TORONTO – Independent toy shops say they’re ready to fill the void Toys “R” Us Canada’s closures have created.
Bob Siemens says his Saskatchewan store Cowtown Kids Toys & Candy and other independent retailers are brimming with products and prepared to welcome even more customers.
Siemens says he takes no pleasure in seeing Toys “R” Us Canada face troubles but recognizes it’s also an opportunity for independents to flourish.
Ti-Anna Wang agrees. She says recent Toys “R” Us Canada closures are a chance for her Toronto shop Silly Goose Kids to attract new customers.
Toys “R” Us Canada filed for creditor protection Tuesday, after shuttering 53 of its stores in the last two years.
It is now warning its remaining 22 stores may also shutdown as the company tries to restructure and cope with its mounting debt.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 4, 2026.
