The governments of Canada and Quebec are awarding more than $1.6 million in financial contributions to Produits American Biltrite Ltée., which manufactures industrial polymers and flooring, to support a project evaluated at $11 million.

“I am delighted to announce CED’s financial support for this Sherbrooke enterprise which, through its ability to adapt and innovate, has developed a unique product that is keeping it a step ahead of competitors in the North American market. The financial assistance that is being granted for this major investment will enhance the vitality of our region.”

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie

“For over 100 years, Produits American Biltrite has set itself apart from competitors through its expertise and ability to innovate. We are therefore proud that today we are helping it become more competitive and capitalize on the growing demand for rubber flooring. This is a promising project that will undoubtedly generate considerable benefits for Estrie, notably by creating and consolidating high-quality jobs.”

Luc Fortin, Member for Sherbrooke, Minister of Families and Minister responsible for the Estrie region

“Faced with growing global competition, our manufacturing companies need to innovate and make strategic investments like the one announced today to be able to seize business opportunities in various markets. Since fall 2016, there has been a major tour of innovative manufacturers across Quebec regions to make businesses aware that they need to invest more to increase their productivity and competitiveness.”

Dominique Anglade, Deputy Premier, Minister of Economy, Science and Innovation and Minister responsible for the Digital Strategy

“As part of the Innovation and Skills Plan, our government will be making multi-year investments to make Canada a global centre for innovation. This will stimulate innovation and help create even more high-paying jobs and grow the middle class. We are proud to support businesses like Produits American Biltrite, which are contributing to Canada’s economic growth.”

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED

“Today, we are seeing the results of two years of product research and development. We are very proud to present two new, highly innovative products that meet the needs of our current and potential clients. These new products will help American Biltrite grow and gain new market shares in North America. With this major investment, our business is confirming its commitment to its plant and to the Sherbrooke community.”

Jean-Pierre Benoit, Vice-President and General Manager, Produits American Biltrite

• Founded in 1913, Produits American Biltrite  is a Quebec subsidiary of multinational American Biltrite. The company, which specializes in the manufacture of industrial polymers and flooring, currently employs nearly 250 workers in its Sherbrooke plant.

• To support growth in the innovative manufacturing sector across Quebec, the Government of Quebec has set aside $825 million for businesses. Since fall 2016, there has been a major tour in all Quebec regions, raising awareness about this initiative among more than 2,700 entrepreneurs and partners. To learn more, visit www.manufacturiersinnovants.com (website in French only).

• CED is one of six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.

• For more information on CED’s key directions until 2021, consult Strategic Plan 2021 or visit www.dec-ced.gc.ca.

Ministère de l’Économie, de la Science et de l’Innovation

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Sources:

• Anne Simard
  Press Secretary, Office of the Member for Sherbrooke, Minister of Families and Minister responsible for the Estrie region
  Tel.: 819-434-3025
  
• Gabrielle Tellier
  Press Secretary, Office of the Deputy Premier, Minister of Economy, Science and Innovation and Minister responsible for the Digital Strategy
  Tel.: 418-691-5650
  
• Karl W. Sasseville
  Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
  Tel.: 343-291-2500

Information:

• Jean‑Pierre D’Auteuil
  Media Relations Officer, Communications Directorate, Ministère de l’Économie, de la Science et de l’Innovation
  Tel.: 418-691‑5698, ext. 4868
  Cell: 418-559-0710
  
• Media Relations
  Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
  Tel.: 514-283-7443
  Email: dec.media.ced@canada.ca