Discount footwear retailer CSO | Canadian Shoe Outlet has announced that it is closing all store locations in Canada.
The brand was founded in October 2019 by the team behind Canadian footwear retailer Shumaker. CSO outlets opened in former Payless Shoe Company locations across Ontario.
The retailer posted the announcement to its Facebook page:
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce that all CSO | Canadian Shoe Outlet locations in #Canada will be closing.
This outcome is not easy, nor the one we would have hoped for. But, the situation lends itself to be different. With the Covid-19 pandemic, and the multiple lockdowns, reduced capacity and other restrictions, it made it impossible to continue. We were unable to operate for numerous months, and specifically missed two summer seasons in a row.
As we entail the Store #liquidation process, there will be a #huge array of #discounts and amazing #deals. We invite all customers to take advantage, especially with #backtoschool just around the corner.
Hoping to have the opportunity to serve you again, The Team @ CSO.”
Retail Insider had the chance to visit two locations in the first week of September: Gerrard Square Shopping Centre and Dufferin Mall in Toronto.
Both locations had clearance/liquidation operations in full effect, with an unknown exit date.
CSO | Canadian Shoe Outlet had several locations throughout Ontario. As of press date, the store locator on the company’s website was not operational.
Shumaker continues to operate stores throughout Southern Ontario. We reported in January of this year that Montreal-based A2Z, parent company of Shumaker, had launched a new medical division as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
