Canada Colour is a Montreal-based business founded by former CBC journalist Brett Kwan, dedicated to creating minimalist and modern designs that celebrate Canada’s national, provincial, and territorial flags. With a mission to unite Canadians and reimagine symbols of national pride, Canada Colour caters to those seeking fresh, timeless representations of Canadian identity. Born out of Brett’s experience living abroad and his desire for more meaningful, locally produced designs, the company offers high-quality, affordable prints and home décor that are made and shipped entirely within Canada. Whether you’re in Canada or abroad, Canada Colour helps you celebrate your roots with style and authenticity.
What is your business called and what does it do?
My business is called Canada Colour. We create minimalist, bold designs that celebrate Canada’s national, provincial, and territorial flags. Our goal is to unite Canadians and offer a modern take on symbols of national pride—symbols that feel both timeless and fresh.
What made you want to do this work?
Whenever I lived abroad, I wanted to bring a piece of Canada with me. The typical souvenirs were mass-produced or lacked the modern aesthetic I appreciated. That’s when I realised there was a gap in the market for Canadian-inspired designs that were minimalist, bold, and reflective of our evolving identity. I teamed up with Tanya Saggi, a talented designer, to create something that represents Canadian pride in a fresh, modern way.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
The problem we wanted to solve was simple: there weren’t many minimalist-designed products that were printed and shipped from within Canada. Most of the products we saw online were shipped by American companies or imported from China. We wanted our products to be designed and printed in Canada, at affordable prices. That’s the gap we’re filling. Canada Colour offers high-quality, affordable art and products that people can proudly display in their homes or give as gifts. By creating minimalist designs, we give Canadians a way to celebrate their roots, no matter where they live or where they come from.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our customers are primarily Canadians, both in Canada and abroad. We’ve noticed customers purchasing prints that reflect their home province, even if they’ve relocated to other parts of the country. The connection to their roots remains strong, and we’re helping them keep that connection alive. Our products speak to anyone who wants to showcase their Canadian pride in a modern, stylish way.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We make money through direct-to-consumer sales of prints, and we’re expanding into other product offerings, like mugs and home décor items. Our business is primarily online, where customers can purchase our products directly from our website. We’re also exploring partnerships with other like-minded businesses to expand our reach.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Montreal is a hub for artists and creatives, and you can find us within that vibrant community. Artists and creators are everywhere in this city, whether you’re visiting coffee shops, parks, or art galleries. The energy here is inspiring. At Canada Colour, we’re right in the heart of that, drawing inspiration from Montreal’s diverse and dynamic culture.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
The best question a prospective customer could ask is: “How and where are the products made?”
At Canada Colour, we’re committed to ensuring all our designs are done in-house in Montreal. We partner with local Canadian suppliers and distributors to ensure every product is printed and shipped from within Canada. We also work hard to keep our prices affordable and accessible without sacrificing quality.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is the direct engagement with customers. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the response from people who are excited about our products.
The worst part? The patience it takes to build something from scratch. As a breaking news journalist, I am used to daily and oftentimes hourly deadlines. Now, I’m building from the ground up, and while it’s exhilarating, it also takes time to gain momentum and build traction.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Why do journalists make terrible comedians? They can’t stop rewriting the punchline.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow Canada Colour on Instagram for updates on new products, designs, and all things Canadian pride.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
We love Phin Cafe, a new Vietnamese-owned coffee shop just around the corner from us in the Plateau. It’s a great spot for meetings, and we’ve even had the pleasure of having some of our artwork displayed there. They’re doing amazing things in the community, and we highly recommend checking them out! Find them on Instagram.
