Toronto currently spends an estimated CAD 2.8 billion per year on clothing. With new American tariffs disrupting cross-border trade, the fashion choices we make directly impact our local economy. Shifting even a portion of this spending toward Canadian-owned apparel, accessories, and footwear can help protect local jobs, nurture homegrown creative talent, and keep billions circulating within our communities.
Strengthening Our Economy
Local Multiplier Effect
According to the 2019 The Economic Impact of Local Businesses study done by LOCO BC, for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, about $63 is recirculated back into the local economy—compared to just $43 when that same $100 is spent at a multinational chain.
This multiplier effect means more of our dollars support local supply chains, business services, and community programs that benefit us.
Boosting GDP and Tax Revenue
The Government of Canada’s Key Small Business Statistics found that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) contribute roughly 51% of the GDP generated by the private sector in Canada. When you spend on local fashion, your dollars help maintain and grow our tax base, which in turn supports our schools, public infrastructure, and essential services
Creating Resilient Supply Chains
Buying from Canadian-brands makes our community less vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions and market volatility.
By supporting local production, we build a resilient domestic industry that can better absorb shocks, reduce dependency on international suppliers, and ensure a more stable supply chain even in the face of economic uncertainties.
Creating Sustainable Jobs
Job Growth in the Creative Sector
SMEs represent 99.8% of all businesses in Canada and employ 64% of the total private-sector workforce according to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
Supporting Canadian fashion brands directly contributes to job creation—from design and manufacturing to retail, digital marketing, and more!
Community-first Hiring
Local businesses hire community members, which creates stronger neighborhood ties and increases civic engagement.
According to the Canadian Apparel Federation, the Canadian fashion industry generates over $27 billion in revenue annually and supports more than 150,000 jobs across design, manufacturing, and retail.
Building Stronger, Healthier Communities
Community Investment
Local businesses are more likely to sponsor youth sports teams, donate to community events, and engage in neighborhood improvement projects. Buying local means we and business owners can form strong and mutually beneficial relationships.
Cultural Identity
Independent stores, brands, and designers play a key role in preserving Toronto’s distinctive fashion culture. By making intentional efforts to shop with them we ensure that our city remains diverse, creative, and rich in local character.
Reducing Environmental Impacts
Reduced Transportation and Lower Carbon Footprint
Buying Canadian-made fashion means that garments travel much shorter distances from production to consumer.
Even if Canadian goods are made overseas, skipping transportation from the US to Canada reduces fuel consumption, and significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a smaller overall carbon footprint.
Commitment to Sustainable Production
Many Canadian fashion brands prioritize sustainable and ethical practices. By using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste in production, and adopting responsible manufacturing processes, these brands lessen environmental strain.
Supporting local fashion encourages businesses to continue and expand these green initiatives, fostering a more environmentally responsible industry overall.
Fashion in Canada Market Insights
Growing Market Value
The Canadian fashion industry is projected to reach revenues of over CAD 30 billion by 2025, demonstrating the substantial economic impact of domestic brands.
Employment Impact
Canadian fashion brands—many of which are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—are key drivers of job creation in the industry. These businesses support thousands of jobs across design, manufacturing, and retail, contributing to a vibrant local economy.
Changing Consumer Preferences
Increasingly, Canadian shoppers are choosing locally produced apparel. Nearly 50% or more of consumers now indicate a preference for fashion items made in Canada, driven by values like quality, sustainability, and support for homegrown talent.
Sustainable & Ethical Production
With growing consumer interest in ethical and sustainable fashion, local brands are well-positioned to meet demand. This trend not only helps reduce the environmental footprint associated with long supply chains but also reinforces the cultural and creative identity of Canadian fashion.