A landmark business in South Lancaster is doing its part to highlight Canada and Canadian products as efforts continue to strengthen Canada’s economy and identity.

Rob McIntosh Unique Shopping Experience, located on the South Service Road near the Highway 401 and Highway 34 and 2 interchange, has been in business since 1979, specializing in fine china, gift items, kitchenware, clothing, and linens. There are three buildings on the property for shoppers to visit, and one of them has recently been named Canada House with an emphasis on products made in Canada, or that inspire Canadian identity.

Alex McIntosh is the third generation of his family to work in the day-to-day operations of the business started by his grandfather Rob.  Alex, who is also a business student at the University of Ottawa, said the recent controversies over US tariffs and Donald Trump inspired him to pursue an emphasis on Canada at the store, so he took it on as his own project. The Canadian-themed boutique officially launched on May 5.

The shop includes a full line of all-Canadian Tilley clothing for men and women, accessories, and most notably, the signature Tilley hat. The hats were first made in 1980 by Alex Tilley, who was looking for a good hat to wear while sailing on the Great Lakes. Canadian-made footwear available at Rob McIntosh includes Manitobah Mukluks, which was founded by Métis Entrepreneur Alex McCormick. The Winnipeg-based company designs and manufactures leather footwear for all seasons and a focus on providing economic and social benefits to Indigenous communities.  

Clothing with Indigenous-inspired style, kitchenware, toys, games, and souvenirs highlighting Canadian identity are also being sold in the Canadian boutique at Rob McIntosh. Alex McIntosh said customers have responded positively to the merchandise on offer.

“People are loving it!” he said.

“I don’t think there is anything better than to support Canadian,” he added.

Notable items with a patriotic theme being sold are coffee mugs with “Canada is not for sale,” printed on them or the number 51 with a red slash through it, in reference to Trump’s suggestion Canada become the 51st US state. Following Team Canada’s win against the US in the final of the Four Nations Cup, McIntosh also ordered coffee mugs with the 3-2 score of the game that won the hockey tournament for Canada.

Rob McIntosh Unique Shopping Experience is a destination for local residents and tourists alike. Located near Highway 401, it is also near many marinas, campgrounds, parks, historical sites, restaurants, and other unique shopping opportunities.

For more information on hours and products, go to https://robmcintosh.ca.

Photos: James Morgan