We grew out of a passion for small-batch, unique flavours and a quest for epicurean adventures.
Meet the Team
Lee Ann Cotton
Proprietor, Janitor
Inspired by the diversity of products found in Vancouver Island’s Old Country Market, Lee Ann has curated tastes from around the globe to bring casually upscale delicacies to downtown Port Dover.
When she’s not at the store, Lee Ann can be found around a campfire with friends or walking the trails with her family – because, in the end, if we’re not creating memories then what are we doing?!
Carla Voellmecke
First Officer
Bio to come
Dover Mercantile is a living wage employer and a champion for living wage in Ontario.
A living wage (as opposed to the often lower minimum wage) is the remuneration received for a standard workweek that is sufficient to afford a decent standard of living for a worker and their family. It should be enough to provide for all basic needs, as well as some discretionary income and provision to cover for unexpected events..
A recent Canadian study found that a 1% increase in minimum wages translates into a 0.5% rise in retail sales. Furthermore, living wages increase engagement and productivity, reducing turnover of workers and associated recruitment and training costs.
The fact is: elevating workers out of working poverty grows consumer markets, increasing consumer spending, stimulating further demand and creating more economic opportunity
Consumers are increasingly seeking out ethical brands and companies that are prepared to act on issues of importance to them, and they will vote with their wallets when they discover a brand is not living up to those expectations.
It’s time for businesses around the world to take responsibility and adjust because – and here’s some good news – when workers earn at least a living wage, everyone benefits.
Wording respectfully borrowed from this World Economic Forum article
“The best meals come from love, passion and simple ingredients.”
“Chef” Lee Ann Cotton
Food Enthusiast