B.C. billionaire Ruby Liu has ambitious plans to breathe new life into up to 28 former Hudson’s Bay locations across Canada. Liu, who built her fortune in China’s retail industry, wants to reimagine these department stores and lure young shoppers back from their screens into malls.
Liu has already secured three leases at malls she owns, spending roughly $6 million. The remaining 25 leases, located in Alberta, B.C., and Ontario, are in properties she doesn’t own, and many landlords remain skeptical of her vision. The arrangement still requires court approval as Hudson’s Bay wraps up its operations after filing for creditor protection in March.
Speaking to CBC’s The Early Edition through her company’s CEO Linda Qin, who translated from Mandarin, Liu shared her vision of creating immersive shopping environments.
“We’re living in an era dominated by e-commerce,” Liu said. “My goal is to pull young people out of the internet and into real-life shopping experiences. We want Gen Z back in malls, and we’ll innovate to make that happen.”
Liu even wrote to the Canadian prime minister, requesting a meeting to discuss how her plans could boost the country’s competitiveness and deliver community benefits.
Asked how her stores would differ from traditional models, Liu pointed to trends in Asia. “In countries like Japan and Thailand, malls aren’t just for shopping. They host community events and create vibrant, interactive spaces inside and out,” she explained.
She envisions Canadian malls doing the same—offering mid-scale activities, fine dining, kids’ play areas, and even high-tech elements like virtual reality to entice visitors.
Liu revealed a phased approach for launching the revamped stores:
Phase One: Open basic stores within three months.
Phase Two: After renovations, introduce immersive experiences in six to eight months.
Phase Three: Roll out advanced concepts using high technology and entertainment features.
She also plans to rehire 70% of former Hudson’s Bay managers and staff.
Despite Liu’s optimism, many landlords have voiced concerns about her lack of a “solid retail plan” and limited Canadian retail experience. Liu acknowledged their reservations but said detailed plans will be shared in upcoming negotiations.
“When the cake gets bigger, we’ll split it and share it with the landlords,” she added, promising mutually beneficial partnerships.
Liu believes her cost-effective, hands-on approach gives her an edge. “If I spend half a million on something, it’s because I know other big companies would spend three times as much,” she said. “Canada needs hard work and smart budgeting now more than ever. I’m bringing in a younger generation and immigrant communities to build joyful, premium department stores.”
Her vision, while ambitious, signals a bold bet on the future of brick-and-mortar retail in a digital world.
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