A northern suburbs-based retail business dedicated to showcasing and supporting West Australian artists is celebrating a decade of operation this month, overcoming challenges from online giants and cost-of-living pressures.
From humble beginnings
Cafe Collective WA started as a single small display inside a local cafe and has since expanded to multiple locations across Perth's north, including Westfield Whitford City, Lakeside Joondalup, Karrinyup Shopping Centre, and North Beach Shopping Centre.
Founded by Heidi McGrath, the business traces its roots back more than 20 years, when she began selling her own jewellery label at WA markets. From there, she connected with like-minded artists and creative small business owners, recognising a need for greater platforms for local creatives.
The business grew through pop-up shops and temporary retail spaces, steadily building a customer base and a network of local creators before moving into permanent locations.
Supporting local talent
Now, more than 70 artists and creatives are showcased across the four stores, with over 150 on the waiting list to join. Ms McGrath said she wanted to give WA's artists a quality platform to showcase their work within the community.
"Watching brands grow and reach their potential has been an absolute joy," Ms McGrath said. "If Cafe Collective has played even a small role in that journey, then we've done what we set out to do."
Overcoming challenges
According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, about 60 per cent of small businesses in Australia do not survive past their first five years, with about 20 per cent failing to make it through their first year.
Ms McGrath said reaching a decade in operation was a major milestone given the economic hurdles, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing community support had helped sustain it.
"In today's retail climate, local businesses are challenged like never before," she said. "We are competing with online giants such as Temu and Shein, who seem to have endless marketing power. While the retail landscape has changed dramatically, I believe there is still a strong desire within the community to support authentic, locally made products and the talented creatives behind them."
