Membertou Heritage Park Craft Tables

Abstract

In this case, students are introduced to Jeff Ward, the general manager of the Membertou Heritage Park (MHP). The MHP is a non-profit organization with a mission to develop and present cultural programs for Membertou community members and the general public. Jeff’s principal responsibility is to maximize the performance of MHP’s operations both in terms of their profitability and in terms of raising awareness of Membertou and Mi’kmaw culture. In 2013, the MHP operated a profit-oriented gift shop in its building and a craft table at the Port of Sydney during cruise season. Operation of the craft table presented human resource and logistical challenges. While the craft table had not generated significant revenues, it played a role in cultural outreach and marketing, as the interactions there increased tourists’ awareness of Membertou and sometimes led them to visit the MHP. Jeff is faced with the decision of whether to continue operating the craft table at the Port of Sydney into the future.