The first ever Giant Tiger store celebrated it’s 65th anniversary this weekend in Ottawa’s ByWard Market, a local success story that has spread across the country. The retailer opened its first Ottawa store in 1961 and is best known for its bright yellow tiger logo and discount prices. On Saturday, a crowd of shoppers lined up for the anniversary party held at the flagship store. “Customers always want to save and they always want an amazing deal, it’s always in style,” said Alison Scarlett, the head of public relations and communications for Giant Tiger. The discount chain was founded by Gordon Reid and has since expanded to 260 locations in Canada. For more than six decades, the store has offered a variety of goods, from clothing to home essentials, and food. “I just love Giant Tiger,” said Alison Scarlett, who was shopping with a friend. “I’m just looking around and browsing. I got a nice gift card outside in honour of the birthday, so I’m feeling lucky today.” The first 65 customers at the store on both Saturday and Sunday received a free $10 gift card and treats. Children were also taking part in face painting and posing with the company mascot “Friendly.” Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe presented a plaque proclaiming May 3 as Giant Tiger Day. “It’s a great institution in the ByWard Market,” Sutcliffe said. “Many people have been coming here over the years and it’s just a great example of a local business success story. We’re very proud of Giant Tiger and everything they’ve done for the community.” Municipal, provincial and federal politicians also presented speeches and plaques to honour the business. Giant Tiger presented a $1,000 cheque to the Ottawa Art Gallery to show support for the local art community to celebrate the milestone. “We’re both students, so it’s constantly looking for the best deal that we can,” said Isabelle Leahey Jay, who was shopping with a friend. Staff put forward a mandate of price matching and discounts. “I feel proud working here,” said Swadi Singh, a Giant Tiger supervisor. “When I joined, they told me that this is the first store in Canada, so every time when customers start talking to me and asking about history, I start out of nowhere.” Each store location is locally owned and operated, including the location in the ByWard Market.
