Urgent Closure: Kiddie Kobbler on St. Laurent to Shut by March

URGENT UPDATE: The beloved Kiddie Kobbler store on St. Laurent Boulevard in Ottawa is set to close its doors permanently by the end of March 2024. Owner Robert “The Shoeman” Krantzberg announced his retirement, marking the end of an era for a store that has served families for over four decades.

Krantzberg, who has dedicated his life to providing quality footwear for children, expressed that the decision comes as he feels the physical toll of long hours. “I love what I do, but at this age, I’m starting to feel the aches and pains,” he said during an interview on CBC Radio. The store has been a cherished destination for parents seeking everything from their child’s first snow boots to their last pair of skateboard shoes.

The announcement, made via a social media post on Christmas Day, sparked an outpouring of emotional responses from loyal customers. Families have shared memories of shopping at Kiddie Kobbler across generations, with many expressing disbelief at the impending closure. Rachel Buliziuk, a mother from British Columbia, shared, “Whenever I come in here, it’s like he remembers me and my daughter and my entire family.”

For children like Britton Walby, aged 11, Kiddie Kobbler has been a staple in their lives. Walby, who received his first shoes from the store at just six months old, is uncertain about where he will shop once it closes. “I don’t know where I’ll go next if the shop does close,” he said.

While Krantzberg has not ruled out the possibility of selling the store to a new owner, he emphasized the importance of finding someone who shares his passion for the business. “I want someone who really loves what they’re doing and understands that it’s not just about making money,” he stated. He hopes to ensure that the store continues to provide an exceptional experience for customers.

As the community prepares for this significant loss, many are left wondering how they will fill the void left by Kiddie Kobbler. The store’s legacy of personalized service and quality care has made it a cornerstone of the Ottawa community.

With only a few months left, parents are encouraged to visit Kiddie Kobbler before it closes. The final days are expected to be filled with nostalgia as families gather to celebrate the store’s impact on their lives.

The closure of Kiddie Kobbler is a poignant reminder of the importance of small businesses in local communities. As Krantzberg takes a step back, the future of the store remains uncertain, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts of many Ottawa families.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the community prepares to say goodbye to a cherished institution.