In an exclusive interview, Liam Mooney, the owner of a clothing company in Ottawa, shared insights on the surge in sales of “Lake Ontario” hats following a controversial move by U.S. President Donald Trump. The hats, featuring the authentic name of the Great Lake, were swiftly released by Jackpine, based in Ottawa, in response to Trump’s executive order to rename the lake as “Lake America.”
Mooney, the founder of Jackpine, revealed that the idea for the hat design emerged just a night before the product launch. He expressed the company’s swift action in response to the unfolding situation, emphasizing the opportune timing of their release.
Apart from the “Lake Ontario” hats, Jackpine gained recognition for its “Canada Is Not For Sale” merchandise, notably worn by Ontario Premier Doug Ford. Mooney highlighted the company’s commitment to promoting Canadian patriotism and supporting local manufacturing through their products.
The controversial executive order by Trump, altering the name of Lake Ontario on U.S. maps, followed failed trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S., resulting in reciprocal tariffs. The decision faced widespread rejection in Canada, with Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasizing the historical significance of the lake’s name.
Critics, including political commentator Charlie Sykes, criticized Trump’s actions, characterizing them as frivolous and indicative of his leadership style. Mooney, however, noted the positive response to Jackpine’s products, with orders pouring in not only from within Canada but also internationally.
The surge in demand for patriotic-themed products amid trade tensions has been observed across various Canadian companies, with merchandise like “Elbows Up” gaining popularity. Mooney defended Jackpine’s initiatives, asserting that their focus is on fostering national pride and supporting local industries rather than exploiting the situation for financial gain.