Madam Speaker, in the face of challenging times for local businesses in Alberta, the small business community in Airdrie has banded together.
Lindsey Cybulskie and other local business owners in the community joined forces and created a Shop Local Facebook group. The reaction to the group has been incredibly positive. New members joined from across Airdrie and the Facebook group dramatically expanded in size. It provides a platform through which to share positive reviews, spread the word about exciting events and allows residents of Airdrie to explore local business options.
The community came together and the Facebook group has transformed into a movement that supports and empowers local businesses in Airdrie. Shop Local: Airdrie has led events, such as a flash mob lunch date; a selfie challenge that encouraged community members to take a selfie with a business and its owner; and a midnight madness event, where local businesses were open late for Christmas shopping. The Facebook group now has over 11,000 members.
The Shop Local: Airdrie movement has become a unifying force, supporting small businesses and reminding us all of the great strength in our community.