DOMVILLE - North America's only metal knitting needle manufacturer - located right here in Leeds Grenville - is expanding its operations.
DVS Manufacturing Inc. and Louet North America owners Dave and Pam Van Stralen manufacture and sell their products around the world, including the popular DVS's SquareTM ergonomic knitting needles and crochet hooks.
"Our expansion options are limitless," says Dave, noting 95% of their products are sold in North America. The needle arts are a $2.5-billion business in the US alone. DVS also has customers in Japan, Spain, Russia, Austria and New Zealand.
"We're growing and have some new patented products we're very excited about," says Dave. The two companies employ 11 but could triple staffing while expanding their product lines.
Already selling to 150 independent craft stores, they plan to reach 500 stores over the next three years. "It's a very exciting time for both companies," says Dave.
The multi-generational family business was started by Dave's late mom Trudy. She turned the family's sheep farm into a retail business selling Louet spinning wheels, weaving equipment and manufacturing dyed wools. Trudy also designed 100s of knitting patterns still being sold today through Louet.
One company became two in 2016 when Dave and Pam purchased Kollage Yarns and the American company's needle-making equipment. Their son Brett, a robotics graduate, helped set up the new equipment to launch DVS Manufacturing.
"There are just so many opportunities to grow our business in other markets," says Dave. They have had support in developing their manufacturing operation from Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation and RBC.
Among their many products are SquareTM crochet hooks, knitting needles in 11 different sizes and 6 cable lengths. They sell yarn, patterns, spinning wheels and weaving equipment.
Learn more by visiting their website and Facebook page and follow them on Twitter. Send them an email or give them a call at 1-800-897-6444.
Story and photo courtesy of the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office
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