With tariff-related economic disruption becoming an ongoing reality, Canadian employers are taking a more measured approach to workforce planning, including exploring alternatives to layoffs that can help retain skilled employees.

Speaking recently with Canadian HR Reporter, Andrew Bratt, leader of Gowling WLG’s Employment, Labour & Equalities Group, discussed how employers’ responses have evolved as tariff pressures have persisted.

“Employers are slightly more comfortable with economic disruption and uncertainty now than they might have been in 2025 because it's been ongoing for quite some time,” said Andrew. “The more sophisticated ones are prepared to be patient and to take a wait-and-see approach.”

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