Economic Benefits That Ripple Across the Country
Thunder Bay – BUSINESS – For many people the major efforts to purchase Canadian made goods, in light of the tariff threats and other antics of United States President Trump have seemingly faded.
It should not. The choices we all make in our purchases can help build out economy, and can help send a message to the Trump White House that his antics and bullying hurt him and the United States.
Buying Canadian makes a difference.
When you choose Canadian-made products, dollars stay local. Each purchase supports Canadian manufacturers, farmers, artisans and retailers—keeping revenue within our borders instead of flowing overseas.
This, in turn, boosts GDP growth, increases tax revenues for public services, and helps small towns and rural communities thrive when local producers get steady orders.
Job Creation and Community Prosperity
Canadian businesses employ over 90% of our workforce in small and medium-sized enterprises. By buying Canadian, you help sustain and grow those jobs—whether it’s the factory worker in Ontario, the vineyard caretaker in the Okanagan, or the furniture craftsman in Québec. Strong local payrolls mean more spending on restaurants, shops and services, creating a virtuous cycle of employment and community vitality.
Environmental Advantages of Local Supply Chains
Importing goods often involves long-haul transportation and complex logistics, which generate significant greenhouse-gas emissions. Canadian producers benefit from shorter supply chains: fewer “food miles,” reduced packaging waste, and more stringent environmental regulations at home.
Choosing Canadian-made means a smaller carbon footprint and greater confidence in ethical production standards.
For Local Business Owners – Don’t Forget People are Price and Service Conscious Too
Shopping locally – especially for many products also means for local retail shops that while many people want to support local business, they also want to support themselves and their families.
It is critical for local companies to also realize that Amazon, e-Bay, and online shopping became a lifeline for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are lots of conveniences to going to a local shop and walking home with the product you want.
However if the local price is substantially more than online prices, chances are consumers in this very price conscious era are going to order online if your shop’s price is far more than the online price.
Digressing a bit, Thunder Bay was once home to a very significant number of camera and photography shops. From Film Factory in Grandview Mall, to Lakehead Photo on Bay Street, Prismatic Photo, and the five locations of Lovelady’s Camera Shop. In addition there was Primary Photo originally on Cumberland, and Lorne’s Cameras and Fishing Tackle on Court Street. As well there was the Henry’s Camera and Toronto Camera catalogues.
People were more than willing to shop local, but sometimes the higher prices in the local shops drove buyers to order from the catalogues.
Today Imagetech and Primary Foto are here locally.
Many of the companies that were fixtures in the local market have simply faded into history.
On electronics and especially cameras and lenses, the profit margins are small, the average consumer doesn’t mind ordering online, and despite prices for many major purchases being almost the same, some consumers just have become online shoppers. It is harder for local companies to compete. Make sure you give them a try.
Fostering Homegrown Innovation and Quality
Canada has a proud tradition of innovation—from world-leading aerospace and clean-tech firms to pioneering agri-technologies.
When consumers back domestic brands, they encourage R&D investment and help incubate the next generation of Canadian inventions. Moreover, Canadian standards for safety, labour and quality are among the world’s highest, ensuring you get products built to last.
Building National Resilience in Uncertain Times
Recent threats of tariffs and strained trade relations have reminded us how quickly global supply chains can be disrupted. By supporting Canadian businesses, we diversify our sources of essential goods and services—be it food, medical supplies or construction materials—making our economy more resilient to international upheavals.
Practical Tips to Shop Canadian Every Day
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Check Labels: Look for the “Made in Canada” logo or inquire about the origin of products in-store or online.
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Farmers’ Markets and Co-ops: Buy fresh produce, dairy and meats directly from local growers.
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Local Retailers and Artisans: Discover clothing, home goods and gifts crafted by Canadian designers.
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Digital Directories: Use apps and websites dedicated to listing Canadian businesses in your region.
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Share & Recommend: Spread the word on social media and among friends to amplify the impact.
Supporting Canadian businesses isn’t about reflexive patriotism—it’s a practical choice that bolsters our economy, environment and social fabric.
By making “Made in Canada” a deliberate part of our shopping decisions, we invest in stronger communities, more stable jobs and a healthier planet—today and for generations to come.
James Murray
