The Quinte Economic Development Commission (QEDC) is hoping with a new campaign, more people can buy local and support their neighbours, family and friends.
Just last week, the QEDC launched the Proudly Made in Bay of Quinte campaign, with the hopes of promoting products made in the region. “There is a large concentration on manufacturing in this region, with more than 11,000 employees,” said Chris King, CEO of QEDC.
“It’s an important part of the local economy. Manufacturers in this region bring tremendous value to our economy and produce a range of quality products, including some that are available to local consumers.”
The CEO says, mostly, the QEDC is looking to raise some awareness pertaining to the products that are actually manufactured and made here.
Previously, in the commission’s last Manufacturing Labour Market Study, local industry indicated there was a need to promote and raise awareness as to the products and capabilities of Bay of Quinte region manufacturers. King reports, more than 60 in the manufacturing sector had input.
“This has certainly been a strategy of ours for a while,” he added.
The marketing campaign includes both social media promotion and in-store promotional materials.
The campaign has officially launched with a pilot program in two local grocery stores - Smylie’s Your Independent Grocer, in Quinte West and Dewe’s Your Independent Grocer, in Belleville.
Products manufactured locally, are identified in both stores through unique shelf hanger signage that read, ‘Proudly Made in Bay of Quinte Region’.
King anticipates it’ll be a couple months or more before the launch expands - but the plan is to have more stores and events promoting locally made products.
“We hope that when consumers are looking at making their choices and they see these signs, they’ll certainly consider the impact on the local economy and supporting their friends, family and neighbours,” King said.
Ultimately, it’s hoped down the line, sales will increase for local companies.
“We’re pretty confident working with the two stores right now,” King added.
For more information on the new campaign or manufacturing in the Bay of Quinte region, contact the QEDC, at 613-961-7990.
The QEDC is a regional economic development office, which represents partner municipalities, including the City of Belleville and Quinte West, as well as the Municipality of Brighton.
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The following are just some of the products produced here in the region which you can buy at places like Dewe’s and Smylie’s Independent Grocers: Ice cream, milk, cream, eggnog from Reid’s Dairy; Soups, chilis, sauces from Nestle; Cheezie chips from Hawkins, W.T. Ltd.; Froot Loops, Corn Pops, Shredded Mini Wheats, etc. from Kellogg’s; Black Diamond and Balderson Cheeses and cheese spread from Parmalat - Black Diamond Cheese Div.; Butter and fruit tarts from Rachel’s Tarts; Olay dry daily face wipes, Always feminine hygiene products from Procter & Gamble; Cheese from Maple Dale Cheese; Sprague Brand, soups, sauces and beans from Sprague Foods; Cheese, mozzarella and Parmesan from Saputo Dairy Products Canada LP; Mushrooms, various types from High Line Mushrooms; Butter from Stirling Creamery; Bagged summer fresh podded peas from Mill Creek Farms; Cheese, multiple kinds, seasonal cheeses from Black River Cheese;
Cheese, multiple kinds from Ivanhoe Cheese (Gay Lea Foods); Chocolate from Donini Chocolate LP; Artisan Meats from La Cultura Salumi; Old-fashioned candy and chocolate from Mrs. B’s Country Candy; Chocolate from Queen of the Kitchen; Alcoholic Cider from Empire Cider;
Drink Crystals from Red Path Sugar; Boxes-Corrugated for store displays from Norampac; Industrial and Twittens gloves (for touch screens) from Impacto Protective Products.
Minor Dent Policy
Please note that during shipment, cans may occasionally suffer minor dents. These dents, especially around the bottoms or sides of the cans, do not compromise the integrity or safety of the product inside as long as the seal remains intact. By proceeding with your purchase, you acknowledge and accept the possibility of receiving cans with minor dents, understanding that this does not affect the product's quality or safety. We do not ship cans with minor dents, but they can occur from time to time in shipping.