Canadian drug store reserving shelf space for small businesses that have had to close their doors

The chain’s centre aisles are usually saved for seasonal items but will instead be converted into “Local Central." The space will be for local entrepreneurs to sell products throughout western Canada.

London Drugs president Clint Mahlman said, “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.”

“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.”

Product submissions are being accepted by the chain now and the items that are accepted will be placed in "Local Central" aisles in specific store locations.

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

Just 21 percent of Canadian small businesses are completely open in the current economic situation according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. About 50 percent of businesses have reported uncertainty about surviving the pandemic.

Since London Drugs is considered an essential business, the retailer says they are “open and have the ability to help small businesses that have had to close their retail stores, stay afloat.”

Eligibility guidelines have been drawn out by the company which has created an online application to allow businesses to know if their products qualify.

London Drugs said they will post on social media to announce the local products that are being sold on ‘Local Central’ shelves.

Last month, the retailer made the move to reserve the last hour of each day for frontline workers to do their shopping.