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last mo.

Hilroy Apologizes After Notebooks Omit Newfoundland and Cape Breton From Map

A production error that removed parts of Atlantic Canada from the glossy cover has led Hilroy to stop sales, correct the artwork, offer replacements or refunds.

Hilroy’s 40-page exercise book with a copyright year of 2025 shows a map of Canada that omits Newfoundland and a part of Nova Scotia, as seen in a Walmart in Fredericton on Wednesday.
Hilroy’s 40-page exercise book with a copyright year of 2025 shows a map of Canada that appears to be missing Newfoundland and a part of Nova Scotia, pictured in a Walmart in Fredericton on Sept. 2, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Eli Ridder
Hilroy has drawn criticism after notebooks were printed with maps that excluded Cape Breton and Newfoundland. This corrected version is shown on Hilroy's Facebook page

Overview

  • Hilroy said the missing island of Newfoundland and Cape Breton were caused by a production error on its glossy 40-page notebooks and the company has apologized and halted distribution.
  • Parent company ACCO Brands confirmed the affected books first reached store shelves last year and some copies carry a 2025 copyright and a “made in China” marking.
  • Hilroy and ACCO said they are updating the cover artwork and customers can request a replacement or refund through the ACCO Brands Canada website.
  • The omission drew strong public reaction on social media and sharp rebukes from provincial leaders, with Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston condemning the error.
  • The mistake landed awkwardly for a century-old Canadian school brand that makes millions of notebooks a year and touches a sensitive history of Newfoundland’s 1949 entry into Confederation and past map omissions.