Latest from Beth Bowles
2021 may not be a Happy New Year for local live music venues
In August, the CBC reported the closures of two major live music venues in Waterloo Region: Starlight and Chainsaw. These closures were both in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the struggles small business owners and event organizers have since faced.
Independent coffee shops feeling the pinch as pandemic dries up income
A number of independently owned coffee shops have closed in Waterloo region over the past few months, while other shops have had to reverse course on plans to expand and rapidly change the way they do business.
Local convenience stores say it hasn't been business as usual during pandemic
Family owned convenience stores were deemed essential during Ontario's shut down to fight the pandemic. Even though these stores were able to stay open, some store owners in Waterloo region saw sales plummet, while others say business has been booming.
Waterloo loses 2 music venues while more fight to survive: Beth Bowles
Chainsaw and another uptown Waterloo live music venue, Starlight, both decided to close their doors permanently over the course of COVID-19. But even with gathering sizes increased to 50 people, most live music venues are having to make tough decisions about the future of their establishments.
How local thrift stores are staying afloat during the pandemic
With businesses around Ontario opening back up, how are consignment and thrift stores staying afloat when the majority of their revenue relies on selling second-hand items? CBC KW's business columnist Beth Bowles spoke to several business owners to get their insight.