Barrie, Ontario: Sales of Canadian flags have surged, with demand doubling from a year earlier, according to flagmaker Flags Unlimited. The company attributes this spike to a rise in national pride fueled by tensions with the United States following recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The surge comes just ahead of Canada’s National Flag Day on February 15, marking the 60th anniversary of the iconic red and white maple leaf banner.
Canadian flagmaker Flags Unlimited's sales doubled from a year earlier, the company's owners said, as tensions with the neighboring United States fuel a wave of patriotism https://t.co/yplct5cz5l pic.twitter.com/68dTYyVdyd
— Reuters (@Reuters) February 15, 2025
Rallying Behind the Flag
Matt Skipp, co-owner of Flags Unlimited in Barrie, Ontario, said the increased demand is a direct response to political tensions.
“It’s a direct response to the political climate, with Canadians rallying behind their flag as a symbol of unity,” Skipp explained.
Canadian politicians have encouraged citizens to display the national flag this weekend as a demonstration of unity and national pride. Many Canadians have also responded by canceling trips to the U.S., boycotting American products—including alcohol—and expressing their frustration at sporting events.
These actions follow Trump’s February 3 announcement of 25% tariffs on most Canadian goods, a move that sparked outrage. While Trump has since delayed the tariffs, concerns remain over the long-term impact on trade.
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Economic Concerns and National Sentiment
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, speaking to business leaders last week, expressed concern over Trump’s rhetoric regarding Canadian sovereignty. A government source said Trudeau believes the idea of Canada being absorbed as the 51st U.S. state is “a real thing,” driven by the country’s vast natural resources.
Flags Unlimited, which produces over 500,000 flags annually, is now considering adding extra shifts and securing additional materials to keep up with the rising demand. While the company manufactures and assembles flags in Ontario, some materials are sourced from international suppliers.
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For many Canadians, purchasing a flag is a statement of defiance. Mike Allen, an auto parts worker, visited the store on Wednesday to buy a flag.
The North American auto industry is deeply interconnected, and industry leaders have warned that U.S. tariffs could also drive up costs for American consumers.
