CLOSURE: Last Canadian store of U.S. chain closes in Ontario

The last brick-and-mortar store of a popular U.S. chain has closed in Ontario.

The Oshawa Centre location of Yankee Candle has closed. A sign on the door announced the closure.

“This store is closing, but this isn’t goodbye!” the sign said.

The sign notes the nearest location is now in Niagara Falls, New York.

The Oshawa store was the last Yankee Candle location in Canada, marking an exit from the country after 14 years, a Retail Insider story noted.

The company is also closing stores in the U.S.

In a press release on Dec. 1, parent company Newell Brands announced it would close approximately 20 Yankee Candle stores in the United States and Canada, with closures expected to take effect in January 2026.

“We’ve made meaningful progress executing our strategy and strengthening Newell Brands, but there is more work to do,” said Chris Peterson, Newell Brands president and chief executive officer. “Ultimately, our goal is to deliver greater value for consumers and create sustained long-term value for our shareholders.”

The shop, which sold scented candles, home fragrances and gifts, was popular.

“I’m so sad that the only and last Yankee Candle store in Oshawa, Canada will be closing down,” a customer wrote on Google Reviews. “Now it’s off to the US to grab my beloved candles.”

Yankee Candle began after founder Mike Kittredge, then 16 years old, melted crayons to make a homemade candle for his mother for Christmas in 1969, according to the company’s website. He later began to design and handcraft candles in his family’s kitchen.

The company has changed hands several times and once had about 12 stores in southern Ontario with plans to eventually reach 50 locations nationwide, Retail Insider noted.

Fans of Yankee Candles can still find the brand in Canada. The products are sold in Canadian Tire, Walmart, Staples Canada and other retailers, Retail Insider noted.

Lead photo: Tim Mossholder