O’Hickey’s Irish Pub in Fredericton, despite its Irish name and decor, is making a statement by going “cash only” in support of small Canadian businesses. The owner, Jason Cooling, has decided to make this change in response to looming U.S. tariff threats and to avoid the surcharges associated with debit and credit machines, which are mostly American-owned. This move is not only a statement but also a way to show solidarity with local businesses, products, and the Canadian dollar. Cooling is considering making this change permanent, depending on how customers respond to it.
The decision to go cash only at O’Hickey’s Irish Pub is part of a larger effort to support local businesses and to challenge the dominance of American companies in the Canadian market. By refusing to accept debit and credit cards, Cooling hopes to encourage customers to use cash and to think more consciously about where they spend their money. This move is also a way to raise awareness about the impact of U.S. tariffs and fees on Canadian businesses, and to encourage others to support local establishments.
Cooling’s decision to go cash only is not just a symbolic gesture; it also has practical implications for the pub’s bottom line. By avoiding the fees associated with credit and debit transactions, O’Hickey’s Irish Pub can increase its profit margin and reduce its dependence on American-owned payment processing companies. This move is part of a larger trend of Canadian businesses seeking ways to minimize their exposure to U.S. tariffs and fees, and to support the Canadian economy.
The response to O’Hickey’s Irish Pub’s cash-only policy has been mixed, with some customers expressing support for the initiative and others voicing concerns about the inconvenience of not being able to use their cards. Cooling acknowledges that there may be challenges associated with going cash only, but he believes that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. He is committed to seeing this experiment through to Monday and evaluating the feedback from customers to determine whether to make the change permanent.
The decision to go cash only at O’Hickey’s Irish Pub has sparked a debate about the role of small businesses in the Canadian economy and the impact of foreign ownership on local markets. By taking a stand against American-owned payment processing companies, Cooling is raising awareness about the importance of supporting Canadian businesses and products. This move is part of a larger effort to promote economic independence and self-sufficiency in the face of external threats.
Overall, O’Hickey’s Irish Pub’s decision to go cash only is a bold and innovative move that highlights the challenges facing Canadian businesses in a globalized economy. By refusing to accept debit and credit cards, Cooling is sending a clear message about the importance of supporting local businesses and products. This move may inspire other small businesses to take similar actions and to challenge the dominance of foreign companies in the Canadian market. In doing so, O’Hickey’s Irish Pub is not only making a statement but also leading by example in supporting the Canadian economy and promoting economic independence.
