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Keep Edmonton Original is about supporting and sustaining independent business as a fixture of our local culture and community.

Independent business stimulates the local economy, creates jobs, set trends, and supports the community. Locally owned and operated enterprises bring diversity and strength to our city’s economy and character.

Independent business everywhere is facing growing competition from chain operations that do not have the same level of investment in our local community. It is not in the best interests of consumers or the community if Edmonton’s local, independent business scene disappears in the wake of growing, global competition.

Our goal is to ensure our city’s independent businesses remain vibrant.

The Values of Keep Edmonton Original

The value of Keep Edmonton Original comes from collaboration and the pursuit of shared values. Keep Edmonton Original exists to collectively promote the values of our members; Edmonton’s independent businesses:

We aspire for authenticity and excellence, selecting and presenting quality products and services. We are always looking to grow, improve and express creativity & uniqueness.

We appreciate and understand the benefits of working together, sharing experiences and collectively supporting each member’s individual efforts.

Collectively and individually, we are committed to social responsibility. Building healthy communities and backing local charities supports the vibrancy and sustainability of the independent business sector.

We believe in building dialogue about the differences between independent businesses and a nationally or globally managed chain. Education on independent business’ important role in supporting our city’s economy and character is vital to our livelihood.

What can you do, to Keep Edmonton Original?

Before heading off to grab a coffee at Starbucks, why not try a local coffee house?

Off to the mall, why not try 124 street, Highlands or Whyte Ave first, they have great independent stores that offer unique and diverse products.

Heading out to the grocery store - what about the farmers market, or an ethnic shop instead, the offer authentic and great local products.

Going out to eat, before heading to Moxies, Earls or the Keg again, think about some of the great Independent restaurants that you have been hearing about.

Remember as a consumer you have the power to shape our city. Businesses that thrive, attract more like them, if you want a city full of interesting unique shops, you need to shop in the ones that are here. If they are successful, more will come. If you want more big box retailers and malls, spend your money there, and they will succeed and make Edmonton a target market for more Multinational retailers.

It is up to you.

Do you have ideas you’d like to share about ways to Keep Edmonton Original? Send them to us, or if you patronize a unique local business that we should know about, send us their name.

Are you a business owner who’d like to help Keep Edmonton Original? Contact Jessie - info@originalfare.com