JOE’S STORY

Owner, Joe Clare

Joe Clare, Owner and CEO of Massage Therapy Supply Outlet Ltd. has been deeply connected to the company since January 2012. As the owner of the building at 9206-95 Avenue, Joe learned that the founders of the Massage Therapy Supply Outlet were considering retirement. Seeing an opportunity to combine his personal interests with his business acumen, he stepped in and took over the company.

"I've always been interested in massage therapy, and when I was younger, I even considered becoming a massage therapist," Joe shared. Though life took him down a different path, he now finds himself fulfilling that early dream as the owner and CEO of Massage Therapy Supply Outlet Ltd.

Ethics and Whole Sources

Joe's vision for the store revolves around a commitment to sustainability, community, and ethical sourcing. He strongly believes in offering local, sustainable, natural, and organic products that contribute to the well-being of both people and the planet. Recycling, upcycling, and repurposing are core values, and Joe actively supports community-based initiatives—whether local or international—especially those that champion family businesses and women's causes.

One of Joe’s key initiatives was guiding Massage Therapy Supply Outlet Ltd. through the process of achieving B Corp Certification in 2024. This accomplishment reflects his commitment to operating the business with a focus on social and environmental responsibility, ensuring that MTSO meets the highest standards of performance, accountability, and transparency.

Art and Community

Joe has long been an advocate for art and community engagement. Before taking over the store, he had already commissioned art for the exterior of the building, including the landmark mural Free Rain by artist James K-M. Additional pieces, such as Revisioning and Auricle by sculptor Debora Alanna, are featured on the walls and grounds of the store.

Joe also fosters a sense of community by maintaining a garden on the side and back of the building, with a picnic table set up for neighbors to relax and chat. In addition, a Little Free Library outside the store offers books for anyone to take. Joe has also created a Francophone Little Free Library just a block away, providing books in French for the community.