Despite recent royal drama and controversy, there is still a demand for King Charles memorabilia in Canada. Many shops and online retailers are offering a variety of items such as coins, stamps, coffee pods, and biscuit tins, all with Charles- and coronation-themed designs. Even some clothing items, such as dresses, pyjamas, and socks, are adorned with crown motifs. While some were uncertain about the market for King Charles memorabilia, the array of products available is proving popular among Canadian monarchists, royalists, memorabilia collectors, and those who just want something to mark a historical moment.
According to a professor specializing in marketing, Joanne McNeish, the closer to the event, the more interest in commemorative items will ramp up, especially among older shoppers who have an attachment to anything historical. However, Gen Z is becoming increasingly fond of nostalgic items too. McNeish estimates that only five percent of buyers are collectors of memorabilia or people who pick items up now in hopes of selling them for a profit years later.
The Centre for Retail Research in Norfolk, England, estimates that more than £1.4 billion ($2.3 billion) will be spent on the coronation by U.K. consumers, and «overseas enthusiasts» will generate £79 million ($132 million) in sales. Canadians are expected to spend around £8 million ($13 million) naturally. It’s hard to predict how strong Canadian sales tied to the King’s coronation will be or how they will compare to interest in memorabilia tied to his mother, Queen Elizabeth.
Despite King Charles being the fifth most popular royal, with 55% of people surveyed saying they have a positive opinion of him, consumers are sympathetic to the King, according to Carl Hulme, owner of Blimeys British Store and Gift Shop. He says, «The majority are buying because they feel that Charles has been somewhat put in such a bad light by Harry and (Duchess of Sussex) Meghan. They feel they want to support him in some way.» Little Taste of Home, a British and Irish shop near Calgary, has had patrons asking about when their order of King Charles spoons, cups, mugs, and plates will arrive for weeks.
In conclusion, despite recent controversy and calls for Commonwealth countries to reject the monarchy, the demand for King Charles memorabilia in Canada is still strong, with many shoppers wanting to support the new sovereign in some way. With a wide range of items available, retailers are hoping to cash in on the historic event, with the Center for Retail Research in Norfolk estimating billions in sales worldwide.