Even with the restrictions brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, the business community of Wingham is thriving. As is the case in every town in Canada, there have been extreme difficulties and casualties, but due to a tremendous amount of ingenuity, a re-working of businesses models and support from the community there has also been tremendous growth over the past several months. Larger employers like Wescast, Royal Homes and Britespan are in full production mode and even looking to hire.
The south end of Wingham has seen quite a change in recent weeks with the opening of the McDonald’s restaurant, Petro Canada gas station and the Neighbours convenience store, as well as the Esso gas station and Express Lane convenience. There will soon be a carwash opening as well. Along Josephine Street, Bilbo Bongins opened in the spring and just recently the Sacred Tree and Moments Spa have opened. BoHo Tide, a ladies clothing store is scheduled to open mid-Sept. Along with the new openings we’ve seen Lone Wolf antiques and Annette’s Treasures Galore – A Touch of Dutch and More move into a larger locations, as has Riegling Accounting who purchased the former BDO building. The Dance Factory has moved from Veteran’s Road into a newly renovated space on Josephine Street. Thaiville restaurant took advantage of the Community Improvement Program grant and updated the front of their restaurant.
As for what’s yet to come, there’s work continuing at the Pizza Hut location, the former Anchor Pub is undergoing renovations and the Middletons store has been sold. Construction of the new Ideal Supply location is also showing great progress.
The summer promotion – Wingham, Back in Business – has been a big success with the final draw to take place mid-Sept for a grand prize of $2,500 in local gift certificates. The promotion was organized by the Retail subcommittee of the Wingham BIA and had 52 businesses taking part.
Covid-19 has made it apparent that where there’s a will there’s a way and it’s great to see so much initiative in Wingham.
LET’S KEEP IT GOING!!
