Barrie company marks 60 years of flag-making

Flags Unlimited in Barrie is marking 60 years in business and is giving back to communities with a 'Flag It Forward' campaign that includes donations of Canadian flags to schools, employees and early retail customers.

Flags Unlimited in Barrie is marking its 60th anniversary in 2026 and is observing National Flag Day with community donations. The company was founded in 1966 in Thornton by the Burke family and was acquired in 2019 by Brian Naish and Matt Skipp. Today the firm manufactures flags, banners and custom signage and sells directly and through retail partners across Canada. As part of the milestone, the company refreshed its brand and unveiled a new logo that it says reflects both its history and future. Key details: - Flags Unlimited is running a "Flag It Forward" campaign that will donate Canadian flags to dozens of elementary schools nationwide. - Each Flags Unlimited employee will receive a Canadian flag to share with a neighbour, friend or family member. - The first 60 customers at the Flags Unlimited retail store on Friday, Feb. 13 will receive a Canadian flag; the store opens at 9 a.m. at 364 St. Vincent St. - The company was founded in 1966, was acquired by Brian Naish and Matt Skipp in 2019, and currently employs about 50 people at its Barrie office and manufacturing plant. - Flags Unlimited produces flags, banners and custom signage for government, corporate and local business customers and sells through multiple channels in Canada. - Local officials noted the company’s long presence in the region and its role in creating jobs and supporting Canadian-made products. Summary: The anniversary highlights a long-running local manufacturer and a community-focused initiative tied to National Flag Day; the company plans donations to schools and distribution of flags to employees and early retail visitors. Upcoming events include the in-store distribution to the first 60 customers on Feb. 13 and flag donations around National Flag Day on Feb. 15.