From “The Source” to “Best Buy Express”: Closing or Rebranding?

Last Updated on April 27, 2025

If you’ve ever run into a dead phone battery at the airport or needed a quick tech fix while out shopping, chances are you’ve popped into The Source or a Best Buy. For years, these two stores have been mainstays for Canadians looking to grab everything from charging cables to gaming consoles.

But if you’ve walked by your local Source recently and noticed a shiny new Best Buy Express sign instead—you’re not imagining things. There’s been a pretty big shake-up in the Canadian electronics retail scene, and a lot of folks are wondering what’s going on.

So, what’s the deal with The Source closing or rebranding? Are Best Buy and Best Buy Express the same thing? And how does this affect your gift cards, warranties, or even the way you shop?

Let’s break it all down in plain Canadian English—no tech jargon, no corporate spin. Just the facts, eh?

Understanding the Basics: Company Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what’s changing, let’s get our bearings on who’s who.

The Source: A Canadian Staple with Bell Ties

The Source has had a long and winding road in Canada. It originally started as RadioShack Canada, part of the U.S. chain that was a big name in electronics back in the day. But in 2004, Bell Canada stepped in and bought the Canadian division after RadioShack pulled out. That’s when the transformation began.

Rebranded as The Source by Circuit City (remember that?), and eventually just The Source, the chain became Bell’s go-to retail arm for pushing mobile plans, tech accessories, and small gadgets. The stores were usually smaller, conveniently located in malls and shopping centres, and heavily focused on Bell’s ecosystem—phones, plans, accessories, and tech support.

With more than 400 locations coast to coast, The Source was a familiar face in many towns, even in places where big-box stores like Best Buy didn’t exist.

Best Buy Canada: The Big Player with Big Variety

Best Buy came to Canada in 2001 when it acquired Future Shop (RIP to that glorious red-and-black tech kingdom). The move launched Best Buy into national dominance, with dozens of massive retail locations offering everything from smart TVs and fridges to laptops, game consoles, and even exercise bikes.

Where The Source focused on compact, curated tech with a mobile twist, Best Buy was all about selection and scale. Their Geek Squad service also gave customers in-house tech support—a major draw for people who needed a little help setting things up.With around 160 full-sized stores across Canada, plus a robust online shopping experience, Best Buy became the destination for major tech purchases.

Why Did The Source Close and Rebrand to Best Buy Express?

Is The Source Closing?

No, the Source is rebranding—but it’s still owned and operated by Bell Canada.

This one’s been on a lot of people’s minds lately. It’s all about streamlining and adapting to the times.

What’s happening is not a takeover by Best Buy. Instead, Bell is rebranding many of The Source locations into “Best Buy Express” through a licensing agreement or co-branding strategy, but these new Best Buy Express mini-stores are still operated by Bell, not Best Buy Canada (which is a separate company owned by U.S.-based Best Buy Co., Inc.). It’s not exactly a merger, but more like a makeover—one that makes sense if you think about it.

So to be crystal clear:

Here’s the correct breakdown:

• The Source → Being phased out as a brand.
• Best Buy Express → The new name replacing many of those stores, but still run by Bell.
• Ownership stays the same: Bell Canada owns and operates these locations, even after the name change.
• This is a branding/licensing agreement, likely giving Bell the right to use the “Best Buy Express” name to refresh its retail presence.

Not to be confused with:

• Best Buy Canada, which operates large-format stores and the main Best Buy website. It is a completely separate entity, owned by the U.S. Best Buy company.
• Best Buy Express kiosks in airports, which are operated directly by Best Buy.

Best Buy – Bell Canada Partnership: Reshaping The Tech Retail Experience

Bell Canada and Best Buy Canada have teamed up to reshape the tech retail experience in Canada. Announced in early 2024, the partnership will see around 165 of Bell’s The Source stores rebranded as Best Buy Express locations.

These new stores combine Best Buy’s electronics selection with Bell’s telecom services, including offerings from Bell, Virgin Plus, and Lucky Mobile. While Best Buy brings the tech products, the stores are still operated by Bell.

The first Best Buy Express store opened in Surrey, BC, in June 2024, with more rolling out nationwide through the year. The goal? Make shopping for gadgets and mobile plans more convenient for Canadians, all under one roof.

How Many The Source Stores Were Affected?

As of 2024, over 250 The Source locations began rebranding to Best Buy Express. The transition is ongoing and will likely continue through 2025, depending on lease agreements and regional demand.

Can I Still Use My The Source Gift Card?

Yes, but with limitations.

• Most rebranded stores will accept Source gift cards for a transitional period.
• Afterward, contact Bell or Best Buy customer service for remaining balances or exchanges.

What Happens to My Warranty or Return Rights?

Good news—your warranty is still valid.

• Existing Source warranties are honoured by Bell or Best Buy, depending on the product.
• Keep your receipts and documentation just in case.
• Returns might need to go through Best Buy or Bell depending on the purchase date and item.

What Does This Mean for Employees of The Source?

Many employees were retained and retrained under the Best Buy Express banner. Those involved with telecom services may be reassigned within Bell retail.

Employee roles in rebranded stores are focused on:

• Selling Best Buy products
• Supporting Bell services
• Operating kiosk-style Express points

What is the difference between The Source and Best Buy?

Let’s clear up the confusion with a head-to-head comparison that makes sense for Canadian shoppers.

Overview of Both Retailers

The Source: Formerly RadioShack, Now Owned by Bell

As noted, The Source was previously RadioShack Canada. Bell took over operations in 2004 and fully rebranded by 2009. As part of Bell, The Source sold a wide range of Bell-related products and services—from phones and tablets to internet packages and TV services.

Best Buy: Canadian Arm of U.S.-Based Chain

Best Buy Canada operates under its U.S. parent company but functions independently in terms of marketing and store operations. It’s known for its tech-forward layout, interactive displays, and services like Geek Squad for tech support and installation.

Product Range Comparison

Best Buy wins hands-down for variety. While The Source focused on essentials—Bluetooth speakers, chargers, phones, and accessories—Best Buy stocks everything from high-end gaming rigs to washing machines.

However, The Source had its niche: quick, convenient access to mobile and telecom gear in smaller communities.

Shopping Experience

• In-store: Best Buy stores are larger, more immersive, while The Source was compact and focused on fast service.
• Online: Best Buy.ca offers a richer experience, with more stock, user reviews, and faster delivery options.

Is Best Buy Express the Same as Best Buy?

Not exactly, but they’re part of the same family.

What is Best Buy Express?

Best Buy Express refers to smaller retail units and kiosks, not the full-sized Best Buy stores. Think of them as mini stores or vending machines with tech gear you might need on the go. You might also find converted Source stores rebranded with the Best Buy Express name. These are a little bigger than the kiosks but still focused on fast, convenient shopping.

Where You’ll Find Them

• Airports: Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, Montreal, Calgary—you name it.
• Transit hubs and malls
• University campuses and hotels

What Can You Buy?

• Headphones and earbuds
• Phone chargers and travel adapters
• Smartwatches
• USB drives and SD cards
• Other small gadgets you don’t want to be without on the go

Why It’s Handy

Heading out on a business trip and forgot your charger? Best Buy Express has your back. It’s not meant to replace a full store, but for those “uh-oh” moments, it’s a lifesaver.

Are Prices the Same?

Expect to pay a little extra—kind of like convenience store pricing. Nothing wild, but it’s not where you’ll score a massive deal either.

Is The Source Owned by Bell?

Yes, and it still is (at least technically). Bell bought The Source in 2004 to give themselves a stronger retail presence across Canada—particularly in areas where big-box stores couldn’t reach.

The big reason? To sell Bell mobility services and devices. And it worked—for years, The Source was the place to go if you wanted:

• A new Bell or Virgin Plus phone plan
• Internet bundles
• Bell TV services
• In-person account support

But in today’s retail landscape, customers want fewer brands and more flexibility—hence the shift to Best Buy Express.

Pros of Bell Ownership

• Easy access to Bell services and promos
• Ability to bundle mobile, internet, and TV in-store
• Bell/Virgin-exclusive deals on phones and accessories

Cons

• Smaller product selection
• Staff often focused on phone plan quotas, not necessarily general tech advice
• Not much help if you weren’t a Bell customer

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Which is Cheaper: The Source or Best Buy?

Ah, the eternal question. Here’s a breakdown to help you save a few loonies.

Everyday Tech

• The Source had competitive pricing on accessories and Bell-branded products.
• Best Buy generally has more aggressive sales and price-matching for major electronics.

Big Sale Events

Both stores (and now Best Buy Express) participate in major Canadian sale events:

• Boxing Day
• Black Friday
• Cyber Monday
• Back-to-School Sales
• End-of-Season Clearances

Best Buy usually leads the way in tech sales—especially on higher-priced items like laptops, TVs, and game consoles.

Return Policies

• Best Buy: Generous return windows (usually 14 to 30 days), plus hassle-free online returns.
• The Source: Shorter return windows, and sometimes returns were tied to your phone contract or Bell service, which got tricky.

Warranty and Protection Plans

• Best Buy: Offers Geek Squad Protection, which covers accidental damage, hardware issues, and more.
• The Source: Sold Bell Mobile Care or product protection, but coverage varied.

Loyalty Programs

• Best Buy: My Best Buy rewards give you points on every purchase, plus VIP sales access.
• The Source: No full rewards program, but Bell/Virgin Plus customers sometimes got exclusive perks.

Where to Score Better Deals?

• For telecom products: The Source (now Best Buy Express in many areas)
• For general electronics and deals: Best Buy, especially during major sale events

Can I Return Something Bought at Best Buy Express?

Yes, but there are a few things to note.

For Kiosk Purchases

• Items must be unopened and in original packaging.
• Keep your receipt or emailed confirmation.
• You can’t return at the kiosk itself—you’ll need to do it:
  • Online at bestbuy.ca/returns
  • Or at a full-sized Best Buy location

For Mini-Stores (Former Source Locations)

• Returns work the same as regular Best Buy stores.
• Staff can help with mobile service returns, especially if Bell is involved.
• Refunds usually go back to your original payment method within 5–10 business days.

PRO TIP: Before buying from a kiosk, check the return policy posted on the screen—it varies slightly depending on the product and location.

Where Can I Find a Best Buy Express Kiosk in Canada?

You’ll find these little lifesavers in places like:

• Airports: Toronto Pearson, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton
• Malls: Yorkdale, Eaton Centre, Metrotown
• Campuses: UBC, McGill, University of Toronto
• Hotels: High-traffic downtown hotels

Payment Options

• Credit and debit only
• Tap-to-pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.)
• No cash accepted

Which is Better for Electronics: The Source or Best Buy?

Depends on what you’re buying. Let’s break it down by category and shopper type.

Tech Support

• The Source: Basic support with Bell-related services
• Best Buy: Full Geek Squad support in-store and online

Online Reviews & Satisfaction

Best Buy tends to outperform The Source in customer reviews, particularly for product range and after-sale support.

Availability of Premium Gear

Best Buy has more options for premium brands (like Alienware, Sonos, Samsung appliances, etc.), while The Source mostly carried mainstream options.

The Verdict

• Tech-savvy buyers: For big purchases or variety, Best Buy wins hands down.
• Everyday shoppers: Especially for mobile services or Bell phones, Best Buy Express or Source.
• Students and travelers: For emergency tech, Best Buy Express.
• Bell customers: Source/Express for bundling deals

Conclusion

The Source has been part of Canadian retail for decades, but change is in the air. The shift to Best Buy Express isn’t just a rebranding—it’s a reflection of how we shop for tech today: faster, smaller, and more mobile-focused.

Whether you’re grabbing a travel charger at Pearson, renewing your Bell phone plan at a kiosk in the mall, or shopping for a new laptop at your local Best Buy—this change is designed to give Canadians more choice, more convenience, and better service.

And hey, if it means fewer confusing store names and more streamlined tech shopping? We’re all for it.