In Brantford, Ontario, Roustan Hockey serves as North America’s last major hockey stick factory. With a workforce of 15, the factory operates 60 miles southwest of Toronto, specializing in the production of traditional wooden hockey sticks. The factory’s origins trace back to 1847, surviving several challenges, including a significant trade war that has recently affected its business.
Impact of Trade War on the Hockey Stick Industry
The trade tensions ignited by former U.S. President Donald Trump have introduced new uncertainties for Roustan Hockey. While many goods remain exempt from tariffs due to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, recent policy changes pose challenges.
- In August 2023, the Trump administration revoked a customs exemption for international shipments worth $800.
- This change raises concerns for customers purchasing just a few sticks, as tariffs could apply even to minor purchases.
General Manager Bo Crawford expressed frustration at the unpredictability of U.S. trade policies, emphasizing how this ambiguity complicates their operations. In 2023, Roustan Hockey produced approximately 400,000 wooden sticks annually, exporting about 100,000 to the United States.
Consequences of Tariffs on Production
Tariffs have caused delays in shipments, with some products, including goalie pads, facing unexpected fees as high as 200%. These challenges highlight broader economic trends as Canada faces a contraction of 1.6% in its economy, the largest since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Exports declined by 7.5%, significantly affecting trade with the U.S., Canada’s primary trading partner.
- 37,800 manufacturing jobs vanished within a year, underscoring the industry’s struggles.
The Evolution of Manufacturing in Canada
Roustan Hockey’s history symbolizes both a bygone era and current challenges in manufacturing. Once a bustling industry, wooden hockey sticks have seen a significant decline as trends shift toward composite materials. Currently, only 5-10% of the hockey stick market consists of wooden models, with many young players favoring lighter, technologically advanced composite sticks.
Historically, the Roustan operation began as an agricultural workshop before transitioning into hockey stick manufacturing. The company was acquired by Graeme Roustan in 2019, who moved the operation to Brantford.
Manufacturing Processes at Roustan Hockey
The factory spans 130,000 square feet, where an artisanal approach prevails. The production includes:
- Gluing fiberglass to wooden blades.
- Trimming excess material using band saws.
- Painting and drying sticks through a systematic process.
Despite difficulties, Roustan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a domestic manufacturing presence. It serves not only economic purposes but also connects deeply with Canadian heritage and national pride in hockey.
As the industry continues to adapt to changing trade environments, Roustan remains committed to producing quality hockey sticks that resonate with Canada’s cultural identity. The factory stands as a testament to resilience amid evolving global market dynamics.
