The retail landscape in Canada has been shifting rapidly, and one of the most notable recent developments is the Johnston & Murphy Canada store closures. This iconic American footwear and apparel brand officially ceased all of its Canadian operations, including its e-commerce website, as of January 18, 2025.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide covering the background of the closures, the reasons behind the decision, the impact on consumers, alternative ways to buy Johnston & Murphy products in Canada, and what this move means for the future of the retail industry.
Overview of Johnston & Murphy in Canada
Johnston & Murphy is a well-known American brand that has been synonymous with premium footwear, leather goods, and apparel for decades. The company originally gained recognition for crafting high-quality shoes worn by U.S. presidents and business leaders.
When Johnston & Murphy expanded into the Canadian market, it targeted professional men and women seeking classic style and durable products. The brand positioned itself in high-traffic shopping centres and premium retail districts across major Canadian cities.
For years, Canadian customers valued Johnston & Murphy for its:
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Wide selection of premium leather shoes
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Stylish apparel for business and casual wear
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Accessories such as belts, wallets, and bags
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Reputation for craftsmanship and heritage
However, despite a strong reputation, the Canadian business faced increasing challenges, ultimately leading to its exit.
Timeline of Johnston & Murphy Canada Store Closures
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Early 2020s – Johnston & Murphy operated several Canadian locations in Toronto, Vaughan, Burlington, and near Calgary, among others.
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Mid-2024 – Reports emerged of declining sales and reduced store foot traffic.
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January 18, 2025 – Johnston & Murphy officially closed all Canadian stores and its Canadian e-commerce platform.
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Post-Closure – Canadian customers were redirected to authorized wholesale partners to continue purchasing Johnston & Murphy products.
This timeline highlights how the decision was not sudden, but rather the result of gradual market pressures building over several years.
Reasons for the Closures
The closure of Johnston & Murphy stores in Canada did not happen overnight. Instead, it was influenced by a combination of internal and external business challenges.
1. Rising Operational Costs
Operating physical retail stores in Canada became increasingly expensive. Rent in prime retail areas, labour costs, and logistics expenses steadily increased.
2. Economic Pressures
The Canadian economy has faced inflationary pressures, rising interest rates, and slower consumer spending. Luxury and premium brands like Johnston & Murphy struggled as customers prioritized essentials.
3. Heightened Competition
The footwear and apparel industry in Canada is highly competitive. Brands like Aldo, Brown’s, Clarks, Cole Haan, and Ecco continue to dominate, while fast-fashion retailers such as Zara and H&M offer more affordable alternatives.
4. Shifting Consumer Preferences
The post-pandemic era brought a shift in fashion and lifestyle choices. Many consumers now prefer casual and athletic wear from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon. Demand for formal leather shoes and business attire has declined.
5. Weak E-Commerce Penetration
Johnston & Murphy’s Canadian online presence was limited compared to its U.S. operations. With e-commerce becoming the preferred shopping method, the brand failed to capture enough digital market share in Canada.
Store Locations Affected
The closures impacted several retail locations across Canada. Some of the most notable were:
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Toronto – Multiple store closures in high-traffic malls.
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Vaughan – Popular outlet store shut down.
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Burlington – Local customers lost access to premium in-store shopping.
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Calgary (nearby area) – Store servicing Western Canada also closed.
This left many loyal Canadian customers disappointed, particularly those who relied on in-person fittings for footwear.
What Happens Next for Canadian Customers?
Although Johnston & Murphy no longer operates directly in Canada, customers can still access the brand’s products through authorized wholesale partners. Some of these include:
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Becker Shoes – Known for carrying premium footwear brands across Ontario.
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Caron Chaussures – Quebec-based retailer offering Johnston & Murphy collections.
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Canadian Footwear – A trusted name for quality shoes across Canada.
In addition, customers can shop directly from the U.S. Johnston & Murphy website, although shipping and duty fees may apply.
Impact on Canadian Retail
The Johnston & Murphy Canada store closures highlight several important trends in the Canadian retail sector:
1. Decline of Traditional Retail
More and more international brands are reconsidering their Canadian presence due to economic challenges and changing shopping habits.
2. Rise of Omnichannel Shopping
Consumers now expect brands to provide seamless online and offline shopping experiences. Johnston & Murphy’s limited Canadian e-commerce presence weakened its ability to compete.
3. Regional Retail Pressures
High rents in urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver make it difficult for mid-sized brands to remain profitable.
4. Increased Role of Wholesale Partners
By exiting direct operations, brands rely more heavily on local wholesale distributors to maintain a presence in the Canadian market.
Lessons for Other Retailers
The exit of Johnston & Murphy offers important insights for other international brands operating in Canada:
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Invest in E-Commerce – Brands must prioritize digital infrastructure to capture online sales.
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Adapt to Consumer Shifts – The rise of casual and sustainable fashion cannot be ignored.
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Control Operating Costs – Maintaining multiple physical stores may not be feasible in Canada’s retail environment.
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Leverage Partnerships – Collaborating with local retailers can help maintain brand visibility without high overhead costs.
How Canadian Consumers Can Still Access Johnston & Murphy
Even though Canadian stores are closed, here are the best ways to continue buying Johnston & Murphy products:
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Shop at Becker Shoes, Caron Chaussures, or Canadian Footwear.
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Order from the official U.S. Johnston & Murphy website.
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Check department stores and luxury footwear retailers that may stock seasonal collections.
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Explore discount outlets and online marketplaces for clearance items.
Future Outlook for Johnston & Murphy
While Johnston & Murphy has exited Canada, the brand continues to thrive in the United States and other markets. Looking forward:
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U.S. Operations – The company remains strong in its domestic market.
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International Strategy – Johnston & Murphy may refocus on markets with higher profitability.
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Canadian Comeback? – A future return to Canada is uncertain, but if economic conditions improve and demand rises, the brand could re-enter through wholesale expansion or e-commerce initiatives.
Conclusion
The Johnston & Murphy Canada store closures mark a significant shift in the Canadian retail landscape. Driven by rising costs, shifting consumer preferences, and intense competition, the brand decided to withdraw from direct operations in the country.
For Canadian consumers, Johnston & Murphy products remain accessible through wholesale partners and online shopping, but the in-store experience is no longer available.
This development serves as a reminder of how quickly retail trends evolve and why brands must continuously adapt to remain competitive. For Johnston & Murphy, the Canadian chapter may be closed, but the brand’s global presence ensures it remains a respected name in premium footwear and apparel.
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