The first Prince Edward Island Craft and Giftware Buyers' Market wrapped up on Saturday afternoon after a successful two-day run. More than 60 Island craft and giftware producers exhibited their products to over 200 buyers. It is estimated that more than $200,000 worth of products were sold this weekend, with many more orders to follow.
Minister of Development and Technology, Mike Currie, was very pleased with the results of the show and will look to build on this success next year. "This was the first time many Island producers had participated in a wholesale trade show and the results were beyond expectation," said Minister Currie. "Because of the great success this year, we plan on making this an annual event, helping to further the relationship between Island retailers and producers."
The timing of the Buyers' Market was designed to provide Island retailers with a chance to source Island-made products before heading to the national buying shows.
Vaunda Murray, owner of Prince Edward Island Dream Crafts, says the Buyers' Market resulted in her company securing ten new vendors. "This weekend opened doors for us that were normally closed," said Murray. "Along with the 10 new companies we sold to this weekend, there are probably three times as many companies who want to meet with us. Needless to say, we are very excited."
Dorece MacMillan, owner of PEI Speciality Chips, also experienced great success at the show. Her product – potato chips packaged in five pound PEI potato bags – was a huge hit with retailers. "This is only my second year in business, and last year I was the only employee running the business out of my home," said MacMillan.
"From this weekend's Buyers' Market, we received so many new orders that I think I will have to hire people to work for me this summer and look at finding a distribution centre for the product."
The Buyers Market was well received by the buyers as well. Jeanette Arsenault, owner of Cavendish Figurines Ltd. at Gateway Village, says the Market allowed her to see all the Island producers under one roof. "I was amazed by how many things are made on PEI that we didn't know about. I think this Buyers' Market is a wonderful idea, and I look forward to seeing it continue in years to come."