Our Social Impact

At POP Local, our goal is simple: to create a positive impact on the community, environment, and local economy through sustainable and socially responsible business practices. We believe that businesses have the power to inspire meaningful change, and we are committed to leading the way in how we operate and engage with our community.

Sustainability is at the core of what we do at POP Local. We are dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint and ensuring that our business practices align with the highest standards of sustainability. From the products we stock to the packaging we use, every decision we make considers the environment and the long-term health of our planet.

• Sustainable Accredited Business: We are proud to be a Sustainable Accredited Business through the Quality Tourism Framework, demonstrating our commitment to responsible and eco-friendly operations. We continually innovate to reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote sustainability throughout every aspect of our business.
• Ethical Sourcing: We ensure that the products we offer are ethically made, supporting local creators and businesses that share our values of sustainability and social responsibility. By partnering with makers committed to eco-friendly and ethical practices, we can offer our customers products they can feel good about.

Pop Canberra is committed to ensuring accessibility across every aspect of the visitor journey, recognising that accessibility must extend beyond physical entry to include emotional, social and cultural dimensions. Our store is designed with wide aisles, step-free entry, accessible counters and seating areas to ensure comfort for customers with mobility needs, while automatic doors and designated accessible parking provide ease of arrival. Signage, lighting and music levels are carefully managed to support those with sensory sensitivities, and sensory hours are available on request to create a calmer environment. Our digital platforms follow accessibility best practices, including screen reader compatibility, alt text for images, clear navigation and responsive design, ensuring visitors can confidently engage with us before they arrive. To further extend inclusivity, we provide over-the-phone and video shopping services, with home delivery and hand delivery available, so that customers who cannot physically attend still enjoy a personalised experience. Staff play a central role in our accessibility plan. Every team member is trained in inclusive service, focusing on clear communication, patience and empathy. This training equips them to support people with a wide variety of needs, including those with autism, social anxiety and mental health conditions. Service animals are welcomed in-store, and quiet spaces are provided during events for those who require them. Social accessibility is equally important. Pop Canberra employs a diverse team that reflects the Canberra community and actively partners with disability advocates, multicultural groups and community organisations to refine and improve our practices. We are proud to encourage First Nations makers to showcase their work, bringing Indigenous voices and stories into the store and strengthening cultural representation. Every year we support more than 200 community groups through donations and vouchers, including schools, disability organisations, mental health initiatives, youth groups and arts programs. This support demonstrates our belief that inclusivity means actively contributing to the community as well as welcoming it into our space. Economic inclusion is also part of our approach. Tiered gift options, loyalty benefits and a broad price range make it possible for people at all budget levels to access high-quality local products. Our ethical sourcing practices ensure customers know their purchases have a positive impact on local makers and the wider community. Finally, feedback is critical to ensuring accessibility remains dynamic. We regularly collect insights through surveys, loyalty program data, social media conversations and staff observations, using this information to adapt store layouts, event designs and communication strategies. For example, extended trading hours and additional checkout options were both implemented in response to customer feedback requesting greater convenience. In short, accessibility at Pop Canberra is not just about compliance. It is about creating a truly inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone, regardless of age, ability or background, can feel part of the community and experience the joy of connecting with local culture.

Our vision for social impact extends beyond just business; we aim to be a positive force within the wider community. We are a hub where people come together to share, collaborate, and celebrate the creativity and diversity of our community.

• Inclusive and Welcoming Spaces: We work to ensure that everyone who visits POP Local feels valued and included. Our store is designed to be accessible, welcoming, and reflective of the diversity of the community we serve. Through thoughtful practices, we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels at home.
• Community Engagement: We actively engage with local community groups and causes, whether through donations, partnerships, or hosting events that give back. We are committed to contributing to initiatives that make our community stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient.

Our mission extends to contributing to the economic wellbeing of our community. By supporting local businesses and providing opportunities for growth, we help to fuel the local economy and drive sustainable economic development.

• Supporting Small Businesses: By providing a platform for local creators, POP Local helps small businesses gain visibility and access to new markets. This not only supports individual businesses but also strengthens the local economy as a whole.
• Job Creation: As we continue to grow, we are proud to contribute to job creation in the creative and retail industries. Our expansion will offer new employment opportunities and foster local talent, supporting economic growth within the community.

As POP Local continues to grow, we remain focused on our mission of driving social impact in every aspect of our business. We aim to set a standard for what a responsible, community-driven business can be—one that prioritises sustainability, inclusivity, and the wellbeing of the local economy. Our vision is to continue making a meaningful difference, both within our community and beyond, as we champion local talent, sustainable practices, and ethical business. Together with our customers, makers, and community partners, we are building a brighter, more sustainable future—one that benefits us all. Thank you for supporting POP Local and being a part of this journey with us.