Are you still buying Canadian? One Ontario hockey dad is on a mission to ensure you don’t forget—and he’s 135 days deep into his journey. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is the push to buy Canadian truly making a difference, or are we just scratching the surface of a much bigger issue? Let’s dive in.
In the heart of Ontario, Chris Agro, a dedicated father and passionate advocate, has been spotlighting made-in-Canada products for over four months straight. His goal? To inspire more Canadians to think twice before tossing items into their shopping carts and to prioritize supporting local businesses. Agro’s campaign isn’t just about patriotism—it’s about fostering a deeper connection to the products we use every day and the stories behind them.
And this is the part most people miss: Agro’s journey began with something as simple as a bag of milk—a staple in some Canadian provinces but a curiosity in others. That single post sparked a wave of reactions across the country, leading him to explore what else defines Canadian culture. From Dempster’s bread to Oasis juice, David’s Tea to Jamieson Vitamins, Agro’s Instagram and Facebook feeds are now a treasure trove of Canadian brands, both big and small. He’s even a regular contributor to groups like Made in Canada - Canadian Products, where his posts resonate with thousands.
But what does ‘buying Canadian’ really mean? Here’s where opinions start to clash. While some see it as a straightforward way to support local economies, others argue that labels like “Made in Canada” and “Product of Canada” can be misleading. For instance, a product might be assembled in Canada but use mostly imported materials. Agro, however, keeps his focus on Canadian companies and the jobs they create. “If we’re supporting Canadian workers and families, that’s good enough for me,” he says. “My list, my rules.”
Agro’s dedication has transformed his grocery shopping into a treasure hunt, doubling the time he spends in stores as he seeks out new products to feature. He’s even started receiving recommendations from small businesses eager to share their stories. Take Spyce Girlz, an Ottawa-based company founded by a 13-year-old entrepreneur, now stocked in major grocery chains. Or Oasis juice, a brand with roots stretching back over a century in Quebec. Each story Agro shares adds another layer to the rich tapestry of Canadian innovation and culture.
The impact of his efforts isn’t lost on businesses like Cowbell Brewing Co. in Blythe, Ontario. “It’s a great movement,” says Hannah Aerts, the company’s marketing manager. “We’ve seen more people visiting the brewery and supporting local businesses, which is fantastic.” Cowbell’s beer is now available not just at their brewery but also at LCBO, The Beer Store, grocery stores, and even some Costcos, including one in nearby London, Ontario.
But here’s a thought-provoking question: What about products that seem Canadian but aren’t? The practice of ‘maple-washing’—where U.S. products adopt Canadian imagery to appeal to northern consumers—has sparked debate. Agro doesn’t let it deter him, focusing instead on the bigger picture of supporting Canadian jobs and families. But it raises an important question: How can consumers truly know what they’re buying?
For Agro, this project has reignited his love for Canada and deepened his pride in its achievements. Growing up, he dreamed of traveling to California or Florida, but now his sights are set on exploring places like Vancouver and Halifax. “We take so much for granted,” he reflects. “Over the past year and a half, we’ve become more connected to Canada and its people in ways we never imagined.”
While Agro acknowledges his project has a shelf life, he’s already expanding its scope to celebrate the diverse cultural elements that make Canada unique. From food to art, music to innovation, he’s on a mission to highlight everything Canadians can be proud of.
So, what do you think? Is buying Canadian a meaningful way to support local economies, or is it just a feel-good gesture? Are we doing enough to protect Canadian businesses from being overshadowed by international competitors? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
