From turbulence to triumph
Combining their scientific expertise and commitment to natural health, Alain Ménard, a microbiologist, and his wife Karen Clark, a biochemist, founded Green Beaver more than 20 years ago.
Their goal: to offer Canadians safe, locally made and synthetics-free personal care products. Located in Hawkesbury, in eastern Ontario, Green Beaver makes and sells natural, clean and biodegradable personal care products.
The company is well established in major distribution channels across the country and maintains a dynamic online presence.
Buying local in response to economic pressure
2025 was marked by a series of economic upheavals that pushed the buy local movement to the forefront.
In the first few weeks of February, following the United States presidency’s announcement on the imposition of customs tariffs on Canadian imports, Green Beaver saw its online sales quadruple. They subsequently stabilized at more than double the previous year’s level.
In-store sales also jumped by 50%, driven by a strategic repositioning of products in frequently visited areas, making them more visible and accessible to customers.
We were ready to take action, as the planning had already been done.
Alain Ménard
CEO, Green Beaver
A proactive and nimble strategy
Green Beaver was able to react quickly and to meet this sudden demand thanks to a series of earlier strategic decisions:
- Production optimization
The company had already collaborated with engineers to improve its processes, enabling it to absorb increased demand without any major disruptions. - Inventory management review
Switching from a “just-in-time” model to an enhanced stock management strategy, Green Beaver increased its raw material and key product reserves. - Strengthening the team
The company hired additional staff, used an HR consultant, and instituted targeted training for executives to better manage stress and growth. - Internal communications
The company also started an employee program to review how teams work together, with the aim of making everyone more efficient while keeping a positive workplace and team spirit.
As Alain Ménard explains, “We were ready to take action, as the planning had already been done.”
Tangible and sustainable results
Thanks to these steps, Green Beaver was not only able to act quickly to respond to a sudden shift in the market, but also to maintain and consolidate its growth.
The company foresees further expansion in the second half of 2025, thanks to better in-store placement opportunities and exceptional loyalty: 90% of customers return.
Increased online sales, which now represent 12% to 13% of total revenue, have boosted the company’s liquidity, thanks to higher margins and faster cash collection.
In short, Green Beaver has what it takes for sustainable growth.
Becoming an iconic Canadian brand
Green Beaver aspires to become an iconic Canadian brand.
Its “natural and Canadian” positioning hasn’t changed, but it resonates more than ever with consumers across the country.
Next step
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