CBC Digital Archives

Buy Canadian: Read the label

When it comes to the economy, an appropriate motto would be plus ça change. But when times are tough, a slogan that invariably turns up is "Buy Canadian" — an appeal to consumers to put pride and patriotism where their wallets are. In 2009 it came up once again, in part a response to the controversial "Buy American" provisions proposed as part of a massive economic stimulus package. The CBC Digital Archives looks back at "Buy Canadian" campaigns of the past.

How can stores make it easier for Canadians to support their economy when they shop? One solution is this red and white maple leaf logo, created to promote Canadian-made goods. As we see in this CBC-TV report from 1982, both the public and private sectors work together to promote Canadian-made products through advertising campaigns.

• The Federal government's budget for the "Shop Canadian" campaign was $1.5 million. It was launched in late October 1981 during the pre-Christmas retail season. 

• The "Shop Canadian" tags were found on souvenirs, handmade crafts and footwear.

• Canada's unemployment rate for 1982 was 10.7 per cent, according to Statistics Canada.

Medium: Television
Program: Saturday Report
Broadcast Date: Sept. 11, 1982
Guest(s): Herb Gray
Anchor: George McLean
Reporter: Tom McFeat
Duration: 3:01

Last updated: February 9, 2012

Page consulted on March 27, 2013

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