Times are tough in the business world and especially in the restaurant industry. When successive closures occur in the same neighborhood, concern is palpable all around. Below is an overview of what is currently happening in Chicoutimi and Verdun. Also, all the details on the Sherweb Leucan Challenge.

First, the recent closure of two restaurants on Racine Street in Chicoutimi highlights the fragility of the restaurant sector and its many problems. After L’Gros Luxe, La Parizza also closed its doors after ten years of operation.

Restaurant owners are facing difficulties due to labor shortages and changes in commercial arteries. The increasing presence of homeless people is also noted, although their impact on the clientele is debatable. The owners suggest improving the appeal of Racine Street by transforming it into a dynamic living space, introducing initiatives such as a university pavilion and solving problems with parking and outdated infrastructure.

In Verdun, several businesses on Wellington Street can no longer afford to pay the high rents, and at least four establishments have recently closed their doors due to this situation.

Rising rents have played a role in the closings, raising concerns among contractors and landlords. Some are reluctantly leaving, such as the La Tienda Center, due to substantial rent increases. The revitalization of Wellington Street has made it more attractive, which has increased the prices of commercial premises.

The loss of independent businesses raises concerns about the identity and vitality of the street. MLA Alejandra Zaga Mendez calls for government intervention to protect businesses from rent hikes, while citizens express their dismay on social media. Some see a loss of charisma and culture on the street due to these changes.

Finally, cloud distribution leader Sherweb is once again partnering with restaurants Louis and Taverne Alexandre for the 7th edition of the Sherweb Leucan Challenge, a fundraiser for Leucan, an association for children with cancer. During the month of August, a portion of the sales of certain dishes at these restaurants will be donated to Leucan.

Louis restaurants will donate $1 to Leucan for each Maxi Louis sold each day in August, as well as for each King Leucan poutine sold on Tuesdays of the month. In addition, the Taverne Alexandre will donate $2 to Leucan for each smoked meat dish accompanied by a beer sold on Tuesdays in August.

The owners of Sherweb and restaurants explain that this initiative aims to mobilize the local community to support Leucan's cause. Since 2017, Sherweb has raised over $145,000 for Leucan through various fundraising activities.