Negist Handcraft, Clothing and Textile Store Addis

Negist is an upscale Handcraft, Clothing and Textile Store strategically located in an upscale community across the street from the American School and near Embassies. You will enjoy virtually shopping to discover their excellent products. For us there was lots of room to look around, very pleasant, cool surroundings.  Sammy Abdella founded Negist in 2005 with his mother, sister and two artisans working out of his family home in Ethiopia. Bridging contemporary demand with age-old traditions, Negist brings the vitality and rich heritage of Ethiopia to life.’ (http://tfocanada.ca/docs.php?page=5_5&chapid=5).  I love the light weight soft leather tie dyed bags. The company works with local designers, embroiderers, weavers and cotton spinners to produce high-end, handmade textiles from natural materials.   From the main shop, you can step into the weavers and spinners area to see them hard at work.  The looms are made of bamboo, the patterns authentically traditional. ‘Negist works with over 47 permanent artisans and exports its products to all corners of the globe, from Europe, to Japan, to Australia, to Africa, to the Middle East and Canada.’ Sam, Negist’s Owner tells us that his business was started by his mother, Aster Retta who began in her own home with only one loom.

We were interested to talk with Sam. He says travelling to show at Trade Shows is very expensive! • Air fare • Accomodation • Cost of renting a booth • Cost of transporting display • Employee time away • He has participated in Trade Fairs in Toronto but more lately New York • Sam lived five years in the US (Virginia and New York). That accounts for his smooth American accent. • Employees’ Comments: • Sam is like family • Sam cares for his employees • Everyone loves Sam!  Enjoy the visit:  https://www.slideshare.net/LydiaSorflaten/negists-handcraft-store-addis-ethiopia