our history
Four generations. Serving the Ottawa-Gatineau region for over a century.
celebrating over 120 years
Since it first opened its doors in September 1905, E.R. Fisher has witnessed every fashion avenue, often cycling throughout the generations. From top hats to double-breasted suits to bow ties and skinny jeans, clothing has changed over the years, but one thing has not: E. R. Fisher’s region-wide reputation for offering personalized service and fine men’s clothing and accessories.
E. R. Fisher’s history is brimful, as it’s evolved into a family story that dates back four generations that has watched the nation’s capital mature into a beautiful, dynamic city filled with its own captivating history and style.
The Beginning
1905-1920
At the turn of the century, Emerson Richard Fisher arrived in a growing Ottawa with a clear conviction: success in retail came from integrity, discipline, and understanding the customer.
In 1905, he opened his first store on Sparks Street—the city’s commercial centre at the time. His approach was simple but distinctive: sell what clients needed, not what was easiest. Within a year, the business had turned profitable, setting the foundation for steady growth.
Building a Reputation
Weathering the War Years
1939-1945
The Second World War brought one of the most challenging periods in E.R. Fisher’s history. The business had only recently lost its founder, E.R. Fisher, in 1938, leaving the next generation to guide the company through an uncertain time.
As thousands of Ottawa men enlisted, the city’s retail landscape changed dramatically. Wool, leather, buttons, and other materials were redirected to the war effort, creating shortages and limiting the selection of fabrics and styles available to retailers. Government conservation measures also encouraged simpler garments that used less material, with practical, durable clothing becoming the priority.
Despite these challenges, E.R. Fisher continued to serve Ottawa’s professionals, business leaders, and families. Strong relationships with Canadian manufacturers, careful inventory management, and a steadfast commitment to customer service helped the business navigate the war years.
When peace returned in 1945, demand for quality clothing quickly rebounded. Having weathered both the loss of its founder and the realities of wartime Canada, E.R. Fisher emerged stronger, continuing the tradition of quality and service that has defined the company for more than 120 years.
community outreach
As one of Ottawa’s longest-standing, family-operated businesses, it’s no surprise E.R. Fisher remains active within the community.
The company’s owners and employees are community-minded and have consistently donated to the United Way, local charities and churches. Peter Fisher has been a member of the West Ottawa Rotary Club for more than 40 years, while Sonia is a member of the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise (CAFE), an organization supportive of Canadian Family Business causes and issues and the Westboro BIA. For more than 30 years, senior staff member Dom Herrick was an active member in the Ottawa Executive Association organization, which encompasses a group of senior decision-makers in the community who meet to do business and strengthen the small business networks in the city. Lastly, E. R. Fisher has consistently received an A++ rating with The Better Business Bureau, of which they were founding members.