Beg your pardon? That’s right, to keep things fresh for coffee lovers, the region’s small business network is encouraging consumers to #thinklocalfirst with a cup of joe from a variety of participating local businesses.

“We’re eager to showcase all of the wonderful local independently owned coffee shops with individual personalities and delicious products here in the South Kootenay region,” says Mandi Lunan, a local food business coach organizing the first in a series of #thinklocalfirst initiatives being rolled out this fall and winter.

“The Disloyalty Card encourages folks to try out different coffee shops; we’re super fortunate to have such a diversity of brews here in the area.”

How does it work?

Instead of solely buying coffee from your regular cafe, why not mix it up?

To get started, visit a participating business and ask for a card. In Rossland, Seven Summits Coffee Company, Alpine Grind Coffeehouse, and the Gold Rush Bookstore can hook you up; in Warfield, Sister’s Takeout (Warfield Petro-Can) is the spot; and in Trail, Caffe Americano, Trail Coffee Co., The Bridge View Cafe, and The Doorway are also taking part. Purchase a coffee from any of these shops and receive a proof of purchase stamp on your card. After nine stamps, customers are entitled to a free coffee at any participating business.

“Any program that gets people out supporting local businesses is good in my books,” says John Snelgrove, owner of Alpine Grind Coffeehouse. “And if this helps entice more people to drive up the hill and spend a few hours in Rossland to enjoy a coffee and some lunch at my business, then wander downtown and check out our great shops, all the better! Hopefully it entices Rosslanders to spend some time in downtown Trail, too.”

While the Disloyalty Card is all about reminding patrons to #thinklocalfirst, Executive Director Erika Krest says local doesn’t just mean the community where you live, but the neighbouring communities within the region as well. 

The initiative comes at an appropriate time, with Small Business Week taking place Oct 18-24. During this annual celebration, the Trail & District Chamber of Commerce acknowledges the contributions entrepreneurs and small business owners make to the economy. Krest praises local businesses for their perseverance and dedication to their customers, and is impressed with how many have adapted their offerings as they’ve continued to navigate an uncertain economic environment.

“It’s important to pause and cheer on our small businesses,” she says. “They provide well-paying, local jobs,  bring energy, vibrancy, and uniqueness to our communities, and form the backbone of our economy.”