When Capitalism Bites. The Demise of Hudson's Bay Company: A Reflection on Loss and Change

Today I reflect on a loss that seems personal, a loss that is significant enough to possibly affect many Canadians for generations to come: the closure of the majority of Hudson's Bay Company stores. This news is monumental, especially for those of us who have grown up with the Bay as a staple in our lives. The company will keep only six stores open, marking a significant shift in the retail landscape.

For those unfamiliar, Hudson's Bay Company is not just any store; it's the oldest company in Canada, with a history dating back to 1670. Its impact on Canadian culture and history is profound, having shaped the country's borders and economy. The closure of most of its stores feels like the end of an era, much like when other iconic stores like Zellers closed their doors.

The Impact of Technological Change

As someone who works with vintage equipment and has researched corporate decisions during technological transitions, I see parallels between the demise of Hudson's Bay and the shift from analog to digital technologies. When film transitioned to digital photography, many rash decisions were made that transformed our experiences. Similarly, the invention of the iPhone revolutionized how we use phones, cameras, calculators, and personal organizers. While convenient, this shift has led to a loss of variety and the tangible, durable technology of the past.

The Convenience Myth

We've been sold the idea that digital technology is more convenient, but this convenience often comes at a cost. For example, I recently unboxed a Sony Watchman, a tiny portable TV that exemplifies the beauty of analog technology. Analog devices evolved naturally, following the demand of the masses, unlike digital technology, which is often driven by capitalist motives.

The transition from analog to digital television promised more channels and better resolution, but it also led to the loss of free on-air channels. Digital conversion allowed for encryption, monetizing what was once free. This shift reflects the hyper-capitalist society we live in, where greed drives many decisions.

The Loss of Physical Experiences

The closure of Hudson's Bay stores is another marker of our increasingly mundane existence. We're losing physical experiences that brought joy, like browsing movies at Blockbuster or shopping at the Bay with family. These activities were more fulfilling than sitting on a couch and browsing videos online. The Bay's closure is a significant loss for Canadian culture, as it was more than just a store; it was a part of our heritage.

A Call to Reconsider

As we move forward, let's reconsider the impact of convenience and digitization on our lives. The loss of Hudson's Bay is a reminder that not all progress is beneficial. We need to cherish and preserve the experiences and technologies that bring us joy and fulfillment.

Those are my thoughts for tonight. Have a good night, everyone.