Cambridge Bay (Oct 27/03) - The turnout at the Kitikmeot Trade Show is something to be happy about, George Tierney, vice president of marketing and sales with Ayaya, said last Tuesday.

Although exact figures of attendance were not available, the heavy traffic on the trade show floor seems to bear out Tierney's assessment.

Ayaya Marketing and Communications was asked to come on board and try to assist in the development of the Kitikmeot Trade Show after having built up the Nunavut Trade Show, Tierney says.

Both shows got to the point where local organizers realized they needed some professional help to take the shows to the next level, Tierney says.

Ayaya is looking to expand its trade show business throughout Nunavut and the Northwest Territories and parts beyond.

"The Kivalliq Region could do well with a trade show in Rankin Inlet and I do think there is an opportunity in Nunavik, Northern Quebec," Tierney says.

Trade shows are owned by the local communities, Tierney says.

"It starts in the Hamlet offices. Let's call a spade a spade. Our intent is to generate revenue for everyone from the people in the booths to the owners of the show," he says.

Ayaya is also focused on using local workers.

"We do everything we can to leave all the work in the community," Tierney says.

Keith Lear, a purchaser with Kitikmeot Supplies Ltd., offered two thumbs up to the Kitikmeot Trade Show on the show's second day, Oct. 23.

"It's great. It lets people see what we do and what other companies do for services and goods," Lear said.

Kitikmeot Supplies Ltd. supplies lumber, paint, home decor, electrical, office supplies, sporting goods -- a little of everything, Lear says.

"Everyone knows us. We're just here to support the community and to bring out any of the new products we have," he says.