After more than six decades of serving Alberta’s outdoor enthusiasts, locally owned retailer Breathe Outdoors (formerly Campers Village) has announced it will be closing all three of its stores in Alberta over the next six months. The company cited economic challenges and shifting retail landscapes as key reasons for the decision.
“This decision is in no way a reflection of the dedication, talent, and hard work of the Breathe Outdoors team,” read a statement from General Manager Doug Dea and company owners Ron and Terry Bryant. “It is clear that with the downturn in the economy, with the challenges faced by the retail industry and the outdoor industry specifically, it is unsustainable for Breathe Outdoors to continue operations.”
A Gradual Wind-Down, Not a Liquidation
The closures will happen gradually rather than as a rapid liquidation, allowing customers time to shop and use gift cards before operations cease. The planned store closures are as follows:
- April 30, 2025 – South Edmonton location (Gateway Boulevard)
- June 30, 2025 – West Edmonton location (170th Street)
- June 30, 2025 – Website sales to cease
- September 30, 2025 – Calgary location closes
All dates are subject to change based on available inventory. Breathe Outdoors has reassured customers that its online store will remain operational until June 30, and that physical locations will continue regular operations until their respective closure dates.
A Legacy of Outdoor Retail in Alberta
Breathe Outdoors traces its roots back to 1963, when it was founded in Edmonton as Campers Village, an offshoot of Northwest Tent & Awning. The parent company had been manufacturing tents and outdoor gear since 1921 to serve settlers in Alberta. Over time, as recreational camping gained popularity, the company evolved to provide high-quality gear for adventurers. In 2021, Campers Village rebranded as Breathe Outdoors, emphasizing the benefits of outdoor exploration.
Despite its deep roots and long-standing community presence, the economic downturn and changing retail environment have made continued operations unsustainable.
Impact on Staff and Customers
The closure will affect 73 employees across the three locations. The company acknowledged the dedication of its staff, stating: “We are incredibly proud of our employees, who have put their hearts into making this business what it is today.”
Breathe Outdoors also addressed customer concerns regarding outstanding purchases and gift cards:
- Gift cards will be accepted until each store’s closing date.
- Returns will be accepted under the 30-day policy until June 1 for Edmonton locations and until August 1 for Calgary.
- Camper’s Club loyalty program will cease operations on March 31, and customers are encouraged to use any remaining perks before that date.
- Warranty claims will need to be handled directly through product manufacturers after store closures.
Final Sales and Inventory Plans
While the company will not conduct major liquidation sales, it will continue selling inventory as usual. Breathe Outdoors confirmed it will still bring in new stock for the upcoming spring/summer outdoor season. However, once current stock is depleted, no additional orders will be placed.
The retailer will also hold one final “Friends & Family Sale” in April, along with smaller promotions throughout the summer months.
A Thank You to the Community
The closure of Breathe Outdoors marks the end of an era for Alberta’s outdoor retail scene. The company expressed deep appreciation for the community that has supported it for decades, both through purchases and involvement in charitable initiatives. One of its most notable contributions was through the Twoonies for Tents program, which raised over $120,000 for Easter Seals Camp Horizon, providing outdoor experiences for individuals with disabilities.
“Being part of Alberta’s outdoor community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” said General Manager Doug Dea. “We’ve swapped adventure stories, shared gear recommendations, and celebrated the great outdoors together at events and in our stores. This is more than just a business—it’s a community, and I will always cherish the connections we’ve built.”
Heartbreaking to see. Campers Village/Breathe has been a fixture of outdoor recreation for decades in a province heavily geared towards the outdoors.
No great loss (except for the 70 chronically undervalued employees). Had been infected with MEC disease (delusions of importance + loss of vision) for years… Any word if NT&A will still be a thing?