‘Let’s keep us alive’: Nova Scotia clothing brand struggles amid U.S. trade dispute

Fairechild, a Halifax-area clothing brand specializing in outerwear made from sustainable fabric, is facing challenges due to the ongoing trade war between Canada and the United States. CEO Tabitha Osler explains that roughly half of the company's customers reside in the U.S., but the cost of conducting business with the country has become prohibitively high. In August, Fairechild ceased shipping to the U.S., absorbing over $10,000 in brokerage charges over a two to three month period.

The company is currently exploring ways to better navigate the complex trade landscape and secure preferential origin for its products. Shipping to the U.S. used to keep shipping costs manageable, but switching to exporting to Europe has become more expensive. Osler notes that this situation is a "domino effect" that neither the company nor consumers can control, leaving them uncertain about the future and recovery.

To cope with the downturn, Fairechild has slowed down production and is relying on a federal government program to support the business. In addition, the company is seeking Canadian suppliers and expanding its customer base in Canada and other markets. The Canadian Apparel Federation's executive director, Bob Kirke, highlights the alarming trend, stating that businesses in Canada are increasingly finding it more profitable to manufacture in other countries due to lower duties.

The trade climate has put small businesses like Fairechild in a precarious position, with some executives fearing the possibility of extinction. Osler shares this concern, describing herself as "the last remaining dinosaur in Canada" but emphasizing the importance of persevering. She concludes by urging others to support her brand in order to "keep us alive."