RICHMOND, B.C. – London Drugs is offering up shelf space in select stores to local small businesses who have had to close their doors due to COVID-19. Beginning March 28, small businesses in Western Canada are welcome to submit products for consideration.

Clint Mahlman

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business reports that only 21% of small businesses in Canada are fully open due to the COVID-19 global pandemic and 50 per cent have reported that they are unsure if their business will survive. As an essential service, London Drugs stores are open and have the ability to help small businesses that have had to close their retail stores, stay afloat.

“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 Clint Mahlman, president and COO of London Drugs. “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 favorite local items and support their favorite local companies.”

In select locations, London Drugs will be transforming its centre aisles into Local Central, a dedicated space to help local businesses sell their products.

Mahlman adds, “Whether you sell coffee, local honey, or your restaurant’s graphic T-shirts, London Drugs is here to help.”

Small business owners can visit here https://www.londondrugs.com/local-central-application.html to learn if their products qualify and apply to be part of London Drugs Local Central. Some rules and restrictions apply.

“Keep an eye out on London Drugs’ social channels for when local products hit the shelves. Customers are also welcome to tag local businesses that they think could benefit from the initiative on London Drugs’ social media posts,” Mahlman added.