Pickering is about to welcome a new destination for makers, gardeners, and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Lee Valley Tools, one of Canada’s most trusted family-owned retailers, is opening a brand-new location at the Shops of Pickering Ridge plaza on September 20, 2025. The store promises to be a go-to hub for hobbyists, professionals, and anyone who loves to build, craft, or create.
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A Canadian Brand with Deep Roots
Lee Valley Tools began as a small Ottawa-based mail-order business in 1978 and has grown into a national name with nearly 20 locations across Canada. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, the company serves a wide community of gardeners, woodworkers, and DIY enthusiasts.
The Veritas Tools Advantage
The company also manufactures its own premium product line through Veritas Tools, a division specializing in planes, chisels, saws, and other essential equipment for carpenters and woodworkers. This in-house manufacturing gives Lee Valley a reputation for offering tools that are not only durable but designed with makers in mind.
More Than Just a Tool Store
While woodworking tools are a cornerstone of Lee Valley’s offerings, the store is much more than a hardware supplier.
A Product Range for Every Hobby
Visitors can expect to find:
- Precision woodworking tools such as chisels, planes, and crosscut saws
- Gardening essentials including pruning shears, garden hoses, and soil tools
- An eclectic mix of household and lifestyle items from juice presses to LED lighting
- Outdoor and camping gear for adventurers
This broad selection makes Lee Valley a unique retail destination for both hobbyists and homeowners looking for practical solutions.
A Company with a People-First Philosophy
Lee Valley Tools has been recognized as one of Canada’s top employers, landing on the Forbes Top 500 Employers list in 2018. The company is known for its employee-focused policies, including its “pay slope” approach, which ensures that the highest salaries are tied proportionally to the lowest paid employees. This commitment to fairness has contributed to its loyal workforce and customer trust.
Sneak Peek Event for Media and Guests
Before the official opening on September 20, invited guests and media representatives will get an exclusive first look at the new Pickering store on September 19. The event will give attendees the chance to meet the Lee Valley team and explore the store’s layout before doors open to the public.
What to Expect on Opening Day
Opening day is expected to draw DIYers, gardeners, and woodworking enthusiasts from across the Durham Region. Here’s what visitors can look forward to:
Special Promotions
Shoppers may see limited-time discounts on some of Lee Valley’s most popular tools, garden gear, and household items — a perfect chance to stock up or invest in quality pieces.
Product Demonstrations
Staff will likely showcase woodworking techniques, new Veritas Tools innovations, and creative project ideas to inspire both beginners and experienced makers.
Expert Advice
Store associates, many of whom are passionate woodworkers or gardeners themselves, will be available to answer questions, recommend products, and help you get started on your next project.
Community Atmosphere
Lee Valley is known for creating a welcoming environment. Expect an atmosphere that encourages creativity, conversation, and connection with other local DIYers.
Pickering Ridge Plaza’s Transformation
The Shops of Pickering Ridge plaza, where the new store is located, is part of a long-term redevelopment plan. Over the next 20 years, the area is expected to evolve into a mixed-use community with seven high-rise towers — some reaching 43 storeys — along with updated retail spaces. Lee Valley’s arrival marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the plaza and the surrounding neighbourhood.
Why This Opening Matters
The addition of Lee Valley Tools to Pickering offers more than just a place to shop. It provides a new resource for hobbyists, tradespeople, and creative minds looking for quality tools and expert advice. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or a first-time DIYer, the new store aims to be a welcoming space for learning, inspiration, and connection.