Diverse Departments
Army & Navy’s collection of goods is spread over two bright floors. The shop interior exemplifies function over fashion and the only décor is the arrangement of orange and black signs advertising the bargain-basement prices. The store is organized into several departments. On the bottom floor, you’ll find gardening, camping and fishing supplies as well as hardware. On the top floor, you’ll find fashions for men, women and children and fashion accessories and health and beauty products. There are also all kinds of items for the home, from decorative vases to bathroom towels. You can even do your grocery-shopping at Army & Navy and pick up your cleaning supplies!

Trusted Name
Army & Navy is a veritable Vancouver institution. Although it’s bordering on Vancouver’s poor Downtown Eastside, it still attracts bargain-hunters from all demographics. The country’s original discount store was opened in 1919 by the late Sam Cohen. His granddaughter, Jacqui Cohen, took over the family business in 1998. Today, Army & Navy has expanded and there are six stores across Western Canada. Despite the popularity of big-box retailers like Costco and Wal-Mart, Army & Navy has remained a favourite in the Lower Mainland. The store promises to beat the prices of any competitors and its motto is to pass the savings on to the customer.

Super Sales
As if the daily deals are not enough, Army & Navy has super sales. The annual spring show sale, which has been running since 1949, is a huge event that draws Boxing Day-like crowds. Racks upon racks of brand-name shoes at bargain prices entice hundreds of ladies to brave the busy store. The 12-day sale brings in popular names like Steve Madden, BCBG and Franco Sarto. From boots and loafers to sandals and wedges, no matter the season, no matter the style, if you get there early enough, you’re going to get a good deal on a pair you love. Even Tom Jones said it’s the best shoe sale in the world — a claim the singer made at a concert in Vancouver.