Canadian companies are turning away from US suppliers

In the heart of Toronto, Descendant Detroit Style Pizza, a popular pizzeria, made headlines after announcing its decision to stop using American-made ingredients, a move driven by increasing concerns over the volatile US political climate and the trade war.

"I'm just looking at ways I can make a statement about how I feel about what's happening in the States without standing on a soapbox and screaming at people," the owner, Chris Getchell, told CBC.

Canadian businesses shift away from US suppliers

Getchell’s decision is part of a larger trend among Canadian businesses, which are increasingly opting for domestic or alternative international suppliers over American ones. Rising trade tensions, political instability and economic unpredictability have motivated businesses to reduce reliance on US imports and instead source their products locally or from other global markets.

The are in good company as Canadian citzens and businesses alike look to adjust their buying habits to avoid buying anything from our neighbours to the south.

Grocery stores prioritize local and global alternatives

Mike Dean Local Grocer, which operates five stores across Ontario and Quebec, has already taken action in response to the tariffs that took effect on March 4. Owner Gordon Dean has been working hard to prioritize Canadian products, looking beyond the US for items that are typically sourced from there. In response to concerns over supply chain disruptions, his stores have begun sourcing produce from unexpected locations — such as grapes from Namibia — rather than relying on traditional American suppliers.

Rabba Fine Foods, a Toronto-based grocery chain, has strengthened partnerships with Ontario producers to replace US fruits and vegetables with Canadian alternatives. The company’s effort aligns with the growing trend of supporting local greenhouse industries, ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of fresh produce without the risk of American tariffs or trade restrictions.

Major retailers adapt sourcing strategies

Loblaw Companies Limited, Canada’s largest food retailer, has also adjusted its sourcing strategy. In addition to collaborating with existing vendors to increase the availability of Canadian products, Loblaw has been seeking new local suppliers to further diversify its supply chain. The company has even started prominently featuring Canadian-made goods in stores, online and in promotional materials, making it easier for consumers to support local industries.

Empire Company Limited, which owns Sobeys and Safeway, has taken similar steps. As customers increasingly inquire about product origins, Empire has committed to making Canadian products more visible and accessible. The company has also made it clear that it will push back against any price hikes from US suppliers resulting from tariff-related issues, ensuring fair pricing for Canadian consumers.

Other industries look beyond the US market

Beyond the food industry, other Canadian businesses have also made strategic shifts to avoid US markets. Teck Resources Limited, one of Canada’s leading mining companies, has plans to redirect its zinc sales away from the US and towards Asian markets in an effort to avoid US tariffs. To facilitate this transition, Teck has secured additional storage and port capacity in Canada, ensuring a smoother distribution process.

Canadian businesses embrace economic independence

The growing shift away from American suppliers highlights not only economic concerns but also an underlying desire among Canadian businesses to assert independence in global trade. As Getchell put it in his CBC interview, his decision is also about values: "We have everything we need here, and I just think it’s important that we support each other," he said.

As Canada continues to navigate an evolving global trade landscape, more businesses are expected to follow in the footsteps of these pioneering entrepreneurs, reinforcing the strength and sustainability of Canadian supply chains. Whether motivated by economic necessity or personal convictions, the movement to prioritize Canadian alternatives is reshaping the way businesses operate and consumers shop, proving that homegrown solutions can be both practical and principled.

Sources

1. CBC: Toronto pizzeria cuts out U.S. ingredients until Americans make 'more responsible electoral decisions' (March 3, 2025)