Formerly bankrupt Toys 'R' Us is coming back to Canada, but in a different way
They say everything that dies eventually comes back, and that appears to be the case for Toys “R” Us.
The iconic toy retailer is making a return to Canada, but don’t expect to see its familiar standalone stores popping up in plazas just yet.
Instead, the brand is taking a slightly unconventional approach in getting back to the retail space.
Announced on Nov. 3, the new owner, in partnership with Staples Canada and Next Century Ipco Can ULC, is bringing dedicated Toys “R” Us shopping areas to Staples stores across the country.
The partnership will kick off with a pilot location opening Nov. 14 at a Staples store in Richmond Hill, Ont., alongside a digital shopping experience on the Staples’ website.
In a press release, Staples CEO Jens Cermak said the company is “proud to help write the next chapter for a brand that has been part of childhood in Canada for generations.”
The retailer is also introducing Parties “R” Us, a new concept store that will bring balloons, party supplies, seasonal essentials, and licensed party products together under one roof.
For generations of Canadian families, Toys “R” Us was a go-to destination for everything from games and toy cars to children’s clothing and books. But the retailer’s latest comeback comes after a few rocky years.
Following the American parent company’s bankruptcy filing in 2017, Toys “R” Us Canada continued operating for several years before eventually facing its own financial troubles.
At its peak, the Canadian chain operated 81 stores across the country. However, after filing for creditor protection in early 2026, the retailer began shutting down locations in B.C., Alberta, and other provinces amid mounting financial pressure, including lawsuits from landlords and unpaid suppliers.
The brand’s Canadian comeback is part of a bigger effort to revive Toys “R” Us internationally. Management firm WHP Global acquired the brand in 2021 and has since worked to reopen stores, including a new 20,000-square-foot flagship store in New Jersey.
With the brand back in Canada through Staples, many are probably wondering what to do with their old, unused Toys “R” Us gift cards.
The retailer reportedly had approximately $36 million in outstanding gift card obligations and informed customers they would be honoured until Feb. 16, 2026, just 14 days after filing for creditor protection.
Daily Hive reached out to Toys “R” Us and Staples to confirm whether previously issued gift cards will be accepted at the new locations, but had not received a response at the time of publication.
For now, the brand is getting another shot at life in Canada. The big question is whether shoppers will embrace its new home inside an office supply store.
With files from Isabelle Docto