! Thanks for representing our borough beyond the store @jesseasido, and thanks for your kindness the day I stopped in," a follower exclaims.
“You've made Scarberians proud to represent where they are from, and we love y'all for that. Onto bigger and better things," another wrote.
The closure does not impact the brand's online presence, Asido confirms, with virtual sales and operations continuing as usual.
While Toronto residents wait to see where Scarborough Spots will pop up next, their last chance to shop at the Eglinton Square Mall location is Oct. 18.
Scarborough Spots is located at 70 Eglinton Square #1, in Scarborough, Ont.
Scarborough Spots
