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NLIS 2
September 27, 2000
(Development and Rural Renewal)

 

Local apparel producer wins Montreal fashion award

For the second year in a row a Newfoundland clothing designer has won a major national fashion award. Last night Karen Pottle, president of Exploits Oilskin Originals of St. John�s, received an award in Montreal from the Matinee Fashion Foundation for contributing towards fashion in Canada. She is one of 32 designers across Canada who will share in the $750,000 prize money.

While Exploits has built its reputation on the design and manufacture of fashionable oilskin outer wear, this year Ms. Pottle has developed a new line of wool coats, pants, skirts, sweaters, vests and shirts targeted at people 25 years and up to be worn at the office or on weekends. "It�s a head-to-toe look, casual, comfortable and classic, something you can keep in your wardrobe for a long time," she says.

Ms. Pottle says her decision to move into a new line was made for business and creative reasons. "Any designer wants to extend their abilities. I wanted to show that my company can move into other markets as well."

Exploits is also extending its outerwear line. "I am showing six new designs for a spring line using waterproof materials. The design is a little more funky, aimed at younger people," says Ms. Pottle.

"Exploits Oilskin Originals is a good example of a successful small-scale craft manufacturing enterprise that creates jobs and exports for Newfoundland and Labrador," said Beaton Tulk, Minister of Development and Rural Renewal. "Ms. Pottle has achieved an international reputation for her innovative designs and this new award shows that she continues to maintain her creative flair. Ms. Pottle is an energetic entrepreneur who shows the drive and enthusiasm that we are delighted to support. My warmest congratulations to her."

The crafts industry has been identified by the provincial government as a strategic growth opportunity. More than 2,000 craft producers in Newfoundland and Labrador generate $25 million in sales annually.

Media contacts:

Clifford Grinling
Development and Rural Renewal
(709) 729-7066

Karen Pottle, Exploits
St. John�s (709) 579-1234
Montreal (514) 285-5555 Ext 610

2000 09 27 10:15 a.m.


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