Toys 'R' Us closing dozens of stores across Canada including multiple in Toronto

Toys "R" Us Canada, which was once a dominant force in the country's retail landscape before online giants like Amazon took over, is shrinking at a rapid pace, with at least 38 stores to permanently close by early next year, and a further 12 locations up for sale.

In Toronto, it appears as though the closures are all happening at once. In early November, liquidation signs started popping up at the Toys "R" Us at Dufferin Mall, followed by "store closing" banners at the entrance. The location is expected to shut its doors shortly after the holiday season in January, joining a list of stores that are set to disappear by early next year.

The chain retailer, which was once the world's largest toy store, has struggled under massive debt over the past few years, as other massive companies, including Amazon and Walmart, have reshaped the industry. The retailer's U.S. parent company officially filed for bankruptcy in 2017, although its Canadian division continued to operate dozens of stores.

Liquidation sales have also since appeared at the Toys "R" Us locations at Scarborough Town Centre and Victoria Terrace Shopping Centre, which was a particularly surprising closure given that the store was recently renovated and included a large indoor play centre.

Toys R Us STC closing
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Another newly built location at Lawrence Allen Centre, which opened its doors in 2023 at 700 Lawrence Ave. W. is reportedly shutting down as well.

Store Closing: Toys'R'Us at Lawrence and Victoria Park
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Even outside the GTA, the brand's presence is dramatically declining. Recently, in Kitchener, the chain's Fairway Rd. S. store posted a large "for sale" sign out front, leaving its future uncertain.

In Quebec, the toy retailer is also nearing a total exit, with only one location remaining in the province after the holidays. Stores in Quebec City, Laval, and Brossard are slated to close on Jan. 5, the retailer announced, resulting in more than 50 employees being laid off.

blogTO has reached out to Toys "R" Us for more information on the future of its Toronto locations.