Grand Opening on October 21
The Rideau Centre store spanning over 20,000 square feet
will be the 7th location for the Quebec-based retailer.
Ottawa, ON, October 13, 2023 – Imaginaire is delighted to announce the long-awaited Grand Opening of Imaginaire Ottawa at the CF Rideau Centre on October 21, 2023.
The new store will be located next to Simons on floors 3 and 4, occupying an area of approximately 20,000 square feet, making it one of the largest specialized stores in the region. This marks the retailer's first location outside of Quebec, representing a $2 million investment. Imaginaire has also hired over 50 qualified employees.
Founded in Quebec in 1986, Imaginaire is a leading retailer of popular culture products, comics, board games, stamps, and collectible cards in Canada. With a strong online presence and multiple stores in Quebec, Imaginaire has become a cherished destination for fans of all ages and backgrounds.
As an authorized numismatic dealer by the Royal Canadian Mint and a recognized authorized bookstore by the Ministry of Culture of Quebec, Imaginaire continues to provide a platform for interaction with enthusiasts and collectors.
Grand Opening Highlights
One Million Dollar Coin
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., buyers will have the unique opportunity to view and take a photo with a rare one million dollar coin that rarely leaves the vault of the Royal Canadian Mint.
Cosplay Celebrities
Costumed characters from your favorite popular culture universes will roam the Rideau Centre and the store.
Gift Bags
The first 900 customers will receive gift bags containing snacks and games.
$1,000 Gift Card Contest
Those who share the news of the official opening of our Ottawa store on social media using the hashtags #makesomenoise4ott and #Ottawa, and by tagging the store, will have a chance to win one of three $1,000 gift cards.
o Facebook: BoutiqueImaginaire
o Instagram: Imaginaire.86
o TikTok: BoutiqueImaginaire
Media Activities
Grand Opening on October 21, 2023
9:30 am to 10 am: Reception and store tour with the owners for VIPs and the media.
10 am: Ribbon cutting in the presence of prominent personalities, local dignitaries, and special VIP guests.
Pre-Opening Visit and Interview
To visit the store in person before the official opening or to arrange an interview with founder Benoit Doyon or co-owner Dave Doyon, please contact:
Valérie Gervais
Valerie@rkestra.ca, 613-741-9376
Franca Palazzo
Franca@rkestra.ca, 905-978-0828
Additional Information
Our website: https://imaginaire.com
March 2023 press release: https://imaginaire.com/fr/blogue/article/203
Past media coverage:
Ottawa Business Journal, Tuesday, April 11: Quebec hobby store to occupy two-storey location in Rideau Centre, opening slated for October
Retail Insider, Sunday, April 16, 2023: https://retail-insider.com/retail-insider/2023/04/quebec-retailer-imaginaire-entering-ontario-with-20000-sf-2-level-downtown-ottawa-store-interview/
Photos and videos of the store's progress: https://we.tl/t-b3F6fPuNzQ