Unlock the power of purchasing from a Canadian small business

Buying Canadian is not as easy as it seems!

It turns out buying Canadian is not as simple as it sounds. Our economy is highly dependent on globalized supply chains. When we first started out, we didn't want to carry an inventory because we are very conscious about creating clothing waste and being part of "fast fashion". We bought Canadian brands when producing for local artisan markets. For online orders we partnered with a print-on-demand company who has regionalized production hubs, which seemed like a great idea!

Our designs were made to order and as close as possible to the buyer's home.  However the company we partnered with has an automated system that routes out of stock orders to the nearest production hub. Unfortunately that meant that on occasion, our order would be printed in the USA.  It wasn't often, and didn't seem like a big deal until the threat of tariffs.  We are slowly moving to another printing partnership for our East Coast customers to reduce the impact of shipping and shipping times.  

Right now we are making some of our designs here at at home in B.C., while others are still print on demand. We have found some great Canadian options, as well as some that are made ethically and sustainably in countries other than the USA.  It is fascinating when you really start looking into where things are manufactured, and where companies are from.  Even shipping companies in Canada are often from the United States. We're doing our best to support Canada Post and other Canadian shippers whenever we can.

Small businesses may struggle to compete with the big corporations, from pricing to shipping cost and shipping times. However, buying from small Canadian companies helps support local economies and keeps money and businesses in our communities. 

Learn More about us:  https://rowantreeclothing.ca/pages/get-to-know-us