Eight Cochrane businesses recently met with the Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce and a senior planner with the Town of Cochrane to discuss the town's economic situation.

Many small businesses feel 2017 is off to a slower start than 2016, causing them to collaborate in order to survive.

Many storefronts around Cochrane sit vacant. Meanwhile, high leases, big box stores, and increased choice add stress to owners who are scraping by.

Mark Johnston of No Frills says there needs to be far more collaboration between businesses.

"My grandpa grew up in Cochrane, he worked at the Esso. I have got some roots here, but to see this now with all the empty buildings... People are going to say, 'I can't do this anymore, I am going to need to go to the city and get a full time job'. We have to keep people here in town."

Ronnie Knowles, the owner of Big Hill Pizza, hopes the Town will revisit the idea of allowing businesses to advertise on the LED community signs for a nominal cost. The LED signs are currently approved to promote community events and town messaging only. Business owners say advertising on the signs could provide a real opportunity for them with minimal cost and be a huge win.

"We need something where we can get some visibility and that digital sign has that visibility that can really help us."

Bill Popplewell, President of the Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce, says all businesses in town need help right now from economic development.

"They need some time, they need some input, and they need some opportunity on consultation."

A thriving small business community not only helps to keep locals employed, but also secures many of the Town's cherished events, such as the Kimmett Cup, Cochrane Light Up, Labour Day Parade and many more.

The group of business owners is hoping to meet again in the near future with a list of short and long term goals and they are looking for results, not lip service.

 

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