PETER NYGARD:

Most people talk about Peter J. Nygård, Chairman of NYGÅRD (International), in terms of his classic rags-to-riches story – the Finnish immigrants' son, who stitched up an empire out of women's clothing and is now the quintessential self-made man. This story overlooks another side of Peter Nygård – a hard driven, demanding and subjective man who has created a standard of excellence for the Canadian Women’s Fashion Industry, whose label is the #1 recognized label in the Canadian marketplace, and whose signature is recognized in fashion centers across the globe.   

Peter Nygård’s success story all began on DEC 1, 1967, when he gathered his life savings and borrowed $8,000 capital to purchase 20% of a women’s garment manufacturer with $800,000 in annual sales, which within a few years he owned outright. The speed with which Nygård claimed his #1 position in the industry is attributed to the uniqueness of his business decisions and his work ethic that includes 14-16 hour days/seven days a week.  But then again, as Nygård says, “The only time you are working is when you wish you were doing something else.”  Because of this, he now controls a women's ready-to-wear business with annual sales approaching $500M – almost 50% of which stems from the US market.

Peter generously donated over $15,000 worth of designer clothes at JTRA on October 10, 2008.  This event was attended by over 350 people looking to meet the world renowned Peter Nygard, who was flanked by an entourage of International Models.

Debra South Jones said “Peter is a true blessing from God!”.  As the attendees tried on their new clothes, complements of Peter, the smiles were everywhere and the tears of joy were abundant!

Ray Reggie, Board member of JTRA, was on hand to visit with Peter and to thank him for his wonderful gift.  Ray did several television and print interviews for the international press and the joy, love, thanks and respect for Peter permeated the room!  Peter and Ray pledged to stay in touch with each other after Peter thanked JTRA for its great work, Peter said for JTRA to be on the lookout for another shipment of his designer clothes!    Ray Reggie went on the say “Peter is a wonderful, giving man who has never forgotten his very humble roots while now being the quintessential entrepreneur with a huge heart!”.