The Archbalt store on Rue Berry is closing its doors

The popular Archbalt store at the corner of Berry and Sainte-Catherine est in Montreal will close permanently next summer.

The company, which made the announcement to its employees on Friday, indicates that less and less favorable commercial opportunities for Place Emilie-Gamelin can no longer be ignored. “The vast number of construction sites that are multiplying in this sector have major implications that must be taken into account in predicting the future of the storefront retail business,” a statement said.

Despite investments in recent years, Archambault Group believes that consumer habits have changed and that it is no longer possible to ensure profitable operations. Thirty employees will lose their jobs and the union said it regrets the closure.

What does the future hold for the Archambault brand?

The company clarified that it is not asking for the legendary store sign to be removed when the branch closes. Remember that this important symbol of Montreal’s urban heritage was removed in 2018 before being reinstalled in the face of popular pressure. Quebecor, which became the owner of the building at that time, also became the owner of the emblem panel and promised to ensure its preservation.

The business, which started in 1896, remains open until June 30.