Canada Local, buying into it is trending, imagine that! That’s one silver lining in all this chaos and craziness with our southern neighbour. Canadians are finally waking up to the power of buying Canadian. We’ve always had the resources, the talent, and the ingenuity to thrive. But for too long, “buying Canadian” has been more of an afterthought than a movement. That changes now. Because when global forces shake us, we don’t crumble, we double down.
Buy Canada Local: Understanding the various Maple Leaf Labels
In the frenzy of supporting the Canadian economy and Canadian businesses, let’s get clear on what’s actually made in Canada. Those tiny labels on the packaging? They matter. Here’s what they really mean:
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“Product of Canada”: Think more than Maple Syrup Ontario or BC Wines. Any home grown local business falls into this category, artisans, entrepreneurs and that are regionally, provincially or nationally minded, in both in packaged goods and business to business. You can’t get more Canadian than this. This means 98% or more of the product’s total direct costs, including ingredients and processing, originate from Canada. If you want to truly support Canadian farmers, manufacturers, and suppliers, this is the label to look for.
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“Made in Canada”: A little looser. The product was manufactured or processed here, but the ingredients? They could be from anywhere. However, at least 51% of the total direct costs must be Canadian. A step in the right direction, but not quite homegrown.
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“Prepared in Canada”: The most flexible of the claims. The product was assembled or cooked in Canada, but most of its components were sourced globally, including the USA. But it also means that being prepared here… provides and optimizes Canadian jobs.
Bottom line? If you want your dollars to matter and fuel Canadian businesses, “Product of Canada” is your best bet.
The Brain Power Behind the Maple Leaf
Canada can take a page of the hundreds of individual self help and validation books! As a country we really don’t value what we are all about, looking always for validation externally. Our humble-nous has been so ingrained we’ve lost the ability to recognize our true strength and value.
The real problem? We haven’t fully embraced ourselves yet. And that’s where the real identity crisis begins.
We are the first to acknowledge our worth in terms of raw materials and of course, natural beauty. But Canada is a powerhouse of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial grit.
Think Shopify, a homegrown e-commerce titan that’s revolutionizing online retail. Or DeepMind, the AI powerhouse with Canadian researchers driving global advancements. Even Cirque du Soleil, an international entertainment phenomenon, was born out of Canadian creativity.
It goes without saying our sense of humour is second to none, having provided millions of people with the best laughs with the most awesome comedians.
From AI and biotech to sustainable manufacturing and entertainment, we have been at the forefront of some of the most groundbreaking industries in the world. But unlike other nations that shout about their accomplishments, Canada tends to shrug it off and blush.
It’s time to change that.
When Buy Canada Local… Really isn’t
Think about it. Some of our most iconic brands we’ve all grew up with, aren’t actually Canadian-owned anymore.
Hudson’s Bay Company: A Historical Past owned by the USA
Founded in 1670, Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) is North America’s oldest company. It practically wrote the book on Canadian commerce. But in 2006, American businessman Jerry Zucker acquired HBC for $1.1 billion. Two years later, NRDC Equity Partners, another American firm, took over. It may still feels Canadian. But its ownership says otherwise.
Tim Hortons: More American Than You Think
Tim Hortons—the brand that fuels our hockey rinks and morning commutes hasn’t been fully Canadian for years. In 2014, it merged with Burger King under Restaurant Brands International (RBI), a Canadian-American multinational. Yes, RBI is headquartered in Toronto, but its corporate roots run deep into American soil.
So, next time you grab that double-double, know that while the nostalgia is ours, the ownership isn’t.
Buy Canada Local Your Purchase Statement
Every dollar spent on Canadian products is a direct investment in our economy. It creates jobs. It sustains industries. It ensures that the families who grow, manufacture, and innovate here continue to thrive. And in a time when economic uncertainty looms large, that kind of impact matters.
This isn’t about waving flags or blind patriotism. It’s about making choices that keep our economy strong, our communities thriving, and our identity intact.
The Silver Lining
Trump’s tariffs may have set off alarm bells, but they also sparked something else: realization. We don’t need to rely so heavily on imports. We don’t need to play by the rules of an unpredictable trade partner.
What we do need? To recognize that Canada has its own rhythm, its own strength, its own identity. We’re not just an add-on in the global economy. We’re a force.
So, Elbows Up. Choose Canadian. We all have a part in making this time a turning point in Canada’s history.