A joint study by Les Produits du Québec and economic analysis firm AppEco reveals that certified local products generate significantly greater economic and environmental benefits than imported equivalents.

Quebecers are willing to pay up to 71% more for certified products, reflecting a growing commitment to buying local.

This trend presents a strategic opportunity to strengthen inclusive economic growth in Quebec.

A Choice That Makes a Real Difference

Buying local isn’t just a matter of preference—it’s a meaningful economic and environmental act.

According to a pioneering study by Les Produits du Québec and AppEco, certified non-food products designed, manufactured, or produced in Quebec generate:

• 7.6× more pre-tax profits

• 3.8× more GDP

• 3.5× more full-time equivalent jobs

• 2.8× more labor income

• And help avoid an average of 34% more greenhouse gas emissions

These figures show that local purchasing goes far beyond a label—it's a driver of sustainable development and regional prosperity.

 The Power of Certification

Les Produits du Québec offers three official certifications for non-food products:

• Product of Quebec

• Made in Quebec

• Designed in Quebec

These certifications, verified through rigorous processes, strongly influence purchasing decisions.

One study found that product origin accounts for 50% of the buying decision, with price making up the other half.

Depending on the product category, consumers are willing to pay 22% to 71% more for a certified local product compared to an imported equivalent.

AppEco: Data That Speaks

AppEco is a Quebec-based firm known for its strategic economic analyses and methodological rigor.

Its team of talented economists and professionals has conducted numerous studies on productivity, cultural impact, and local purchasing.

Using quantitative methods, AppEco helps measure the real effects of public policies and consumer behavior.

A Winning Strategy

As part of the Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy (SCEI), these findings suggest clear directions:

• Support local businesses through tax incentives

• Promote official certifications

• Raise consumer awareness about the real impact of their choices

Buying local is more than a symbolic gesture—it’s an economic, social, and environmental strategy.

By valuing certified products and supporting local businesses, Quebecers help build a more resilient, greener, and fairer economy.

 Summary of the Study on Local Purchasing in Quebec

• Quebecers are willing to pay 28% to 71% more for a product certified Made in Quebec, depending on the category

• Most valued products include furniture, clothing, tools, health and beauty items

• Official certifications influence purchasing decisions more than simply labeling a product “Quebec”

• Local purchasing is seen as an act of economic support, and a sign of quality and sustainability

Implications for the SCEI:

• Strengthen certification labels

• Provide incentives for local businesses

• Improve consumer education

 Highlights from the 2023 Commercial Landscape

• 28,256 commercial spaces were recorded across the metropolitan area

• The survey focused on street-visible spaces, mainly ground floor and basement units

• Vacancy rates were analyzed by borough to identify areas needing revitalization

• Demographic data such as immigrant population and median income were integrated to better understand equity issues in commercial real estate

Local Purchasing Trends in Montreal

Post-pandemic growth: Since COVID-19, Montrealers have shown strong enthusiasm for supporting nearby businesses, including independent grocery stores, neighborhood cafés, and local artisans.

Support platforms: Initiatives like J’achète local and Panier Bleu were launched to centralize local offerings and help consumers discover Quebec businesses.

Community events: Public markets (Jean-Talon, Atwater), craft fairs, and pop-up shops are vibrant spaces where local purchasing is celebrated.

Why It Matters

• Strengthens social fabric

• Encourages local innovation

• Supports Montreal entrepreneurs

Since the pandemic, Montrealers have actively embraced local purchasing through various platforms and community events.

This movement, backed by a dynamic commercial offering and numerous initiatives, contributes to economic vitality while supporting entrepreneurs and reducing environmental impact.

Local purchasing is a thriving movement in Montreal.