Technology

Thomson, Weston families win Hudson’s Bay charter auction: retailer

2025-12-03 16:39
423 views
Thomson, Weston families win Hudson’s Bay charter auction: retailer

If a court approves the sale, the families will donate the charter to the Archives of Manitoba, the Manitoba Museum, the Canadian Museum of History and the Royal Ontario Museum.

The Thomson and Weston families have emerged victorious from a process meant to decide who will be able to purchase the royal charter that formed Hudson’s Bay.

HBC says holding companies belonging to the families have been chosen to purchase the document that dates back to 1670.

The announcement confirms reporting from The Canadian Press, which previously revealed no one came forward to bid against the Thomsons and Westons.

If a court approves the sale, the families will pay $18 million for the charter and donate it to the Archives of Manitoba, the Manitoba Museum, the Canadian Museum of History and the Royal Ontario Museum.

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The charter is one of the country’s most revered artifacts because it granted HBC control over one-third of modern Canada and laid the groundwork for mass colonialism.

Story continues below advertisement

The Thomsons and Westons are two of the country’s richest families. The Thomsons made their fortune in the media business, while the Westons are known for their ties to grocery giant Loblaw Cos. Ltd. and department store Holt Renfrew.

Click to play video: 'What will happen to Canada’s historic Hudson’s Bay buildings?' 1:55 What will happen to Canada’s historic Hudson’s Bay buildings?