When New Westminster’s Army and Navy store papered its windows after a fire on July 27, the city was abuzz with speculation that the retail department store would not reopen.
After all, the downtown area is not the same downtown area that it was a decade ago. It’s much more of a “neighbourhood” now, and the land that the Army and Navy building sits on would be a prime spot for a residential tower.
So we, and many others in this city, were pleasantly surprised to see the store remain in operation – and, we might add, keep its character intact. We suspect the torn linoleum on the back stairs has probably been replaced – although we have to confess that is one of the store’s most endearing qualities. It is well-worn and had the carefully patched patina to go with its age.We also suspect the giant crayfish in the front window is gone – although we still hope it survives somewhere else in the store.
But Jacqui Cohen knows that her brand is not about putting on retail airs – it’s about sensible pricing on goods that families need. Its success depends on offering great deals for blue-collar workers, fishers, sportspeople and shoppers looking for a bargain.
It’s ironic that Sears Canada died this same week. The 65-year-old Canadian institution was struggling to survive in the new retail environment. It also had a hedge-fund mentality management that hastened its demise.
Regardless, the end result is 12,000 people out of work But other retail giants are also struggling.
A few years ago, community activists and small businesses fought the incursion of big box stores. Some communities repelled brick and mortar behemoths, but there was no successful campaign against online retailers.
Even shoppers who frequent farmers markets tend to be seduced by the ubiquitous jungle-named internet retailer.
It doesn’t profit a customer to redeem a discount if it costs a community. As the holidays approach, consider the brick and mortar businesses who invest in New West, pay taxes here, hire local folks, and keep our economy afloat. And know that when you online shop, they drop.
