Introducing Toronto’s very own solution to the current lockdown that is destroying local businesses across South-western Ontario: Fittedfast – a platform allowing locals to shop apparel businesses in the city. Founded in 2019 by 4th-year University of Toronto student, Keturah Osinde, Fittedfast aims to bridge the gap between local brick-and-mortar business and the online shopping world by allowing customers to browse local inventory online. 

In the era of the pandemic, lockdowns, and social distancing, Fittedfast understands the reluctance of many people to leave home, and thus the growing problem of business shutdowns. As a response, Fittedfast conveniently provides customers with the ability to not only shop across all local stores in the city, but they can also expect fast 1-3 day delivery on all orders made. On the topic of how the pandemic has impacted local businesses, Kelly Saltzman, a merchant on Fittedfast notes, “It was quite the financial hit for us because we had just brought out a new children’s line and other fun initiatives for the brand.” Indeed, the pandemic has halted many businesses in their tracks. Fittedfast aims to support small businesses like Saltzman who have been hit hard by the global pandemic. “Fittedfast roots itself in the idea of resiliency. As we come together and invest in local businesses by shopping their merchandise online as opposed to shopping online internationally, we invest in our local streets, playgrounds, schools and hospitals,” says Osinde.  

Amidst the pandemic, Fittedfast’s mission is to empower local businesses to find innovative ways to survive the lockdown by offering items online with the convenience of delivery automatically taken care of for their orders. It’s the local mall at your fingertips – without the mile-long line. Fittedfast has already partnered with various stores in Toronto including but not limited to: Clarendon Co, ANY7, Awoke N Aware, All Cities Clothing and Papa Love Vintage. Their merchant base is quickly growing as the city enters the second round of lockdowns, and you can begin shopping on the platform or listing your products today by accessing www.fittedfast.com. The Fittedfast team can also be reached on Instagram at @Fittedfast_ and @Fittedfast on Facebook.