CME, Ontario launch online consumer directory of made-in-Ontario products

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) has launched a new online directory that identifies made-in-Ontario products.

The Ontario Made Consumer Directory is a joint effort with the provincial government as part of its $50-million fund for manufacturers aiding in the fight against COVID-19.

“Our manufacturers were there for us during the pandemic, whether it was making PPE or keeping supply chains strong,” said Premier Doug Ford during the announcement at Napoleon’s manufacturing facility in Barrie, Ont. on Oct. 29. “Let’s all support them in turn and shop local.”

Ontario’s manufacturing sector directly accounts for over 12 per cent of the province’s economy, with nearly $300 billion in annual shipments and $200 billion in exports.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, manufacturers across the province ramped up or shifted their production lines to produce more food, personal protective equipment and other essential supplies. In September alone, an increase of 51,700 jobs pushed Ontario’s manufacturing employment 17,000 jobs above pre-COVID levels.

In a recent CME survey, 73 per cent of Ontarians said they already try to purchase Canadian-made products and 56 per cent said they would try more often to purchase domestic goods.

Since launching in July 2020, CME’s SupportOntarioMade.ca website has registered over 4,600 products from over 1,200 local manufacturers. Over 150 retailers are also participating in the program. Products with the Ontario Made logo range from baby wipes to barbecues, and cosmetics to cars.

Consumers can find these made-in-Ontario goods in the new online, searchable directory at SupportOntarioMade.ca. This includes products that are made in local communities, participating retailers and company profiles.

“When Ontarians see the Ontario Made logo, there is an assurance of quality and they can be confident knowing they are supporting local jobs and the provincial economy,” says Dennis Darby, president and CEO, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, in a statement.

Manufacturers and producers are encouraged to register and promote their products on the SupportOntarioMade.ca website and use the Ontario Made logo. Regional webinars where manufacturers can learn more about the program will be hosted by CME to increase the volume and variety of registered Ontario Made products for consumers.