Young Canadians find Buy Local movement unaffordable

Many young consumers in Canada say the Buy Canadian movement is too expensive. Students like Charlotte Fowler want to support local businesses but often find they cannot afford to do so. Fowler, a music education student in Toronto, spends carefully to meet her living expenses. The ongoing trade war between Canada and the U.S. has made prices for many goods higher. Canada relies heavily on U.S. exports, which puts pressure on Canadian shoppers. Older Canadians tend to support the Buy Local movement more than those from Generation Z, who often choose cheaper American products instead. A recent study shows that many young people are food insecure and struggle with their grocery budgets. Students like Samantha Frew shop at Walmart for cost savings, even if they prefer local products. She finds it difficult to identify which goods are truly Canadian. Owen Carter, another student, agrees that it’s hard to avoid American goods. They feel the massive influence of U.S. imports complicates the decision to buy local. “Price wins out every time,” Carter states, echoing the sentiment of many young people. Claire Bates, a music teacher from Newfoundland, misses her routine of buying favorite products. She finds it tough to navigate the conflicting information about local buying. Economics professor Frances Woolley advises students to shop seasonally. She suggests options like root vegetables and frozen foods, which are often affordable and locally sourced during winter months.