Mastercard is launching a festive shopping initiative in Fort Langley, B.C., where immersive interactive experiences will amuse customers and support local small businesses (SMBs).
The first dedicated immersive shopping experience created by Mastercard to support small businesses begins in Fort Langley, B.C., on November 30 and will last until December 15, 2024. The initiative is the first in a series of similar shopping experiences that will occur across North America starting in 2025.
Tourists who arrive in downtown Fort Langley will receive an original storybook created by Mastercard, which features local businesses one might discover. The town stores will display captivating storefront designs and artistic in-store installations that are part of an engaging shopping story. While shoppers explore local stores, they will collect storybook-inspired puzzle pieces featuring one of the town’s landmarks and enjoy the installations.
This effort is part of a broader payment provider’s initiative to empower small businesses with resources, funding, and tools to thrive. Partnering with esteemed Canadian entrepreneur Jillian Harris, Mastercard highlights its commitment to uplifting small businesses through innovation and community-focused events.
Nishant Raina, Vice President of Small and Medium Enterprises at Mastercard Canada, believes that when people shop locally, they’re investing in the aspirations of small business owners. He also emphasised Mastercard’s dedication to empowering businesses beyond payment solutions, offering tools, resources, funding, and partnerships.
Mastercard supports SMBs in Canada and beyond with funding opportunities, digital tools like AI assistants, cybersecurity resources, and a dedicated Small Business Community for mentorship and growth. These initiatives aim to empower entrepreneurs, enhance online security, and provide access to events, partnerships, and resources to help businesses thrive.
The company has recently launched new cardholder offerings for Canadian SMEs through strategic partnerships with Slack, Asana, FlexiRoam, H&R Block and others.
