Pop Canberra was meant to open its permanent store on Lonsdale Street on Friday after two years as a very popular, on-again, off-again pop-up store.
But then, yes, coronavirus and that plan had to be shelved. Co-founders Mikhaila Pennell and Gabe Trew have not given up. They've worked and they've adapted and they've innovated.
The store, which sells Canberra products to support local artists and makers, has gone online and launches on Saturday at www.popcanberra.com.au
The bricks-and-mortar store will be open by appointment from Thursday and will do deliveries and click and collect and Facetime shopping.
"People can even stand at the door and point what they want and we'll get it for them," Gabe said, with a laugh.
"We've got more than 1000 items in the store, so it's pretty massive. We're stocking some new things like some new ceramics and taking more of an art and design feel and we also have alcohol that we're licensed to deliver."
They can also make up care packages for loved ones in isolation and Easter-themed packages ready for delivery.
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The store first opened as a pop-up in 2018 and again last Christmas. It closed in January but the owners were implored by customers to open a permanent store.
And that plan was to come to fruition on Friday. Until coronavirus kept everyone home.
"We put out a call last week on Instagram, it was pretty raw. It was basically, 'Well, we're screwed. Would you guys consider buying online?' And the overwhelming answer was 'yes'," Gabe said.
They were determined to adapt and keep safe and provide an income for local artists and makers.
"It's our time to step up," he said.
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