Big Buddies News
News like this is hard to share, but this Spring Buddies Toys will be closing its doors. Our last day is set for April 4, 2026 (That is the Saturday of Easter weekend). The reason isn't very exciting I'm afraid... I'm just very ready for a change. The store's lease is up in April and in order to stay I'd need to commit to another 5 years. This has lead me to reflect on what I want for my own future and I realize that I do not have the energy or excitement that it takes to navigate the next years of retail. I'm ready for something different, and feel like the world is aligning to tell me now is the time.
When I told my mom and Aunt Carol (who started this store in 1989) they both said I was doing the right thing. I'm very lucky to have mentors that know what this job is really like and I'm not about to ignore their advice. My husband and kids are excited for me to rest for a moment and know that I'll soon be ready for something new. Perhaps a job that means Christmas doesn't take over my life for six months of the year?
I'll be forever grateful to the community here in Sidney and the connections I've made across Canada. The toy industry is a small one and many sales reps and companies have known me since I was a teenager. I'll especially miss the humans I'm working with here at the store right now. We've had a few tears over the last few weeks of planning together with staff, and telling each one of them reminded me how lucky I am to have staff that have been here through all the craziness that the last 10 years have thrown at us.
Now for the "jump to the recipe" part of the story... what will happen over the next few weeks.
Small Print for Closing Sale - all sales exclude LEGO, Jellycats & Clearance Items
February Sale: Buy 2 or more items instore or online and receive 15% off your entire purchase.
Exclusions: You can include Jellycat & Lego in your purchase, but they will not be discountable. Clearance items can also be included, but will not discount any further.
And be sure to check out our massive clearance section that is already packed with amazing deals anywhere from 20-90% off
The nitty gritty rules are as follows
Points Program: As of February 2, 2026 you'll no longer be earning any points on your purchase but points on your account will be available to use until we close our doors.
Gift Cards: As of February 2, 2026 they will no longer available for purchase, but can be used in store or online until the store is closed.
Returns and Exchanges? No money back on any purchases made after February 2, 2026. Exchanges for duplicate birthday presents etc. will be accepted for the month of February however you will need to do the exchange in store and we won't be able to offer store credit towards a later purchase (ie you must use the exchange value in store that day)
We aren't intending to be misers about this, if you have a question or hoping for an exception to these rules, all we ask is that you email us here before heading into the store.
