Abbey Press has been named one of five 2011 Gift Suppliers of the Year by the North American Celtic Trade Association (NACTA). The company received a certificate citing the achievement at the Ireland Show Secaucus held April 21-24 in Secaucus, N.J.

In light of Abbey Press’ increased offerings of Irish-themed giftware, the company was recognized for “outstanding product development and customer service.”

“The Irish market is a vital part of our success,” said Sue Kloeck, director of trade marketing at Abbey Press. “We have done our best to nurture this niche market that resonates so well with the meaningful messages, inspirational designs and product quality that our company stands for.”

The St. Meinrad, Ind.-based company's Irish products include cards, wall decor, mugs, photo frames, sacrament pieces and Christmas items. The products combine “current art trends with Old World symbols and messages that authentically reflect Irish heritage,” Kloeck said.

Abbey Press reported solid sales from last year’s “Irish Family Blessing” line and from its USA-made, Celtic-design “Snail’s Pace” cards, bags and gift wrap. The company anticipates strong sales for its “Irish Christmas Blessing” collection, launching in July, and its “Trinity Treasures” line, set to debut in September.

Editor's note: Since its original publication, this story has been updated for clarification.