The Rail Yard Market
Welcome to the Rail Yard
Friday TO Monday 11 am – 3 pm
See Individual Vendors for Extended Hours
In the early 1900s, forestry was the economic driver of the Campbell River Region, powered by steam trains. Locomotives were the latest technology of the time but disappeared from the landscape as new technologies developed. Today, one hundred years later, the economic drivers of the region are diverse. New engines for growth are being imagined, promoting modern entrepreneurship that pays homage to the technologies of the past.
The Rail Yard is Campbell River’s micro-market driven by small businesses that are powered by today’s technologies. The brightly coloured units, built from containers seen on modern trains today, form a vibrant railcar ribbon on Shoppers Row.
Businesses are invited to utilize the affordable retail space in downtown Campbell River for up to 36 months to allow them to scale up and prepare for permanent locations.
Supporting Small, Local Businesses
Eight businesses, including the four currently operating out of The Rail Yard, will participate in a business incubator that will explore the latest business tools and digital technologies to enhance and scale up their businesses. Each successful scale-up marks a flourishing business and provides another opportunity for a new entrepreneur to join The Rail Yard.
Funded through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) via the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI), Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET), and the City of Campbell River, this new business incubator will provide affordable retail space on Shoppers Row.
HONOURING CAMPBELL RIVER’S LOGGING RAIL LEGACY
The Rail Yard Market pays tribute to the logging rail lines that once powered Campbell River’s economy. In the 1920s, large-scale locomotive logging operations, led by companies like Elk River Timber (ERT) and Bloedel, Stewart & Welch, transformed the B.C. coast. Camps like Camp Quinsam and Bloedel provided stable homes for loggers, ending the transient lifestyle of earlier times.
The iconic “5-Spot” locomotive was a familiar sight, halting traffic on the Island Highway in Campbellton near Maple Street as it delivered logs. However, as logging trucks became preferred for their versatility, they gradually replaced rail lines, marking the end of an era. Remnants of these railways remain in the woods, and the Empire Steam Donkey at the Museum stands as a testament to this important chapter. The Rail Yard Market honours our past while celebrating Campbell River’s dynamic future.
For more information on Campbell River's logging history, visit www.crmuseum.ca.
Vendors
The Tin Can Pottery Shop by Emma Heitzmann
Maggie's Treats
Sinfully Delicious
The Mossy Coast
The Tin Can Pottery Shop by Emma Heitzmann
Instagram: @emmaheitzmannartstudio
Emma Heitzmann, a Campbell River resident for 11 years, creates nature-inspired pottery, from bees to mushrooms and micro-biology imagery. Her shop also features works from various North Island artisans, offering a diverse collection of unique pottery.
Maggie's Treats
Website: www.maggiestreats.ca
Instagram: @onlythebestformaggie
Founded to provide the best for pets, Maggie’s Treats specializes in simple ingredient pet treats of the highest quality. Each treat is crafted with care, ensuring pets receive only the best. Maggie's Treats is a local favourite for its dedication to quality and affordability.
Sinfully Delicious
Website: www.sinfullyd.com
Instagram: @sinfullydelicious2021
Facebook: Sinfully Delicious
Born from the creativity of a mother-daughter duo, Sinfully Delicious offers a range of delightful treats. Starting with cake pops, they have expanded to include hot chocolate bombs, fudge, treat boxes, and more. Lydia and Jennifer are thrilled to share their passion for baking in a retail environment.
The Mossy Coast
Website: www.themossycoast.com
Instagram: @themossycoast
A Canadian brand inspired by the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, The Mossy Coast offers nature-themed apparel and accessories. Founded by two sisters, the brand uses raw materials from the island's wilderness to create unique items, from Sterling silver jewelry to forest-themed apparel. Their dedication to quality and the Pacific Northwest is evident in every piece.
Want to become a vendor?
For more information and to apply to become a vendor in the future, complete the vendor application form. Submit your completed application to invest@campbellriver.ca. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and shortlisted applications will be reviewed by a committee for final selection.
