HMV returned to Canada in 2024 as branded shop-in-shops inside Toys“R”Us—not as a chain of standalone HMV stores. Toys“R”Us Canada announced that the HMV Shop had expanded to its stores across the country and online, but that dated announcement does not establish which locations still carry HMV products. As of October 8, 2026, the retailer’s website says online checkout is temporarily unavailable.
What “HMV is back” means
HMV’s Canadian return was an in-store section within Toys“R”Us. The Canadian Press reported that HMV’s 102 Canadian stores had shuttered in 2017, and that the brand began reappearing in a small number of Toys“R”Us locations in early 2024. The new format brought HMV merchandise back to retail shelves without reopening the former standalone chain. The Canadian Press report carried by Global News described the initial rollout and its context.
MobileSyrup reported that Doug Putman owned both HMV’s parent company and Toys“R”Us. The Canadian Press also identified Putman Investments as owner of both retailers. That connection helps explain how the shop-in-shop arrangement was possible, but reporting does not establish one definitive business rationale for the decision. MobileSyrup’s January 2024 report named the first locations.
How the rollout changed in 2024
The first five Ontario locations
In January and February 2024, reports identified HMV sections in five Ontario Toys“R”Us stores: Mississauga, Argentia in Mississauga, Brantford, Burlington and Pickering. The Canadian Press reported that expansion to more Toys“R”Us Canada stores was expected that spring. These were the locations reported at the start of the rollout, not a current store list.
#1 Best Overall
- Iconic Character: Geoffrey from Toys R Us, a beloved ad icon, immortalized in this Funko Pop! vinyl figure
- Exclusive Design: Macy's exclusive version featuring Geoffrey with globe, adding a unique touch to your collection
- Quality Material: Crafted with durable vinyl, ensuring long-lasting play or display
- Perfect for Collectors: Stands at 3.5 inches, ideal for displaying alongside other Funko Pop! figures
- Birthday Gift Idea: Officially licensed, themed around the occasion, making it a great gift for any birthday celebration
The announced national and online expansion
On October 3, 2024, Toys“R”Us Canada announced that the HMV Shop had landed in its stores across Canada and online at toysrus.ca. The release described the retailer as having more than 80 stores at that time; that figure is not a current store count. The company’s announcement documented a national rollout then, but does not confirm that every store still has an HMV section. Toys“R”Us Canada’s October 2024 announcement gives its dated description.
What the HMV Shop was reported to sell
The 2024 descriptions included physical music and video media as well as pop-culture merchandise. The Canadian Press listed CDs, DVDs, vinyl records, record players, T-shirts and books. Toys“R”Us Canada later described vinyl records, DVDs, apparel and collectibles. Those are reported categories, not a promise that any particular format or item is currently stocked.
For readers interested in records generally, vinyl records is a product category separate from HMV’s availability: that link does not indicate that HMV or Toys“R”Us sells any particular record.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you still find HMV in Toys“R”Us?
Current HMV locations and inventory are not established by the available announcements. On February 3, 2026, Toys“R”Us Canada announced that it had begun proceedings under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA), planned to reduce its retail footprint, and said active stores would remain open during the process. The notice did not identify which stores host HMV sections. The company’s CCAA announcement describes the proceedings and its stated plan.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →As of October 8, 2026, the Toys“R”Us Canada homepage says online checkout is temporarily unavailable during a website upgrade, with online purchasing expected to return later in 2026. The notice does not confirm current HMV inventory or locations. Check the retailer’s current homepage, then contact the specific store before making a trip; historical rollout information is not enough to verify a present-day counter or item.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Toy Collecting design. Wear your for toys and laughter on your sleeve, literally! Our graphic tee, with the cheeky statement, " I'm a toy r' us kid!" is a must-have for anyone who knows that age is just a number
- Embrace your inner child with our hilarious graphic tee that proudly declares, " I'm a toy r' us kid!" Relive those joyful toy store memories and spread laughter
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Rank #4
- Geoffrey the Giraffe pop stand 3 ¾ inches tall, perfect for any Pop Ad Icons collector
- Ships in .50 mm acid-free PET plastic Pop Protector
- Exclusive sticker affixed
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
