The Atlantic Craft Trade Show (ACTS), a well respected industry event best known for the high quality of its exhibits, will mark its 25th anniversary this year. From February 2-4, over 1300 discriminating buyers from across North America will descend on the World Trade & Convention Centre in Halifax to view three floors of Atlantic Canadian craft and giftware displays.
ACTS is a juried show, which means products must meet certain standards before being accepted into the show. This step is taken to ensure that retail buyers will experience only the finest products that Atlantic Canada has to offer. This year, 15 Prince Edward Island craft and giftware producers will participate in ACTS and numerous Island buyers will be travelling to the show.
In addition, eight new Island craftspeople will have their products showcased in "The PEI Collection" - a beautiful display of Island products sponsored by Prince Edward Island Business Development to profile new craftspeople and artisans.
"ACTS is an excellent opportunity for our talented craftspeople to exhibit their products and make new industry connections and sales," said the Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development & Technology. "The Provincial Government is a strong supporter of our vibrant craft industry which is why we're very pleased to give new Island craftspeople the opportunity to showcase their products at ACTS with The PEI Collection."
Minister Currie will be participating in the ACTS award ceremonies Saturday evening which is a major highlight of the event. Now in its 5th year, the Atlantic Canada CraftAwards for Excellence recognize leadership and excellence in a craftsperson's life. Two Islanders are among the nominees for these prestigious awards: Joan Auld for Outstanding Industry Supporter and The Island Crafts Shop for Outstanding Retailer.
ACTS was established in 1976 as a means of developing the craft & giftware sector in the region. The show has helped launch many Atlantic giftware producers over the years and continues to be Canada's premier craft trade show. Originating in a small hotel ballroom in 1976, the event now covers three floors of the World Trade Centre.
"Despite some uncertainty in the economy, with over 200 exhibitors displaying diverse product lines such as wood, pottery, glass, home decor, jewellery, candles, food and much more, the 25th Atlantic Craft Trade Show promises to be an extremely solid sales event," said Chris Tyler, chair of ACTS 2002. "Even in other years when the economy dipped, craft and giftware sales have been very reliable."
The participating Island companies are Island Lights, Knitting Archives, MacAskill's Woodworking, Col Mar Crafts, Capricorn Two Designs, Canoe Cove Studio, Malpeque Fine Iron, Cass Craft PEI, PEI Specialty Chip Co., Sweet and Sour Gargoyles, Gail's Country Pantry, Faux FX, Island Winds and Lily Pad Creations.
ACTS is organized by the provincial governments of Atlantic Canada, providing a bridge between retail and wholesale for crafts and giftware producers. For more information, visit the Atlantic Craft Trade Show website at www.actshow.ca.