Gabe Trew and the POP Canberra Phenomenon
POP Canberra CEO Gabe Trew
One entrepreneur in Canberra stands out for his innovative approach to supporting local businesses. Gabe Trew, the founder of POP Canberra, has successfully blended the charm of a pop-up shop with the celebration of all things local.
The POP Canberra Origin Story
Gabe Trew's journey into entrepreneurship began with a single idea rooted in his fascination with product creation and business strategies. ‘I thought about a shop that just sold local things that didn't even feel like a shop. It just felt like a place to come hang out that celebrated local makers,’ recalled Trew. This spark of creativity led to the birth of POP Canberra. Within weeks, the first POP Canberra pop-up shop opened its doors in New Acton in 2018.
The Unique Blend of Local Products
‘POP Canberra is a place that feels welcoming, vibrant and most importantly celebrates the creativity of local makers,’ shared Trew. The shop quickly became a hub for a diverse range of local products, from skincare to alcohol, food, gift items and knick knacks.
Thirsty Skincare
While building POP Canberra, Gabe also nurtured his skincare business, Thirsty. ‘Thirsty started as part of POP Canberra’s offerings and has now grown into a wholesale business supplying 200 stores across Australia.
The Evolution of Supplier Relationships
Trew initially sought out local makers by attending markets and trawling through different groups. Today, suppliers actively seek POP Canberra out to have their products instore, with the store receiving around 15 applications per week. Trew focuses on unique, local products, and aims to expand the shop’s offerings and create a more diverse and curated selection, while reducing double ups in store and on the app.
The POP App
Why create an app for a shop? Because the Pop App is bigger than just Canberra.
POP Canberra's national shopping app allows sellers from all over Australia join, providing a seamless and convenient way for customers to support local businesses,’ Trew explained. The app focuses on creating a positive experience for both sellers and buyers, in contrast to larger online marketplaces. The app was released 8 weeks ago and soon broke into the top 100 shopping apps in the world, sitting at spot 81. It continues to have a 5-star rating on the app store. The app allows you to shop nationally but still makes a point of shopping locally. A feature of the app is that the main products that show up on a feed are local and tailored to the individual.
On Competition
‘Brand defensibility is crucial,’ Trew emphasized when discussing competition. Instead of viewing other small businesses or gift shops as direct competitors, he concentrates on strengthening the pillars that define POP Canberra’s brand. This approach allows the business to continually improve and differentiate itself, fostering a collaborative environment within the local business community.
Trew highlighted his efforts making POP something makers want to be a part of. POP Canberra takes 45% of in-store profits, and only 15% from online profits.
The Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship
Describing the entrepreneurial journey as a ‘rollercoaster of highs and lows,’ Trew acknowledged the challenges and sacrifices involved. However, he emphasized the fulfilment and joy of seeing the business succeed.
Trew’s POP Canberra has become a testament to the power of community, creativity and supporting local businesses. From its humble beginnings as a pop-up shop to the evolution of a national shopping app, POP Canberra continues redefining how people experience and engage with local products. Trew’s commitment to fostering a sense of community inspires both emerging and established businesses in Canberra.
POP Canberra will be opening 15 hours every day during December, opening at 7 am and closing at 10 pm. Based on bustling Lonsdale Street in Braddon, it’s a fun place to visit (and shop for Christmas gifts). Go check it out!
