London Drugs offers shelf space to local businesses

Canadian retailer London Drugs is stepping up and sharing its shelf space with local businesses. The company is asking local businesses that have had to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Western Canada to submit their products for consideration. 

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business has reported that only 21% of small businesses in the country are fully open during the pandemic, with 50% reporting that they are unsure if their business will survive. As an essential business that continues to be open, London Drugs officials said the retailer can help small businesses that have had to close 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 certain locations, London Drugs stores will turn their center aisles into Local Central, dedicated to products from local vendors. 

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

Businesses can see if their products qualify and apply to be part of London Drugs Local Central here.