Built for Canada, Made in Canada: Our Commitment to Local

As Canada Day approaches, it's a perfect time to reflect on the heart of Canadian industry: manufacturing. What does the landscape of Canadian manufacturing look like in 2025, and why is "made in Canada" more important than ever? Here at Wyatt Weatherfronts, we're not just observing; we're actively participating, and our story highlights why local production truly matters — both for our nation and right here in our Edmonton shop.

Alberta is a powerhouse for small businesses in Canada, boasting the highest number of businesses per capita. These businesses are the backbone of Alberta’s economy, employing a significant portion of the private workforce and contributing to GDP. Alberta’s entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, with a strong culture of innovation and adaptability. ​

We are proud to be among these numbers.

Canada Day is an opportunity to take stock of what Canadian manufacturing looks like in 2025 — and to highlight why local production matters, both nationally and in our own shop at Wyatt Weatherfronts.

Wyatt Upholstery began its operations in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1983. Building on this legacy, Wyatt Weatherfronts was established in 2021.

Canadian-owned and operated, our product line covers everything from custom winterfronts and bugscreens for trucks to marine covers, industrial equipment seat repairs, and classic car upholstery restoration. The owner, Chris Hibbs, loves his hometown and wants to develop his business here, investing in the economy of his native Alberta.

What sets us apart is our focus on designing for the extremes: our winterfronts, for example, are engineered to withstand temperatures as low as -40°C, using quilted vinyl and foam padding for durability and insulation.

Unlike generic factory options, these are tailored for the specific needs of Canadian drivers and operators.

We always buy our materials from Canadian companies. This is a smart move that helps everyone. When we spend money with Canadian businesses, that money stays right here in Canada. This helps create more jobs and makes our economy stronger. It's good for us, and it's good for all the other Canadian businesses we work with.

In the past several years, Wyatt Weatherfronts has tripled its workforce, reflecting both growth in demand and our commitment to creating local jobs. Our team comprises skilled tradespeople who understand the unique demands of the Canadian market. Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the Canadian economy, employing millions and driving innovation in sectors from transportation to food processing. As they say, we are doing our part!

Local manufacturing also has practical advantages.

By sourcing and producing locally, we maintain tighter control over quality, reduce transportation emissions, and can respond quickly to shifts in demand or supply chain disruptions. This agility has proven especially valuable given the recent volatility in global trade and the introduction of new tariffs on imported goods.

Finally, supporting Canadian manufacturing is about resilience. Companies like Wyatt Weatherfronts contribute to a diversified, robust economy that can better weather economic shocks. When you choose Canadian-made, you’re not just buying a product; you’re supporting a network that includes local jobs and economic stability.

On Canada Day, we want to recognize the value of local manufacturing and thank our customers, partners, and employees for helping keep these benefits close to home. We’ll continue to invest in Canadian talent, materials, and ideas — because that’s what keeps us, and the country, moving forward.