Building brands in our community

One of the great benefits of being in the branding industry is being able to work with small businesses in our community. Along with our national and international clients, we enjoy the challenge of assisting local businesses to standout and grow in their local markets.

Living and working in the Markham/Stouffville area has allowed the say what! team to help build some fun and interesting brands including our work with Harry James Enterprises, Procenko Real Estate, Coach House Pub, Grilling with Shine Spices and our recent re-branding program for Aquaman Pool & Spa Service.

It’s crucial to remember the importance of small business and how it supports the Canadian economy. According to Statistics Canada “in 2023, businesses with 1 to 19 employees comprised 86.7% of all employer businesses in Canada.¹” That means only 13.3% of businesses in Canada have over 20 employees. Small business is huge!

New York Times ad

Aquaman Pool and Spa Service was at a turning point in their over 30 years of serving the local and greater Toronto area. They were expanding their range to cover the growing cottage and cities north of Toronto all the way to Muskoka.

The say what! team worked with the Aquaman team to gain an understanding of their business and philosophy. We redeveloped and refined their beloved character and introduced a new logo, branded fleet of vehicles and uniforms, along with a new website and an ongoing social media program.

“After 32 years of business we were overdue for a new look! We wanted something that would reflect the joy a swimming pool provides for families and friends – we wanted something colourful and fun! say what! worked with us around the clock until it was exactly what we wanted.”

Brian Corrigan, Founder & Owner, Aquaman Pool & Spa Repairs

As we worked on the branding, we discovered their passion for fast cars and introduced a racing car sponsorship with Stouffville based Farrell Racing.

One of the benefits of working local is seeing our branding work drive by on a daily base and on the racetrack.

If you are you a local Markham/Stouffville business in need of some brand intelligence  let’s chat

grant ivens

grant@saywhat.com

¹Analysis on small businesses in Canada, second quarter of 2024 – June 13, 2024 – Stats Canada 

Farrell Racing Photo courtesy of Roger Carlsen Photography