Sainte-Marguerite, Quebec, April 28, 2005 - Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Jacques Saada, Minister of Canada Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Francophonie, the Honourable Claude Drouin, MP for Beauce and Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister with special emphasis on Rural Communities, today announced a repayable contribution of $140,625 to CG Air Systèmes, which will enable the firm, located in Sainte-Marguerite, in the Beauce, to meet the challenge of globalization. "Small and medium-sized businesses play a key role in Quebec's economy and increasing their productivity and their positioning on export markets is a major challenge. The only Quebec manufacturer of components for air and whirlpool massage systems for baths, showers and spas, CG Air Systèmes specializes in innovative products that are virtually unique in Canada. The enterprise also shows a great adaptability to the French, English and Spanish speaking communities, making it not only a Canadian leader but a world leader in its field of expertise," stated Mr. Drouin. CG Air Systèmes' products are in growing demand around the world. The project was aimed at increasing the company's productivity and supporting the implementation of an international marketing strategy. The company has introduced new e-business practices by developing an integrated data management and acquisition system, which has increased its competitiveness. Thanks to its international marketing strategy, the company has penetrated new markets, particularly in the United States and Spain, and shipped 35% of its production beyond our borders. "CG Air Systèmes' achievements are fully consistent with Canada Economic Development's priorities, especially in terms of improving SMEs' capacity for innovation, productivity, competitiveness, and positioning on export markets. We hope CG Air Systèmes will inspire others and help strengthen the presence of our companies on world markets, benefiting our local communities in the process," said Mr. Saada. CG Air Systèmes employs 60 people and, with this project, has created five highly specialized jobs. Some ten new employees are expected to be added in the coming years. 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 February 2005 federal budget. -30- Sources: Guylaine Beaudoin Communications Canada Economic Development Tel.: 514 283-0368 Cell.: 418 580-8215 Daniel Dezainde Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Jacques Saada Canada Economic Development Tel.: 514 496-1282
