Ottawa’s Kiddie Kobbler closing as owner retires

Kiddie Kobbler Owner Announces Retirement

For four decades, Ottawa parents have turned to Kiddie Kobbler for their children’s footwear needs. This includes everything from a baby’s first snow boots to a child’s last skateboard shoes before adulthood.

However, parents may need to find a new store soon. The owner of the St. Laurent Boulevard location has announced his retirement at the end of March.

Robert “The Shoeman” Krantzberg, the owner and store supervisor, expressed his feelings about retiring. “I love what I do, people see me happy, I’m here every day,” he said. He added, “But at this age right now, I’m starting to feel the aches and pains. It’s taking its toll on me. The hours are long, and I feel like I’d like to just, you know, maybe take a step back.”

History of Kiddie Kobbler

Krantzberg began working at a Kiddie Kobbler store in Montreal as a teenager. He owned his first store at just 19 years old. His goal was to create a store that children love to visit. This has led to multiple generations of families returning to buy shoes over the years.

Rachel Buliziuk has been a customer since childhood. She now shops at the St. Laurent Boulevard location for her three-year-old daughter, even though she lives in British Columbia.

Customer Reactions to Store Closure

When the store announced its closing on Christmas Day via social media, many customers shared their thoughts. They reflected on the quality care and attention they received from the staff. Some comments came from local customers, while others were from across the country.

Buliziuk shared her experience, saying, “Whenever I come in here, it’s like he remembers me and my daughter and my entire family.” Her mother also bought shoes from the St. Laurent location when Buliziuk was a child.

For younger customers like 11-year-old Britton Walby, the Kiddie Kobbler has been their main shoe store. Walby got his first pair of shoes there at six months old. He is unsure where he will go if the store closes after March.

Future of Kiddie Kobbler

Krantzberg has not ruled out selling the store to new ownership. He is looking for someone with experience with children. He wants someone who loves the business and is excited to take over.

He emphasized that it’s not just about making money. It’s also about providing a great experience for customers.