Hiring in Canada: The Shift to ‘Buy Canadian’ and What It Means for You

Global trade can be unpredictable, but one thing’s for sure—Canadian businesses are taking matters into their own hands. Hiring managers have plenty to think about, whether adjusting supply chains, investing in local talent, or riding the wave of the “Buy Canadian” movement.

For over 50 years, Aplin has been at the forefront of Canadian recruitment, helping businesses build strong, agile teams across industries. As companies rethink hiring strategies in response to economic shifts, finding the right talent is more critical than ever.

The job market is shifting with a renewed focus on domestic production and government incentives to support homegrown industries. Innovative businesses stay ahead by embracing workforce agility, tapping into overlooked talent pools, and making strategic hiring moves.

How ‘Buy Canadian’ Is Reshaping Hiring

Manufacturing: Local Production, Big Hiring Potential

With more businesses sourcing materials domestically, the demand for skilled manufacturing workers is growing. Companies pivoting to local supply chains are reducing their exposure to trade volatility and creating new job opportunities in production, logistics, and operations.

How to Stay Ahead:

• Embrace a Flexible Workforce: Temporary and contract workers can help businesses scale hiring based on production cycles.
• Invest in Upskilling: Training employees in automation and new production techniques boost efficiency and job security.
• Build Local Supplier Relationships: Hiring talent with supply chain expertise ensures businesses can adapt quickly to shifts in sourcing strategies.

Construction: More Projects, More Skilled Workers Needed

As demand grows for Canadian-made materials, the construction industry sees new opportunities. While material costs can still be challenging, projects prioritizing locally sourced materials are picking up speed—creating fresh demand for skilled trades.

How to Adapt and Succeed:

• Hire for Agility: Temporary tradespeople can help balance workforce costs with fluctuating project schedules.
• Leverage Government Incentives: Federal and provincial programs support workforce training and adoption of domestic materials.
• Expand Talent Pools: Skilled newcomers to Canada and career switchers are an untapped resource for construction roles.

IT & Technology: A Shift Toward Local Talent

Canadian tech firms are rethinking their hiring strategies as supply chains evolve. Instead of relying on imported hardware, companies are doubling down on software innovation, remote work capabilities, and training local talent.

Key Actions to Take:

• Expand Remote Hiring: Investing in Canadian talent allows businesses to sidestep infrastructure costs while maintaining growth.
• Develop Local Tech Pipelines: Partnering with universities and colleges ensures a steady stream of trained IT professionals.
• Use Project-Based IT Staffing: Short-term tech specialists can fill skills gaps without long-term commitments.

Logistics & Supply Chain: Hiring to Keep Canada Moving

As businesses shift to local suppliers, warehouses and transportation hubs are busier than ever. The challenge? Finding enough workers to meet demand. Labour shortages in logistics are creating opportunities for those who can hire strategically.

What To Do Next:

• Tap into Contingent Labour: Temporary and contract workers can help businesses handle seasonal or unexpected demand spikes.
• Offer Competitive Benefits: Retaining top talent in a tight market requires innovative compensation strategies and workplace flexibility.
• Use AI for Smarter Hiring: Data-driven recruitment solutions can streamline hiring and match candidates more efficiently.

How Staffing Firms Can Help

Aplin has partnered with businesses across Canada to navigate changing labour markets and economic shifts for half a century. As a 100% Canadian-owned recruitment firm, we understand the local workforce landscape and the challenges of adapting to new hiring trends.

Our Expertise in Workforce Solutions:

• Pre-Vetted Talent Pools: Quickly fill roles with skilled professionals, reducing downtime and hiring risks.
• Tailored Workforce Strategies: Align hiring with economic shifts and industry trends.
• Deep Industry Knowledge: Stay ahead with insights into emerging job market trends and workforce planning.

Whether your business needs permanent hires, contract professionals, or specialized workforce solutions, we can help you build a strong, resilient team that supports your long-term growth.

Ready to strengthen your hiring strategy? Let’s discuss workforce solutions that keep your business competitive and adaptable in a changing economy.