KAMSACK — Ever since U.S. President Donald Trump announced tariffs on Canadian goods, consumer concerns have grown over the availability and pricing of Canadian and local products.
In response to tariffs threats, Canadian shoppers have become more vigilant, ensuring they support stores that carry Canadian and locally produced goods, regardless of the commodity.
Jessie Huber, marketing manager of Legacy Co-operative Association Limited, told the Â鶹´«Ã½AV that the organization is proactively addressing concerns surrounding potential product shortages and pricing impacts.
To maintain consistent stock levels, Legacy Co-op closely monitors its inventory and maintains strong relationships with multiple suppliers. This proactive approach allows flexibility in sourcing and helps mitigate potential disruptions. The organization continues to assess Canadian product availability and introduce new options to meet consumer demand.
As a locally owned co-operative, Legacy Co-op is committed to supporting Canadian businesses. To help customers identify local products, the store has introduced enhanced in-store signage and labels, highlighting items from Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Western Canada, as well as those designated Made in Canada.
Legacy Co-op strengthens its product offerings through local partnerships. One key initiative includes its modular farm in Yorkton, operating under the Neighbourhood Fresh brand. This facility grows leafy greens and herbs year-round, ensuring a stable supply of fresh produce independent of external market fluctuations. The produce is harvested weekly and available the same day on store shelves.
Legacy Co-op remains deeply invested in the communities it serves, Huber said. As a 100 per cent locally owned co-operative, it returns profits to its member-owners each year.
“Recognizing that strong communities contribute to our success, Legacy Co-op actively gives back,” said Huber.
In 2023 alone, more than $301,665 was invested in community donations, support and member relations, alongside additional fundraising efforts. Legacy Co-op annually commits funds to community initiatives such as Good Buy to Hunger, Fuel Good Day, TeleMiracle and Airwaves for Health Radiothon.
Through partnerships with organizations like SIGN (Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours), Legacy Co-op ensures essential products and support reach those in need. Recently, Kamsack food store won a contest awarding $2,000 in food products to a local charitable organization, benefiting the SIGN Family Resource Centre in Kamsack.
Huber emphasized that Legacy Co-op remains committed to fair pricing, reassuring customers that the company will not raise prices opportunistically and will continue offering value without compromising quality.
“While the potential impact of tariffs on American products remains uncertain, Legacy Co-op is prepared to adapt as necessary,” Huber said.
Legacy Co-op says its focus on Canadian and locally produced goods, vigilant inventory management, fair pricing policies, and dedicated community support will help navigate product concerns and potential tariff impacts while prioritizing its members and customers.
Co-op food stores carry products that are made, manufactured, grown, processed, raised, or roasted in Western Canada by Western Canadian producers, growers and ranchers. Some Canadian-made examples include Imagine Paint, made in British Columbia; and Co-op fuels, refined in Western Canada using 100 per cent Canadian-sourced crude oil.
