Nordstrom Rack coming to Yonge & Bloor

Well, not for another two years, but still (and hopefully, the markets will be a bit less volatile. Not super-happy with my investment portfolio right now, but at least the markets opened higher today (February 16)). I’m not surprised that they are – Yonge and Bloor is slowly becoming more “mid-range” or entry level lux, with many of the higher, more prestige brands moving a block or two north. And really, why open another “regular” and more expensive Nordstrom when the flagship is just a short subway ride away?

Nordstrom Rack sign

This will, according to Retail-Insider, be Canada’s first Nordstrom Rack location. Featuring items at 30-70% less than “regular” Nordstrom stores, this spot will be approximately 38,000 square feet and will have subway access (in other words, you can go from the flagship store at the Eaton Centre to Nordstrom Rack without being outside) at One Bloor. It is also part of a commercial and residence building. Lucky for those who live in the condo above as they won’t need to wear coats when it’s cold out, nor would they need umbrellas when it rains.

What *IS* interesting, however, is Nordstrom Rack seems to be the first retailer announced for the building (though there have been rumours, including an Apple flagship) considering that it is near completion. I hope more stores are going to be announced soon and that One Bloor won’t be another Shops at Aura. Or at least Shops at Aura until Nordstrom Rack opens.

Is this a good location, or would you have preferred that Nordstrom Rack open elsewhere? Perhaps in North York? Other than North York (perhaps near Bayview Village) or somewhere in the 905 (Oakville or Markham, demographically speaking), I’m unsure which part of the GTA would be ideal. The financial district COULD work if one finds the space (hey, wardrobe emergencies happen while at work. That’s probably why there’s a Winners at Scotia Plaza). Of course, one could note that it’s a bit TOO close to the flagship, while Yonge and Bloor is less so (to an extent, anyway).

Image credit: Susan Montgomery / Shutterstock.com

About Cynthia Cheng Mintz

Cynthia Cheng Mintz is the founder and webitor-in-chief of this site and the petite-focused site, Shorty Stories. She has also written for other publications including the Toronto Star and has blogged for The Huffington Post. Her first novel, Aspirations, was published in 2007. Outside of writing, Cynthia researches and advises philanthropic ideas for family funds and foundations and also volunteers.