Montmagny's K-Trail Inc. will be able to increase its production capacity by acquiring a robotic welding cell, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada. This equipment will make the business one of the top trail manufacturers in Eastern Canada in welding complete and assembled dumper bodies.
A helping hand at just the right time
This funding-a non-repayable contribution of $370,035-was announced today by the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages. It falls under CED's Steel and Aluminum Initiative (SAI).
K-Trail submitted a project to purchase a two-station robotic welding cell, equipment that will be installed and integrated into its existing production line. As part of the Industry 4.0 shift the SME launched in 2017, this project will, among other things, open up the possibility to reassign staff to the development of new products or to other production lines, enabling K-Trail to make up ground lost against certain U.S. competitors at the level of technology integration. Acquiring this equipment will boost productivity, make it possible to conclude partnerships with local businesses specializing in steel laser cutting and lead to the creation of 20 jobs by 2022 in Montmagny.
K-Trail, a family business raising the region's profile
Founded in 1979, K-Trail (formerly Roy & Bénot) specializes in manufacturing hot-dip galvanized steel trailers for cars and trucks. The third-generation family-run SME designs a range of products, including dumpers, drawbar platforms and gooseneck trailers, for snowmobiles, ATVs and utility vehicles. It also sub-contracts for Prévost Car (Volvo), manufacturing motor coach parts. It currently employs 53 people and distributes its products mainly to resellers specializing in trailers and recreational products and to rental centres in Quebec, Ontario, the Maritimes and five U.S. states.
Quotes
"By setting ourselves a strategy to boost businesses active in the steel and aluminum sectors, we have chosen to help those who are innovating to find new ways to create value and seeking to conquer new markets. The financial contribution granted to K-Trail represents concrete support for an SME that has demonstrated its know-how and willingness to ensure growth, in addition to creating well-paying jobs for Canadians."
The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue
"We are here to support Canadians workers in the steel and aluminum sectors, as well as businesses that play an important role in regional economies. The Canadian SMEs we invest in through the SAI produce or use these metals, and we are keen to help them to innovate to enhance their productivity, expand, conquer new markets and create good jobs."
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for CED
"Canadian manufacturers face many challenges as they evolve with competitors from around the world. To be able to compete internationally, we must turn towards new technologies and innovation to manufacture quality products. I am pleased and proud to be able to count on a partner such as Canada Economic Development to support us as we grow and make this technological shift."
Maxime Roy, Co-owner and Sales Director, K-Trail Inc.
Quick facts
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The Honourable Mélanie Joly is responsible for the six regional economic development agencies (RDAs), including CED.
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In 2018, the steel and aluminum industry employed over 33,500 Canadians, contributing $8.9 billion to Canada's gross domestic product.
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Administered by the RDAs, the Steel and Aluminum Initiative provides targeted support for Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the steel and aluminum sectors. Non-repayable contributions are granted to these SMEs to enable them to adopt innovative technologies with the aim of enhancing their productivity and competitiveness and to create highly specialized jobs.
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Funds have been granted under CED's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program. This program targets entrepreneurs leveraging innovation to grow their businesses and enhance their competitiveness, as well as regional economic stakeholders helping to create an entrepreneurial environment conducive to innovation and growth for all.
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CED is a key federal partner in Quebec's regional economic development. With its 12 regional business offices, CED is accompanying Quebec businesses, supporting organizations and regions into tomorrow's economy.
Contacts
Media Relations
Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
