Choosing Local: How Domo Tea Became a Proud Supporter of Canadian Suppliers
At Domo Tea, we believe that every sip of tea should be steeped in quality, community, and purpose. Four and a half years ago, I made the choice to shift almost all our sourcing to local suppliers in Canada. This journey began when I regained control of Domo Tea (a long story for another time!), becoming the sole decision-maker for the company. With that fresh start, I aimed to create a brand that not only delivered the same great products but also supported other Canadian small businesses. Here’s how that change came to life and why it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Rebuilding the Company with a New Vision
When I first took back control, I did a full reset, replacing nearly every supplier except for two. I wanted Domo Tea to be a company that proudly sourced its ingredients, packaging, and accessories from local suppliers. This wasn’t an easy process—finding the right partners took time and lots of research, but it was worth every bit of effort.
To my surprise, going local wasn’t as costly as I’d thought. Yes, I raised our prices a little, ( I think most consumers are ok to pay a tiny bit more knowing its local) but the benefits were immediate and clear: better quality, closer partnerships, and a positive impact on the local economy.
The Power of Local Sourcing During COVID-19
When the pandemic hit and international supply chains were disrupted, I felt a deep sense of relief. With close to 90% of our supplies sourced in Canada and all our manufacturing being within Canada, we were largely unaffected by the shortages and delays that affected so many. This resilience was only possible because our boxes, bags, mugs, and most of our ingredients (the tea of course is from its country of origin) come from local suppliers. Not only did this help our business continue running smoothly, but it also gave us the opportunity to support our suppliers during a challenging time.
Supporting a Network of 15 Small Businesses
At Domo Tea, we’re proud to say that each product you buy supports nearly 20 other small businesses across Canada. By choosing local, we’re not only creating quality products but also investing in our own community. Our customers can feel good knowing that each purchase helps fuel a network of Canadian entrepreneurs and artisans, keeping those dollars within our economy.
The Silver Linings of Change
Reflecting on this journey, I’m grateful for the challenges that led me to choose local. What began as a daunting transition turned into a learning experience filled with personal growth and hard-won wisdom. Sometimes, the most unexpected setbacks offer us a silver lining, revealing new ways to build something even better than before.
At Domo Tea, we’re proud to offer not just premium tea but a product rooted in local partnerships and community support. So next time you sip, know that it’s more than just a cup of tea—it’s a celebration of Canadian businesses working together.