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Taking a Bite Out of the International Market

Black Fly co-founders Cathy Siskind-Kelly and Rob Kelly

“Through these business events and seminars, Black Fly has gained invaluable information and key connections to international markets.” 
- Cathy Siskind-Kelly, Co-founder, Black Fly Beverage Company

We’ve all been bitten by that most persistent of Muskoka bugs – the Black Fly.  Now we have a reason to celebrate the bug that comes back for more.  In 2005, the Black Fly Beverage Company micro-distillery was the first company in over 100 years to receive a distillery licence in Ontario.

Last year, Black Fly moved from a small boutique location in London, Ontario, to a first class 6,600 square foot plant, employing up to 25 people, with a high priority on Canadian expertise and suppliers. In the premium spirit-based beverages market, which is dominated by global company imports, wide distribution and market penetration are imperative for sustainability.

Over the past year, the company became increasingly aware of the wide range of support that the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs can offer to Ontario businesses. 

Through a series of incoming trade missions organized by OMAFRA’s Ontario Food Exports, such as an international buyers table-top event, a seminar and meetings with Celebrity Cruise Lines and Black Fly’s participation in the Street Smart program, the company  connected with buyers, federal trade commissioners, and OMAFRA’s own US-based trade advisors, helping to ensure that Black Fly had the best opportunities to communicate with international buyers in their own markets.  These events led to meetings and product presentations with pre-qualified, international buyers, who provided key feedback about the marketability and potential for Black Fly to sell their products abroad.

Though still working on securing US distribution, Black Fly is in discussion with a number of US buyers they met through these events, confident that – with OMAFRA’s ongoing support – success is close at hand.

To find out how the Business Development Branch at OMAFRA can provide you with knowledge, connections, and resources to help you grow your business, call toll-free at 1-888-466-2372 extension 64474; email at foodinvest@ontario.ca or visit our website at www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/food.

For information on additional export successes and services please contact:

Alan Crawley
Manager, Ontario Food Exports
519.826.3564