Peterborough Blogs
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Community Futures Peterborough, Fastsigns and Kawartha Local Food Wholesale
/PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…
Summer Company Program is Open
A sure sign that the seasons are changing is that applications are now open for the 2026 Summer Company Program through Community Futures Peterborough.
Students aged 15 to 29 in Peterborough and the county are encouraged to apply for up to $3,000 in grants, plus training and mentorship, to start their own summer business. Funded by the Province of Ontario, it builds hands-on experience for young entrepreneurs returning to school in the fall. Deadline is April 30, so head over to www.communityfuturespeterborough.ca/programs/summercompany to find out more…
New Ownership For Fastsigns
FASTSIGNS, a Peterborough Signage provider is being acquired by a group of franchise specialists, bringing in new investment and leadership to support growth and expand capacity for commercial clients across the region.
The centre has been purchased by a consortium led by industry expert Paul Watson and print-industry veteran Bill Goss, who will also serve as general manager. Operating in Peterborough since 2005, FASTSIGNS delivers bespoke signage and visual communications for local government, construction, retail, and large-scale brand rollouts. You can learn more about FASTSIGNS by going to www.fastsigns.com/Peterborough-ON
Kawartha Local Food Wholesale
Peterborough County is boosting its farm economy by promoting the Kawartha Local Food Wholesale program.
This initiative, funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, connects over 800 local farms across 180,000 acres with buyers like restaurants, retailers, food services, tourist spots and golf courses in Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes. There is nothing like local Farm to Table meals and you can learn more about them by checking out www.grazeandgatherfood.ca or www.Kawarthachoice.com
If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Quickmill, City of Peterborough and K9 Health In Motion
/PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…
Quickmill is Headed on a Trade Mission
Local company Quickmill has been selected to join one of the largest government-led trade missions Canada has ever sent to Mexico between Feb. 15 to 20. Quickmill, based right here in Peterborough for over 40 years, is a world leader in building large-scale CNC machining centers — which are powerful machines that cut and shape metal parts for industries like aerospace, oil and gas, mining and defense.
This comes as Quickmill uses a smart diversified growth plan to stay strong amid trade challenges. Only a select group of top export-ready firms were chosen. To learn more about this read their recent blog post on www.quickmill.com/blog
New Plough Map for the City of Peterborough
We have had a winter, and the City of Peterborough has launched a new interactive snowplow map to help residents and businesses track winter maintenance in real time.
Introduced in early February, the online tool uses GPS technology to show where plows are and how recently roads have been serviced, with updates every five minutes and colour-coded routes across the city.
It highlights priority areas like arterial roads, transit routes, and neighbourhood streets, giving a clearer picture of snow-clearing operations. To see the map in action visit www.Peterborough.ca/snow
Canine Rehabilitation is Coming to the County
A new canine rehabilitation and wellness centre is opening in Norwood. K9 in Motion Wellness Rehab officially opens its doors March first, offering services to support dogs recovering from injury, managing mobility issues, or simply aging comfortably. The facility will provide therapeutic massage, red light therapy, mobility aids, pet first-aid courses, and educational sessions for owners.
Operating since 2016, this new location is designed to give dogs individualized care in a calm, supportive environment while helping pet owners stay informed. Visit their website k9inmotionwellness.ca to learn more about their services and stay tuned for their grand opening.
If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Peterborough Used Tires
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Peterborough Used Tires.
Established in 2003, Peterborough Used Tires had exclusively sold and serviced quality used tires. In 2005, at the customers' request, the business began carrying and selling new tires.
“We do everything tires. We sell used and new tires and rims of all brands and sizes for automotive needs. We also repair, balance and install tires and new this year we provide seasonal storage,” said Chris of Peterborough Used Tires. “We carry the Kawartha's largest inventory of quality used tires with a Lifetime Warranty included as long as you own your car. We also partner with the leading distributors in Ontario to provide all brands and models of new tires which can be ordered for same or next day delivery.
In 2012, Peterborough relocated to a 10,000 sq/ft. facility at 810 Rye St.
“We returned to what we do best: providing the best and biggest variety of tires to customers and repairing tires, we no longer do general auto repairs and have put all of our focus on tires,” said Chris. “We also added custom wheels and accessories to our lineup. Fast forward to now, we’ve come a long way in the 20 years we’ve served Peterborough and the surrounding area, and we only have our customers to thank.”
In 2025, Peterborough Used Tires was acquired with several enhancements made.
“We created a new brand logo and gave the entire store a facelift. We have upgraded all of our technology, inventory databases, scheduling and pricing tools,” said Chris. “We also expanded our services to include seasonal storage of tires as well as a Lifetime Road Hazard Warranty included with every purchase.”
“It has been a very busy and productive year,” concluded Chris. “We can’t thank our loyal customers enough for continuing to support our growth.
To learn more about Peterborough Used Tires, find it online:
Website: www.peterboroughusedtires.ca
Instagram: @ptbo.usedtires
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles. It is owned and operated by Ross Elson.
Located on 182 Charlotte St. in Downtown Peterborough, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles has autographed memorabilia, jerseys, collectible sports cards and more.
“We look forward to building a community of collectors right here in Peterborough, offering an extensive inventory of sports cards, autographed memorabilia, jerseys and more,” said Elson. “Our team offer their experience and knowledge to help you find what you are looking for. Whether you are collecting your favourite team, completing your checklist or on the hunt for rare cards or memorabilia.”
Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles have joined forces with MNT Grading Inc. and is now also an Authorized PSA Dealer. They provide a full-service drop-off for your collectible sports cards to be graded. Grading your cards protects your investment and has been proven to increase the value of cards in the secondary market.
“As far as services go, being an authorized PSA Dealer is a very big deal for a shop, we are the only one in our area and it took us the better part of a year to go through the process of becoming authorized,” explained Elson.
Elson's passion for collecting hockey cards started when he was a kid, starting with the 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee set. After having children, his interest was reinvigorated and he collected cards with them. After years of collecting and visiting expos, the hobby quickly grew into a business which launched in 2019.
While you can collect from your favourite major sports teams, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles also adds in the local flavour as a spot to collect Peterborough Petes apparel, memorabilia and more.
“We have an excellent relationship with the Peterborough Petes and after each game we sponsor and Autograph Signing Table,” explained Elson. “Kids, Families, and Fans line up after the game for a different payer each night who comes out to sign autographs. With the Petes we provide co-branded Peterborough Petes Hockey Cards free of charge to the fans for the specific player that participates each night. In addition, fans can bring their own memorabilia; such as a jersey or puck for the player to sign, also free of charge.”
Want to get together with other collectors to find that special something? Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles regularly host trade nights at the shop for those to get together during the NHL season and share in the hobby.
To learn more about Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles, find it online:
Website: www.sportcollectibles.ca
Facebook: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Shannon McCracken Voice Studio
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Shannon McCracken Voice Studio. It is owned by singer, actor, voice-over artist and teacher Shannon McCracken.
McCracken has performed across Canada and is equally at home in plays and musicals, film and TV and on the concert stage. Since opening her voice studio in 2014, she has brought her years of experience to those exploring their voices.
“I primarily teach voice lessons but also workshops and masterclasses, with a focus on singing, acting through song and audition technique,” explained McCracken. “As a teacher, I’ve been an adjudicator for the Kiwanis Music Festival, worked as the voice and music director for Thomas A Secondary School's musical theatre program and created and directed Theatre Art Training Academy’s summer intensive program and show.”
McCracken has launched her new kids' singing course, “Explore Your Voice!”
This dynamic singing course is designed to ignite a love for music and singing in kids aged 6-12. Through fun, interactive lessons, children will explore their vocal potential, gain new skills, access more sound and range and boost their confidence.
Whether you are a complete beginner or a budding vocalist, this program provides a supportive, encouraging environment to discover the joy of singing.
“Join the adventure and watch your child's voice soar,” said McCracken. “Explore Your Voice! is more than just lessons; it's a journey of musical discovery and self-expression. Let the singing begin!”
The Voice Studio recently opened its online store, “The Studio Shop,” which offers online coaching packages, courses, content and gift cards.
She also started the “Members Only Online Studio,” calling it her most exciting project. Here is where you can train, grow and discover your voice. From audio exercises to video classes, series, and monthly check-ins, you can now learn at your own pace. When you’re ready, be a part of a community of singers who are here to cheer you on.
“I believe that everyone can sing,” concluded McCracken. “Voice lessons are a great way to gain confidence, become more comfortable in both your body and voice and they provide you with a creative outlet to express yourself fully.”
To learn more about Shannon McCracken Voice Studio, find it online:
Website: www.shannonmccracken.com
Instagram: @shannonkmccracken
Facebook: Shannon McCracken
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Dante's Gourmet Burrito
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Dante's Gourmet Burrito. It is owned by Eva’s Delight Inc.
Located at 195 Simcoe St. (across from the Peterborough Bus Terminal), Dante's Gourmet Burrito has served fresh Mexican cuisine including burritos, quesadillas, tacos, nachos and more.
“We offer a wide variety of freshly made protein options along with multiple tortilla choices, including high-protein and gluten-free options,” said Surendra Patle of Dante's Gourmet Burrito. “All our sauces are made in-house with no preservatives and we take pride in delivering healthy, flavorful meals to our customers.”
The business first opened in 2009 as one of Peterborough’s first burrito establishments.
“Over the years, it has grown to become one of the most popular and award-winning restaurants in the area, known for its quality, freshness and commitment to great taste.”
A Downtown Peterborough staple, Dante's Gourmet Burrito has been supporting the local economy and community.
“Dante’s works closely with local farmers and small businesses, sourcing fresh ingredients from local suppliers to prepare our food,” explained Patle. “We also show appreciation to our community by offering special discounts to public servants, frontline workers, senior citizens and students.”
Whether you are craving barbacoa, carnitas, pollo asado, chorizo, tofu or any other of their selections, Dante's Gourmet Burrito can customize your meal the way you want with everything made in-house.
“Our mission is to continue serving delicious, wholesome Mexican food while supporting the community that has supported us for so many years. At Dante’s, everything we make is crafted with care, freshness, and a passion for great food.”
To learn more about Dante's Gourmet Burrito, find it online:
Instagram: @dantes_gourmet_burrito
Facebook: Dante's Gourmet Burrito
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: DC Aluminum
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring DC Aluminum. It is owned by Cameron Doak.
Located at 171A Rink Street, Unit 192, DC Aluminum is a leading exterior renovation company specializing in high-quality siding and eavestrough systems.
“With a focus on aluminum and vinyl, we provide durable, low-maintenance solutions designed to protect and beautify homes and commercial properties,” said Doak. “Our commitment to excellence ensures that every project is completed with precision, care, and attention to detail.”
The company was founded initially in Barrie. Its community was hit with a tornado which left it devastated. It took roughly a year for DC Aluminum to rebuild the subdivision and its exteriors. Ultimately, the business had relocated to Peterborough.
“We quickly became a trusted face in the community. Completing over 50 projects in the destroyed community,” explained Doak. “We moved to Peterborough about three years ago and haven't regretted it. We are looking forward to working within our new community.”
The business boasts that all of its products are 100 per cent Canadian.
“We only use Canadian-made materials,” said Doak. “All of our aluminum and siding is manufactured in Canada.”
To learn more about DC Aluminum, find it online:
Website: www.dcaluminum.ca
Facebook: DC Aluminum
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Noodles Squad
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Noodles Squad. It is owned by Jenjob “Jay” Bakker.
Located at 415 George St. N. in Downtown Peterborough, Noodles Squad brings the heart of Thai street food to Peterborough, offering authentic flavours inspired by traditional recipes.
Formerly known as Real Thai Cuisine, Noodles Squad is a second-generation restaurant.
“For years, many of you knew us as Real Thai Cuisine, where our parents poured their hearts into sharing the classic curries and dishes they loved,” explained Bakker. “After dedicating so many years to the kitchen, it was time for them to rest, and for us, their kids, to carry the torch.”
Noodles Squad is Bakker’s tribute to his parents as he takes over the rebanded business but in his own unique way.
“We wanted to honour their legacy while also putting our own spin on the family business,” he said. This is how Noodles Squad was born—a modern tribute to the lively, faspaced world of Thai street food. We refocused our menu on the exciting, quick-fire dishes you find on the bustling streets of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. We now specialize in things we know every Thai food lover craves: crispy pork, intensely spicy curries, and incredible noodles.”
The restaurant’s signature dishes feature “The Savory” crispy pork, Tom Yum noodle soup and Pad Thai. They also have an array of soups, salad, spring rolls curry, noodles and more to bring the Thai-cuisine spirit to Downtown Peterborough.
“We kept the heart and soul of what you loved about our food, while adding the punchy, vibrant flavours of the streets,” said Bakkar. “Whether you’re a long-time friend of the family or a new customer, we invite you to join our squad and taste the next chapter of our story.”
To learn more about Noodles Squad, find it online:
Website: www.noodlessquadptbo.ca
Instagram: @noodlessquadptbo
Facebook: Noodles Squad PTBO
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: One Fine Food
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring One Fine Food. It is owned by Glenn Stonehouse.
Located at 800 Erskine Ave. just beside Lansdowne Place, One Fine Food offers a food and shopping experience unlike anything else in the area. It features a market, butcher/seafood counter, delicatessen, housewares, a restaurant and bar, groceries and more.
“Our butcher department brings you local, responsibly farmed meats,” said Bryan Coles, One Fine Food general manager. “Including from beef from Penokean Hills and Enright Cattle, Pork from Linton pastured pork. Lamb from Beverly Creek. Our seafood department brings in fresh fish and seafood sourced from around the world.”
The business features a lunch, dinner and brunch menu, seven days a week. They serve antipasto, sandwiches, wood-fired pizza, pasta and more. Their brunch menu features favourites like eggs benedict, French toast, a breakfast bagel and other dishes.
“Our Café, bakery, and lunch bar offer a selection of daily fresh-baked breads, pastries, cookies, squares and treats,” said Coles. “Our baristas craft authentic lattes, cappuccinos and iced coffees. Our lunch bar offers a quick slice of Focaccia pizza, freshly made panini or a sandwich to go.”
While One Fine Food has a lot of high-quality imported goods, they have not forgotten to support local businesses.
“Our store and restaurant regularly work with local businesses and farmers, bringing some of the best products from our area under one roof,” explained Coles.”
One Fine Food contains products from some of these local businesses:
Millars Eggs
Circle Organic
McLeans Berry Farm
Little Leaf Farm
Crosswinds Farm
Niagara food specialties
Enright Cattle - Beef And Tallow Products
Center And Main Chocolates
Heritage Cattle co. Le Beaus Bees
Carolinas Coffee
La Hacienda
Porch Dog Coffee
St. Annes Bakery
Bobcaygeon Brewing Company
Old Flame Brewery
Old Jar Candle
The County Fare
Lark & Lemon
