On a bustling weekend at Tsawwassen Mills mall in Metro Vancouver, families gathered for a children’s modeling contest — but all eyes quickly turned to Ruby Weihong Liu, the dynamic billionaire behind the event’s hosting venue. Liu, founder of real estate investment firm Central Walk, swept into the mall with her trademark high energy, drawing attention even in a crowd largely unaware of her growing influence in Canada’s retail scene.

Liu’s presence at the mall came just as Hudson’s Bay announced it would sell up to 28 of its store leases to her company. Central Walk confirmed the deal, which includes locations across B.C., Alberta, and Ontario, is pending court and landlord approvals. Notably, three of the targeted leases are in malls already owned by Liu. The acquisition would support Liu’s bold plan to launch a new department store chain across Canada, signaling a significant shift in the country’s retail landscape.

Though details of the transaction remain under wraps, Liu has been open about her ambitions. She envisions a network of over 20 modern retail stores and has teased a brand identity centered around her English name — “Ruby Liu: A New Bay.” The concept plays on the legacy of Hudson’s Bay, suggesting both a reinvention and homage. A proposed logo shared via social media and with Postmedia features a prominent pink jewel, reflecting both Liu’s name and her vibrant style.

Liu’s social media presence — quirky and Mandarin-language-heavy — has cultivated a loyal following, especially in Chinese-speaking communities, and helped position her as an unconventional but serious player in Canadian business. Her entrance into the retail market comes after acquiring Tsawwassen Mills in 2022 and follows her growing portfolio of commercial assets.

While Central Walk’s bid was just one of 12 competing for Hudson’s Bay leases, Liu’s bold branding and swift expansion strategy suggest she’s aiming to not just buy space, but redefine Canadian retail.