Another major retailer is joining Nova Scotia’s buy-local program.
Kent Building Supplies has signed on to Nova Scotia Loyal, joining companies including Sobeys, Loblaw, Walmart, Pet Valu and the NSLC.
The provincial program is designed to make locally produced goods easier for shoppers to identify through signs, displays and other branding.
For Kent customers, that means Nova Scotia-made building materials and other products will be more clearly marked in stores.
Kent operates 12 locations across the province, including Bridgewater, and currently carries 253 Nova Scotia Loyal products from nine producers.
“Kent Building Supplies is proud to partner with Nova Scotia Loyal to help our customers discover and support products made right here in Nova Scotia,” General Manager Patrick O’Neill said.
“As an Atlantic Canadian company, we know the important role local businesses play in creating jobs, strengthening communities and growing our economy.”
Nova Scotia Loyal merchandising teams also work with retailers to improve displays, flag local products that are out of stock and encourage stores to carry more locally made goods.
More than 800 Nova Scotia producers and 11,500 products are represented through the program.
Loblaw and Walmart joined the program last year, while Sobeys and the NSLC were involved when it launched in 2024. Pet Valu later joined with its 37 Nova Scotia stores.
The province also works with 34 independent retailers.
Growth, Development and Defence Industries Minister Colton LeBlanc says the program is intended to make choosing local products easier at a time of uncertainty around international trade.
“Every dollar spent on a Nova Scotia product is a direct investment in the hard-working people who build our communities and drive our economy,” LeBlanc said.
The province says retailers using the branding have reported sales of eligible local products increasing by more than 20 per cent.
More than 2,200 businesses and organizations have joined the program since it launched in 2024.
