Bootlegger closed permanently on Sunday after the parent company decided to shutter all Canadian stores
It’s the end of an era at Station Mall – Bootlegger closed its doors for the last time on Sunday.
“After so many years, it’s hard to believe it’s time to say goodbye,” said Meghan Gallagher on social media.
“Bootlegger has been so much more than a workplace—it was a second home. It gave me friendships that became family, lessons I’ll carry forever, and memories that I’ll always look back on with a smile.”
SooToday spoke with Gallagher, a shift manager who worked at the store for four-and-a-half years, for information about the closure.
“From what we’ve been told, it wasn’t about our store or our team,” she said.
“It was part of a Canadian wide decision to close all Bootlegger locations. It’s heartbreaking because we had loyal customers and an amazing group of coworkers, and it’s sad to see something that’s been part of the community for so long come to an end.”
Gallagher didn’t entirely blame online shops such as Amazon for the closure.
“Retail has definitely changed over the years, but I think it’s probably a mix of a lot of factors. I just know it’s tough seeing our store and so many others close in our community.
“Especially in the mall. We don’t have much here for clothing stores.”
Warehouse One filed for bankruptcy protection in May.