Cantoo City
Small Business Success Stories
Painting a Success Story in the Art Supplies Market
People often say to, follow your passion, and for Sherry Gu, that's precisely what she did. In 2020, on the verge of losing her dream job due to COVID-related downsizing, she decided to pursue her lifelong passion for painting.
Upon diving back into the art world, Gu noticed a significant gap in the market for affordable, high-quality art supplies. Seizing the opportunity, she launched her company, Cantoo City, in 2022, with a mission to create easy-to-use art kits for everyone‐not just professional artists.
Initially, Cantoo City sold exclusively on Amazon.ca. It soon became clear that customers were seeking more than just art supplies; they were looking for a sense of community among creatives. This insight prompted Sherry to expand Cantoo City's online presence and cultivate a community around the brand.
For two years, she hosted an online quiz night every weekend, engaging her audience with questions about Canadian artists, art history and more. This initiative not only educated but also brought people together, creating a community she deeply values.
"Connecting with our customers goes beyond transactions. It's about sharing values and experiences. When our hearts collide, that's when true magic happens."
- Sherry Gu
Today, Cantoo City products can also be found on Walmart.ca and featured in select retail pop-up shops across Ontario. These strategic moves have broadened the brand's reach and significantly increased its customer base.
“GS1 Canada played a crucial role in our journey, providing essential tools and barcodes to get us started. When I first launched the business, a knowledgeable wholesaler friend advised me to plan ahead and align with the requirements of brick-and-mortar stores for future growth. Heeding this advice, I turned to GS1 Canada as I began selling online, ensuring that our products met both e-commerce standards and retailer requirements. As we continue to grow, we look forward to utilizing GS1 Canada's additional solutions, such as data management and photography,” said Sherry Gu.
Through all of this, Gu's efforts have paid off. Cantoo City's products have gained popularity, with sketchbooks being the top seller in Canada and acrylic paint pen sets leading in the U.S. Yet for Gu, the true measure of success is not just in sales but in the connections and community she has created.
To shop products and learn more about Cantoo City, visit their Instagram account @cantoocity (External link opens in new tab.) or their website www.cantoocity.com (External link opens in new tab.).
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