The Business Beat submitted by Joel Wiebe

Jennifer Ducker is launching a new business that is the first of its kind in Peterborough. Hair Apothecary, located at 41 Park Street South, is a dedicated pediculosis education, treatment, and support center. Hair Apothecary is committed to providing a safe, stigma-free environment where individuals can access professional lice treatment, nit combs, and expert guidance. They have a focus on education and community support. Jennifer has worked with social services, the I.D.A pharmacy in Peterborough, The Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough and delivered seminars at the Hiawatha First Nation Family Centre. Now, with the help of a Starter Company Plus grant, she has transformed this space into a welcoming hub for holistic care.

The Chamber and Community Futures have assembled a top notch set of speakers for a discussion on Bridging the Divide: Future-Proofing Your Business Against the Effects of US Tariffs. The keynote speaker is Bob Armstrong, president of Armstrong Trade and Logistics Advisory Service and a renowned supply chain expert with more than 50 years of experience. This free event is in partnership with the City of Peterborough, County of Peterborough, and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area. Join us on Tuesday, March 4 at Market Hall at 140 Charlotte Street. Doors open at 8am and the speakers and panel discussion will get underway at 8:30am.

The Kawartha Manufacturers Association is also hosting an event to help businesses deal with trade uncertainty from the US. It’s key that businesses invest in technology to increase their competitiveness to enter new markets with new products. There is an existing program that is ready to be tapped into: Scientific Research and Experimental Development Tax Credits. Many local companies have been successfully leveraging these for years, while others don’t have the internal training to prepare these.  The Kawartha Manufacturers Association in hosting training at Peterboro Matboards on February 28 for the experts to share their knowledge.  For more information contact info@thekma.com.

The provincial election is coming up on Thursday, February 27. We hosted a debate on Feb. 18 with your local candidates where we focused on business issues. Look for it on YourTV or shared on social media by event partners Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough and The Kawarthas Home Builders Association, Central Lakes Association of Realtors, the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area, and Peterborough and District Construction Association.