Decathlon Canada recently announced the closure of all five of its Greater Toronto Area (GTA) stores. As loyal customers and active members of our communities, we urge Decathlon to reconsider. These stores are more than just retail spaces — they are vital community hubs that make sport truly accessible to everyone. Please sign this petition to help keep at least some GTA locations open.

To Decathlon Canada and Global Leadership,

We, the undersigned residents, athletes, families, newcomers, students, and supporters of accessible sport in the Greater Toronto Area, respectfully request that you reconsider the decision to close all five Decathlon stores in the GTA.

From Vaughan to Brampton, Burlington to Toronto, your stores have provided not only high-quality, affordable sporting goods — but also inspiration, inclusion, and community engagement. They’ve helped us try new sports, gear up our kids for school, discover affordable fitness equipment, and connect with others who share the love of physical activity.

Your mission — “to sustainably make the pleasure and benefits of sport accessible to the many” — resonates deeply with us. But closing all five GTA stores contradicts this vision. A full shift to online operations risks leaving behind the very people Decathlon set out to serve:

• Families living on tight budgets who rely on in-person browsing and sizing

• Youth sports teams who benefit from expert in-store advice and fittings

• People with limited digital access or unreliable shipping options

• Immigrants and newcomers looking for affordable, quality gear to start a new chapter of life

• Urban dwellers who walk, bike, or take transit to your stores

The GTA is one of Canada’s most diverse, active, and community-oriented regions. We believe there is still a future for Decathlon here — perhaps with a modified retail approach. Whether it’s through keeping select high-traffic stores open, creating seasonal pop-up shops, establishing hybrid pickup locations, or partnering with community centres, we urge you to explore alternatives before a full exit.

We are not asking you to reverse everything — just to stay true to your values of vitality, responsibility, authenticity, and generosity by keeping Decathlon physically present in the GTA.

Please work with your customers and communities before making a final decision. Decathlon was built for the many — let’s not leave Toronto behind.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned