The City of Vancouver is reimagining a beloved yet dwindling piece of urban life: the corner store. Under the aptly named “Corner stores and more!” project, the city is working to make small-scale retail a regular part of residential life once again, aligning with its broader Vancouver Plan to build more complete, connected communities.
Corner Stores at the Heart of Community Life
For many long-time Vancouver residents, corner stores were once part of the daily rhythm—where you’d pick up fresh milk, bump into neighbours, and catch up on local news. In the 1920s, these stores numbered in the hundreds across the city, serving not just as commercial outlets but as informal community hubs.
However, decades of zoning changes and regulatory hurdles have eroded their presence. From 302 convenience store licenses in 2008, the number had dropped to 226 by 2018. Many older stores were unable to adapt or faced closure, while new ones struggled to open under outdated regulations. The rise in property taxes and land costs further compounded these challenges.
Now, a growing chorus of urban planners, city staff, and engaged residents is calling for a shift. They argue these small shops are key to revitalizing neighbourhood life—especially in a post-pandemic world where people are working from home and seeking local amenities more than ever.
A New Chapter for Neighbourhood Retail
“Corner stores and more!” is part of a broader effort tied to the Vancouver Plan, a 2022 council-approved strategy to guide the city’s growth through inclusivity, sustainability, and livability. One of the plan’s key pillars is creating “complete neighbourhoods,” where residents can access goods, services, and social spaces within a short walk or bike ride from home.
The project has already seen some early wins. Following a 2020 motion introduced by Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung, the city began updating zoning bylaws to make it easier for small grocers and retailers to operate within residential zones. In 2021, Council passed zoning amendments to loosen restrictions and streamline approvals for new businesses and corner-store-style developments.
From summer to fall 2023, the City conducted public engagement to gather input on what types of small shops residents want and where they should go. The response was significant, with events held across six neighbourhoods—including Kitsilano, Kerrisdale, and Strathcona—alongside an online survey and digital map feature for sharing memories of favourite local stores.
A Legacy Worth Reviving
Public interest in the corner store revival taps into more than just convenience. A 2019 joint study by the City of Vancouver and UBC emphasized the role these spaces play in strengthening social bonds. They aren’t just about groceries—they’re about connection.
Stores like Le Marche St. George in Riley Park, The Wilder Snail in Strathcona, and The Mighty Oak in Mount Pleasant are modern examples of how this model can thrive. Older establishments such as Benny’s Market on Union Street, a fixture for over a century in a heritage building, also continue to serve their communities.
One particularly symbolic story is that of The Cardero Grocery in the West End. Built in 1902 and shuttered in 2017, the heritage property is now being restored—with plans to reopen the store. It's a potent example of how Vancouver might blend heritage preservation with community renewal.
What Comes Next
Following last year’s engagement phase, city planners are now preparing a summary of public feedback, expected in late 2023. That information, paired with technical analysis, will inform policy and regulatory changes scheduled for 2024.
While exact details are still to come, the direction is clear: Vancouver is laying the groundwork for a city where corner stores once again dot the residential landscape—not as relics, but as active ingredients in a more connected, walkable, and community-focused future.
Curious how this could shape the future of your neighbourhood? Projects like “Corner stores and more!” signal a shift toward prioritizing local life and amenities. We’re keeping a close eye on developments like this—so our clients always stay informed. Want to be one of them?
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