The postwar era, for public servants and general labourers alike, was generally one of increased prosperity. Many working Canadians took the opportunity to move to new homes in the suburbs, and to buy new appliances and consumer goods. Not everyone, however, shared in the new-found wealth and, during this period, many unions fought to ensure a reasonable standard of living for all working Canadians.
Age of the Consumer
"Consumers were apparently spending freely in the first half of 1953. Retail sales showed an increase of 6.5% over the same period of 1952. With retail prices slightly lower than in 1952, this means that people were buying a larger quantity of goods than last year -- the percentage increase being more than the percentage increase in population.

Thus the general indicators -- the overall level of employment, the increase in industrial production, the increase in retail sales -- suggest a fairly healthy situation in the economy."

Labor Facts, Vol. IV, No. 9, September 1953.

Why do unions feel Canadians have a right to certain consumer goods?
Pay cheque fails to meet food bills.
Price Campaign Propaganda


Link to the Social Progress Gallery