London Drugs offers space for COVID-19-weary restaurants to sell packaged goods
Posted April 28, 2021 9:08 am.
Last Updated April 28, 2021 9:22 am.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – London Drugs is offering up its shelf space to Western Canadian restaurants struggling because of the pandemic.
As part of the company’s Local Central program, eateries that have specialty items like sauces, jams, and even clothing, can now apply to sell their wears through the pharmacy chain.
“The collateral damage to small businesses created by the pandemic has been devastating and, the restaurant industry – particularly those small and locally-owned – have sustained one of the heaviest blows,” president and COO of London Drugs Clint Mahlman said.
Related articles
- Shelf space opened for small businesses to sell products at London Drugs
- Restaurant association understanding of B.C.’s indoor dining ban, not pushing for regional restrictions
- B.C. restaurant owners ask for support, patience during indoor dining ban
London Drugs started offering shelf space to small businesses last April, helping more than 100 shops to date.
“The last year has pushed local businesses – including London Drugs – to become incredibly nimble,” Mahlman said. “One of the most public ways this has played out has been in the quick response of local restaurants and businesses to sudden closures and evolving distancing measures.”
The move is likely being welcomed by restaurants in B.C. and Alberta where indoor dining bans are currently in effect. The B.C. provincial government extended the ban on indoor dining to at least May 25 due to the rising number of daily COVID-19 cases.
Once restaurants apply, they could see their packaged products on store shelves within a week.
