Equipment Upgrades to Potato Processor in Rollo Bay
News Release
Company adapts to changing market with new technology
May 24, 2017 – Souris, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Agriculture has long been a key driver in the economy of Prince Edward Island, known around the world for the quality of its potatoes. As market demand continues to grow, customers also seek new and diverse potato products. One well-established family operation in Rollo Bay has found an innovative solution to help meet this challenge, with support from the Government of Canada, which is working to create the right conditions for agricultural and rural-based businesses to contribute to a strong, sustainable economy.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today announced federal support for enhancements to the packaging operation at Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd. ACOA’s Business Development Program is providing a repayable contribution of $1,045,045 for upgrades to processing and packaging equipment.
For more than 70 years, Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd. has been growing potatoes. Now, owners Ray and Alvin Keenan, and an operating staff that includes a third generation of family members, serve as a major agricultural employer in eastern PEI. With these equipment upgrades, the company will be able to focus on higher value product development to reach new markets. The investment in new technology will also create skilled positions for workers, and allow Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd. to improve environmental standards in its operations through reduced waste, water and energy use. The company exports to major centres across North America.
Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd. is one of 37 Atlantic Canadian firms that are currently participating in the Accelerated Growth Service. Launched in 2016 as part of the Innovation and Skills Plan, the initiative coordinates government support for high growth firms in areas such as financing solutions, advisory services, and export and innovation support from existing programming.
This project also builds on the Government of Canada’s commitment to drive economic growth in Atlantic Canada through the Atlantic Growth Strategy.
Quotes
“A key part of our Atlantic Growth Strategy is the adoption of innovative technologies. The Government of Canada supports businesses in rural areas of the country that are looking toward these advanced technologies to increase productivity and help develop skilled positions. For agricultural operations, export growth and new market development creates opportunity.”
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“I admire the Keenans for their great contributions to the agricultural community of PEI. Their success has always come from building strong relationships first. As the company has grown, they have maintained a respect for traditions and for the environment, while looking toward innovative solutions. My congratulations to the whole team at Rollo Bay Holdings on the next phase of development.”
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan
“This latest enhancement to our grading and packaging operation greatly positions Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd and its dedicated work force to meet food safety and quality standards well into the future.”
Ray Keenan, President, Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd.
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Contacts
Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
Ray Keenan
President
Rollo Bay Holdings Ltd.
902-687-3333