Around the world, societies have been disrupted by the spread of COVID-19. Because businesses have been shut down, borders have closed, and everyone is staying home, it is no wonder more people are seeking out ways to support the economy, both locally and nationally.
If you are looking around for Canadian products during this time, there are a couple of things to consider, whether you are going out shopping at stores or ordering online.
Don’t Panic If You Can’t Get What You Need
When you go out to do grocery shopping or you need hand soap and shampoo or toilet paper, you might find that some things on missing from the shelves. Don’t panic. Right now, the entire would has slowed down—and the supply chain along with it. This means that many grocers and convenience stores are struggling to keep up with demand.
But you should know that communities are working together to bring you what you need. Also, if you see a local brand on the shelves that hasn’t been sold out yet, give it a try. Buying Canadian during these uncertain times will help strengthen the economy.
Buy Local and Support Local Businesses
Again, local businesses that are using organic ingredients, for instance, need your support. Look for businesses that have their products online so that you can see what is available for heading out or ordering online. Make sure that the business is indeed located within Canada—the nearer to you, the better.
If you are looking for food or beauty products, make sure that the ingredients are sourced from Canadian companies and/or made in Canada.
One of the best reasons for this is that small business owners and employees get to keep their jobs. Buying local will prevent trade imbalances in the future, too. Choose to order meals from local restaurants when you can.
Shop With The Eyes, Not The Hands
Once, you might have thought nothing about picking up apples at the local farmer’s market to check for bruises. That is no longer proper etiquette. Now, it is about shopping with the eyes. Do a quick scan of the produce and pick up the goods quickly. Don’t peruse and touch everything you see, since you could be spreading contamination without realizing it.
However, you should check for goods made in Canada, such as Canadian grown produce. Buy season items when possible. Make sure you are looking at Canadian meats instead of imported ones, as well as supporting those business making condiments, jams, sauces, and sweets.
And remember to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer when you can’t.
Order Online When Possible
The world has changed because of COVID-19, and we probably won’t be returning to normal any time soon. One of the practices you should become accustomed to is ordering groceries, cosmetics, and other supplies online. Not only does this mean less exposure to potentially asymptomatic or contagious individuals, but you avoid money handling.
Best of all, many Canadian-made goods are available online and can be delivered to you on short notice. This means you can get everything in one place, like with a subscription box, that you can count on to arrive when needed. Plus, all those curated goods might introduce you to something that you absolutely love. Little delights like that can help everyone get through this!
Here are some examples of Canadian products you can buy online:
- Beeswax products
- Bar soap
- Hair care
- Face masks
- Deodorant
- Serums and oils
- Food and snacks
- Honey
- Nut butters
As mentioned earlier, shopping online always you to look with your eyes, not your hands. You may also learn more about a particular Canadian-owned brand while shopping, which is not something you can commonly do at the store.
Any Employees You Come In Contact With Are Working Hard. Be Patient.
Remember that, while you are staying safe at home most of the time, there are business with employees out there who are working through the worst of the global pandemic. The manufacturers and sellers of Canadian products are trying their best to deliver goods to you on time and keep shelves stocked. Many of them are putting themselves at risk.
The good news is that many producers and distributors also are taking extra steps to keep their employees and you safe. That is why you should buy from Canadian-owned stores that are sanitizing their goods and equipment and making sure that delivered items have been sterilized as well.
Another thing to look for: Community donations. Many local businesses are also doing their part to support the country. Choose websites and businesses that are holding fundraisers or donating a portion of their profits to farmers, producers, and others who are need of financial assistance.
And remember, a simple “thank you” will go a long way!
Other Tips For Safe Shopping During COVID-19
Lastly, we just wanted to give you a friendly reminder of other practices for shopping during COVID-19:
- Take your own shopping bags and put items directly in the bags to avoid contact with unclean surfaces
- Sanitize the handles of baskets and carts
- Avoid touching surfaces and items as much as possible
- Avoid touching your face
- Keep physical distance from others—as much as possible
- Do not linger in the stores for too long. Instead, compliment services online, on social media, to give them a boost!
Final Thoughts
COVID-19 has changed the world, turning simple things that we took for granted, like going shopping at our leisure, into chaos. Fortunately, we can get through this together. When you go shopping during this time, focus on buying local to support the community. Look for goods in the stores or online that are produced by Canadians, so we can stay strong.