From retail to roadside: Peter McIntosh bridges legacy and innovation with CAA

Almost 120 years ago, in different cities, two events occurred that would help shape the legacy of Ottawa businessman Peter McIntosh.  

Back in 1906, his great-grandfather and great-great aunt launched a fine China business in Ottawa called McIntosh & Watts. A year later, in 1907, the precursor to CAA – the Ontario Motor League (OML) was formed in Toronto.  

Fast forward almost 120 years, and Peter McIntosh is bridging two trusted brands as he successfully navigates his family-owned business through international trade issues while acting as a guiding force in shaping the future of CAA.  

“As owner and president of McIntosh & Watts, a company started by my great-grandfather and great-great aunt in 1906, I manage both our past and our future legacy,” explains McIntosh. “What started as a tea, coffee and spice emporium on Bank Street has grown into an international importer, exporter, wholesaler and retailer in the gift and tableware industry.” 

From deliveries once made by horse and buggy, McIntosh & Watts has evolved through many iterations over the decades. Today, the company boasts an international brand of McIntosh Mugs – while retaining the same commitment to quality products that built public trust in the company from day one. 

"The foundation of our brand is to provide the finest-quality products that are both functional and beautiful, married with the same best-in-class customer service that Christina Watts first established all those years ago,” says McIntosh.  

Adaptive leadership through change  

A pillar in the Ottawa business community, McIntosh has also been involved in the growth and strategic direction of CAA North & East Ontario since 2007. Over the years, he has served with the organization’s board of directors as a board member, treasurer, vice chair and chair. 

“In 2025, I accepted the honour of sitting as vice-chair of the CAA National Board of Directors,” says McIntosh, adding he has also held the role of director with CAA National since 2022. A previous recipient of the Forty under 40 Award from the Ottawa Board of Trade, McIntosh also coached with the Nepean Girls Hockey Association for many years. 

Just as McIntosh & Watts has experienced growth and change, McIntosh says he believes adaptability is a key tenet of his success in the business world.  

“The only constant in life is change,” reflects McIntosh. “Leaders who cannot adapt will not be as successful as those who can identify when it is time to pivot versus when to double down on a strategy.” 

CAA Business Membership underlines versatility 

Just as business leaders require adaptability, so do the products and services that support them. McIntosh, who lends his business acumen to CAA North & East Ontario’s offerings, appreciates the versatility of a brand-new product: the CAA Business Membership. 

“As someone who has spent his entire life in the business world, I know how important flexibility is,” says McIntosh. “Success means finding smart business solutions that accelerate growth while reducing costs and downtime – and the CAA Business Membership seamlessly does it all.” 

Designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses, CAA Business allows business owners to select from an “à la carte” menu. Some of the service options include CAA’s trusted roadside service fleet, CAA’s Commercial Pit Crew of mobile auto services, commercial insurance and even comprehensive group benefits – allowing smaller employers to offer big-business benefits to employees without the big price tag. Business owners can also offer CAA Memberships to their own employees at a discount —a perk that can go a long way in terms of staff retention by putting savings directly into employees’ hands. 

As he looks ahead to the next chapter for both McIntosh & Watts and CAA, McIntosh is resolute in his optimism.   

“My vision is to provide honest, empathetic and impactful leadership while driving strategic growth and innovation within these two organizations,” says McIntosh. “In a world where protectionism and global events impact even average citizens, I believe in the importance of knowing when to pivot and when to double down on strategies that guide strategic growth.  

“With thoughtful and long-term goals, we will continue to move from strength to strength.”