A Canadian drug store chain has announced it willl be offering shelf space to local small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The offer, which applies to London Drug stores across Western Canada, means small businesses forced to close down because of the crisis will now have a chance to ply their wares in the drug store’s aisles.
Shuttered Tri-Cities businesses can apply to have their products featured in the centre aisle of select stores, dubbed “Local Central” by the chain.
“This is a really hard time for many small businesses, and we are in a unique position in these challenging times where we can really help out,” said president and COO of London Drugs Clint Mahlman in a written statement.
“As a 75-year-old Canadian owned and operated company we have always supported fellow Canadian businesses and now is the time more than ever, to come together. As an essential service, we are here to help our local small businesses while also providing an opportunity for customers to pick up their favourite local items and support their favourite local companies.”
Goods must be physical products that don't require refrigeration or freezing, and can be anything from coffee and local honey to a local restaurant's graphic T-shirt, added Mahlman.
According to a report by the Canadian Federation of Indepedent Business, only 21% of small business in Canada are fully open as a result of COVID-19, and a further 50% say they are unsure if their business will survive.
Small business owners can submit applications here.
