AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today November 12, 2026
Misty Pines Cafe and Bakery Faces Repeated Break-ins
Misty Pines Cafe and Bakery, a small business in Nanaimo, has made the decision to operate as a cashless cafe following a series of costly break-ins and vandalism incidents. Owner Can Akin, who opened the business in 2023 and expanded to a second location in the city, describes the challenges of running a small business in the current environment.
Series of Burglaries Spurs Change
The cafe has suffered three break-ins over the past three years, with two of the incidents occurring within just two months. According to Akin, thieves broke in on several occasions by smashing windows. The first break-in resulted in damages totaling nearly $4,000, including the theft of tablets and cash. The subsequent two break-ins each caused about $3,000 in damage and losses.
Going Cashless to Enhance Security
In response to these incidents, Misty Pines Cafe and Bakery has gone cashless in an effort to deter further break-ins and reduce the risk associated with keeping money on the premises. Akin recounted that during the most recent break-in on October 10, a perpetrator was able to steal the cafe's safe, despite its weight and the effort required to move it into the store.
Impact on the Nanaimo Small Business Community
Akin expressed frustration at the ongoing security challenges faced by small businesses in Nanaimo. He noted that running a small business can be rewarding but also comes with significant risks, especially when dealing with repeated instances of theft and property damage.
Concerns About the Justice System
The owner also voiced concerns regarding Canada's justice system, implying a need for change to better protect small businesses against theft and vandalism. The decision to remove cash from the premises and switch to cashless payment options is intended to make the cafe a less attractive target for would-be thieves.
Business Security Becomes a Priority
The move to a cashless system is increasingly being adopted by small businesses looking to enhance their security measures and prevent future theft-related losses. Misty Pines Cafe and Bakery's experience underscores the challenges and difficult choices faced by local entrepreneurs.
Source: globalnews.ca.
