Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
CTV
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
At Forage Market in Edmonton, sales rose 57 per cent during the first half of May, compared with the same period a month before.
"It's just awesome that people are actually putting thought behind where their food comes from," said business manager Courtney Hanak.
Forage Market is like an online farmers market: it hosts local vendors selling meat, produce and more, and warehouses their products so customers receive everything they order in one shipment.
The boost in sales could help Forage act on its plans to expand to Calgary sooner, said Hanak.
She hopes that shoppers' interest in buying from local and smaller companies continues beyond May.
"Is this just going to be something that's too good to be true? Maybe we're just having a really good few weeks, and then it'll go back."
