WORLD TRADE CENTRE WINNIPEG
C2 CUSTOM FURNISHINGS EXPANDS FOCUS ON EXPORTS
BY JENNIFER MCFEE
A self-described “accidental entrepreneur” continues to forge forward with a focus on high-quality furnishings. Carla Coyle, president and CEO of C2 Custom Furnishings, embarked on a unique entrepreneurial journey. When she left her previous position, she was three months pregnant — yet she strongly believed everything would work out. “Shortly after giving my notice, a former client reached out to me for a project bid. I was awarded the contract, which served as the catalyst for starting my company,” she says. “In the early days, I focused on identifying the markets I wanted to serve and honing my strengths to best assist my customers. Fifteen years later, I’ve experienced sig- nificant growth in both product offerings and the scope of my busi- ness, collaborating with incredible clients.” The Winnipeg-based company and its associated manufacturers specialize in producing high quality commercial furniture, upholstery and mattresses, and they also offer the innovative GoodKnight Bed Bug Control Bed. “My focus lies in providing locally made solutions for the commercial, hospitality and health-care indus- tries,” Coyle says. “We pride ourselves on creating durable products that are designed to last while also ensuring a low to- tal cost of ownership for our clients.” With support from World Trade Centre Winnipeg, Coyle is now look- ing to expand the business into international markets. She recently attended the World Trade Center Association’s 55th Global Business
PHOTO BY MEMENTO
“I love the opportunity to work with clients across Western Canada, which has given me a chance to explore our beautiful country.”
Forum in Marseille, France, which proved to be an invaluable op- portunity for forging international connections. “WTC Winnipeg has been instru- mental in benefiting my business. Their trade education programs and services, now highlighted by FITTskills (Forum for International Trade Training), provided me with the knowledge and confidence to pursue exporting and unlock global opportunities,” she adds. “I’ve also utilized their market research services. I highly recom- mend WTC Winnipeg to other busi- ness owners seeking growth and expansion.” Over the years, the business has celebrated many successes — and Coyle even views challenges in a positive light. “One of my greatest successes has been working with clients on large projects from inception to comple- tion while enjoying the process and team collaboration. I love the op- portunity to work with clients across
— Carla Coyle, president and CEO of C2 Custom Furnishings
Western Canada, which has given me a chance to explore our beautiful country,” she says. “Challenges arise regularly, but I choose not to let them get in my way. Instead, I focus on learning from each experience, which often leads to unexpected ways of growth for my business.” Looking ahead, Coyle is excited about what the future will bring for C2 Custom Furnishings. “I am launching a new product that I will be exporting,” she says. “It is thrilling — and it will also continue my collaboration with WTC Winnipeg.”
13 SUMMER 2025
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