Finance

Support Local: The Best Ontario-Made Products You Can Buy Online

burlington 365 editor

Editor's Desk

Oct 21, 2024

5 min read

As an Ontario resident, one thing that I've come to appreciate more and more is the sheer quality and diversity of locally made products. From artisanal foods to eco-friendly goods, our province is home to some of the most innovative and dedicated creators. Supporting local isn't just about keeping our economy strong—it’s about embracing the heart and soul of Ontario’s communities, its people, and its craftsmanship.

If you're looking to make a shift towards local shopping or discover new products that are proudly Ontario-made, here's a guide to some of the best things you can buy online. Whether you're a foodie, fashion enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates quality products, there's something here for you!

1. Food and Beverages: A Taste of Ontario

When it comes to food and drink, Ontario truly shines. From farm-fresh produce to crafted spirits, there’s no shortage of delicious, locally-made options that can be delivered to your door.

  • Kawartha Dairy: If you're craving premium ice cream, Kawartha Dairy is a beloved local brand that offers rich, creamy flavors made with fresh Ontario milk. Their products are now available for delivery in many areas across Ontario.

  • Rosewood Estates Honey Wine & Meadery: Based in Beamsville, Rosewood offers a selection of meads and honey wines made from locally sourced honey. Their online store also has raw honey and beeswax candles, perfect for those seeking eco-friendly gifts.

  • 32 Acres Craft Brewery: This brewery focuses on small-batch brews made with ingredients sourced from Ontario. Their delivery service makes it easy to enjoy craft beer without having to leave the house.

2. Ontario-Made Fashion & Accessories

If you’re tired of fast fashion and looking for unique, sustainable clothing and accessories, there are plenty of Ontario-based businesses that craft beautiful, ethical products.

  • Encircled: This Toronto-based brand focuses on versatile, sustainable fashion. Their clothing is made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo and organic cotton, and it's all sewn locally in Ontario. Encircled's online store offers wardrobe staples that are comfortable, stylish, and built to last.

  • Province of Canada: If you want to wear your love for Ontario on your sleeve—literally—check out Province of Canada. This brand creates comfy basics like sweatshirts, tees, and accessories, all made right here in Ontario. Their online shop even features a "Made in Canada" collection.

  • Eleven Thirty: Looking for luxury handbags? This Toronto brand handcrafts leather bags with timeless design and superior quality. Their pieces are made in small batches, ensuring uniqueness and attention to detail.

3. Home & Lifestyle: Decor and Goods That Inspire

Ontario’s makers also excel when it comes to home goods, décor, and lifestyle products that bring a sense of craftsmanship and sustainability into our everyday lives.

  • The Drake General Store: An extension of Toronto’s iconic Drake Hotel, this quirky online shop offers everything from locally made home décor and furniture to wellness products and quirky gifts. Their product lines support local makers and offer a distinctively Canadian style.

  • Furnishings by Monte: If you’re decorating your nursery or children's room, check out Monte Design. Based in Toronto, Monte creates modern, eco-friendly furniture, from rocking chairs to cribs, all handcrafted in Ontario. Their products are available online, offering parents thoughtfully designed, long-lasting furniture.

  • Cheeky Bee Candles: Located in Warkworth, Ontario, Cheeky Bee crafts 100% pure beeswax candles that are eco-friendly, clean-burning, and beautifully fragrant. You can shop their wide variety of candle shapes, from classic tapers to fun designs like pinecones and owls, all online.

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products

Many Ontario companies are at the forefront of sustainability, creating products that not only look good but are also better for the planet.

  • The Bare Home: This brand, based in Hamilton, offers eco-friendly cleaning and personal care products. Their hand soaps, all-purpose cleaners, and laundry detergents are refillable, non-toxic, and made right here in Ontario. Plus, you can purchase refills directly through their online shop, making sustainable living easy and accessible.

  • Greenlid: An Ontario-based company, Greenlid specializes in compostable and biodegradable products like food waste bins, compostable plates, and cups. Their products are ideal for anyone looking to reduce their household waste while supporting a local brand.

5. Health and Wellness: Natural Products for Body and Mind

Ontario has no shortage of health and wellness products that are good for your body and the environment. These brands are committed to natural, non-toxic ingredients that help you feel good inside and out.

  • Sudsatorium: This Toronto-based company makes cruelty-free, organic bath and body products. Their offerings range from soothing body lotions to invigorating shampoos, all made from natural, ethically sourced ingredients. Best of all, they donate a portion of their sales to environmental causes.

  • Graydon Skincare: This plant-powered skincare line, made in Ontario, uses ingredients sourced from Canadian farms. Their products are clean, cruelty-free, and made with food-grade ingredients like broccoli seed oil, berry antioxidants, and maple sap.

Why Supporting Local Matters

When you support Ontario-made products, you're not just buying high-quality goods; you're also helping to build a more resilient, diverse economy. Every dollar spent locally has a ripple effect—helping to create jobs, reduce environmental impact through less transportation, and nurture our communities.

With so many local options available online, it’s easier than ever to support Ontario businesses while enjoying top-tier products. Whether you’re buying a gift for a loved one or treating yourself, shopping Ontario-made is a win for everyone.

Let’s make it a habit to support local businesses—not just for the sake of our economy, but because Ontario-made products offer craftsmanship, sustainability, and heart that’s hard to find elsewhere.

So, what’s your favorite Ontario-made product? Let me know in the comments and let's celebrate local together!

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