Ruby Liu’s Bold Vision: Breathing New Life into Hudson’s Bay Department Stores Across Canada

Walk down the main street of almost any Canadian city, and you’re likely to spot a Hudson’s Bay department store—a grand, historic building that has anchored downtowns for generations. But in recent years, these iconic spaces have faced an uncertain future, as the tides of retail have shifted and shoppers have moved online. Enter Ruby Liu, a Vancouver-based investor with a bold new vision for these storied properties.

Who is Ruby Liu?

Ruby Liu isn’t a household name—yet. But her recent move to acquire the leases for 10 Hudson’s Bay locations across Canada is making waves in the world of real estate and urban revitalization. Liu, known for her creative approach and business savvy, sees opportunity where others see empty aisles and shuttered doors. Her goal? To transform these sprawling department stores into vibrant hubs that serve today’s communities in fresh, innovative ways.

The Hudson’s Bay Legacy

Few brands are as woven into the fabric of Canadian history as Hudson’s Bay. For centuries, these stores have been more than just places to shop—they’ve been landmarks, gathering spaces, and symbols of Canadian identity. But as shopping habits have changed, even these giants have struggled to fill their vast halls. Many downtowns have watched as their flagship stores grew quiet, raising questions about what would become of these prime locations.

Why This Move Matters

Liu’s acquisition is about more than just real estate—it’s about reimagining what cities can be. The leases she’s taken over include some of the most prominent Bay stores, from Vancouver to Ottawa. While the Hudson’s Bay Company will continue to operate its stores for now, Liu’s involvement signals that change is on the horizon.

What makes this story so compelling is Liu’s vision for the future. Rather than simply filling these spaces with more retail, she envisions a mix of uses: entertainment, community gathering spots, pop-up markets, and even housing. Imagine a former department store where you can shop, grab a coffee, catch a live show, and attend a local event—all under one roof. It’s a bold rethinking of what these buildings can offer, and it could set a new standard for urban spaces across North America.

Revitalizing Urban Cores

This isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about the future of our cities. As more Canadians move back into urban centres, the demand for lively, multifunctional spaces is growing. Liu’s approach taps into a broader trend: the transformation of old retail giants into mixed-use destinations that blend the best of the past and the present.

• Community Focus: By opening these buildings to new uses, Liu hopes to make them true community anchors once again.
• Economic Impact: Revitalized downtowns can attract new businesses, boost tourism, and create jobs.
• Sustainability: Repurposing existing structures is often greener than building new ones from scratch.

What’s Next?

While change won’t happen overnight, Ruby Liu’s bold bet on the Bay is already sparking conversations from coast to coast. City leaders, business owners, and everyday Canadians are watching closely to see how these grand old buildings will be transformed. If Liu’s vision succeeds, it could become a blueprint for revitalizing main streets not just in Canada, but across North America.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: with creativity, investment, and a little bit of courage, even the most familiar landmarks can be reimagined for a new era. The story of Ruby Liu and Hudson’s Bay is just beginning—and it’s one worth following.