Kiddie Kobbler on St. Laurent to Close as Owner Retires After 40 Years

After serving the Ottawa community for over four decades, Kiddie Kobbler on St. Laurent Boulevard is set to close as its owner, Robert “The Shoeman” Krantzberg, announces his retirement at the end of March 2024. The store has been a beloved destination for parents seeking children’s footwear, from baby snow boots to skate shoes for teenagers.

A Legacy of Care and Community

Krantzberg, who has been a fixture in the shoe retail industry since his teenage years, expressed mixed emotions about his decision. “I love what I do, people see me happy, I’m here every day,” he told CBC Radio’s “All In A Day.” 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 long hours and physical demands of the job have led him to consider a different pace of life.

Starting his career at a Kiddie Kobbler store in Montreal, Krantzberg opened his first location at just 19 years old. His vision has always been to create an inviting atmosphere for children and their families. This commitment has resulted in multiple generations of families returning to his store for their children’s footwear needs.

Customer Rachel Buliziuk, who now lives in British Columbia, reflected on her longstanding connection to the store. “I’ve been buying shoes from Kiddie Kobbler since I was a child,” she said. She continues to shop there for her three-year-old daughter, highlighting the personal touch Krantzberg has always offered. “Whenever I come in here, it’s like he remembers me and my daughter and my entire family,” she added.

Community Reactions and Future Possibilities

The announcement of the store’s closure was made via a Christmas Day post on social media, prompting an outpouring of support and fond memories from customers. Many expressed gratitude for the quality of service they received over the years, with some traveling significant distances to shop there.

For young customers like Britton Walby, Kiddie Kobbler has been the go-to shoe store for most of their lives. “I got my first pair of shoes from the location when I was only half a year old,” Walby shared. He expressed uncertainty about where he would shop if the store closes as planned.

Despite his retirement plans, Krantzberg has not ruled out the possibility of selling the store to a new owner. He emphasized the importance of finding someone who shares his passion for children and customer service. “I want someone who has experience with children, someone that really loves what they’re going to be doing,” he stated. “They should know that it’s not just about making money, but about bringing a great experience to the people that come through my door.”

The impending closure of Kiddie Kobbler marks the end of an era for many families in Ottawa. As Krantzberg prepares to step back, the future of the store remains uncertain, yet the legacy of care and community engagement he fostered will undoubtedly remain in the hearts of many.