Chartered company founded by Prince Rupert in 1670 to trade in furs with North American Indians. In 1783 the rival North West Company was formed, but in 1821 it merged with the Hudson's Bay Company. In 1912 the company planned a chain of department stores in western Canada, and became Canada's leading retail organization, which it remains today. It also has oil and natural gas interests.
Red stands for the warmth of the sun and of the population. Black represents fortitude and wealth. White symbolizes purity, hope, and the waves. Effective date: 31 August 1962.