What does it take to build a local business that becomes part of the fabric of a community?
In this episode of Understanding Local, Steven Seltzer sits down with Paul Hadfield, owner of Spinnakers Brew Pub, to talk about entrepreneurship, innovation, local food, community building, and what it means to build a business that truly belongs to its place. From Spinnakers’ beginnings in 1982 to its evolution into a Victoria institution, Paul shares stories about taking risks, adapting to change, supporting local producers, finding opportunity in adversity, and the importance of working together as a business community.
You’ll hear about:
🍺 The unlikely beginnings of Spinnakers
🌱 Why local food became central to the business
💡 How adversity can create new opportunities
🤝 Why collaboration and community involvement matter
🌊 The importance of understanding—and supporting—the place we call home
🏘️ How local businesses help create a stronger, more vibrant community As Paul puts it: “It’s important that we think local, we understand what we have, and that we support what we have.” And ultimately: “We all just do better. We all become richer as a community.” Get involved with Think Local First Think Local First Victoria brings together locally owned businesses and community-minded people who believe that supporting local strengthens our economy, our neighbourhoods, and our community.
👉 Learn more, become a member, and see upcoming events: https://thinklocalvictoria.com
Follow Think Local First Stay connected, discover local businesses, hear about upcoming events, and join the conversation:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinklocalfirstvictoria/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShopLocalVictoria
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinklocalfirstyyj/
👍 Like this episode, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who believes in the power of local.
Think Local. Shop Local. Build Local. Connect Local.
