About
Herb Caplan, the founder and namesake of Caplan’s, began his family’s legacy by selling radios in Toronto in the 1930’s. After trying several locations, Herb opened a store in the early 1940’s at Eglinton Avenue and Bathurst Street, where he remained for many years.
By 1953, with his 18-year old son Martin at his side, Herb decided to purchase 1107 Weston Road, just south of Eglinton. Business was expanding, which now included TVs, appliances and furniture, and the intention was to use this location for warehouse space. A simple retail component was incorporated into this space and with just a desk, chair and used billing machine Martin Caplan began a second generation of retailing tradition.
The Weston Rd. location flourished – thanks to its appeal to the surrounding working class neighbourhood who appreciated good quality at an affordable price. Imagine, back then a bedroom set could be bought for a mere $39.00!
Steady expansion due to increased customer demand for home furnishings and electronics continued at this location; until in 1969, a competitor opened a warehouse-style store next door at 1111 Weston Rd. The newcomer was called “No Frills”. To retain and attract new customers, Caplan’s cleverly covered their windows in signage using similar colours and called themselves “Free Frills”. The strategy worked and when “No Frills” shut their doors in 1979, Caplan’s scooped up the space creating the strong exterior presence that is still evident today.
Today, Caplan’s Appliances is the number one destination for top brand appliances at the corner of Eglinton & Weston Roads.
Our main showroom (located at 1111 Weston Rd.) mixes the Caplan’s tradition of unparalleled service with a designer showcase of appliances from the best brands like SubZero, KitchenAid and Dacor.
Right next to the main showroom is quite possibly the best kept secret in Toronto. Caplan’s Outlet has every top brand from Bosch to Kitchen Aid, all at near or below cost, and with the same Caplan’s service we are known for.
And across from the Caplan's Showroom is Miele Gallery Caplan’s (located at 1130 Weston Rd.) It is an interactive appliance showroom with a Live Kitchen with a full-time chef offering hands on product demonstration classes and cooking tips to perfect the experience of owning a Miele Appliance.
