Going back to The Last Great Days of Retail

 

Unlike today, the 1980s and the large rows of shops, mostly independently owned, many of which have been owned by the same families for Generations. Jasper Ave in Edmonton or Yonge Street in Toronto were lined with everything from clothing and camera shops to non-franchised pubs and restaurants. 

In Edmonton, the Silk Hat Restaurant offered patrons the unique experience of having their tea leaves read by an experienced fortune teller at the conclusion of their meal. Alternatively, families could enjoy evenings together at Buffalo Bills Restaurant on Kingsway Avenue. For those seeking something distinctive, dining in settings themed as a jail or a sheriff's office was also available for special occasions.  

Toronto featured notable sports bars such as The All-Star Cafe, which displayed Dave Winfield's apology after he was arrested for throwing a baseball at a seagull during a Jays-Yankees game on Dundas west of Yonge. The venue was known for its spacious summer patio, offering views of the constant flow of pedestrians on their way to Yonge. Additionally, along Yonge Street, establishments like The Main Event just north of College offered themed nights, including steak and spaghetti specials, as well as highly popular chicken wings available every Monday and Wednesday for ten cents each.  

You didn’t have to spend time in places like the Eaton Center or other large shopping malls built in the 1970s, which were designed for shopper convenience with the “everything under one roof” idea—an approach that’s now fading or has already left many malls empty. Instead, people enjoyed finding everything they needed at the numerous shops lining the streets, while buskers sold goods from tables along the way. It was common to stop for a quick snack at the hot dog stand as you moved from store to store. 

This period marked the emergence of the first big-box stores and original bargain outlets, established by leading retailers of the era. Notable figures such as Ed Mirvish (Honest Ed’s), Howard Trifler (Howie’s), Herb Title (Herbie’s and Economy Fair), Hy Himmel (Hy and Zels), Steve Stavros (Knob Hill Farms), and Bill Comrie (The Brick, specializing in furniture) were instrumental in this transformation. These industry leaders capitalized on an open supply chain, enabling them to purchase goods in large volumes and maintain minimal overhead costs. Consequently, their establishments became prominent destinations for consumers, compelling competitors to adapt to the evolving retail landscape. 

It could be said that a level playing field was established, allowing every Canadian to live comfortably and with significantly less stress. 

As with all periods of growth, this era eventually came to an end, ushering in changes driven by technological advancement. Amazon began to significantly expand its influence across both the retail sector and major supply chains. Consequently, traditional retail experience began to decline, with franchises and corporate stores, as well as the fast-food industry, taking its place. While diversity has always played an important role in consumer choice, prevailing market trends now exert considerable influence over individuals' preferences in clothing, food, and lifestyle. 

It would be advantageous to have access to a wider range of options, rather than having choices restricted by the convenience offered by Amazon. This broader selection is something that was once highly valued, and over time, others may also come to recognize the benefits that were previously appreciated.