Sales Spurt Gives Global Folk Art Vital Boost

The holiday season turned out to be pretty merry for Global Folk Art at First and Cedar.

The not-for-profit business has been in danger of closing because of a drop in sales in 1997.

Patrons of the store turned out in big numbers the two weeks before Christmas after the manager of the shop said slow sales were threatening the store’s existence.

Sales in December increased 21 percent over sales from 1996, allowing the store to pay off some of its outstanding bills, said Renae Potter, the manager.

She said she expects the store to remain open.

Global Folk Art carries a wide selection of crafts and products made by poor people around the world.

The business trades with organizations that guarantee a fair return to the artisans. The goal is to raise living standards among the world’s poor.

“We are not out of the woods yet,” Potter said. “We are grateful and encouraged by the support we received.”

Global Folk opened in 1991 and is operated by a board of directors organized through the Peace and Justice Action League of Spokane.

Potter said she hopes the customers in Spokane who believe in the store’s mission will continue to support it throughout the year.

The inventory would make great gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings and other events, she said.

, DataTimes