Barrie, ON – Downtown Barrie is excited to announce the launch of a new local initiative as part of the nationwide movement: Shop Main Street Canada. Support Local. This campaign encourages our community to embrace a local-first mindset and recognize the importance of supporting Main Street businesses that serve as the economic and cultural heartbeat of our town.

Main Street businesses are more than just places to shop—they are the pulse of our community, driving job creation, sustaining entrepreneurs, and fostering economic growth. Every dollar spent at a locally owned business fuels community investment, strengthens local initiatives, and ensures that unique small businesses continue to thrive despite economic challenges.

“This campaign is about more than just shopping locally; it’s about investing in the future of our community,” said Steve Ricalis, Chair of the Downtown Barrie BIA and owner of Donaleighs Irish Public House and Dunlop St Diner. “By choosing to shop, dine, and do business on Main Streets, we are directly contributing to economic growth, job creation, and the preservation of the unique character of our neighbourhoods.”

To support this initiative, the Downtown Barrie BIA is providing a comprehensive toolkit to local businesses and stakeholders. This toolkit includes campaign logos, social media assets, marketing materials, and guidelines to help spread the message and engage customers in this movement.

We encourage residents, visitors, and business owners to take part in the campaign by:

• – Updating your Social Media profiles to include the Shop Main Street Canada, Support Local logo.
• – Shopping at local businesses
• – Dining at independently owned restaurants and cafés
• – Choosing Canadian-made products and services
• – Connect with the Downtown Barrie BIA  on their initiatives and promotions 

Find more details and explore the businesses near you by visiting: www.downtownbarrie.ca/businesses 

The Downtown Barrie BIA  remains committed to advocating for the success of Main Street businesses and strengthening our local economy. Together, we can make a lasting impact by supporting the businesses that support us.

Join the movement.  Shop Main Street Canada, Support Local and invest in Canadian businesses. 

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