Key Takeaways
- The creators of the "Canada is not for sale" hat want to share their knowledge on making and selling products in Canada with other companies.
- The hat was created in response to US President Donald Trump’s annexation talk and was worn by Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
- The company learned about the challenges of manufacturing in Canada and plans to act as consultants to help other domestic manufacturers.
- Cutting costs and shortening manufacturing cycles are crucial for building up Canada’s industrial capacity and reducing reliance on the US and China.
- The company plans to release new products linked to events like the World Cup and the Olympics in 2026.
Introduction to the "Canada is Not for Sale" Movement
The "Canada is not for sale" hat has become a symbol of Canadian pride and unity, and the people behind it are now looking to share their expertise with other companies who want to get on board the made-in-Canada train. The hat was created by Liam Mooney and his partner Emma Cochrane, who were motivated by a desire to unite Canadians and fight back against US President Donald Trump’s annexation talk. The hat gained widespread attention when it was worn by Ontario Premier Doug Ford in January of last year, and since then, the company has been working to meet the demand for the hats.
The Challenges of Manufacturing in Canada
Mooney and Cochrane spent much of 2025 getting familiar with Canada’s manufacturing landscape, and in the process, they learned a lot about the challenges of making clothes and other products in Canada. They discovered that manufacturing in Canada can be a difficult and complex process, with many obstacles to overcome. Despite these challenges, the company has been successful in meeting the demand for the hats, and they are now looking to share their knowledge and expertise with other domestic manufacturers. Mooney believes that cutting costs and shortening manufacturing cycles at home will be critical if Canada is to build up its industrial capacity and stop relying so heavily on the United States and China.
Plans for the Future
The company plans to act as consultants and share their lessons with other domestic manufacturers who are trying to make and sell their products in Canada. They believe that their experience and expertise will be valuable to other companies who are looking to get on board the made-in-Canada train. In addition to consulting, the company is also planning to release new products linked to events like the World Cup and the Olympics in 2026. Mooney says that demand for "Canada is not for sale" apparel has remained steady throughout the year, and they are confident that their new products will be just as popular. By expanding their product line and sharing their expertise with other companies, the creators of the "Canada is not for sale" hat are helping to promote Canadian manufacturing and reduce the country’s reliance on foreign goods.
The Importance of Made-in-Canada Products
The "Canada is not for sale" hat is more than just a symbol of Canadian pride – it’s also a reminder of the importance of supporting domestic manufacturers. By buying made-in-Canada products, consumers are helping to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in their communities. Mooney and Cochrane’s decision to manufacture their hats in Canada is a testament to the importance of supporting domestic industry, and their success is an inspiration to other companies who are looking to follow in their footsteps. As Canada looks to build up its industrial capacity and reduce its reliance on foreign goods, the creators of the "Canada is not for sale" hat are leading the way and showing that it’s possible to make high-quality products in Canada.
Conclusion
The story of the "Canada is not for sale" hat is a testament to the power of Canadian ingenuity and determination. From its humble beginnings as a response to US President Donald Trump’s annexation talk, the hat has become a symbol of Canadian pride and unity. The company’s decision to share their expertise with other domestic manufacturers is a generous move that will help to promote Canadian manufacturing and reduce the country’s reliance on foreign goods. As Canada looks to the future, the creators of the "Canada is not for sale" hat are an inspiration to other companies who are looking to get on board the made-in-Canada train. With their plans to release new products and act as consultants, they are helping to build a brighter future for Canadian manufacturing and promoting a sense of national pride that will continue to unite Canadians for years to come.
