From left: Jean-François Martel, deputy mayor of Saint-Quentin; Luke Randall, minister responsible for Opportunities NB; Yves Nazair, business development executive, Opportunities NB; Luc Plourde, senior financial specialist, Opportunities NB; Vincent Caron, vice-president of production, Groupe Savoie; Luc Gauvin, chief financial officer, Groupe Savoie; and Jason Somers, CEO of Groupe Savoie.
KEDGWICK (GNB) – Groupe Savoie, a hardwood products manufacturer headquartered in Saint-Quentin, will modernize its operations and enhance efficiency at its Kedgwick facility with support from the provincial government.
“Groupe Savoie has deep roots in northern New Brunswick and continues to show leadership through innovation,” said Luke Randall, minister responsible for Opportunities NB. “Their investments in advanced manufacturing are helping to strengthen the region’s forestry sector, reduce waste and create long-term value for their business and the local economy. We’re pleased to support this next step in their growth.”
The government, through Opportunities NB, is providing a conditionally repayable loan of up to $115,000 to help with the purchase and installation of a high-performance moulder. The new equipment will allow the company to process larger panels more efficiently, reduce the amount of rejected materials and eliminate the need for sanding and additional end-matching processes.
Founded in 1978 by Hector Savoie, Groupe Savoie is a family-owned company that has grown to become one of New Brunswick’s largest processors of hardwood products. The company operates facilities in Kedgwick, Saint-Quentin, and Westville, N.S., producing a range of value-added wood products, including kitchen cabinetry components, hardwood flooring, pallets and ecological fuel under the Canawick brand.
“This investment will allow us to further optimize our operations and strengthen our competitiveness in domestic and international markets,” said Jason Somers, CEO of Groupe Savoie. “Opportunities NB’s support helps make projects like this possible, and we value their ongoing collaboration in helping rural manufacturers succeed.”
Opportunities NB is a Crown corporation and the lead economic development agency for the province. It seeks to attract and support opportunities to stimulate economic growth and create jobs by providing support services for businesses.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Michel LeBlanc, communications, Opportunities NB, michel.leblanc@onbcanada.ca.
