Buy Canadian movement gains momentum amid economic struggles

Independent grocers reap the rewards of "Buy Canadian"

Angela Donnelly, co-owner of Raise the Root in Toronto, and her business partner, JJ, have sold Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables for over a decade. They were initially motivated by a desire to provide organic produce in their community, not out of any desire to promote Canadian goods or foster Canadian pride. But now, Donnelly sees a direct link between the rising demand for Canadian products and the success of their store.

“One of the things I have been saying to our customers is that, we’re kind of OG,” Donnelly told the Toronto Star, noting that their commitment to local sourcing predates the current economic climate and resulting 'Buy Canadian' trend.

In East York, Ontario, David Schmucker, who took over Fresh From the Farm from his parents in January, has also seen an increase in customers. The store, founded in 1996, specializes in products sourced from Ontario Amish and Mennonite farmers. “We’re a good local option and they’re coming to check us out,” Schmucker told the Star. The growing interest in locally sourced food is prompting him to replace American products with Canadian alternatives wherever possible. He even started sourcing granola bars from British Columbia instead of the United States.

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Increased customer loyalty and transparency

The “Buy Canadian” movement, born out of growing anti-U.S. sentiment amid President Donald Trump's tariffs and political rhetoric, has breathed new life into these independent grocers. As consumers become more conscientious about the origin of their food, small grocers such as Donnelly and Schmucker are benefiting from increased loyalty and new customers. The focus on local produce — available even during the colder months — has helped these stores thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

“There’s been more interest in knowing where our food is coming from,” Donnelly explained. At Raise the Root, staff have ramped up efforts to ensure that products are properly labeled and sourced, conducting daily checks to ensure accuracy. With more customers coming in and asking about product origins, the business is keeping up with the demand for transparency.

Economic impact of the "Buy Canadian" trend

But it’s not just the independent grocers that are benefiting from the movement. A report by BMO economist Robert Kavcic suggests that the “Buy Canadian” trend could add as much as $10 billion annually to Canada’s economy. This shift in consumer behavior is not just patriotic — it’s becoming a meaningful source of stimulus for the Canadian economy. Kavcic estimates that a modest shift in spending toward Canadian goods could generate $6 billion in value. With more than half of Canadians saying they intend to buy Canadian-made products in response to the trade conflict with the U.S., the movement has become a potent economic force.

“The challenge is that Canada is a significant net importer of household products, cars and consumer electronics,” Kavcic told the Toronto Star. “But even a modest shift could make a big impact on the economy.” While purchasing exclusively Canadian products might be impractical for many consumers due to price or availability, even small changes in spending habits could help reduce reliance on foreign goods and bolster domestic businesses.

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The future of local grocers and Canadian consumers

For independent grocers, the “Buy Canadian” movement represents both a business opportunity and a chance to support local farmers and producers. “People are very supportive of what we’re trying to do,” Schmucker said. With more Canadians choosing to buy local, it seems that the movement is not only reshaping how Canadians shop but also how they think about their role in the economy.

Sources

1. Toronto Star: ‘We’re kind of OG’: Independent grocers see traffic surge due to ‘Buy Canadian’ movement (April 22, 2025)

2. Toronto Star: ‘Buy Canadian’ movement could add $10 billion annually to Canada’s economy, says BMO economist (April 22, 2025)