News Release Archive
ECONOMIC RENEWAL--ONE STOP SHOP AGAINST THE ODDS ------------------------------------------------------------------ Pine Tree Road Side Market in Thorburn, Pictou County, is proof that every cloud really can have a silver lining. Owner Donna Latter wasted no time in contacting the Nova Scotia Economic Renewal Agency when husband Mike lost his job last May. Within three to four days, she had drawn up a business plan with the help of a friend and within three to four months the couple had ventured into the small business world. "We bought the property nine years ago and always wanted to do something with it, but never had the time," Mrs. Latter recalled. Initial research indicated a need for a convenience store in the area and a First Step Loan provided the Latters with fixtures and working capital for their new venture. Although unfamiliar with setting up a small business, the Latters learned quickly. "I found it very foreign at first when we opened up, but it's not really that hard at all," said Mrs. Latter. The key to Pine Tree Road Side Market's success is diversity and close links with the local community. The convenience store will be augmented by a farmer's market in the summer, featuring fresh fruit and vegetables supplied by local farmers and market gardeners. During the holiday season, it is backed by the sale of locally grown Christmas trees, which adorn the veranda outside. Inside, more local produce is available in the form of crafts, some of them made by Mrs. Latter. In return, the local community supports the store. "The support of the community is unbelievable. Everyone has said the store was needed," said Mrs. Latter. "It's good to meet people you only know by sight after several years," she added. The community spirit found at Pine Tree Road Side Market certainly works. New customers continue to visit the store besides the regular locals. Mrs. Latter said she had seen at least 15 new faces in the first week of December. "Since the first two weeks, we have either met or surpassed our business plan sales. The business is paying its bills and re-stocking inventory, which is as much as we can expect in the first year," she added.If the store continues to do well, Mrs. Latter anticipates hiring part-time help in the summer. Future plans also include expanding the building to include a separate section for crafts, possibly as early as this spring. "Pine Tree Road Side Market shows the Community Business Loan Program works. It can help create jobs and provide essential services," Economic Renewal Minister Ross Bragg. Built with a spirit of co-operation and community, Pine Tree Road Side Market has helped the Latters turn a difficult situation into an advantageous one, both for themselves and the people of Thorburn. -30- lm January 19, 1995