DOMVILLE - North America's only metal knitting needle manufacturer - located right here in Leeds Grenville - is expanding its operations.

DVS Manufacturing Inc. and Louet North America owners Dave and Pam Van Stralen manufacture and sell their products around the world, including the popular DVS's Square ^TM ergonomic knitting needles and crochet hooks.

"Our expansion options are limitless," says Dave, noting 95% of their products are sold in North America. The needle arts are a $2.5-billion business in the US alone. DVS also has customers in Japan, Spain, Russia, Austria and New Zealand.

"We're growing and have some new patented products we're very excited about," says Dave. The two companies employ 11 but could triple staffing while expanding their product lines.

Already selling to 150 independent craft stores, they plan to reach 500 stores over the next three years. "It's a very exciting time for both companies," says Dave.

The multi-generational family business was started by Dave's late mom Trudy. She turned the family's sheep farm into a retail business selling Louet spinning wheels, weaving equipment and manufacturing dyed wools. Trudy also designed 100s of knitting patterns still being sold today through Louet.

One company became two in 2016 when Dave and Pam purchased Kollage Yarns and the American company's needle-making equipment. Their son Brett, a robotics graduate, helped set up the new equipment to launch DVS Manufacturing.

"There are just so many opportunities to grow our business in other markets," says Dave. They have had support in developing their manufacturing operation from Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation and RBC.

Among their many products are Square ^TM crochet hooks, knitting needles in 11 different sizes and 6 cable lengths. They sell yarn, patterns, spinning wheels and weaving equipment.

Learn more by visiting their website and Facebook page and follow them on Twitter. Send them an email or give them a call at 1-800-897-6444.

Shelbi McFarlane has joined the Leeds Grenville Economic Development team as the Business Development Officer.

Shelbi comes to the United Counties from the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal where she spent the last five years as Community Development Coordinator. In that role, Shelbi gained an in-depth understanding of municipal operations, with a focus on economic development, land use planning and community engagement.

"I'm so excited to continue my learning in the other areas of the region and work within the diverse economic environment of the Counties," says Shelbi.

Shelbi attended Carleton University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management degree, specializing in Development Studies. Since graduating, Shelbi has been working toward her Diploma in Municipal Administration through the Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario, and an Economic Development certification through the University of Waterloo.