Our History

We Have History!

Robinson’s Outdoor Store proudly bears the name of the family that started in 1929. Today, this name stands for more than the person who founded it—George Robinson—because he was just the first of three generations to helm the venerable Victoria store.

This is a truly local, family-owned business that has remained a fixture in the downtown core. What started as a bicycle sales/repair shop in 1929 has become the premier source for outdoor clothing and gear on Vancouver Island. Robinson’s has survived the Great Depression, World War II, the COVID Pandemic and many other economic ups and downs.

 

A Family-Owned Business

Gayle Robinson, 3rd generation owner, has now passed the torch to her daughter and 4th generation Robinson, Erin Boggs, along with Matt King who’s the first non family member to take ownership. Matt’s 20 + years experience at the shop deems him as family to the Robinson’s and they are now halfway through their succession plan with all 3 still being active and operating owners.

Robinson’s has grown and changed since George started it in 1929, but the one thing that has remained consistent is the family’s long-standing commitment to exceptional service. Though George sold and repaired bicycles and rented baby carriages in his day, and his sons Gordon & Doug later steered the store in the direction of sporting goods, the constant thread throughout the nine-decade history has always been knowledgeable employees providing top-notch service; a successful formula that never changes.

Today Robinsons is a
Haven For Outdoor Enthusiasts

Under Gayle Robinson’s guidance, Robinson’s has became the haven for outdoor enthusiasts that it is today. It not only caters to outdoor adventurers of all stripes and experience levels—from first-time mountain climbers to skilled fly-fishers—it staffs its spacious, well-stocked store with people equally passionate about active pursuits. So, even though the store’s local roots run deep, the worldly experience of its friendly, well-travelled employees brings a level of expertise and enthusiasm that is unmatched.

Photography Credits:
Thank you to Deon Towle deontowlemedia.com, James MacDonald, Hatte Root Photography, Pixabay