Company History

Company History:

In a joint effort, Nick Rizzo and his brother Rick founded their family owned retail company in 1980. For the brothers this was a natural progression in light of their family background, which has made deep imprints in the Canadian retail marketplace. By 1988 the duo was operating 52 retail stores, including 3 divisions named Spats, Ladies Choice & Joggers located in Ontario, Canada. At this time, the main company focus revolved around the athletic branded footwear and clothing business, which eventually lead to 80 plus Joggers stores. Although the first 8 years were extremely successful for the company, Nick felt something was missing. A sports fan and athlete himself, Nick has always felt very passionate about the fun, youthful & energetic collegiate lifestyle predominate in post secondary institutions across North America.

Okay, a further explanation is necessary. Nick's favorite movie is National Lampoon's 1978 ‘Animal House'. His favorite character was John ‘Bluto' Blutarsky played by the legendary John Belushi. Since Nick missed the opportunity to attend college himself, perhaps others felt the same way. What was missing was a store like Campus Crew! Nick realized his passion for this lifestyle was not only missing from his current companies portfolio, but was also missing from the Canadian marketplace. If you could not attend a Campus, maybe his company could bring the Campus to you! In 1988, Nick opened the first Campus Crew store located in Hamilton, Ontario. This was a store that captured the collegiate lifestyle! A collegiate bookstore without the books!!!

Today the evolution continues, now joined by his two daughters and son, the business remains family oriented. An extension of the family is Nick's employees. Nick is backed with a ‘Crew' of talented individuals who share his passion and are also inspired by the youthful collegiate lifestyle and Campus Crew brand. This team, by utilizing every facet of trend spotting, in-house garment & graphic design, importing and manufacturing control, has an exciting future!!