As we settle into the rhythm of 2026, the business landscape in Saint John continues to evolve. Despite the typical post-holiday retail lull often seen in January, the Uptown region is showing resilience and growth. With interest rates stabilizing and a renewed community focus on supporting local entrepreneurship, it is an exciting time for new ventures to plant roots in the city’s historic core. The latest addition to this vibrant ecosystem is Ankar Creative, a versatile studio and showroom that has officially joined the Uptown Saint John Business Improvement Association.

A New Hub for Customization and Craft

Located at 164 Union Street, Ankar Creative is led by creative entrepreneur Fernand Pelletier. The business bridges the gap between a retail gift shop and a custom production studio. Unlike many commercial print shops that require large bulk orders, Ankar Creative positions itself as an accessible option for both individuals and businesses.

The showroom features a curated selection of ready-to-buy items, but the heart of the business lies in its ability to turn ideas into tangible products. Whether you are looking for a single personalized gift or branded merchandise for a small business, the studio is equipped to handle a wide variety of projects.

Services and Products

Ankar Creative offers a diverse range of services, leveraging technologies like laser cutting, engraving, and 3D printing. Their offerings are grouped into several key categories:

• Custom Apparel: The studio provides print-on-demand services for t-shirts, hoodies, and hats. This allows customers to create unique clothing items without the commitment of ordering high volumes.
• Engraving and Signage: From water bottles and dog tags to professional awards and business cards, the studio can engrave on metal and acrylic.
• Handmade Goods: Highlighting the owner’s craftsmanship, the shop carries handmade leather wallets and laser-cut wooden and leather earrings.

The “No Minimum” Advantage

One of the most significant hurdles for individuals seeking custom goods is often the “minimum order quantity” imposed by larger suppliers. Ankar Creative addresses this market gap by offering custom services with no minimum orders. This flexibility makes it an ideal destination for personalized birthday gifts, one-off prototypes, or small-batch promotional items for startups.

For more details on this new addition to the Uptown community, you can read the full announcement on the Uptown Saint John website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ankar Creative located?
The studio is located at 164 Union Street, Saint John, New Brunswick.

Do I need to order in bulk to get custom apparel?
No, Ankar Creative specializes in “no minimum” orders, meaning you can order a single custom t-shirt or hoodie if you wish.

What kind of handmade items do they sell?
In addition to custom services, the showroom stocks handmade leather wallets crafted by the owner, Fernand Pelletier, as well as laser-cut jewelry.

Can they do corporate branding?
Yes, they offer engraving for business cards, awards, signage, and promotional items like water bottles.