NLIS 1
February 1, 2003
(Industry, Trade and Rural Development)

 

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians win awards at Atlantic Craft Trade Show

Newfoundland and Labrador businesses have won two of four awards for excellence at an international craft trade show. The awards were announced by Kelvin Parsons, Minister of Industry, Trade and Rural Development on February 1 at the Atlantic Craft Trade Show (ACTS) in Halifax, the largest annual craft trade show in Atlantic Canada.

The awards went to Dark Tickle of Griquet on the Northern Peninsula for the Outstanding Exporter Award, and to the Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador for the Outstanding Retailer Award.

"Focusing on the development potential of small-scale manufacturing enterprises is part of government�s Renewal Strategy for Jobs and Growth," said Kelvin Parsons, Minister of Industry, Trade and Rural Development. "The craft industry is a good example of that strategy in action. It contributes $38 million annually to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador and provides 2,000 jobs throughout all areas of the province. It also enhances our tourism industry and is an important export industry. I am proud that these two companies have been recognized nationally for their contribution to the development of this industry in Newfoundland and Labrador."

Dark Tickle, winner of the Outstanding Exporter Award, is owned and operated by Steve and Gwen Knudsen. They manufacture specialty jams, sauces, relishes, vinegars and beverages using wild berries for export directly to Canada, Germany, France and Japan, or indirectly through tourists visiting the province.

The Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, winner of the Outstanding Retailer Award, operates eight craft shops at national historic sites around the province, and two in St. John�s. The association works with a multitude of craft producers to create unique products for each store, and contributes significantly to the growth of local craft production. The association�s 10 stores currently employ 40 people.

Two Nova Scotia companies received two further awards. Designer Jeffrey Cowling of Jeffrey Cowling Associates received the Excellence in Product Award, and Susan Foshay, owner of YHZ Halifax Contemporary Art Gallery, received the Industry Leader Award.

The Atlantic Craft Trade Show has been held annually for 26 years. The three-day show had 180 exhibitors, 29 of them from Newfoundland and Labrador, and attracts over 1,200 buyers from Canada and the United States.

ACTS is a joint effort of the provincial governments of the four Atlantic provinces and is hosted by each province on a rotational basis in Halifax. The host province this year was Newfoundland and Labrador. The Newfoundland and Labrador delegation was led by Minister Parsons.

Media contact: Clifford Grinling, (709) 729-7066.

2003 02 01                                          7:30 p.m.


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