“Buying Canadian” is an admirable goal, but with modern supply chains crisscrossing multiple international borders and once-local companies merging with or being bought by larger international conglomerates, it can be hard to keep of what’s local and what’s not.

CHF BC is here to help, we’ve prepared a list of local companies that are not only Canadian owned and operated, but also co-operatives.

Across British Columbia

Agrifoods: This Canadian co-operative has been in business for over 100 years, becoming leaders in the health and wellness industry. They have an impressive family of brands, including Happy Planet and Earth’s Own – so you can enjoy their all-natural juices, dairy products, and dairy substitutes like almond and oat milk.

Authentic Indigenous Seafood: This co-op of sustainable Indigenous fisheries across Canada, features small to medium-sized enterprises that are guided by traditional principles of ecological sustainability. Curious where exactly your fish came from? Every product comes with a unique QR code detailing its origin.

Lower Mainland

Afghan Women’s Sewing & Crafts Co-operative: Located in Burnaby, they offer tailoring and custom creations.

Catching Stars Gallery: Located on Bowen Island, this gallery is a co-operative of over 50 Canadian artists and features jewelry, pottery, paintings, fine art photography, wood, stone, glass, and leather creations.

Circle Craft: This is an artist-run collective with two parts, their flagship store is open on Granville Island all year, and their November market can help kick start your annual holiday shopping.

Glorious Organics: Aldergrove is home base for this co-operatively owned and operated farming collective, but you can find them at the Organic Farm Connection stall at the Kitsilano, Trout Lake, and Riley Park Farmers Markets in Vancouver.

The People’s Co-op Bookstore: Located on Commercial Drive, this member-owned bookshop has hundreds of new and used titles.

Vancouver Island

International Women’s Catering Co-op: You can find them weekly at the Moss Street Farmers Market, selling empanadas, samosas, curries and more. Plus you can book them to cater your event.

Hub City Cycles: This Nanaimo bike shop is also a non-profit community co-operative, offering rentals, new and used bikes and accessories, plus repairs, workshops, and access to tools and workspaces.

Looking for more local co-operatives? Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada has created a searchable database.