Holt, Renfrew & Co Ltd
Founded: 1866, William S Henderson. Quebec City, Canada
Still in operation with 7 locations.
William Ashton & Co, renamed in 1847 to William Henderson & Co. William sold to his brother John in 1862, store then became John Henderson & Co. and George Renfrew joined their business. 1867 John Henderson retires. Renfrew and Marcou, the remaining principals rename their firm to Renfrew & Marcou. They began promoting fur garments through 1888 and by 1890 had a mail order catalog and many Notable customers including Canadas First Prime Minister and the British Royal Family. 1937 was their 100 year anniversary. After the war they became Canadas leading furrier & fashion retailer. They secured Canadian rights to Haute Couture fashions. In 1952, Christian Dior was a guest of honor at Holts Montreal. In 1962 they secured an exclusive agreement with Yves St Laurent. In 2005 after a few changes of ownership and management, Holts underwent major rebranding. Selfridges changed the stores logo to reflect the company’s history. In 2012 Holt Renfrew celebrated its 175th anniversary.