The food manufacturing industry is one of largest economic drivers in Atlantic Canada and one that has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Innovation and the integration of new technologies are proving to be key assets to enable businesses in this industry remain competitive and enhance their productivity.
New Brunswick company to implement modern high-speed manufacturing line
The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, together with the Honourable Blaine Higgs, Premier of New Brunswick and McCain Foods Limited officials, today announced $5 million to support the implementation of a high-speed potato specialty line at the McCain's Grand Falls facility, creating 80 new jobs. ACOA is providing a repayable contribution of $3.5 million for the advanced manufacturing equipment while Opportunities NB is investing up to $1.5 million in payroll rebates over a period of three years. McCain, for its part, has invested $80 million to expand production capacity at the site as part of this project.
The new state-of-the-art manufacturing line incorporates the latest technology for process efficiency and quality, including best practices for water and energy use. This project allows the company to expand its local supply chain and create spinoffs for the region's small and medium-sized businesses as part of its growth strategy in Grand Falls.
Minister LeBlanc made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages.
Today's announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to support the Canadian food and beverage industry. Investments like this one help to create jobs and ensure that businesses will not only survive this crisis but also succeed in the economic recovery.
Quotes
"We proudly support McCain Foods Limited as it works to expand its production capacity, meet market demand and create new jobs. Our government is making investments that will enable businesses in all regions of our country to scale-up and access the capital needed to succeed in the post-pandemic economy."
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
"As one of the world's leading food manufacturers, McCain Foods Limited is a homegrown success story and a valuable contributor to our province's and our country's economy. Today's announcement represents a step forward towards a stronger economy by supporting companies in rural communities that serve to strengthen both the local workforce and the regional supply chain."
- The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
"McCain Foods is a world class company with operations globally, and we are thrilled to see this expansion, which will create jobs, help grow the economy, all while contributing to our province's food sustainability, which is a strong focus for our government. This significant investment into the Grand Falls facility will ensure that NB operations remain competitive and productive. We know our people and our province have a lot to offer the world; this investment by McCain is a further testament to the strong business case which exists for investing in our province."
- The Honourable Blaine Higgs, Premier of New Brunswick
"As part of our ongoing global investment program, we're proud to continue to grow and strengthen our business in our home of New Brunswick, Canada. We're grateful to the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Opportunities NB for their support in this flagship project that will see the creation of jobs while boosting the local economy at large.''
- Max Koeune, President & CEO McCain Foods
Quick facts
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McCain Foods Limited is a privately owned multinational food and transportation company, founded in 1957.
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The company has its headquarters and facilities in Florenceville, a manufacturing plant in Grand Falls as well as the Day and Ross Transportation group in Hartland.
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Adopting advanced manufacturing activities helps drive business growth, boosts exports and creates employment opportunities, making communities stronger.
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The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's contribution is coming from the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
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Opportunities NB's investment is on condition that the company fulfills its commitment to hiring 80 full time employees.
