NovaScotian Crystal
Canada's only crystal maker isn't just in the business of providing elegant stemware, beautiful vases and one-of-a-kind corporate awards. NovaScotian Crystal Limited takes pride in continuing a rich tradition by offering apprentices the opportunity to learn the art of mouth-blown and hand-cut crystal from Irish master craftsmen.
The company, which began in 1996 in Halifax, feels strongly connected with Nova Scotia. "The support we get from this community is incredible," says president & CEO Rod McCulloch.
The encouragement is welcome as NovaScotian Crystal has been hit hard by the global economic downturn. The provincial Industrial Expansion Fund will help the company, which has 30 employees, through a difficult period.
"It's a significant support to us in the short term," McCulloch says. "Our business, like many retail businesses, is very seasonal. This support from the province will give us the support to get through the low seasonal sales in this part of the year and at a time when our revenue is down significantly. And then we'll increase our revenues during the year and need less of that support as time goes on."
It's a positive vision for the future worthy of the resilience and tradition embodied by Nova Scotia and NovaScotian Crystal.
Crystal credits:- NovaScotian Crystal's Rod McCulloch says the company is the first - and only - crystal maker in Canada.
- The company has admirers worldwide. It has shipped its products to customers in Australia, China and Dubai.
February 17, 2009
