Canadians open to buying local — But not when it comes to streaming services

Canadians' willingness to embrace homegrown

The Leger survey suggests a significant portion (81%) of Canadians are prepared to replace American goods with Canadian-made products, especially in categories like alcohol. Their reasoning is based on various factors, including national pride, support for local businesses and reactions to the burgeoning risk of a trade war.

But, whereas many are willing to trade in their Jim Beam for Crown Royal, it appears Canadians might need a bit more convincing when it comes to categories they feel are lacking up here in the North.

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Streaming services: A different story

Despite the readiness to switch in other sectors, Canadians have a real attachment to US-based streaming platforms. Of those polled, only 28% of respondents said they were planning to cancel their US-based streaming platforms.

That’s because services such as Netflix have become deeply ingrained in daily entertainment routines, making users hesitant to consider or transition to alternative providers.

It’s not just the brand name that keeps users subscribed to these platforms. Subscribers to apps like Netflix get access to extensive content libraries, user-friendly interfaces and are quite often legacy subscribers who have had these services for long enough that they are simply a part of their lives.

That said, Canada has hardly dropped the ball when it comes to offering streaming alternatives that are as Canadian as maple syrup.

Canadian-owned streaming alternatives

If you’re considering Canadian alternatives to the streaming platforms you already know and love, there are several Canadian-owned streaming services that offer diverse and rich content:

• Crave: Owned by Bell Media, Crave provides a vast library of content, including HBO, Showtime and original Canadian programming. It's a comprehensive platform for both international hits and local productions.
• CBC Gem: Operated by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, CBC Gem offers a wide range of Canadian content, from news to entertainment, including exclusive series and documentaries. It's an excellent platform for those seeking Canadian narratives.
• StackTV: A streaming package by Corus Entertainment, StackTV provides access to 16 top-tier television networks live or on-demand, including Global, W Network and HGTV Canada. It's available through Amazon Prime Video Channels and other providers.
• OUTtv: As one of the earliest LGBTQ+ oriented streaming services, OUTtv offers a wide range of programming, from original series and movies to licensed content from other networks. Notable titles include "Canada's Drag Race" and "Call Me Mother."
• Kidoodle.TV: A safe streaming platform for children, Kidoodle.TV provides a variety of kid-friendly content and is committed to safety and parental controls. It's a great option for families seeking child-focused entertainment.

While the allure of established US streaming services is strong, these Canadian-owned platforms offer compelling alternatives that cater to diverse tastes and support local content creators. Exploring these services can provide fresh perspectives and contribute to the growth of Canada's digital media landscape.

Survey methodology

The Léger was conducted online between February 7 and 10, 2025, polling 1,590 Canadians.