It’s been a tough year for many businesses across the city, but some have had it harder than others. The closures of these 10 businesses below have felt like a blow for Metro Vancouver and its residents. While some have officially closed for good, others are completing their liquid sales before officially calling it quits.
Vancouver Business Closures in 2025
TOYS ‘R’ US
A childhood staple store, the beloved toy retailer Toys ‘R’ Us have closed many of their locations throughout Metro Vancouver this year. These locations include the Richmond store in Lansdowne Shopping Centre, Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown location, and the iconic storefront on Broadway. Only one location in Metro Vancouver remains today in Langley’s Willowbrook Shopping Centre.
CARTEMS DONUTS
After 14 years, Cartems Donuts sadly closed their doors on February 14th. Many mourned the loss of this iconic and popular Vancouver donut shop, which often ran out of donuts before the day ended. With their unique twists on classic donut flavours, it will be hard to fill the donut hole that their closure has left behind.
MELLO ARBUTUS
The Arbutus Mello location announced that they would be closing on February 17th. The popular donut shop was known for its richly-filled, brioche donuts and their delicious flavours such as Dark Chocolate Pudding and Peanut Butter & Jelly. Luckily, their Chinatown location remains open today.
HUDSON’S BAY
The historic Hudson’s Bay, founded in 1670 and the oldest corporation in North America, will be shutting its doors by June 30. The news sent shockwaves to shoppers across Canada as the retailer was a staple across malls and shopping centres. The liquidation began in March and is expected to be completed by June 15.
LIBERTE CAFE AND RESTAURANT
The Vancouver brunch spot Liberte Cafe and Restaurant, known for its Filipino-inspired dishes, announced on Instagram that they would be officially closing their doors due to rent increases. Described as “exorbitant”, they have chosen to not renew their lease due to the price hike. Fortunately, Liberte noted that they will be opening a new location soon, and although an exact location and date have not been announced, you can keep an eye out for Liberte’s return, hopefully in the near future.
Don Oso’s
Mexican restaurant Don Oso’s has closed both of their doors as of April. Their Burnaby location was recently sold throughout March, which followed the closure of their Vancouver location at the end of January. Don Oso’s explained that due to “rising operating costs“, they could no longer sustain the business, and were forced to close shop. Don Oso’s Burnaby location is being rebranded into Sabrosito under its new ownership, and plans to offer the same menu as Don Oso’s did.
Rufus Guitar Shop
Rufus Guitar Shop closed their original location in February after 40 years of service. Being open since 1984, the Alma Street storefront has served musicians and music enthusiasts for many, many years. Owner Blaine McNamee explained in a Facebook video that they “decided to move everything to Commercial.” Their Commercial Drive location, opened in 2019, now contains all of Rufus Guitar Shop’s inventory, lessons, and repairs.
Hive Cafe
The beloved Hive Cafe in New Westminster on Front St. closed their doors in early 2025. The much-adored shop served all the cafe classics: ranging from coffees to matcha, sandwiches to wraps, and cookies to cakes, Hive Cafe had it all. Their Instagram currently reads “HIVE is permanently closed, thank you for all the years and memories we spent together.” Hive Cafe will certainly be missed, as many mourn their fantastic coffee.
Kulinarya Filipino Eatery
It’s sad to say, but after 15 amazing years, Kulinarya Filipino Eatery closed their very first location in Coquitlam on January 26th. They announced their closure on Instagram with a heartfelt message to the Coquitlam community, thanking them for all their support over the years. Although they did not state the reasons for their closure, Kulinarya did mention that their decision to close is “part of a larger vision.” In the future, they hope to open a bigger and better-suited location for their customers.
Ramen One
Ramen One announced their imminent closure after only one year of service. The business explained on an Instagram post,”After much thought and a difficult decision, we have made the choice to close Ramen One.” The restaurant served exactly what their name says: rich, delicious ramen. Their last day open will be May 19, so you still have some time to try their noodles before they officially shut down.
Which business will you miss most?
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