London Drugs in Garibaldi Highlands is offering shelf space to small businesses in Squamish who have had to close due to COVID-19.
The Squamish store is among the 50 stores in BC that have offered shelf space to local businesses.
Businesses can apply online, but cannabis and liquor products won’t be allowed. Products must be physical items, means they can’t be service-based.
Businesses deemed essential services don’t qualify, and products must not require refrigeration or freezing.
Rob Felix, senior vice president of store merchandising, said space offered will vary with each store. More than 450 businesses have already applied since the announcement was made, he said.
“Our Squamish store is consider a moderate to large store, so there will be enough space for local businesses,” he said.
Clint Mahlman, President and COO of London Drugs, said London Drugs is in a unique position to help as the store has been classified as an essential service.
“Whether you sell coffee, local honey, or your restaurant’s graphic T-shirts, London Drugs is here to help.”
According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, only 21 per cent of small businesses in Canada are fully open due to the COVID-19.
As many as 50 per cent say they aren’t sure if their business will survive COVID-19.
