[manerfeifei]

Robson street was named after John Robson, BC's Premier from 1889 to 1892. The street's early claim to fame was its street car, but it involved into "Robsonstrasse" after the Second World War because of its European shops and schnitzel eateries. Civic historian John Atkin said it was during 1980s that Robson shifted from a large residential shopping area to a destination shopping area.

Now the Vancouver's most famous street has been hit by a wave of vacancies - including HMV, Starbucks, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Esprit and Payless Shoes - have closed shop, and several store fronts sit empty. The Levi's store remains open, but has a large "for lease" sign at its window.

- source: the global and mail