Sean and Amy Zister first opened "Seven Shores Trading Company" in 2004 in Kitchener - a store that was inspired by artisans around the world - focusing on fair trade products, furnishings and accessories. In 2008 Seven Shores evolved and moved to uptown Waterloo, operating as an urban cafe, a local food retailer, and merchandiser of arts and crafts from artisans around the world. Recently in December 2011 Seven Shores expanded the cafe by moving to a neighbouring location which has allowed growth in the menu, market and seating, along with a community room.

Seven Shores Urban Market sells product from local and international producers who have been paid fair prices. Product includes produce, baked goods, preserves, coffee, tea, art, fashion, etc. from 30+ small independent businesses. The Cafe provides healthy lifestyle choices and a healthy menu (soups, salads, sandwiches, spring rolls, smoothies and organic fairly traded coffee) offered to eat-in or take-out, promoting the slow movement and serving fresh food that is local and organic. More

Seven Shores has also been coined a Social Venture Company. “Seven Shores is a social venture whereby success isn’t measured by profit alone. Acting as a portal for poor populations around the world to fairly market their products, Seven Shores sells fairly traded items to support populations globally. In addition, Seven Shores sources local food to support small scale farmers in Waterloo Region.” More