Saskatchewan’s year-to-date retail sales growth is dead-last in Canada – with food-service sales increasing only 1.4% from May 2025 to May 2026. As well, Saskatchewan people report the highest level of financial anxiety in Canada.
Standing with Beck’s team is Amjad Rafiquie, owner and operator of Savor Supermarket and Halal Meat in Saskatoon, who says Trump tariffs, climbing gas prices, and the harsh cost of living pressed on people have spiked costs and hampered profits for his business.
“After more than seventeen years as a Saskatchewan small business owner, I am seeing operating costs rise and customer purchasing power shrink. Small businesses are being squeezed from both sides: Our costs are increasing, while our customers can afford to buy less,” said Rafiquie.
“Saskatchewan has what the world needs. Our products should be flying off the shelves, at prices people can afford,” said Kim Breckner, Shadow Minister for Trade and Export Development.
“Instead, we're hearing from small businesses across the province who's profit margins shrink every month because they can’t keep up with rising costs of everyday life in Saskatchewan under a Sask. Party government that has been in power far too long.”
Breckner added, "We want to see Saskatchewan businesses thrive, but when prices run rampant, and consumers get squeezed out of the market, we see small businesses at risk of closing or losing jobs.”
In the Spring Sitting, Beck’s team introduced nine bills to make life more affordable for families and small businesses, including legislation to reverse hikes to power rates and car insurance rates and to take the provincial sales tax of food and kids’ clothing.
Tajinder Grewal, Shadow Minister for Advanced Education, added, “Small business owners are simply asking for a little help to keep their doors open, so they can continue to be valued parts of their Saskatchewan communities.”
“These business owners provide amazing local products that shape communities and build our economy, but instead of providing relief, Scott Moe refuses to support them in the face of an escalating trade war.”
“Clearly, it’s time for change.”
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