Two departments of the Canadian government on February 2 announced combined investment of $5 million in support for a high-speed formed potato specialty line that will create 80 new jobs at the McCain Foods (Canada) processing plant in Grand Falls, New Brunswick.
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is making a repayable contribution of $3.5 million for installation of advanced manufacturing equipment, while Opportunities NB is providing up to $1.5 million in payroll rebates over a period of three years.
McCain, which unveiled expansion plans in November of 2019, has invested $80 million to boost production capacity at the site. 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. The 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.
“We proudly support McCain Foods as it works to expand 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-civid 19 pandemic economy,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages.
Dominic LeBlanc, President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, added: “As one of the world’s leading food manufacturers, McCain Foods is a homegrown success story and a valuable contributor to our province’s and our country’s economy. This 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.”
McCain Foods President and CEO Max Koeune, commented: “As part of our ongoing global investment program, we’re proud to continue to grow and strengthen our business in our home province of New Brunswick. 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.’’
About the Company
Florenceville, New Brunswick-headquartered McCain Foods (Canada) is the Canadian division of McCain Foods Limited. The company ranks as one of the world’s largest manufacturer of frozen french fries and potato specialties, and also produces other products including vegetables, snack, appetizers and desserts that are distributed to restaurants and retail stores in more than 160 countries. In Canada McCain operates eight production facilities and provides employment for approximately 2,400 people.
