'Canada is Not for Sale' Hat Creators to Share Domestic Manufacturing Expertise

Introduction: From Viral Slogan to Manufacturing Mentorship

The creators behind the widely recognized 'Canada is not for sale' hats, Liam Mooney and Emma Cochrane, are expanding their patriotic venture beyond apparel. The Ottawa-based duo, who co-founded Jackpine Dynamic Branding, announced plans to share their extensive experience in domestic manufacturing with other Canadian companies. This initiative aims to bolster local supply chains and foster a stronger 'made-in-Canada' economy.

The Genesis of a National Statement

The 'Canada is not for sale' slogan gained prominence in January 2025, following comments by then-U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the potential annexation of Canada. Ontario Premier Doug Ford notably wore one of the hats while addressing media, amplifying its message. Mooney and Cochrane conceived the hat as a 'creative rebuttal' and a clear statement of Canadian sovereignty, quickly transforming it into a symbol of national pride.

Navigating the Challenges of Domestic Production

Initially, the production of the popular hats involved imported components. However, Mooney and Cochrane committed to making their products 100% manufactured in Canada. Their journey through the Canadian manufacturing landscape revealed significant challenges in producing goods entirely within the country. Over the past year, their product line expanded to include various apparel items such as toques, shirts, and sweaters, all while striving for full domestic production.

Empowering Canadian Industry Through Consultancy

Leveraging their hard-earned insights, Mooney and Cochrane now intend to act as consultants, guiding other businesses through the complexities of Canadian manufacturing. Their goal for 2026 is to disseminate the 'Canada is not for sale' ethos, which has evolved into a broader mission focused on strengthening Canadian supply chains. Key areas of advice will include:

• Strategies for cutting production costs domestically.
• Methods for shortening manufacturing cycles within Canada.
• Guidance on reducing reliance on international suppliers, particularly from the United States and China.

Their existing creative agency, Jackpine, will integrate this new consultancy service, aiming to help more companies join the 'made-in-Canada train.'

A Movement for Economic Sovereignty

The 'Canada is not for sale' movement has resonated widely, transcending political divides. Mooney and Cochrane's efforts were recognized in October 2025 when they were named 'Newsmakers of the Year' by the Ottawa Business Journal and the Ottawa Board of Trade. With over 50,000 orders shipped to 30 countries, their success underscores a strong public desire for Canadian-made products and a robust national economy. Their new consultancy marks a significant step towards fostering greater economic independence and resilience across Canadian industries.