Summerland business closes doors after wildfire disrupts tourism

Twisted Whiskers Café and Thrift Store in Summerland, British Columbia, will close its doors permanently in December, marking the end of a two-year venture that struggled against various business challenges, including the recent Bald Range wildfire.

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It was on the burner already. I was already thinking I needed to close.

Owner Jules Zest stated she was already contemplating closure before the wildfire, but the disruption to the summer tourism season ultimately solidified her decision. "It was on the burner already. I was already thinking I needed to close," Zest said. She had envisioned the store as a community hub for shopping, socializing, and art, but sustaining a small business proved difficult, especially without the crucial summer sales that help businesses survive the rest of the year.

The wildfire occurred during this vital period, and Zest expressed concern for her business while evacuated. She noted that despite promises of support from visitors after the fires subsided, the expected influx of customers did not materialize. Many of her patrons traditionally came from outside Summerland, making tourism essential for her business's viability.

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The summertime supports the rest of the year. If you don’t make money during the summer, you might not survive.

Brett Ziegler, a volunteer at Twisted Whiskers and a member of the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce, confirmed that the store's struggles are not unique. He observed a pattern of businesses opening and closing, calling it a "conundrum." Ziegler emphasized that the "shop local" message needs to translate into tangible support, as simply hearing the phrase is insufficient.

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During the fires, everyone was saying how they will come and support Summerland. Now that the fires are over, no one is here.

However, shoppers like South Okanagan resident Michelle Raynier pointed out the financial constraints many face. "People are very money conscious right now and that's what I find hard about shopping local," she explained. Local leaders continue to encourage community spending, highlighting Summerland's attractions, but the economic realities for both businesses and consumers remain a significant challenge.

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It’s a conundrum.