Jack Stupp hard-working, self-made man who founded Consumers Distributing

Jack Stupp: From Door-to-Door Salesman to Retail Pioneer
Discovered at Beth Tzedec Memorial Park, Toronto

On my winter walk at Beth Tzedec Memorial Park, I found the grave of Jack Stupp, a humble door-to-door salesman who would go on to found Consumers Distributing — one of Canada’s most iconic retail chains.

Operating from 1957 to 1996, Consumers Distributing was a household name, with 243 outlets nationwide at its peak, reaching every Canadian province.

Many Canadians will fondly remember the unique shopping experience Consumers offered: customers selected items from a catalogue, filled out an order form, and then waited as stock staff retrieved their purchases from the warehouse.

The company released two main catalogues each year, complemented by seasonal mini-catalogues highlighting special items.

Despite its popularity, Consumers Distributing sought bankruptcy protection in 1996, marking the end of an era in Canadian retail history.

Jack Stupp died in Toronto on April 6, 2008. He was 81.

1926-2008