First Living Wage coffee shop in BC.

Kits Beach Coffee is the first coffee shop in British Columbia to signify its commitment to ending working poverty, by paying all its staff and contracted workers a Living Wage.

The seasonal café at Kitsilano Beach makes pour over coffee, cold brew, artisan popsicles, and a selection of locally baked goods and gourmet pop tarts.

“We see everything we do as an opportunity to be an integral example of how to be a good corporate citizen and neighbour.” James Boileau, Kits Beach Coffee.

This commitment to paying all staff and contracted workers a Living Wage is the newest commitment Kits Beach Coffee have made as part of their overall Corporate Social Responsibility Platform. From the day Kits Beach Coffee opened it had a tip matching donation program. When customers leave a tip, it starts a domino of giving. The 5% tip option is wholly donated and matched by Kits Beach Coffee and numerous small businesses and individuals in Kitsilano.

Their vision is to be hyper-local in serving their community while always thinking big and delicious. In 2020 Kits Beach Coffee facilitated a donation of $4000 to KAS and David Suzuki Foundation’s Ocean Conservation Programs. And in 2021 the goal is to raise over $10,000 for Battered Women’s Support Services and David Suzuki Foundation’s Ocean Conservation Programs.

“We’re delighted that Kits Beach Coffee has certified as a Living Wage Employer. Many low wage workers in the hospitality and service industry have risked their lives to keep us safe, fed and caffeinated during the pandemic. It is vital that in return they earn a living wage to be able to pay for essentials for their family. Paying a Living Wage is good for the employer, the employee, and the local community. We invite other coffee shops to join the Living Wage movement,” said Anastasia French, Living Wage for Families Campaign Organizer.