For over forty years, Kiddie Kobbler has been a go-to destination for Ottawa parents seeking footwear for their children, from snow boots to skateboard shoes. However, the store’s owner of the St. Laurent Boulevard branch has recently revealed plans to retire by the end of March.
Robert Krantzberg, known as “The Shoeman,” expressed his love for his work but cited physical strain and long hours as reasons for stepping back at this stage of his life. Having started his journey at a Montreal Kiddie Kobbler store in his teenage years, Krantzberg’s vision was to create a welcoming store for children, leading to loyal customers spanning multiple generations.
The announcement of the store’s closure on social media drew an outpouring of comments from customers, emphasizing the exceptional care provided by the staff. Customers, including Rachel Buliziuk from British Columbia, praised Krantzberg for his personalized service, with some families having a longstanding relationship with the store.
Eleven-year-old Britton Walby, a longtime customer, shared his attachment to the store, having received his first pair of shoes there as a baby. While Krantzberg remains open to the possibility of selling the location, he emphasized the importance of finding a new owner passionate about children and dedicated to delivering a memorable customer experience.
As the community prepares to bid farewell to Kiddie Kobbler, the store’s legacy of customer care and personalized service will be remembered by many across the country.
