Thousands of Calgarians over the past six decades have walked through the doors of Breath Outdoors—formerly known as Campers Village—but soon those doors will be closed for good.
The company announced that after 62 years serving Albertans’ outdoor needs, changing market conditions have led the company’s owners to wind down the business.
The company rebranded in 2021, in an effort to focus more on the lifestyle and outdoor options the company provided beyond camping.
Breathe Outdoors general manager Doug Dea said, in a statement to customers posted to their site, that the company would undergo a gradual wind down rather than closing the business overnight to support staff in transitioning away from the company, and to meet financial obligations.
“Being part of Alberta’s outdoor community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. We’ve swapped adventure stories, shared gear recommendations, and celebrated the great outdoors together at events and in our stores. This is more than just a business—it’s a community, and I will always cherish the connections we’ve built,” the post read.
He said that the decision to close Breathe’s three Alberta locations was in no way due to the staff employed by the company, but rather the shifts in the retail and outdoor industry.
“It is clear that with the downturn in the economy, with the challenges faced by the retail industry and the outdoor industry specifically, it is unsustainable for Breathe Outdoors to continue operations,” Dea wrote.
“As this transition will be a gradual wind down and not a rapid liquidation closure, your support for our local Alberta company is more important than ever.”
In an FAQ provided by Breathe for the public, a tentative closure date for the Calgary Breathe Outdoors is Sept. 30, depending on how much stock remains.
The company said that they had already placed orders for spring and summer stock, but would not be placing any more orders for product.
Breathe’s Camper Club program will be closing on March 31, and all sales will become final in Calgary after August 1.
“We are incredibly proud of our employees, who have put their hearts into making this business what it is today. Let this also be an important reminder to support and champion the local businesses you love,” the online post read.
The news came as other local speciality retailers have also announced their closures.
Another Dimension comics, which specializes in comic books and pop culture related merchandise, also announced that it would be closing after operating for over four decades.
“All good things must end. After 42 years in business, Another Dimension Comics has made the difficult decision to close our doors,” said the retailer in a message to its customers.
“A big thank you to all the people who have supported us through this long journey. It has been a pleasure to serve the Calgary community for the last four decades but the time has come to turn the page and begin a new chapter.”
That business is set to close on April 26.
According to statistics provided by Statistics Canada, the number of new retail businesses opening in Alberta was matched by the number of closing retail businesses in the province in 2024.
