Toys R Us Is Coming Back to Canada, But Not Where You

Remember wandering the aisles of Toys "R" Us as a kid? Well, the iconic toy retailer is making a comeback in Canada, and its new home might surprise you.

On Tuesday, November 3, Staples Canada announced a new partnership that will bring dedicated Toys "R" Us departments to nearly 300 of its stores across the country by the end of 2027.

And the first location is opening right here in the GTA.

A pilot store is scheduled to open November 14 at the Staples location on Red Maple Road in Richmond Hill, just in time for the holiday shopping season.

But don't expect the massive toy stores of years past. Instead, Toys "R" Us will operate as a store within a store, with its own dedicated section inside existing Staples locations.

The partnership will also introduce something new: Parties "R" Us, a department offering balloons, party decorations, seasonal products and birthday supplies.

The comeback follows a difficult year for the Canadian toy chain.

Earlier in 2026, Toys "R" Us Canada, then operated by Ontario businessman Doug Putman, filed for creditor protection after struggling with rising costs, supply chain disruptions, declining sales and competition from online shopping.

The company had already closed numerous locations, leaving many Canadians wondering whether the familiar brand was disappearing for good.

During the restructuring process, a company called Next Century purchased 150 Canadian Toys "R" Us trademarks, including the rights to Geoffrey the Giraffe, the familiar jingle and other recognizable elements of the brand.

Now, Next Century has partnered with Staples to bring Toys "R" Us back without having to rebuild a network of enormous standalone stores.

The companies also plan to sell toys through Staples' website.

It's a significant change for a brand that once dominated Canada's toy retail market. Whether shoppers embrace the smaller format remains to be seen, but for now, Toys "R" Us is getting another chance.