Saint-Martin, Quebec, February 14, 2005 -- Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Jacques Saada, Minister of Canada Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Francophonie, the Honourable Claude Drouin, Member of Parliament for Beauce and Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister with special emphasis on Rural Communities, today announced the awarding of a repayable contribution of $186,000 to the Saint-Martin firm BCH Unique Inc. for the implementation of productivity enhancement measures. "Given that small and medium-sized businesses play a crucial role in Quebec's economy, finding ways to improve their productivity and competitiveness remain a key challenge. A feather in the cap of the Chaudière-Appalaches plastics processing industry, BCH Unique Inc. has boldly undertaken a series of measures to improve its competitive standing on various export markets," noted Mr. Drouin. BCH Unique Inc. designs, manufactures and sells polymer products, including a wide range of custom-made articles like trophies, handles, plaques and other commemorative and promotional items. Nearly 75% of the company's products are sold on the U.S. market. The enhancement measures, which stem from the results of a comprehensive productivity assessment, involve redesigning the production line and acquiring certain high-tech equipment -- including finishing equipment -- to help eliminate production bottlenecks and improve working conditions for many employees. "This contribution is in line with the activities proposed by the Government of Canada to stimulate innovation in Quebec enterprises while improving their productivity and competitive standing. We urge other companies to follow BCH Unique's lead in carrying out a well-planned strategy, based on an accurate diagnosis, to enhance both their competitive position and the quality of life in their communities," commented Minister Saada. BCH Unique Inc. also benefits from the support and guidance of the Canadian Plastics Industry Association through its involvement in the regional plastics processing table (Chaudière-Appalaches chapter), an initiative funded by Canada Economic Development. Canada Economic Development's mandate is to promote the economic development of the regions of Quebec. Primarily through financial assistance programs, the Agency elicits and supports the implementation of economic development projects. The two priorities the Agency has set itself are to foster innovation and the knowledge economy in each region of Quebec, and to help communities that are having difficulty adjusting to the new economy. In this way, the Agency contributes to the attainment of the Government of Canada's objective of building the 21st Century economy. Funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 2004 federal budget. - 30 - Sources: Guylaine BeaudoinCommunicationsCanada Economic DevelopmentTel.: (514) 283-0368Daniel DezaindePress SecretaryOffice of the Honourable Jacques SaadaCanada Economic DevelopmentTel.: (514) 496-1282
