The boycott against Amazon and American goods is adversely affecting Quebec businesses, particularly those that turned to Amazon after the failed launch of Panier bleu. Business owners like Steve Whitty of Piscine Aide report declining sales and express concerns about maintaining their livelihoods. Meanwhile, Joël Legrand of Jeux Face4 struggles with the balance between business interests and political values. Despite challenges, Amazon’s partnership with Les Produits du Québec aims to enhance visibility for local companies, promoting their products on the platform.
The Impact of the Boycott on Quebec Businesses
The push to boycott Amazon and American goods is having a detrimental effect on merchants in Quebec, many of whom turned to the American platform after the unsuccessful launch of the Panier bleu. Business owners are voicing their concerns about how this movement could threaten their livelihoods.
Steve Whitty, the owner of Piscine Aide, highlights the risks associated with this boycott: “By targeting American products, we risk sacrificing our local businesses, the same ones that support our communities.” Since February 1st, his spa and pool products distributor has experienced a 9% drop in sales on Amazon compared to last year. While this decline isn’t catastrophic yet, Mr. Whitty is anxious about the upcoming peak sales season starting in late March. He emphasizes the importance of American-sourced key products such as chlorine, pumps, and plumbing supplies for his business.
Local Entrepreneurs Facing New Challenges
Joël Legrand, co-owner of Jeux Face4, faces a different but equally significant challenge. His company, which specializes in board games and educational products, relies on Amazon for visibility in the Canadian market. “It’s not easy in this political context. It’s a balance between our values and the business side. Amazon is very popular in Canada,” he admits. Legrand is contemplating the future of his expansion plans while remaining proud of the games produced in Quebec.
In February 2024, Amazon announced a partnership with Les Produits du Québec, a non-profit organization that certifies the origins of Quebec products. This partnership aims to promote local businesses through enhanced visibility on the Amazon platform. Elfi Morin, the executive director of the organization, states, “Amazon provides visibility, a way to make our businesses more prominent. Our page allows local companies to stand out.” Notably, 40 of the 210 certified companies are currently selling on Amazon, and none have indicated plans to withdraw from the platform.
Furthermore, Investissement Québec has been instrumental in connecting Amazon with Quebec suppliers since the pandemic began. This collaboration began during Minister Pierre Fitzgibbon’s tenure, aiming to bolster local businesses, particularly after the Panier bleu initiative became transactional in 2022 but ultimately ceased operations in 2024, shortly after Amazon’s partnership announcement.