Ottawa’s Kiddie Kobbler to Close as Owner Robert Krantzberg Retires

The beloved Kiddie Kobbler store on St. Laurent Boulevard in Ottawa will close its doors permanently at the end of March 2024, following the retirement announcement of its owner, Robert Krantzberg. For over four decades, this family-owned business has been a go-to destination for parents seeking quality footwear for their children, from their first pair of snow boots to the last pair of skateboard shoes before adulthood.

Krantzberg, affectionately known as “The Shoeman,” shared his decision during an interview with CBC Radio’s All In A Day. “I love what I do, people see me happy, I’m here every day,” he stated. “But at this age right now, I’m starting to feel the aches and pains. It’s taking its toll on me. The hours are long, and I feel like I’d like to just, you know, maybe take a step back.”

### A Legacy of Family Connections

Krantzberg’s journey in the footwear industry began as a teenager when he started working at a Kiddie Kobbler location in Montreal. By the age of 19, he owned his first store, with a vision to create a welcoming environment for children and their families. Over the years, he has built strong connections with customers, leading to generations of families returning to the St. Laurent store.

Rachel Buliziuk, a loyal customer who has been purchasing shoes from this location since childhood, now travels from British Columbia to shop for her three-year-old daughter. She reflects on her experiences, saying, “Whenever I come in here, it’s like he remembers me and my daughter and my entire family.” This sentiment is echoed by many who have relied on Kiddie Kobbler for their children’s footwear needs.

### Community Impact and Future Possibilities

The announcement of the store’s closure was made in a Christmas Day social media post, prompting an outpouring of nostalgic comments from customers. Many shared their appreciation for the personalized service and attention they received from the staff. For example, Britton Walby, an 11-year-old customer, expressed uncertainty about where he will buy shoes if the store closes, noting that he got his first pair of shoes there when he was just six months old.

While Krantzberg has confirmed the closure, he has not ruled out the possibility of selling the store to someone who shares his passion for children’s footwear. “Someone who has experience with children, someone that really is going to love what they’re going to be doing and is really excited about taking over this business,” he explained. He emphasized that the new owner should understand that running the store is not solely about profit, but about creating a positive experience for customers.

As the community prepares to say goodbye to this cherished establishment, the legacy of Kiddie Kobbler and its commitment to quality service will undoubtedly be missed. Krantzberg’s dedication to fostering relationships and providing exceptional care has left a lasting impression on many families in Ottawa and beyond.