PHOTOS: Zellers opens third store as national rollout continues

Zellers made its return to Cambridge, Ont. Thursday (Nov. 12) as the iconic Canadian retailer's comeback continues. 

At 25,000 square feet, Zellers' small-format department store in the Cambridge Centre is stocked with apparel, home goods, toys, gifts, seasonal products, snacks and lifestyle essentials. 

New merchandise and offerings are continuing to roll out in response to customer feedback, Zellers said.  

Timed to the opening, Zellers has introduced its Zeddy Bear plushies across all stores. The mascot will be sold in two formats: the small key chain and the classic bear.

READ: Zellers to open 3 new Ontario stores, says sales ‘surpassing expectations’

The retailer first opened in the Cambridge Centre in 1996 before closing in 2013.

Joey Benitah, chief operating officer of Zellers, said customers lined up to see the new location as early as 8:30 a.m., with nearly 1,000 people walking through the doors within the first 30 minutes after opening. 

"Seeing that level of excitement and the number of people who came out to celebrate with us was incredibly rewarding,” Benitah said in a statement. “There is clearly so much affection for the Zellers name, and it was wonderful to see that enthusiasm shared across generations—from longtime customers who have fond memories of shopping at Zellers to families and younger shoppers discovering the brand in this new chapter. It reinforced for us why this comeback is so meaningful. We’re incredibly grateful to the Cambridge community for welcoming us so warmly, and we’re excited to become part of the local retail landscape."

See it for yourself in the gallery below. (Photos: Zellers)