Business · Companies · 3 hrs ago
Retailer reopens in Charlottetown despite rising costs and online competition
Craig Enman opened a new shop in Charlottetown in August, selling antiques, porcelain and collectibles.
He previously ran a jewellery business with several locations in Nova Scotia for 15 years, but closed it as shopping habits changed and competition from major retailers grew.
Small businesses on Prince Edward Island face rising expenses and customers who are spending more cautiously.
Statistics Canada estimates show the number of active businesses on the island fell from 4,195 in June to 4,182 in July, while closures rose and openings fell.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business says more businesses have been leaving Canada than starting since early 2024, amid trade tensions, energy costs and other expenses.
A CFIB report found 63 per cent of small business owners plan to end their business within a decade, with retirement the leading reason.
Higher costs can also push prices up for consumers, while Enman is taking another chance on in-person retail.
Craig Enman opened Distinctive Decor’s Treasure Hut at Confederation Court Mall in Charlottetown in August.
The shop sells fine porcelain, crystal, antiques and collectibles.
Enman previously ran a silver and gemstone jewellery business for 15 years before closing it amid changing shopping habits and competition from major retailers.
He says rising costs and uncertainty make retail challenging, while he remains committed to in-person sales.
Statistics Canada estimates showed active businesses on P.E.I. fell from 4,195 in June to 4,182 in July.
- Who
- Craig Enman, owner of Distinctive Decor’s Treasure Hut.
- What
- He reopened a brick-and-mortar retail business after previously closing a jewellery business.
- When
- The new shop opened in August. The year is not stated.
- Where
- Confederation Court Mall in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
- Why
- Enman wanted to return to the industry despite the risks. He cited rising costs and uncertainty as challenges.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Enman operated a silver and gemstone jewellery business with several locations in Nova Scotia.
Enman closed it as shopping habits changed and competition from major retailers grew.
Enman opened Distinctive Decor’s Treasure Hut at Confederation Court Mall in Charlottetown.
- New shop
- Distinctive Decor’s Treasure Hut
- Location
- Confederation Court Mall, Charlottetown
- Opening
- August; year not stated
- Previous business
- Silver and gemstone jewellery business operated for 15 years
- P.E.I. active businesses
- 4,195 in June; 4,182 in July
What people are saying
There’s always a risk. It’s financial. It’s work. It’s a lot of effort. But this is what I wanted.
Cost of living is on everybody’s mind. But it’s also the uncertainty in the marketplace. The Canada-U.S. relationship isn’t going the best.
The cost of doing business is very high.
So they have to pass these costs down to consumers, who in turn are tightening their belts themselves.