- by Abbey Blokland

According to CFIB news, one in seven small businesses are at risk of closure from the results of COVID-19. This means 5-22% of businesses will close in Ontario. In downtown Owen Sound small businesses are working through the pandemic despite these odds. 

The Spa West Ninth Street opened in 1993. Mindy Biggar joined the business in partnership with her mother Heather Dinsmore, a hairstylist, 25 years ago, just shortly after it opened. They decided to open a business to provide personal care and services by building relationships with others.

Working in an evolving industry like a spa opens the idea of change in their business that these owners like. 

Mindy is seeing a growth in business since she reopened the business after the provincial guidelines changed – maybe it's from the lack of people travelling; they're spending their money on their wellbeing, a different kind of self-care.

“I want to express my gratitude to clients that have reached out during the pandemic. Also, for paying for services in advance during the closure. We could not have done it without your support.” says Mindy. 

The Spa West 9th Street has experienced some challenges throughout the reopening of their business after phase three shut them down. Mindy had to rebook over 200 clients until she was able to book in other clients.  

The pandemic has also affected this business in a positive way, by giving the owners time to pivot and restructure their business. With the new restrictions of the provincial guidelines, as they are not able to see the same number of clients in a day as usual, they can give 100% of their time to focus on one client at a time at a comfortable pace. 

The Spa offers facial therapy and laser hair removal. They help restore your skin to a healthier state. The staff show you the best skin care products including supplements for the best outcome for your individual skin. 

The Spa West 9th Street is open Tuesday to Friday, and their hours can be found on their website.