The Read | Lifestyle Sharing Local Love March 20, 2020 3-minute read An Open Letter To Our Community: As a local business and team of proud entrepreneurs, it can be difficult to ask for help. Yet as we see the numbers roll in and studies unfold, some of the facts are hard to swallow. The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB) has released a study of nearly 9,000 small business owners and the report highlights that one in four owners said their business would not survive longer than one month if revenues dropped more than 50 percent. The report also indicated 43 percent of respondents reduced hours for staff and 20 percent have engaged in temporary layoffs. While we choose to temporarily close our retail doors to protect our vulnerable population and do our best to flatten that damn curve, we’re openly asking for your help, along with the government’s support, to stay afloat—and it’s not just us. It’s for the other local businesses we stand with. So, how can you help? Purchase take-out meals from local restaurants. Order online from your favourite local retailers. Pre-purchase gift cards for future use. Send notes of encouragement. Despite these daunting numbers, we’re seeing our community of comrades rally like never before—and we’re here to do the same. We’re rounding up some of our favourite local shops in Edmonton and Calgary to make the most of your social-distancing escapades. Best Take-Out: Fox Burger YEG: Fox Burger This deluxe burger haven is currently offering 20% off all takeout orders. YYC: Una Pizza + Wine Your one-stop-pick-up-shop for gourmet thin-crust pizza and local wine pairings. Immune Boosters: KB&co YEG: KB&co Nourish your soul with plant-based goodies available for take-out in Edmonton’s core and St. Albert. YYC: Raw Eatery and Market Fill up on fresh, local, delicious ingredients. They’re also offering free meal delivery to those in need. Sweet Tooth Satisfiers: Yann Haute Patisserie YEG/YYC: Made By Marcus Pick up a pint to-go of wildly imaginative flavours like Chinook Bee Pollen & Lavender or Brisket Bourbon Caramel & Cornbread. YYC: Yann Haute Patisserie Treat yourself to Parisian delights. Your macarons and viennoiseries can be delivered for free with a minimum purchase of $20. WFH Outfitting Options: The Livery Shop YEG/YYC: Poppy Barley Join us online and enjoy free shipping, returns and virtual hugs. YYC: The Livery Shop Update your work uniform with The Livery Shop’s endless styles made by independent artisans—and they’re currently offering 20% off all online orders! Social-Distancing Sweats: Hive Fit Co. YEG: Hive Fit Co. Row, cycle, HIIT, yoga, all in one membership. Need we say more? They’re currently offering online at-home workout videos with the option to donate. YYC: Barre Belle A full-body workout with no dance experience required. Online instructed workouts are available for a monthly fee! Time For You: Pinnovate YEG: Pura Botanicals Settle down with an all-natural facemask and a few deep breaths. All orders over $100 will receive a complimentary Neroli Eye Ritual. YYC: Pinnovate Keep your kids occupied with innovative DIY crafts so you can focus on you. They’re currently offering delivery options. And if you’re not able to support financially, reach out to the brands with a note of encouragement. The smallest gestures can mean the most at a time like this. Spreading local love, The Poppy Barley Team Shop Local Shop Poppy Barley The Universal Pouch Large Black Pebble $156.00 AUD The Large Shopper - Nylon $4.00 AUD The Small Shopper - Nylon $3.00 AUD The Leather Kit $32.00 AUD Older Post Newer Post