Business booms in Ford City

Entrepreneurs have been setting up shop in the Ford City Business District during the pandemic. 

Since the pandemic began, more than a half dozen businesses have opened their doors in the area of Drouillard Road. These businesses vary from retail stores to services like hair salons.

One of these businesses is Soda Pop Bros, a specialty drink store focused on providing a wide variety of rare and unique sodas. The store opened at the beginning of January, and according to owner Jeremy Kinsella, business has been steady despite pandemic precautions. 

“It’s very easy to work because, it’s soda pop man,” said Kinsella. “Everybody wants it.”

Kinsella attributes much of his success to his ability to remain adaptable. He said before opening he wanted to be sure he could continue operations even if pandemic restrictions closed his storefront. He said he opened his store front after preparing a webpage and arranging to do his own deliveries to make sure business could continue operations in case of a shutdown. 

“I knew right from the get-go, I couldn’t just open up and have a storefront,” said Kinsella. “Because what if I got shut down? I could be.”  

And the trend of new businesses continues as entrepreneur Lauren Potvin prepares to open her new store Bunch within the month. Bunch is a retail store specializing in bringing brands Potvin discovered in Toronto and Ottawa down to Windsor and selling them alongside rare vintage finds. 

Potvin said she believes one of the keys to success is making sure your business reflect your passions. 

“I think the most important advice is just to find things that you love,” said Potvin. “You know there’s other people who love what you love too – and that’s how you’re going to be successful.” 

However, business owners do suggest asking around before opening up to make sure there is a market for the goods and services you are offering. 

Overall, business owners agree, the future looks bright for the Ford City Business District.