Despite indications that the Buy Canadian movement may be losing momentum, there is optimism among some business owners who anticipate continued success during Black Friday and the holiday shopping season. The movement gained traction earlier this year as consumers shifted to Canadian-made products in response to trade tensions and annexation threats from President Donald Trump.
Recent data suggests a decline in the trend from its peak. Statistics Canada’s latest report revealed that approximately 70% of businesses did not observe an increase in sales of Canadian products over the past six months. Only about 13% reported sales growth, while the rest were uncertain.
Inflation and the reduction of some Canadian tariffs on U.S. goods have made items more affordable, possibly leading consumers back to their previous buying patterns. A Bank of Canada survey indicated that most people were unwilling to pay more than an additional 10% for Canadian-made products.
François Neville, a strategic management professor at McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business, noted a shift in public sentiment towards supporting Canadian goods and services. However, he acknowledged a decrease in this sentiment and uncertainty about the prominence of Buy Canadian this holiday season.
Despite the overall softening, some businesses are experiencing sustained support. Julie Brown, owner of clothing retail store Province of Canada, reported consistent sales growth each month compared to the previous year. Similarly, Shop Makers president Chris Sharanewych highlighted the company’s expansion and increased sales, emphasizing the importance of supporting Canadian products.
A Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) survey indicated that 59% of Canadian households plan to spend $553 on local products and services this holiday season. BDC’s chief economist Pierre Cléroux emphasized the job creation potential of buying local, with 46% of Canadians indicating a willingness to spend more on Canadian goods and services this year.
Holiday shoppers at Toronto’s Eaton Centre expressed varying sentiments, with some prioritizing Canadian purchases as a way to support the economy, while others cited budget considerations. The evolving landscape of consumer preferences and economic factors will likely shape the outcome of this year’s holiday shopping season.