After months of planning, Makivvik has acquired Inuit herbal tea business Northern Delights from the Avataq Cultural Institute. Under this new business arrangement, Makivvik will assume the operation of the ‘tisanes initiative,’ a venture that prides itself on sourcing and promoting traditional herbs from Nunavik communities.

“We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Northern Delights,” said Makivvik President Pita Aatami in early December. “This acquisition not only strengthens our commitment to preserving cultural heritage but also allows us to contribute to the vital work of Avataq. We believe in the power of cultural initiatives to bring communities together, producing locally sourced products like these herbal teas is also a great benefit to our region. It shows the world what we have in our region and in this case provides seasonal work for Inuit in Nunavik’s communities.”

Makivvik Vice President of Economic Development Andy Moorhouse said there are plans to explore the initiative’s potential and look at the feasibility of expanding the harvesting of herbs to more communities, and maybe use new ones. Makivvik has also committed to contributing a portion of the profits generated from Northern Delights back to Avataq. This financial support will further both Makivvik and Avataq’s missions and bolster their efforts in fostering cultural awareness and language preservation.

“It is with enthusiasm the Avataq Cultural Institute hands overs the production and sale of our Inuit herbal tea to Makivvik,” Avataq President William Tagoona said. “Tea has been an important staple of Inuit life for as long as we can remember and the production of our own brand some years ago made us proud and now Makivvik will continue the tradition.”

Makivvik and Avataq look forward to continued collaboration to ensure a seamless transition and continued success.