A new research project
called Independent Retail: A Changing Landscape will discover and
recommend solutions for the challenges affecting Canada's independent
retailers in urban and rural communities. This yearlong initiative, driven by Retail Council of Canada and Scotiabank Small Business, will discover and recommend solutions for the challenges affecting Canada's independent retailers in urban and rural communities.
Chaired by Paul Simmonds, President of Robert Simmonds Clothing in Fredericton, N.B., the task force driving this project for RCC will include representatives from across Canada. "I'm excited to be a part of this initiative," says Simmonds. "As an independent retailer myself, I know there can be obstacles to success. What we need to know is what's happening in the industry now and how to stay ahead of the game. Bringing independents together is a great way to build support for the entire independent retailer community."
Research for Independent Retail: A Changing Landscape (www.independentretailer.ca) will include regional Town Hall meetings designed to bring independent retailers together, as well as a nationwide survey sponsored by RCC and Scotiabank Small Business. RCC will then use the information gathered to create free statistics and resources for independent retailers.
Independent retail is one of Canada's leading industries. More than 90 per cent of all Canadian retailers own only one store, with the same number having sales less than $2 million and fewer than 50 employees. Independent Retail: A Changing Landscape is a resource designed to help merchants spot future obstacles and understand the trends that are driving the industry.
|
