Community Futures Alberni-Clayoquot Purchases Coombs Country Candy
Left, Lenore Bailey and Murray Lawlor, original owners; Leanne Hewitt, manager; Lori Camire, Executive Director Community Futures Alberni Clayoquot and Susan Payne Chair, Community Futures Alberni Clayoquot
PORT ALBERNI – Coombs Country Candy is under new ownership by local not-for-profit organization Community Futures Alberni-Clayoquot (CFAC). The Port Alberni storefront and food manufacturing facility, famous for its handmade chocolates, confections and frozen treats, is being operated as the Alberni Valley’s latest social enterprise where a percentage of the profits are committed to initiatives that benefit the community.
Brittle time! Made fresh in store by Murray! Photo Credit: Coombs Country Candy
“We are thrilled to be able to continue doing what we love and have a reputation for, and to give back to the town that supports us so much” said Store Manager Leanne Hewitt.
Coombs Country Candy was identified as an outstanding business ideally positioned for the new venture due to the years of effort and dedication of its owners Murray Lawlor and Lenore Bailey.
“It was a win for everyone” said Community Futures’ Executive Director Lori Camire, “we were very impressed with the quality of the products, how professional the operations were and the level of customer service they offer.”
The new ownership ensures the business stays locally-owned and retains its local staff. All the tricks of the trade will be passed down in the coming months from Murray and Lenore, who have chosen to stay on as advisors until February 1, 2021.
“We are more than happy to help with the transition” said Murray, “we want to thank all our customers for their many years of dedication and support. It’s been a very rewarding experience for us”.
Coombs Country Candy continues to operate during its regular hours of operation and will be open during the upcoming holiday season.
