The Economy
When we buy Canadian, we can directly impact our own economy in positive ways. It makes sense that every dollar we spend in Canada has a ripple effect that far exceeds the exchange of money for goods and services. Regardless of what we are purchasing, we are all part of this cycle. We are securing existing jobs and helping to create new ones. It makes sense that when Canadian businesses are successful, they are able to give back to the communities they serve by supporting local charities, cultural associations, and more. Successfully employed Canadians and successful businesses also mean larger tax revenues towards government programs. Buying products made in Canada makes sense and shopping local makes even more sense!
Health & Safety
When we buy Canadian, we know that the products have met our country’s stringent health & safety standards. The manufacturing industry in Canada is highly regulated, from the factories’ environmental emissions, to the quality assurance practices, to the materials used and beyond. All things considered, isn’t it worth buying Canadian for our health & safety? Buying products made in Canada keeps us safe!
The Environment
When we buy Canadian, we are reducing our carbon footprint, as products made closer to home require much less transportation. For example, did you know that a piece of clothing designed, manufactured and sold in Montreal requires 25 times less transportation than a similar product made in the far East? Most Canadian made products last longer so we reduce our landfill! Buying products made in Canada makes our planet greener!
Labour Standards
When we buy Canadian, we can rest assured that the people who make the products are treated fairly and are working in safe, sanitary conditions. We’ve all heard the horror stories of sweatshops in foreign countries, using children and adults as disposable labour. Many consumers are now deciding not to support those practices and demonstrate their principles by not buying products made in the countries that have such horrible track records. Buying products made in Canada makes us feel good!
Patriotism
Historically, Canadian’s have always been quietly patriotic. If there’s one thing the world noticed during the Vancouver Olympics is that we’re a proud bunch and perhaps now (post record-breaking-Olympics) we won’t be so quiet anymore. Love of Country shouldn’t stop at flying a flag or wearing red and white. We have every reason to be proud of our country, including the wonderful products we make here.
The idea is not to buy Canadian only (it’s impossible to do so anyway), but to consider Canadian-made products over foreign-made ones first and buy these as often as we can. And, remember, Canadian-made products are typically far superior than imported products. Buying products made in Canada makes us feel proud!
Why buy Local
When we buy local, we are contributing to the enrichment of our communities. Next time you go shopping, think “where is my money going”? Is it going right back into your community or going to someone else’s community? That purchase you just made, may contribute to the survival of a struggling local family business. Local businesses pay a lot of property tax. If local businesses fail, then ALL property taxes will have to come from the residents.
Supporting your local businesses is a good investment for many reasons. Local businesses employee local people like your family, friends and neighbours. Local companies tend to offer better service and stand behind their products. Shopping local supports our communities!