Lake Ontario renaming sparks competing hat sales
A U.S. president's effort to rename Lake Ontario has created a market for dueling hats. A Canadian company and Trump's own store are now selling merchandise featuring the lake's names.
An executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump to rename Lake Ontario has spurred a merchandise opportunity for competing hats. Canadian design studio Jackpine has introduced "Lake Ontario" hats that are attracting customers from both sides of the border, while the Trump Store is selling "Lake America" hats.
Jackpine, founded by Liam Mooney and Emma Cochrane, previously launched "Canada Is Not for Sale" branded hats. Their new $40 "Lake Ontario" hat features the lake's original name and a Canadian maple leaf. The company reports selling thousands of items, including over 1,000 to U.S. customers, with a portion of proceeds donated to Swim Drink Fish, an organization advocating for clean water.
The renaming effort has faced public opposition, with a Reuters/Ipsos poll indicating 63% of Americans oppose the move. While the initiative presents commercial opportunities for the Trump Store, it also incurs costs for taxpayers who must update signage, maps, and tourism materials.
This is not the first time Trump has capitalized on such events for commercial gain, having previously sold "Gulf of America" hats. His business has launched over 600 items during his presidency, generating a significant revenue stream.