Nanaimo’s Retail Landscape Sees New Growth and Seasonal Sales
The retail scene in downtown Nanaimo is witnessing a fresh infusion of energy with the grand opening of Cobra & Co. Vintage at 59 Nicol St. Spearheaded by local entrepreneur Colby Spence, the store focuses on gender-neutral and men’s vintage apparel dating back to the 1990s and earlier. Beyond clothing, the shop serves as a hub for nostalgia, offering a curated selection of records, CDs, vintage books, magazines, and toys.
For Spence, this venture marks a return to his entrepreneurial roots after years in various industries in Vancouver. “The clothing business kept calling me back,” says Spence, who previously operated a skateboard apparel company and a boutique. He selected the Nicol Street location specifically for its rising profile, noting the vibrant momentum currently building within the downtown district. Cobra & Co. Vintage is open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
Simultaneously, the historic Old City Quarter is buzzing with activity as Hartmann & Co. furniture store launches a significant seasonal sale. Located at 241 Selby St., the family-run business—operating since 1967—is offering 20 per cent discounts on a wide range of living room furniture, including recliners and sofa beds, through October 12. Salesperson Gwen Spinks notes that select floor models are marked down by 35 per cent, aimed at clearing space for incoming inventory. The store is also preparing for the 28th Nanaimo Art Walk in November, where they will host works from 25 local artists in their permanent gallery space.
Community Safety and Secure Document Management
In an effort to bolster community security, the Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers is hosting its annual community-shredding event on Saturday, September 12. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., residents and businesses can utilize professional on-site shredding services provided by the Ladysmith-based firm RecordXpress at the Country Grocer parking lot on Dufferin Crescent.
The service, priced at $20 per banker’s box, ensures the secure destruction of sensitive personal and business documents. To add a community touch to the proceedings, RCMP volunteers will be on-site grilling hot dogs and hamburgers, with proceeds raised through donations supporting the Crime Stoppers organization.
Strengthening Professional Networks in Nanaimo
The Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce continues to drive local professional development through two upcoming high-profile events. On September 17, the Chamber will host a “Business after Business” social at the 808 Wing RCAF Association Building. Hosted by the Rotary clubs of Nanaimo and Lantzville, the event provides a platform for members to expand their professional networks and learn about the long-standing community service efforts of local Rotary chapters.
Looking ahead to October, the Chamber is hosting a networking luncheon featuring ICBC President and CEO Jason McDaniel on October 1. The session, held at the Coast Bastion Hotel, will dive into the future of British Columbia’s insurance landscape. McDaniel is expected to discuss the organization’s ongoing digital transformation—including updates to customer service technologies—as well as its strategic investments in road safety and provincial infrastructure. Tickets for the luncheon are available through the Chamber, offering a deeper look into the operational goals of one of B.C.’s most significant service organizations.
These events underscore a broader shift in the local economy, where digital-forward service organizations and specialized brick-and-mortar retail are working in tandem to revitalize the downtown core and support a more interconnected business ecosystem. Whether through the lens of local commerce or community safety, Nanaimo’s business community remains focused on growth and professional evolution.
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