The Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, with support from the Ontario government, is launching a new searchable directory, making it easier for shoppers to find Ontario-made products and to support local businesses and manufacturers.
Ontario’s local manufacturing sector plays a big role in Canada’s economic success, accounting for over 12 per cent of the province’s economy. The Ontario Made Consumer Directory is designed to help support the province’s economic recovery.
“Ontario-made products are second to none in quality and excellence,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “That’s why I’m proud to support this new Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters campaign to encourage Ontarians to look for the ‘Ontario Made’ label when shopping. Our manufacturers were there for us during the pandemic, whether it was making PPE or keeping supply chains strong. Let’s all support them in turn and shop local.”
A recent Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) survey found that 73 per cent of Ontarians try to buy Canada-made products and 56 per cent said they would try more often to do so. The Ontario Made website, launched in July 2020, lists Ontario companies, making it easier for consumers to find local producers and manufacturers.
“We all have a role to play in our economic recovery. By purchasing the quality products that are synonymous with Ontario Made, you are supporting your family, friends and neighbours and accelerating our economic revival today and into the future,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
Easy to find West Niagara products
The new searchable directory makes it even easier to find local products, such as Wilhem’s Provisions peach jam, made with Niagara peaches; frozen pet food, made by Big Country Raw in Smithville; whisky from Forty Creek Distillery in Grimsby, and many more products.
Manufacturers and producers are encouraged to register on the Ontario Made website and use the Ontario Made logo in their establishments. CME will also be hosting regional webinars in the coming weeks so manufacturers can learn more about the program and increase the variety of registered Ontario Made products for consumers.
“Ontario businesses came through for us when we needed them most and now we have a chance to return the favour. Support local factories and businesses in our communities, support the hard working men and women who make everything from baby wipes to BBQs. These items are produced right here on Ontario by skilled and talented workers who live in our neighbourhoods. By purchasing Ontario-made we can put billions of dollars back into our economy and start our province down the road to recovery,” said Ford.
Learn More:
Original news release
Press conference video
Ontario Made website
