Should we buy Canadian or U.S.? That is the question. As you see the Canadian dollar is trading over 97 cents U.S. on the markets. It appears we will be at par with the U.S. dollar by years end or sooner. There’s a big temptation to buy in the U.S. because of our dollar’s strength.
I’ll admit, I have made purchases in the past from the U.S. for trinkets, on line…either fishing or camping related. Items I thought I was getting for a better price. Well, once I paid the exchange, the duty and the shipping costs, I paid about 15% more than I would have if I had purchased the item in Canada. It was an impulse purchase. Impatience!
I have since re-thought my purchasing process. If an item is ONLY available in the U.S. I will probably still go on-line and buy it. BUT, if I can get it here, even if the U.S. price is more attractive, I will buy at home. I truly want to support my Canadian businesses. It’s what keeps our economy buoyant. It helps us keep jobs. I buy North American automobiles as well. I want to support my country. I realize many vehicles are propably built in the U.S., but these are companies that support many Canadian workers. That’s my choice.
Likewise, I hope the audience I broadcast to supports the advertising clients on my radio station. If that client advertises here, I make a point of supporting that client if they carry what I’m looking for. One hand washes the other.
The dollar’s rise just makes it a little easier to make purchases south of the border or take that exotic trip. I love my neighbors to the south, but I have a commitment to my country.
