The Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce (C-K CoC) is encouraging businesses, governments and residents to respond to renewed trade uncertainty with resilience, careful preparation and a shared commitment to protecting Canadian jobs.
New trade actions directed at Canada create legitimate risks for businesses connected to agriculture, agribusiness, advanced manufacturing, automotive production, transportation and cross-border supply chains, according to Chamber officials. These sectors are important contributors to Chatham- Kent’s economy and support thousands of jobs throughout the region.
The Chamber cautions, however, that uncertainty should not lead to panic or rushed decisions. A thoughtful and co-ordinated response is required – one that recognizes the seriousness of the risk while carefully considering the consequences of every action.
“Trade disruption of this nature creates legitimate risk, but the strongest response is preparation, not panic,” said Rory Ring, president and CEO of the C-K CoC, in a media release. “Chatham-Kent businesses are experienced, adaptable and resilient. Now is the time to assess exposure, strengthen supply chains, pursue new markets and build stronger relationships with Canadian customers and suppliers. A thoughtful, disciplined approach will help businesses protect operations, preserve Canadian jobs and position themselves to respond from a place of strength.”
The Chamber is encouraging businesses to review their exposure to changing trade conditions, including customer concentration, supply-chain dependencies, sourcing arrangements, contractual obligations and access to alternative markets.
Businesses should also consider opportunities to diversify trade, strengthen relationships with domestic suppliers, identify new Canadian and international customers, and develop contingency plans that can help insulate their operations from future disruptions.
Canada must continue to defend its economic interests and stand behind affected industries. At the same time, any government response should be strategic, measured and designed to protect businesses, workers and consumers from unintended consequences.
The Chamber emphasized that supporting local and Canadian businesses is one practical action residents and organizations can take immediately.
“Resilience is part of Chatham-Kent’s character,” said Amanda Clark, chair of the C-K CoC ‘s board of directors. “When our community faces uncertainty, we come together, support one another and keep moving forward. By choosing local, buying Canadian and standing behind the businesses and workers who create jobs here at home, we turn concern into meaningful action. This challenge is serious, but it also reminds us of the strength we have when businesses, residents and community leaders act with confidence and purpose.”
Shopping locally, choosing Canadian-made products and services, and supporting Canadian job creators help keep investment circulating within communities.
Shocking move
The Shock Doctor, run by electrician Shawn Schleihauf for the past two decades, is shutting down operations in Chatham-Kent.
Schleihauf, in a recent social media post, said he and his family are moving to Cape Breton, where the business will reopen.
“To every customer I’ve had the privilege of serving over the past two decades – thank you. From emergency calls to major projects, your trust and support have meant the world to me. It’s been an honour to help keep your homes, farms, and businesses powered safely and reliably,” Schleihauf said in his social media post.
He and his wife, Kelly, also ran LockedIn, an escape room, for several years in downtown Chatham.
- Business Voice is a bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achievements made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to [email protected].
