'Things have been really tough lately': Calgary candy store makes plea to community for support
A Calgary candy store is reaching out to the community for help as it struggles to stay afloat in the current economic climate.
If you’ve been in Kensington, you’ll probably have seen the candy-coloured signage for Gummi Boutique, a queer and trans-owned candy store specializing in candy, ice cream, and soda.
Now, the spot, which opened in 2011, is seeking support amid cash flow issues, which are making it difficult for the store to restock, resulting in empty shelves.
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“If you’ve visited us recently, you’ve probably noticed that our shelves have been looking a little sparse. This is the one thing we won’t sugar-coat: things have been really tough lately,” Gummi Boutique said in an Instagram post.
“The current economic climate has hit small businesses like ours hard, and we’re doing everything we can to keep our doors open and bring back the experience you know and love.”
“It’s been a challenge just to stay afloat — but we’re not giving up,” it added.
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In a follow-up post, store owner Cael revealed all the ways that have currently been explored to help Gummi Boutique stay afloat, including reaching out to local vendors, launching cotton candy experiences, introducing new freeze-dried treat boxes, offering event bookings, and looking into grants and loans.
“We’ve run out of cash flow to restock inventory, and we honestly don’t know what to do next. We can’t make money if we have nothing to sell,” the post added.
Since posting about their struggles, Gummi Boutique received around 70 orders from those looking to support the brand, allowing the store to place orders for a restock.
For those still looking to support, orders can be placed on Gummi Boutique’s website, and the Kensington store is open to visit.
Gummi Boutique
Address: 205 10th St. NW, Calgary
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