Small Business Case Study: Strathcona Decorating Centre
Background
Supporting Independent Retailers in a Competitive Market
Strathcona Decorating Centre is an independently owned paint retailer serving homeowners and contractors in the Edmonton area. Established over 20 years ago and acquired by its current owner in 2015, the business has built a strong reputation for quality products and personalized service in a market dominated by large corporate competitors.
Challenge
Bridging Cash Flow for a Major Contractor Project
As the business grew, more contractors began shifting their purchases to Strathcona Decorating Centre. This included opportunities for large, high-value projects that required the ability to extend 30-day terms and sometimes manage payments stretching to 45 or 60 days.
As an independent business, the owner couldn’t float the upfront costs of a major contract while continuing to support day-to-day retail operations. Traditional bank financing proved slow and restrictive, creating the risk of missing out on a significant growth opportunity.
Solution
Fast, Flexible Financing Without the Bank Headaches
Merchant Growth provided a streamlined financing solution to support cash flow and help the business move forward with a major contractor project.
The application process was simple, requiring minimal documentation, and funding was approved within 24 hours. Unlike conventional lenders, Merchant Growth offered flexible repayment terms, allowing the business owner to choose a structure that fit their cash flow needs.
The financing enabled Strathcona Decorating Centre to confidently move forward with the contract without delays or operational strain.
Result
Confidence, Preparedness, and Growth Readiness
With financing in place, Strathcona Decorating Centre:
- Secured the contractor project without cash flow stress
- Maintained normal retail and commercial operations
- Entered the contract phase prepared, not scrambling
- Gained confidence knowing bridge financing was available
For more information, visit Merchant Growth.
