French luxury makeup and skincare brand Clarins has announced its decision to withdraw from Hudson's Bay stores across Canada. This development, confirmed on May 23, 2024 by CTV News, marks the end of a longstanding partnership between the two companies.
The high-end cosmetic brand, including skincare and makeup, has been a staple in Hudson's Bay stores for years. Clarins and Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) described the decision to part ways as mutual. In emails to CTVNews.ca, representatives from both companies emphasized that changes to their brand matrix are a normal part of business operations. Tiffany Bourré, Vice-President of Corporate Communications with Hudson's Bay in Toronto, stated, "Clarins has been a valued brand partner to Hudson's Bay, and this decision was made mutually."
Leila Yahyaoui, public relations director for Clarins Canada, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the natural evolution of business relationships. "The long-term relationship between our two companies has always been underlined by values and principles. Clarins and Hudson's Bay have mutually agreed to this decision," she said. However, neither company provided specific reasons for the withdrawal or detailed plans for Clarins' presence in Canada.
Founded 70 years ago, the Clarins Group is a family-owned company with a global footprint. It employs 8,000 people worldwide and operates in nearly 150 countries through 28 subsidiaries. The company offers two main brands, Clarins and myBlend, which include luxury skincare products and beauty tech, such as LED masks. Despite pulling out of Hudson's Bay, Clarins products will still be available in other Canadian retail outlets like Shoppers Drug Mart and Sephora.
This move comes amid broader changes within Hudson's Bay Company. Recently, HBC has been navigating a challenging retail environment, leading to organizational realignments and downsizing. On May 2, 2024, it was reported that Hudson's Bay would lay off less than 1% of its workforce as part of these adjustments. Additionally, the company announced the closure of its Regina location by April 2025, although the Saskatoon Midtown Plaza store will remain operational.
Hudson's Bay, one of Canada's oldest and most iconic retail brands, continues to adapt to evolving market dynamics. Acquired by NRDC Equity Partners in 2008, HBC now operates under a Bermuda-based holding company, which also includes other prominent retail names like Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks OFF 5TH.
