Since Team Canada Atlantic's most recent trade mission to Boston in February, several of the ten participating Island companies have contacted mission coordinators to share ongoing success stories. Most recently, Millworks Canada contacted the Department of Development & Technology to share the news of winning a major export contract.
"Just last week we found out we won a $450,000 export contract," said Millworks Production Manager Marc Pinet. "This is our first year of business and this contract will bring the total value of our export contracts to over $1.7 million. When I received the good news, I was quick to contact Minister Currie because the assistance we received from the Department of Development and Technology has greatly contributed to our success. I also ensured him that Millworks will do our best to secure more export contracts and create more jobs for our fellow Islanders."
Recent statistics show that the export market provides an incredible boost to the regional economy, injecting over $17.2 billion into Atlantic Canada in 2000. Furthermore, with every $1 million in exports generating 11 jobs, every new contract holds great promise for local employment.
"Island companies such as those participating in the trade missions, play a key role in the Island economy," said the Honourable Michael Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. "As these companies strive to secure more contracts, they aren't only increasing their own business, but are creating employment for Islanders and stimulating the economy. There is a real value to what they do and that is why we are committed to supporting them."
Cathy Rose of Creative Esthetics Dental Laboratory knows all about creating employment. Since participating in the Boston trade mission, Creative Esthetics has hired two new employees to handle orders created from just one export contract valued at $500,000 annually. Similarly, J. Perry Inc of Tignish is anticipating hiring up to 40 new employees over the next two years as a result of new business the company established while attending the Boston trade mission.
"We met a buyer on the trade mission that opened doors for us in the majority of the east coast market," said company President Herb Perry. "As a result of this new business, we may hire up to 20 employees this summer and potentially 20 more next year. Forty jobs is a boost to any community but particularly so for West Prince. I attribute these new jobs directly to the trade mission and to the assistance and encouragement J. Perry Inc received from the Province in terms of attending the trade mission and making the necessary contacts."
A fourth trade mission is being coordinated by Team Canada Atlantic for Atlanta in May. Team Canada Atlantic is a partnership of the Government of Canada, the four Atlantic provinces and the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters. This partnership works to increase exporting opportunities for Atlantic Canadian companies.