A new downtown market showcasing up-and-coming micro retailers will officially open its doors on Friday (Sept. 13).
The Rail Yard Market, formerly the Campbell River Micro Market, serves as a platform for micro-businesses. It offers new retailers an opportunity to scale up operations, build their clientele and test their concepts in a supportive environment.
The market offers cost-effective, short-term lease rates for emerging businesses, without the long-term financial commitment of physical stores.
Mayor Kermit Dahl thanked the City of Langford for inspiring this project, following the success of the city's Langford Station, an arts and culture district in the heart of that city's downtown.
“The Rail Yard Market provides opportunities for small and home-based businesses to learn, grow and scale up to permanent locations while adding diverse retail options to locals and visitors alike," Dahl said in a media release.
The Mossy Coast, Maggie’s Treats, The Tin Can Pottery Shop, and Sinfully Delicious are the four retailers taking centre stage at the location at 1235 Shoppers Row. Each business offers a unique perspective, enriching the city's local retail scene and demonstrating talent and innovation, said the City.
Emma Heitzmann, who owns The Tin Can Pottery Shop, said if she hadn't been selected for the program, which has low-barriers to entry, she would not have a business. She creates a variety of items, including pottery bowls, cups and jugs, and is known for her bee-inspired designs. Recently, she has been using the shapes of mushrooms found in the Vancouver Island wilderness, like turkey tail, in her creations.
"I feel incredibly lucky and grateful that I am one of the people who has gotten this opportunity," she said. "I basically never thought I would have a business, and it has been really fun and really interesting to bring in, not just my own work, but work from seven other artists."
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All four retailers will participate in business training offered by the Rural Island Economic Partnership. This training opportunity will be extended to up to four additional entrepreneurs.
The City is inviting the public to celebrate the official opening on Sept. 13 at 1 p.m.
