New Set of Tools to Construct Solid Foundations, Raise Bottom Lines

    TORONTO, March 13 /CNW/ - Scotiabank today announced the launch of the
Scotiabank Blueprint for business(TM) Solutions package specially designed for
skilled trades business owners operating in the construction industry and
includes trades such as electricians and general contractors. This suite of
advice, tools and products enables skilled trade business owners to build
their business and improve their bottom line.
    "At Scotiabank, we recognize the value of the skilled trades to the
Canadian economy," said Kyle McNamara, Head of Small Business, Scotiabank.
"Small business customers are important to Scotiabank. Their success matters
to us and these new resources, combined with the expertise available from our
in-branch Small Business advisors will help skilled trades customers generate
stronger bottom line results."
    The Solutions package includes the Scotia Blueprint for business(TM)
Check-up - Skilled Trades Edition. This straightforward 6-step tool outlines
simple practices which focus on enhancing cash flow management strategies.
Scotiabank launched a similar tool for the broader small business community in
2007 and based on the success of that program, have now tailored it to skilled
trades with this Solutions suite.
    The online version of Skilled Trades Solutions also includes articles and
podcasts to help small business owners in this field increase cash flow,
manage business expenses, plan for a rainy day, and manage borrowing costs.
    "Research that we conducted in 2007 gave us insights into the priorities
of small business owners, and specifically the goals and aspirations of owners
working in the skilled trades area," said Mr. McNamara. "We combined these
insights with the feedback of our customers and our employees to build this
package of products and services."
    In addition to expert advice and online tools, Scotiabank announced the
new Scotia Blueprint Plus for trades(TM) banking package, a comprehensive
suite of banking products that includes both customized business and personal
banking features.
    "We believe our great business products combined with ongoing advice will
help small business owners improve their bottom line," continued Mr. McNamara.
    The package offers skilled trade business owners the following
opportunities:-   Business Accounts:
        -  Account Plan for business plan fees waived for the first five
           months.
        -  Credit line for business fees waived for first five months.
        -  ScotiaLine for business(TM) VISA card at Scotiabank Prime for the
           first six months.
        -  Great rates on term loans.

    -  Personal Banking
        -  One year free banking on an eligible Day-to-Day account with the
           Scotia Simple Switch(R) program.
        -  Special personal lending offers.Plus the coffee's on Scotiabank with a $50.00 Tim Hortons Quickpay Tim
Card, in addition to other valuable offers such as discounts on Intuit
Canada's accounting and bookkeeping software, complementary business cheques
from Davis + Henderson and credits towards Chase Paymentech's Point of Sale
Merchant Services.
    "Building on our experience in working with small business owners in the
skilled trades, this combination of services and products with the unique
value of our partnerships results in relevant and innovative solutions for our
customers," concluded Mr. McNamara.

    The Scotiabank Blueprint for business(TM) Solutions package for skilled
trades is available by visiting any Scotiabank branch, on the web at
scotiabank.com/skilledtrades, or by calling 1-877-552-5522.

    Scotiabank is one of North America's premier financial institutions and
Canada's most international bank. With more than 60,000 employees, Scotiabank
Group and its affiliates serve approximately 12.5 million customers in some
50 countries around the world. Scotiabank offers a diverse range of products
and services including personal, commercial, corporate and investment banking.
With $449 billion in assets (as at January 31, 2008), Scotiabank trades on the
Toronto (BNS) and New York Exchanges (BNS). For more information please visit
www.scotiabank.com.