How Canadian chain restaurants with American names are managing the 'buy Canadian' surge

Canadian-owned restaurants with American-sounding names are in a bit of a pickle these days, with Canadian pride on the rise due to Trump's tariffs. Think Boston Pizza, New York Fries and St. Louis Bar and Grill—all 100 per cent Canadian, but now they've got to figure out how to navigate the new "buy Canadian" push. In our latest episode, we talk to Jeff Swystun, author of Why Marketing Works, about how they can crack this tough nut. Then, we chat with Royal Nasager, VP of Marketing & Strategic Partnerships at Aegis Brands Inc., the parent company of St. Louis Bar and Grill, about the creative and cheeky way they're making sure everyone knows St. Louis is Canadian and proud of it. They might have found the secret sauce. Join hosts Eleanor Coopsammy and Geoff Kirbyson for the latest Manitoba Inc. episode. Follow Manitoba Inc. on LinkedIn and visit us at manitoba-inc.ca.  Interview with Jeff Swystun: 1:40 Interview with Royal Nasager: 12:29 This episode is brought to you by MNP - Wherever business takes you.  Copyright 2025 Geoff Kirbyson Ink. All rights reserved.