As premiers head to Washington, tariffs roll out and anxiety builds through President Donald Trump's trade war, Sooke has weighed in on how to keep the community strong in the face of uncertainty.
“By prioritizing local purchasing when we can and connecting businesses with key resources, we are strengthening our economy while ensuring that Sooke remains a vibrant and resilient community,” said Gail Scott the district's community economic development officer.
“Buy Local, Buy BC” is the message that has prevailed throughout the province and in Sooke, the story is no different. Village Food Markets, a popular Sooke grocery store, has been promoting local goods with small stickers indicating Canadian or even Vancouver Island products. Ed Banys, the manager of Village Food Markets, says he has always tried to promote local and is getting even more appreciation for the effort these days.
"We've got an overwhelming amount of positive responses," Banys said.
"I've got emails saying 'thank you so much,' we get phone calls saying thank you for putting the stickers out."
Banys explained it can be challenging to sort out which products to promote, with American companies often using Canadian goods in their products, or even producing their products in Canada. For instance Heinz an american company uses Canadian tomatoes in their ketchup. But the intent from customers has been palpable as consumers attempt to buy as Canadian as possible.
"French's is flying off our shelves right now, because its all Canadian, It's a Canadian company."
Now the district has teamed up with the Sooke Chamber of Commerce to launch Shop Sooke First, in an attempt to localize residents shopping habits even further. It's a community-driven campaign encouraging residents to keep their dollars in the local economy, with the intention to create local jobs, strengthen the community, encourage sustainability and to not just support but celebrate local talents and businesses in Sooke.
"When we shop local, we’re not just making a purchase—we’re making an impact,” says Deb Schenk, Executive Director of the Sooke Chamber of Commerce.
“Every sale keeps money in Sooke, helps create jobs, and supports the businesses that give back to our community. This campaign is about celebrating the businesses that make Sooke special and ensuring they continue to grow."
In addition to the Shop Sooke First campaign the district has compiled a list of resources for small business owners, entrepreneurs and community members looking for ways to contribute, mobilize and build resilience. These include resources like the Buy BC Directory, which gives residents the ability to find local goods and businesses.
They highlighted the BC Economic Development Association (BCEDA) another organization offering programs to assist with resilience by giving Entrepreneurs tools to assist with expanding their markets, and finding new opportunities.
Sooke is encouraging businesses engaged in international trade to stay informed about changing tariffs and export challenges. While also highlighting Export Development Canada (EDC) as another potential resource providing insurance and working capital support, to help businesses manage financial risks associated with shifting global markets.
The district affirms that by buying local, leveraging support programs and keeping informed, Sooke businesses can build long-term stability.
“[The Shop Sooke First] campaign is about more than just shopping—it’s about community,” says Mayor Maja Tait.
“When we choose Sooke businesses first, we’re investing in our neighbours, our families, and our local economy. Whether it’s a coffee from your favourite café, a gift from a local artisan, or a service from a trusted professional, every choice to shop local helps keep Sooke strong.”
Those local for more information on shopping local can access it as Sooke's wesbite.
