As the Glebe bids farewell to two of its cherished independent businesses — Top of the World and All Eco — we reflect on the profound loss these closures represent for our community.
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As the Glebe bids farewell to two of its cherished independent businesses — Top of the World and All Eco — we reflect on the profound loss these closures represent for our community.
Both businesses, each unique in their own way, have contributed deeply to the vibrant spirit of the Glebe and their departures serve as stark reminders of the challenges facing local retailers today.
For more than three decades, Top of the World has been a cornerstone of the community, providing everything from skateboards and snowboards to apparel and footwear. But beyond its retail offerings, Top of the World is a cultural hub, supporting local athletes, hosting events and fostering a sense of belonging for generations of customers.
The decision to close, as co-owner Corey Hackett explained to the Ottawa Business Journal, was a result of a “puzzle of destruction” — a combination of economic pressures, the rise of direct-to-consumer sales, and the shifting retail landscape. Despite its efforts to adapt, Top of the World announced that it will permanently close on Sept. 27, 2024.
The closure of All Eco, a lifestyle store that offered eco-friendly and organic products, is another devastating loss for the Glebe. Owner Jackie Morphy opened the store in 2019, just months before the pandemic. Over the next five years, she fought through countless challenges, including pandemic closures, a personal cancer diagnosis, and the ever-increasing cost of living that made running the business financially unsustainable. Despite her determination to keep the personalized, eco-conscious shopping experience alive, Morphy ultimately had to close the storefront in July 2024, moving the business fully online.
Both Top of the World and All Eco symbolize the heart and soul of what makes the Glebe such a special place. These businesses weren’t just shops; they were community spaces where relationships were formed, memories were made and local causes were supported.
Their closures reflect the difficult reality facing small businesses today — an uphill battle against rising costs, global competition and shifting consumer behaviours.
At the Glebe BIA, we want to emphasize the critical importance of supporting local businesses. When you choose to shop at a local retailer, you’re not just buying a product, you’re investing in your community. Independent businesses like Top of the World and All Eco are the backbone of neighbourhoods like the Glebe, providing unique products, personal service and a connection to the local community that simply cannot be replicated by large international retailers.
Both Hackett and Morphy cited the immense challenges of competing against giants like Amazon and large U.S. brands. While their dedication and resilience are commendable, the reality is that local businesses cannot survive without the support of the community. As Hackett warned, “If you only shop at Amazon, don’t be surprised when Amazon’s your only option." This sentiment rings true now more than ever.
The loss of these two beloved businesses is a wake-up call. If we want to preserve the unique character of our neighbourhood, we must make a conscious effort to support the businesses that define it. Shopping local helps sustain jobs, supports local families and ensures that our community remains diverse, vibrant and full of life. Without our support, we risk losing more businesses like Top of the World and All Eco and, with them, the very essence of what makes the Glebe so special.
Morphy’s story, though marked by adversity, also reflects hope. Her business may no longer have a physical storefront, but she’s determined to continue serving the community with her online store and innovative bottle exchange service. This resilience is a testament to the spirit of local business owners, who time and again rise to meet challenges with creativity and determination. But they cannot do it alone — they need our support.
As we mourn the loss of Top of the World and All Eco, let’s take this as a reminder to reflect on the value of our local businesses. These businesses are more than just places to shop — they are vital parts of our community that enrich our lives in countless ways. Let’s make sure that we support the businesses that are still here, ensuring that they can continue to thrive in the Glebe for years to come.
Darrell Cox is the executive director of the Glebe BIA.
