The two countries have virtually identical age distributions and average ages. But the ancestry and ethnic origins differ. These are important considerations when marketing to Canadian consumers, because the government encourages groups to maintain their multicultural diversity, as opposed to the traditional melting-pot society pursued by the United States. There are also racial differences. There are few persons of Hispanic origin in Canada.
Language is a major defining difference.
To sell your products in Canada, the packaging and instructions must be bilingual-English and French. While Canada once was seen as an underdeveloped market where U.S. retailers were assured of success, it has been increasingly competitive. Several chains, including Home Depot Inc., have slowed expansion here because of disappointing results. The good news is that Canadians overwhelmingly watch and read U.S. television and publications.