the bay

Hudson's Bay begins reopening stores across Canada and here's what's different now

As select provinces across the country begin to gradually reopen their economies, some of Canada's most beloved retail stores are opening their doors once again to allow for a new shopping experience fit for a pandemic. 

Hudson's Bay is just one of many retail companies working to operate in these unprecedented times, and they've now reopened more than 40 locations in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec (outside Montreal only). 

But while residents of these provinces now have the option to shop in stores owned by North America's oldest company, the experience will hardly resemble that of a pre-pandemic world. 

Instead, Hudson's Bay has made several changes based on the guidance of health and government experts. 

Changes being made to the in-store shopping experience, according to the company, include frequent store sanitation, the introduction of hand sanitizing stations and cashless payments only. 

The Bay is also reducing store hours and opening an hour early (at 11 a.m.) on Tuesdays to provide a dedicated shopping hour for seniors and essential workers, as many grocery stores across the country have already done

Makeup and skincare sections at the Bay will also look different from now on, but the company says beauty experts will still help customers by providing single-use samples and teaching how to use products while following safety protocols. 

Some departments will have modified service to ensure social distancing, and the company is also asking all shoppers and associates to maintain a two-metre distance from one another at all times. 

Operational Hudson's Bay stores have also begun accepting refunds once again, but be sure to check online for local store hours as most have been updated and reduced out of precaution.

And for those shoppers who are still wary of shopping in-store, many locations are offering curbside pickup in as little as three hours. 

"To ensure your visit is safe and successful, we've made some changes guided by health and government experts," the company wrote on their website.

"The health and safety of our associates and customers remains our top priority. While things may look a little different, we're so excited to see you."

Lead photo by

Wikimedia Commons


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