Addison County Companies to Watch Awards Recipients Announced by Addison County Economic Development Corp

Addison County Economic Development Corp (Vermont) recognizes local business leaders for innovation, success, and commitment to the Addison County community.

Middlebury, VT, December 14, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Addison County Economic Development Corporation announced recipients of its inaugural "Addison County Companies to Watch” awards during the organization’s annual meeting Friday at the Middlebury Inn. The four companies, Exclusively Vermont Wood Products, Good Point Recycling, Tata Harper Skincare, and WhistlePig Whiskey, were selected by the awards committee for their contribution to the county’s economic growth and for having a meaningful community impact.

“These four Addison County Companies to Watch represent the spirit of innovation and potential of local businesses. They are great ambassadors from across the spectrum of industries. We look forward to seeing them continue to grow and succeed, and help our region thrive,” says Robin Scheu, ACEDC Executive Director. “We’re excited to recognize their contribution and hope this award will elevate their profiles both locally and within their respective industries,” Scheu says.

In business for 140 years, Lathrop’s Maple Supply of Bristol continues to be fresh, dynamic, and innovative. The company’s Exclusively Vermont Wood Products represent a full line of lumber and flooring, which include chain of custody documents showing that all wood is harvested within the state from timber that has been proven to be produced sustainably. Timber from Vermont forests is shipped directly to Lathrop’s Maple Supply for complete processing at one central location to ensure quality control, providing 6 full-time and 3 part-time jobs, and saving valuable fuel resources. Products are sold at the company’s retail outlet and custom ordered and sold to building contractors and homeowners throughout the northeast.

Good Point Recycling is a nationally-recognized electronics recycling company, consulting office, and a respected expert in "Fair Trade Recycling.” The company is one of the nation's leading e-waste recycling operations, providing free TV and PC recycling, computer refurbishing, job training, and disposal. The Middlebury-based company has seen sustained growth since its founding in 2002 and currently employs 25 people. The company has achieved R2 Certification, which ensures that more toxic material streams are managed safely and responsibly by downstream vendors, including final disposition of waste materials. Its partnership with the Retroworks de Mexico woman's cooperative is evidence of the company’s commitment to environmental and social justice. This spring Good Point is organizing an industry summit for thought leaders in the global e-waste community, which will be held at Middlebury College.

Tata Harper Skincare of Shoreham is an entrepreneurially-driven company that is extending the “Certified Vermont Made” brand for premium-quality products into the consumer category of skincare. Since 2008 the company has produced 100% natural and non toxic beauty care products on its 1200-acre farm, where it employs 20 full-time staff. Some product ingredients are sourced from around the world, but many are grown in Vermont. Tata Harper and the company have been recognized by Oprah.com as "The Rising Star of Organic Beauty."

WhistlePig Whiskey continues to grow rapidly and earn national renown, including a “highest ever” ranking from Wine Enthusiast for its 10-year-old straight rye whiskey, as well as numerous other awards. WhistlePig Farm has created 10 full-time jobs plus a part-time bottling crew, most residing in Addison County. Through creative marketing WhistlePig continues to capture attention in a highly-competitive spirits market. The company’s chief brand stewards, live kune kune pigs, Mortimer and Mauve, have walked the red carpet at Lincoln Center and appeared at numerous events along the East Coast, including the Vermont Chili Fest in Middlebury. WhistlePig is featured in Martha Stewart Living’s 2012 Holiday Gift Guide.

The Addison County Companies to Watch award plaques were designed and made by Maple Landmark Woodcraft of Middlebury. Vermont Cookie Love of North Ferrisburgh provided boxes of cookies for award recipients.

Featured speakers at the ACEDC breakfast meeting were Peter Matthews, James B. Jermain Professor of Political Economy, and Matt Dickinson, Professor of Political Science, both from Middlebury College. Each spoke about the November elections and predictions for the effects it will have on the local economy. Matthews explained the significant challenges Vermont businesses will continue to face with rising healthcare costs, while Dickinson provided perspective on the outcome of the election and the expectation for slow progress since neither political party controls both houses of Congress.

“We are very pleased with the direction ACEDC is going, with the team's progress, and with the creativity the team brings to support and advance businesses in all stages of economic growth,” says Darcy Tarte, ACEDC's Board President.

ACEDC is a 501(c)(6) non-profit corporation, which helps businesses meet challenges and find solutions – from startup financing and referrals, regulatory assistance, business loans and grants, to workforce training and program development. It is one of 12 regional development corporations in Vermont.

About Addison County Economic Development Corporation (ACEDC)
ADEDC is the resource for navigating challenges and opportunities of doing business in Addison County. We’ll help you find solutions to your business problems. Online at www.addisoncountyedc.org.
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Addison County Economic Development Corporation
Billy Connelly
802-388-7953
www.addisoncountyedc.org
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