"We help customers get an ever better return on their investment by becoming more efficient so they grow," says Eric, president of the company. Founded in 2000, JAE Automation has achieved a leadership position in shop floor automation. The company employs 11 people at its 701 South Gower Drive facility near Highway 416. 

At JAE, they believe having mechanical services is integral to providing turnkey automation solutions to their customers. Some of their services include 3D modeling, drawings, machine guarding, packaging line integration, changeover optimization, ergonomic design, process piping and robotic cells.

What you might not know is there is now even more to enjoy from the Kricklewood pantry. The newest additions by farm owners Dale Horeczy and Brad Daily are their four Sunflower Oil Infusions featuring garlic, roasted chili, basil and lemon flavours. The infusions will be featured in an appetizer cook-off tasting alley at their upcoming Sunflower Festival on the farm at 421 Kitley Line 8 Road.

"The infusions have brought new customers to the table," says Dale. While their sunflower oil remains as popular as ever with foodies, the infusions are moving into "gifty-type" shops. "The appeal is broader," he says. They've also introduced sunflower oil vinaigrettes. 

Kricklewood Farm processed its first crop in 2012. Since then the sale of its sunflower oil has spread across eastern Ontario and as far west as Peterborough. In addition to their oils, their product line includes natural goat's milk soap, unpasteurized raw honey and farm-gate eggs. Dale and Brad are regulars at area farmers' markets. 

The perfect opportunity to visit Kricklewood with their stunning 15-acre field of sunflowers is at the Sunflower Festival this Sunday, August 7th, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hundreds attended last year to enjoy farm and field tours, arts and crafts, pet and people portraits, musical stage, a farmers' market, BBQ, and tasting alley. There are going to be more than 30 vendors this year with proceeds to benefit Mel's Farm All Animal Rescue. 

Visit their website to learn more about this local business or to shop online. Check out their Facebook page, give them a call at 613-275-9901 or send an email. Learn more about the sunflower festival.

Dale is shown with the new oil infusions. The product will be used in appetizers at the festival on Sunday, August 7th.

Nomination forms are now available on the Counties website. For more information contact Deanna Clark at 613-342-3840, ext. 5360.