In a recent interview, Ottawa apparel company owner Liam Mooney discussed the success of his company, Jackpine, in selling ‘Lake Ontario’ hats following U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order to rename the lake to “Lake America.” The hats, featuring the original name of the Great Lake, were quickly put up for sale online by Jackpine shortly after Trump’s order was signed.
Mooney, along with his wife Emma Cochrane, founded Jackpine and gained recognition for their “Canada Is Not For Sale” hats worn by Ontario Premier Doug Ford. Mooney expressed his commitment to promoting Canadian patriotism through their apparel and supporting local manufacturing.
Trump’s executive order, issued amid trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada, has been met with resistance from Canadians, including Prime Minister Mark Carney and Wendat Nation Grand Chief Pierre Picard. Critics, such as political commentator Charlie Sykes, have ridiculed the move as a reflection of Trump’s leadership style.
Despite criticisms, Jackpine’s ‘Lake Ontario’ hats have seen a surge in demand both domestically and internationally, with orders coming from various countries worldwide. Mooney emphasized that the company’s focus is on patriotism rather than profit, highlighting their investment in the Canadian textile industry and the support for Canadian workers.
The success of Jackpine’s hats reflects a trend where Canadian companies are leveraging trade disputes for business opportunities. Other businesses, like Timeless Memories and Shop Love Collective, have capitalized on national sentiments, as seen with the popularity of “Elbows Up” apparel during previous trade tensions with the U.S.