“Supporting New Brunswick businesses as they grow, reinvest in our province and create jobs is important to your government’s multi-year economic growth plan,” said Finance Minister Cathy Rogers. “I am pleased to see Al-Pack continue to grow and succeed right here in New Brunswick.”

Rogers spoke on behalf of Economic Development Minister Francine Landry, who is also the minister responsible for Opportunities NB.

Al-Pack Enterprises specializes in the sales of packaging supplies and equipment, including recycling and compostable bag products for the retail market. It is adding a new bagging line and expanding its facilities to accommodate a new production line that will support the company’s continued growth.

“I am pleased that the Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), is helping Al-Pack Enterprises get the technology it needs to expand their operations,” said federal Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor. “This investment in new equipment will help the company meet growing demand and increase their market exposure, which will ultimately be of benefit to our entire region.”

Petitpas Taylor spoke on behalf of federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is also the minister responsible for ACOA.

The provincial and federal governments are combining to invest up to $360,000 in the $1-million project. The expansion will enable the company to hire up to nine new employees. It is estimated that, once all the jobs are created, they will contribute $5.8 million to the province’s GDP over six years and generate $731,250 in personal tax revenue over that same period.

To support the expansion project and the creation of new jobs, the company is eligible for an investment of $200,000 in the form of a non-repayable contribution from Opportunities NB, which is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. It provides support services for businesses across the province.

The federal government is providing a $160,000 repayable contribution through ACOA’s Business Development Program.

“Al-Pack has entered into a tremendous period of growth, and this expansion will enable us to continue to succeed,” said company CEO Louis LeBlanc. “We appreciate the support and partnership of the federal and provincial governments as we continue to reinvest in our business here in New Brunswick.”

Al-Pack’s products are sold in regional retail locations, such as Sobeys and Atlantic Superstore, and nationwide in Wal-Mart stores. The company was incorporated in 1995 and has since become one of the largest privately owned packaging companies in Atlantic Canada.