U.S. tariffs bring boost in support for Sask. small business

Tariffs on steel and aluminum imposed by the United States don’t mean doom and gloom for all small businesses in Saskatchewan.

James Clarke, the owner and operator of Flatland Metalworks, said he is noticing more buyers from other provinces, including B.C., Alberta, and Manitoba, as well as more support from customers in Saskatchewan.

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Clarke said he works with steel, making unique metal artwork, including laser engraving, custom signs and clocks, at his business in Dalmeny, just north of Saskatoon.

“I’ve always had a great local support. With all this stuff going on with the U.S. and the tariffs, it’s unfortunate, but it seems like I’m getting a little bit more local support lately, which has been amazing,” he said.

“Right now we’re doing lots minor hockey gifts and stuff for coaches and teams, and it seems like this year has just exploded for that.”

Clarke said he gets his steel from local suppliers and does have some concerns about possible price increases.

“I am just going to have to eat that cost, pretty much,” he said.

“But I’m not that worried, just because I don’t have to buy huge amounts of steel, so other businesses are going to be in a lot worse shape than me.”

But Clarke said his spirits are staying high thanks to the renewed push to support local businesses in Saskatchewan and across Canada.

“I’ve got faith that support local will continue,” he said. “The people in Saskatchewan are amazing.”