So many Canadians are lacing up a pair of running shoes that stores can't keep them in stock. Running is catching on as a fitness trend and businesses have been quick to capitalize on it. In this 1978 clip from CBC-TV, reporter Russ Patrick explains that a trade limit on importing shoes into Canada is making it hard for European manufacturers such as Adidas to get their runners onto the feet of the people who want them.
Did You know?
- According to the Globe and Mail, sales of athletic shoes totalled $80 million in 1977 and in 1978 the market for them was growing by 25 per cent annually.
- Adidas first came to Canada in 1954 when a German immigrant convinced founder Adolph "Adi" Dassler to supply his custom soccer boots to the Edmonton CFL team. The team won three Grey Cup championships in a row wearing the Adidas boots.
- The quota on imports of athletic shoes was imposed by the federal government in December 1977 to boost domestic production and protect Canadian shoe makers. Adidas, Tiger, Puma and Brooks brands were all affected, jumping in price by 30 to 50 per cent. Canadian shoe makers Bauer and Bata stepped up to take advantage of the quota.