Historic CanaDay's Apparel Auction Marks End of Moose Jaw Manufacturing Era

The upcoming auction of CanaDay's Apparel Ltd. scheduled for August 22, 2024, represents a significant moment in Moose Jaw's industrial history, marking the final chapter for a company that served as an economic cornerstone for over six decades. Established in 1954, CanaDay's Apparel Ltd. employed more than 300 local residents at its peak and supplied major Canadian retailers including Hudson Bay, Woodward's, and Mark's Work Warehouse with high-quality men's clothing. The auction will feature 916 items ranging from industrial equipment to nostalgic memorabilia, drawing attention from both local community members and international collectors interested in preserving Canadian manufacturing heritage.

Murray King, a former merchandising agent who dedicated nearly 60 years to the company, expressed mixed emotions about the auction, stating he would be happy to relieve the economic burden of maintaining the operation while acknowledging the company's successful history. The auction's significance extends beyond financial transactions, serving as a preservation effort for Moose Jaw's industrial legacy. Jeff Schwarz, known as The Liquidator from reality television, emphasized the company's substantial impact on the community, noting that a business employing over 300 people represented a very significant part of Moose Jaw for many years.

The auction will take place at two locations in Moose Jaw: Lots 1-499 at 115 Coronation Drive and Lots 500+ at 429 River Street West, the latter being the site of the company's popular Pic-a-Pant outlet. Meryll Dreyer, COO of Direct Liquidations, highlighted the historical importance of the event, stating that CanaDay's has an iconic story because of its 63-year history and iconic warehouse. The company's equipment and memorabilia include sewing machines, pressure rollers, industrial washers, chairs, and vintage exit signs that collectively tell the story of Canadian apparel manufacturing during the latter half of the 20th century.

Interested parties can participate through DirectAuctions.ca on August 22, 2024, starting at 10 AM CST, with a preview day scheduled for August 21st from 10 AM to 5 PM CST. The global reach of this auction is noteworthy as items can be shipped worldwide, potentially attracting international buyers interested in Canadian manufacturing history or vintage industrial equipment. For those interested in the commercial property itself, viewing opportunities are available from July 24th to August 20th for walkthroughs or inspections, potentially attracting investors or businesses looking to repurpose the historic manufacturing space.

This auction represents more than just the sale of assets; it serves as a celebration of CanaDay's Apparel Ltd.'s remarkable journey and its lasting impact on Moose Jaw. For collectors, history enthusiasts, and local residents, the event offers a unique opportunity to own tangible pieces of the city's industrial past while acknowledging the end of an era for one of Moose Jaw's most iconic businesses. The preservation and distribution of these artifacts through the auction process ensures that the legacy of Canadian manufacturing and local economic history will continue to be appreciated by future generations.