Canada’s oldest company, the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC), continues to live on through the world of philately. From commemorative stamps and first-day covers to rare postmarks from remote trading posts, HBC’s role in Canada’s postal history remains a fascinating chapter for collectors and historians alike.
This deep philatelic connection takes on added significance as Canadian Tire Corporation prepares to acquire HBC’s brand assets in a $30 million deal. While the HBC’s iconic Stripes and coat of arms have graced Canadian mail for centuries, they’re now set to find a new home in Canadian Tire’s retail banners. The sale, announced this May, is part of HBC’s broader exit from the retail market after filing for creditor protection and announcing plans to end operations by June 15.
Before formal postal services emerged in Canada, HBC’s remote trading posts such as York Factory and Moose Factory acted as de facto post offices, with letters bearing handstamps and markings that are now prized by postal historians. These artifacts chart not only the company’s legacy but also Canada’s postal and commercial evolution.
Even as Canadian Tire reimagines the HBC brand for a new generation, collectors will continue to treasure the early covers, official correspondence, and postmarks that tell the story of a company that once defined the fur trade and helped forge the Canadian frontier – one letter at a time.
Be sure to read the entire story in the current issue of Canadian Stamp News, V50N05. To subscribe, visit here.