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    • Interac Survey: A 180-Degree Shift in Canadian Attitudes Towards Local Products

    Let’s introduce this article with some striking data from a survey conducted in February 2025 by Interac among 1,500 Canadians: nearly three out of four (73%) now believe that investing in locally or nationally made products is the right choice. The main factors driving consumers to choose Canadian products are support for the local economy (79%), trust in national quality standards (56%), and a sense of patriotism or national pride (55%).

    Consumer Behavior is Changing

    The survey reveals additional statistics that show shifting consumer behavior:

    • Eight out of ten Canadians (80%) are likely to choose Canadian-made products over imported ones.
    • When asked which businesses should be prioritized, the majority of Canadians (82%) first mention small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their region, while a quarter (24%) highlight large international corporations.
    • Three-quarters of Canadians (76%) believe that local businesses are more valuable to their communities than online retailers.

    “Given the current economic climate and evolving tariff threats, Canadians are reassessing their spending,”says Debbie Gamble, Group Head, Strategy and Marketing at Interac.

    “Our survey results confirm that Canadians are using their purchasing power thoughtfully, choosing to support local businesses even if it means paying more. This trend has emerged despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures and demonstrates a strong commitment to local communities.”

     

    Clarity on Product Origin Remains a Challenge

    Even though consumers want to buy Canadian products and shop locally, many struggle to identify which products are made in Canada.

    According to the survey, seven in ten Canadians (71%) actively look for Canadian-made products. However, four out of ten (40%) find it difficult to determine a product’s origin before purchasing, highlighting the need for clearer labeling and greater transparency at the point of sale.

    “This is precisely where the ‘Well Made Here’ program comes into play,” emphasizes Richard Darveau, President and CEO of the program, who continuously urges the 150 participating manufacturers to proclaim their membership with more pride and vigor. 

    Other Key Findings from the Interac Survey:

    • Nine out of ten Canadians say supporting local businesses is important to them.
    • Nearly eight out of ten (79%) now consider supporting local businesses more crucial than a year ago.
    • More than two-thirds (68%) of Canadians believe their personal financial decisions have a direct impact on their local community.
    • Over half (53%) of respondents are willing to pay an extra $5 to buy a local product.
    • One-third (33%) would even pay an extra $10.

    Technical Details About the Interac Survey:

    The survey was conducted using the Léger Opinion online panel, polling 1,500 Canadians between February 6 and 9, 2025. The sample was representative of the Canadian population, with data weighted by age, gender, and region. The margin of error for a randomly selected sample of n=1,500 is ±3%, 19 times out of 20.