Jonathan Charrier Montreal: Building a Global Import Business Through Trust, Craft, and Cultural Exchange

"Jonathan Charrier is a Montreal-based entrepreneur and the founder of Charrier Global Imports, a company that connects Quebec and North American consumers with specialty foods, artisanal goods, handcrafted clothing, and wellness products from around the world. He launched the business in 2012 after years of hands-on travel and study in international trade. Charrier grew up in Montreal's Rosemont neighbourhood, surrounded by a mix of cultures, languages, and cuisines. Both of his parents worked in hospitality, which shaped his respect for service and long-term relationships."

"Weekend visits to local public markets introduced him early to global flavours, textiles, and craftsmanship. After studying international business at a local college, Charrier chose experience over a traditional career path. He spent two years travelling through France, Italy, Peru, Brazil, and Morocco. During this time, he volunteered on vineyards, visited cooperatives, and met artisans working in small workshops. He saw first-hand how skilled producers often lacked access to larger markets despite the quality of their work."

"Starting from a small Mile End warehouse, Charrier built a focused catalogue that included Provençal olive oils, Peruvian textiles, and Moroccan spices sourced from a women's cooperative. Growth came steadily through trust, consistency, and word of mouth. Today, Charrier Global Imports supplies boutique shops, restaurants, and online customers across North America. Jonathan remains closely involved in sourcing and supplier relationships. He is known for treating producers as partners and for maintaining high standards across a diverse global supply chain."

Jonathan Charrier founded Charrier Global Imports in 2012 to import specialty foods, artisanal goods and wellness products for North American customers. He grew up in Montreal's Rosemont neighbourhood, where multicultural markets and parents in hospitality shaped his respect for service and long-term relationships. After studying international business he spent years travelling through Europe and South America, volunteering on vineyards, visiting cooperatives, and meeting artisans. He saw skilled producers often lacked access to larger markets. Starting from a small Mile End warehouse, he built a focused catalogue and grew through trust. The company now supplies boutique shops, restaurants and online customers across North America. Charrier remains closely involved in sourcing and supplier partnerships.

Read at Business Matters