CIRCLE ARTS A NORTH AMERICA TOP RETAIL AWARD WINNER

Three owners of Circle Arts in Tobermory, Glenda Burrell, Arlene Kennedy and Simon White, are gratified for international peer recognition on August 2, 2009 by the NICHE award as one of the top 24 art/craft retailers in North America.

Circle Arts is one of only two Canadian award winners this year for best practices as well as for growing and strengthening the North American market. NICHE Magazine will run a feature article in the Winter 2010 issue and winners are posted on line at www.americancraft.com.

This NICHE award is significant for many reasons, most notably for the respect and recognition by peers, most of whom have likely never experienced Circle Arts first hand. Our public face far and wide is our reputation through word of mouth as well as the web site, ads, direct mail opening invitations, business cards and articles. Central are our artists, stewarded primarily by Arlene Kennedy.

Excellence in design is paramount in conveying the character of any business. Simon White’s talents as a web designer and his taste define the ‘look’ of all Circle Arts’ printed materials and of our comprehensive web site. Images of works on display in the current season, artist statements and biographies for each of our 68 artists/artisans aid prospective buyers who may shop either in person or at a distance: www.circlearts.com. Glenda Burrell’s expertise and presentation/visual merchandising are especially appreciated by our discerning customers.

Marketing gurus claim it is not just the information you provide, but it is how you make people feel that is first and foremost the best way to capture attention and retain customers. Repeat clients, as well as those who have more recently discovered Circle Arts, delight in the elegant installations and the ‘funky’ look of the place. They respond to the casual but welcoming atmosphere and especially to the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Circle Arts is about creating expectations – expectations that are realized. This award singles out Circle Arts as one of the best over 600 other eligible candidates for the North American Niche Top Retailer of the year.