When you think of Canadian Tire, things that come to mind might include wholesome childhood memories of trips there with parents, their precious proprietary currency that is a complete novelty to anyone not from here, or just the fact that they are a Canuck staple.
But the automotive, hardware and home goods chain is the latest homegrown brand to be targeted with a boycott in recent days over one location's sponsorship of an event in small-town New Brunswick that many found to be problematic.
The Canadian Tire logo was spotted on a flyer for a women's shooting event, prompting outrage from some who hadn't realized that the store sold guns or, as others are saying, "supported gun culture" in the community.
Guns are indeed sold in the store's hunting section, along with camouflage apparel, scopes, knives and tools, and other such accessories. (I got my first BB gun from Canadian Tire!)
As stated on the Canadian Tire website, "stores practice strict security measures relating to carrying, storing and selling firearms. Only specially licensed personnel handles and sells firearms at the stores." (Firearms and ammunition are only sold to individuals who hold a valid - 'hard to get' - license.)
