Could Trump’s tariffs spell the end of Canadian-made NHL jerseys?

The tradition of making NHL jerseys in Saint-Hyacinthe, Que., dates back to 1975, with SP Apparel Inc. being the sole supplier of authentic NHL hockey jerseys for decades. The factory is filled with the names of retired employees who dedicated years of their lives to crafting these jerseys, with some employees reaching an impressive 42 years of service.

However, the future of Canadian-made NHL jerseys is now uncertain due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war. The threat of tariffs looms over the 250 employees at SP Apparel, as nearly 80 percent of the jerseys made in Saint-Hyacinthe could be subject to additional costs. This could significantly raise the already high price point of NHL jerseys, which start at $499.99 for an authentic pro jersey.

The craftsmanship behind these jerseys is impeccable, with each one consisting of about 100 individual pieces that are meticulously stitched together by hand. The yarn used in the fabric is sourced from the U.S., while the NHL team logos come pre-made from China. The rest of the production process is entirely done on-site in Canada, with experienced employees who have dedicated decades to perfecting their craft.

SP Apparel’s CEO, Steve Berard, is concerned about the impact of potential tariffs on the company’s business. The contract with Fanatics, the NHL’s supplier, accounts for 70 percent of SP Apparel’s revenue. Berard worries that Fanatics may consider moving production out of Quebec to avoid paying tariffs, which could have devastating effects on the local economy and the employees who rely on these jobs.

Economists believe that the tariffs are designed to incentivize companies like SP Apparel to move production back to the U.S. However, the decision ultimately lies with Fanatics, not the NHL. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the future of Canadian-made NHL jerseys, SP Apparel maintains a strong relationship with the NHL and hopes to continue producing jerseys in Canada.

As the situation unfolds, Berard and his employees are left feeling uncertain about the future. The fear of losing their jobs weighs heavily on their minds, as they wait to see what decisions will be made regarding the production of NHL jerseys. The future of Canadian-made NHL jerseys hangs in the balance, with the fate of SP Apparel and its employees at stake.