The Striped Revival: How Hudson’s Bay Company’s Iconic Merchandise is Defying the Odds
In the midst of a tumultuous retail landscape, a peculiar phenomenon has emerged in Canada: the resurgence of Hudson’s Bay Company’s (HBC) iconic striped merchandise. As the company prepares to liquidate its department stores nationwide, sales of its striped goods have skyrocketed, with eBay prices reaching as high as $1,000 for a blanket that once retailed for $300.
This striped fever has been fueled by a growing movement to “buy Canadian” in response to tariffs from the United States, as well as a surge of national pride. But what’s behind this sudden demand for a piece of Canadian history?
A Symbol of Canadiana
The Hudson’s Bay Company, founded in 1670, has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The company’s striped blankets, made with rich colors like indigo, red, canary yellow, and emerald green, have become a symbol of Canada’s rugged past. These blankets were originally traded with local indigenous communities, and their enduring popularity has led to a deep emotional connection with Canadians.
For Toronto-based interior designer Kate Thornley-Hall, the HBC stripes evoke a sense of nostalgia and national pride. “It’s an enduring reminder of the pivotal role that the Hudson’s Bay played in the development of our country,” she says.
A Shift in Consumer Habits
The pandemic has accelerated a shift in consumer habits, with many Canadians opting for online shopping over traditional brick-and-mortar stores. This has left legacy retailers like HBC struggling to retain shoppers. Retail analyst Bruce Winder notes that Canadians are increasingly turning to online giants like Amazon or Walmart for everyday essentials, while opting for higher-end goods from boutiques or directly from brands.
A Second Life for HBC?
While the return of the department store is unlikely, some shoppers hope that the resurgence in demand for HBC’s striped merchandise will give the brand a second life. Analyst Winder suggests that the company could license its iconic stripes to another company or open up small, HBC-branded boutiques.
Actionable Insights
As the retail landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that consumers are seeking out unique, high-quality products that evoke a sense of nostalgia and national pride. For brands like HBC, this presents an opportunity to rebrand and refocus on their heritage.
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, this trend offers a chance to capitalize on the demand for unique, Canadian-made products. Whether it’s repurposing vintage HBC blankets or creating new products inspired by the company’s iconic stripes, there’s a growing market for items that celebrate Canadian culture.
Conclusion
The resurgence of Hudson’s Bay Company’s striped merchandise is a testament to the power of nostalgia and national pride. As the retail landscape continues to shift, it’s clear that consumers are seeking out unique, high-quality products that evoke a sense of history and heritage. For HBC, this presents an opportunity to rebrand and refocus on its iconic stripes, while for entrepreneurs and small business owners, it offers a chance to capitalize on the demand for unique, Canadian-made products.